NESSP celebrates student innovation in ROADS from Earth to Venus

The Northwest Earth and Space Science Pathways project concluded its 2025–2026 ROADS from Earth to Venus National Challenge, engaging more than 500 students on 120 teams from eight states. The work began with educator professional development in August 2025, and registered teams progressed through challenge checkpoints from January through May 2026, with in-person Hub events held in April and May 2026.

Led by Central Washington University in Ellensburg, Washington, NESSP creates hands-on opportunities that connect students and educators with NASA science. The ROADS framework challenges upper elementary, middle, and high school students to mirror how NASA scientists and engineers investigate planetary environments.

Over the academic year teams completed eight Mission Objectives focused on science, engineering, teamwork, and communication.

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