NASA Introduces “Message in a Bottle” Campaign Allowing Public to Send Names into Deep Space
NASA is providing a unique opportunity for the public to send their names into deep space as part of their latest campaign, named “Message in a Bottle.” Interested individuals can sign up and have their names included on a dime-sized silicon microchip that will be affixed to the Europa Clipper spacecraft. The spacecraft is set to embark on an incredible voyage of 1.8 billion miles to Jupiter’s moon, Europa, known for its potential to harbor life.
Beneath Europa’s icy outer shell exists an intriguing ocean, and NASA’s mission aims to collect crucial data about this subsurface ocean, the icy crust, and the atmosphere. By investigating these elements, scientists aspire to determine the moon’s potential to support life. The deadline to participate in the “Message in a Bottle” campaign is December 31, 2023.
Already, approximately 700,000 names have been submitted from individuals all around the world, eager to leave their mark on space exploration. These names will accompany a metal plate engraved with the renowned poem, “In Praise of Mystery” by Ada Limón, who currently holds the prestigious role of U.S. Poet Laureate.
After the chip’s assembly and completion, the Europa Clipper will make its way to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, with plans for a launch in October 2024. This extraordinary journey will allow the spacecraft to delve into the mysteries of Europa, collecting vital information that could revolutionize our understanding of the moon.
Inspired by NASA’s legendary practice of incorporating inspirational messages on their spacecraft, the “Message in a Bottle” campaign aims to evoke a sense of wonder and camaraderie among participants. Those who sign up can not only have their names included but also have the opportunity to explore the campaign’s website. There, they can read Ada Limón’s mesmerizing poem and even watch her recite it in a video.
For an added personalized touch, participants are also invited to create and download a customizable souvenir illustration. This illustration places their name on a message in a bottle against a breathtaking rendering of Europa and Jupiter, accentuating the significance of their involvement in this exceptional mission.
NASA encourages participants to share their “Message in a Bottle” experience on social media, utilizing the hashtag #SendYourName. This will allow individuals to connect and engage with a community of fellow space enthusiasts, all thrilled to contribute to the exploration of the vast unknown.
The opportunity to send one’s name into the depths of space is a chance of a lifetime. By joining the “Message in a Bottle” campaign, ordinary people can become part of an extraordinary expedition, forever linked to the exploration and potential discovery of new worlds. Don’t miss this opportunity to leave your mark on the cosmos.
Word count: 409 words
“Infuriatingly humble tv expert. Friendly student. Travel fanatic. Bacon fan. Unable to type with boxing gloves on.”