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(1) $100 e-gift card
When Artemis II launched, astronauts brought something unexpected: a small plush toy named Rise. Created by an 8-year-old, Rise had an important job. It floated when the spacecraft reached zero gravity, signaling it was safe for astronauts to move around.
This tradition goes all the way back to Yuri Gagarin, who brought a small doll on his historic flight. Since then, these “zero-gravity indicators” have combined function + creativity in a simple but powerful way.
Your Task: Create Your Own Zero-Gravity Indicator
Imagine you’ve been selected for the next space mission. Your job is to design a small object that floats in zero gravity and sends a clear signal to astronauts.
Step 1: Design the Object
What would you create?
- A plush toy?
- A mini robot?
- A symbol or character?
Think about:
- Size (small + lightweight)
- Shape (easy to notice when floating)
- Personality or meaning
Step 2: Add Purpose
What does your object communicate?
- “You’ve reached zero gravity”
- A message of calm, fun, or inspiration
- A connection to Earth, culture, or history
Step 3: Make It Meaningful
- Why did you design it this way?
- Does it represent something important to you?
- Is there a story behind it?
- How would astronauts feel when they see it float?
Step 4: Create a quick pitch (5–7 sentences or a short video with a sharable link):
- Describe your object
- Explain how it works
- Share the meaning behind your design
