NASA Seeking Innovative Ideas from Public

Mike Peel writes "Science Blog is reporting that NASA is seeking proposals 'for creating and managing innovative activities, events, products, services, or other types of formal or informal education methods for the purpose of disseminating information nationally about NASA's projects and programs.'" Sadly I don't think simply providing them with a list of people you want shot into space counts.

Comments

What, NASA does atmospheric flying too?

[maird]

Most people are aware of many NASA space programs. Hardly anyone appears to be aware of NASA's aeronautics programs. You get the occasional show on the Discovery Channel but that's it. I liked the one about control an aircraft in three axes using thrust only (the project was inspired by the Sioux City DC-10 crash).

Re:Here's an innovative idea

[c0d3h4x0r]

Along those lines, here's a specific idea: create a reality TV show that documents the fierce competition among potential astronaut candidates. Get people to grow familiar with and look up to astronauts once more. Show people first-hand what risky, intense, and inherently dramatic business the space program is. That's what gets people interested.

NASA has needed an overhaul for decades

[rabbit.johnson]

When I worked there it was an amazing culture of self-absorbed, self-agrandizing, self-promoting bullshit artists, retired military, political appointees, and rednecks that has probably ever been assembled. It might have been funny if it weren't so painful.

Highlights DVD Mail

[Doc Ruby]

NASA should send a "Highlights" DVD to every American citizen every year, right before Christmas. Which includes a free login to a NASA video site. And a summary of the ROI on NASA expenses, as well as its tiny percentage of the budget.

I've told that to every NASA and aerospace exec I've ever met. Now I'll use the webform, too.