Created in 1998, Challenger Center's Space Science Research department is home for practicing scientists and researchers engaged in active scholarly research. Yet, they also share a goal to make space science more accessible to students, teachers, and communities; as well as a desire to share their passion and enthusiasm.

In addition to continuing research work in their chosen fields, Challenger Center staff scientists are tasked with ensuring the highest level of scientific accuracy in all Challenger Center products. Our scientists are also actively engaged in education and public outreach programs in communities nationwide.

Throughout the year, Challenger Center researchers are called upon to perform a myriad of tasks in support of our programs. Researchers travel to communities that have few science resources and lead professional development workshops for grade K-12 educators; visit classrooms; and make informal presentations that take families on field trips to the space frontier.

Researchers work in collaboration with our educators to develop classroom materials for programs such as MESSENGER or Journey through the Universe. And they are responsible for ensuring that the mission simulation scenarios used at all Challenger Learning Centers are accurate and incorporate current scientific understanding.

Recent projects have included Teachable Moments in the News, an online newsletter that enables instructors to take current events in Earth and space science and introduce them to their students using brief lessons or activities; and the MESSENGER Launch Celebration Package, an online compendium of resources for students, teachers, and families that provides a "window seat" aboard a spacecraft on course to orbit the planet Mercury.