Planetary Learning that Advances the Nexus of Engineering, Technology, and Science

PLANETS (Planetary Learning that Advances the Nexus of Engineering, Technology, and Science) is an out-of-school time (OST) program for educators and youth in grades 3–8 that provides STEM learning with an emphasis on NASA planetary science and engineering, particularly for underserved audiences using principles of diversity, equity, access, and inclusion.

Products Available for all Units

  • Science Educator Guide
  • Engineering Educator Guide
  • Educator Resources (videos, handouts, learning progressions, and more)

Educator Opportunity: Recruiting for Field Test

OST DEIA Guide Released

Promoting Inclusion and Engagement in STEM Learning: A Practical Guide for Out-of-School-Time Professionals is designed to provide practical strategies and guidance for OST professionals who provide STEM learning activities to youth outside of a formal classroom setting.

Educator Opportunities

Make a difference & join our team to develop high-quality STEM educator support materials!

PLANETS will offer educator working sessions and Beta testing over the next several years. Apply to Beta Test the Remote Sensing Unit Now (Application due by March 17th)! Or, use the Contact form if you would like to be added to our email list to stay up to date on PLANETS opportunities. -

Planetary Science

Discover planetary bodies, rover landing sites, and look for signs of life

Engineering

Design and improve technologies that help solve a problem

Out-of School Time

Promote interests, improve 21st-Century skills, open doors to STEM careers

PLANETS image icon with an adult seated, a child pointing to the stars, and a child in a wheelchair looking through a telescope at the starts

PLANETS Partners

The Center for Science Teaching and Learning at Northern Arizona University, the U.S. Geological Survey Astrogeology Science Center, WestEd, and the Museum of Science Boston are partners in developing and optimizing the units and educator resources to meet the unique learning needs of three underserved audiences: emerging multilingual learners, youth experiencing physical disabilities, and Native American youth. We are also conducting research to identify effective practices for supporting STEM learning, especially for the communities of interest.

NAU Center for
Science Teaching and Learning

Engineering is Elementary

USGS Astrogeology Science Center

WestEd