The Science Museum of Minnesota received a total of $14.5 million from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to head a national project to spark public interest in Earth and space science, the museum announced on April 27.

More specifically, the center will lead the Space and Earth Informal STEM Education (SEISE) project, which aims to raise the capacity of museums and informal learning centers to engage kids in the different branches of science.

The objective of the contract is to aid NASA bring its resources to learners all across the United States in novel and unique methods. The said contract price given to the museum is one of the biggest amounts awarded by the space agency, putting Minnesota ahead of the pack in inspiring the future scientists.

"We are excited to partner with NASA and our sister institutions to create a national learning resource," says Science Museum of Minnesota President, Alison Rempel Brown. She adds that the projects of NASA are something to look forward to and are vital to the future of the country's space exploration and scientific education.

Science Museum

Brown says the Science Museum is a verified leader at turning scientific concepts into motivational and easy-to-learn ideas via its activities and efforts. This indeed makes the museum and NASA a perfect match in this endeavor.

In 2009, NASA also gave funds to the Science Museum for programs that tackled climate change and for the SPACE exhibition that started at the museum before it went on a national tour.

Governor Thrilled

Governor Mark Dayton says he is thrilled to know that NASA selected the Science Museum to aid in teaching and inspiring the future generations of scientists and space researchers. Such decision by the agency is huge news for the museum, the state and for the millions of inquisitive minds in the state and all across the country.

The Science Museum is said to be one of the leading creators of original science exhibits. The exhibits at the museum are products of its own research team as well as external research groups from high-end partners.

Photo: Ryan Somma | Flickr