Formed in the wake of the Challenger space shuttle accident, the Challenger Center for Space Science Education’s mission is to “inspire, explore and learn.” Through a network of 48 Challenger Learning Centers, the program takes students on simulated missions to Earth orbit, the Moon, Mars or a Comet. Students work in teams to develop thinking and problem solving skills and learn content knowledge about Earth and space science. Over its 25 year history, Challenger Learning Centers have reached more than four million students and their teachers.

Our nation’s need for high-quality education outcomes in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) learning has never been greater. To help meet this need, Challenger Center has launched an ambitious goal of expanding its reach ten-fold over the next five years, through a broadening of services to teachers and students, increased use of telecommunications technologies and extended teaching and learning beyond the core mission simulation experience.

Challenger Center greatly appreciates the financial, operational and educational support of its many partners. Any donations given through the Celestial Matters art show will directly support Challenger’s STEM education activities and our nation’s future. For more information, visit www.challenger.org