NASA to lend space artefacts

Stephen Withers
Thursday, 08 May 2008 03:34

Science - Space

NASA has announced a new program that will increase the number of people able to see space artefacts.

Starting with around 30 space shuttle tyres - some of which have been into space - the agency will provide items on long-term loan to museums, planetariums, schools and other groups in the interests of education and public outreach.

The tyres won't be limited to conventional displays. NASA is soliciting proposals that will "educate, inspire or inform the public about NASA's scientific and technological achievements through art, sculpture, furniture, building structures, exhibits or other innovative uses of the artifacts." To that end, the tyres "may be cut, drilled, painted or otherwise modified".

The 500-pound, 42in diameter tyres are classified as munitions, and so an export licence or exemption from the Department of State would be needed before they could leave the country.

The closing date for the first round is June 11, 2008, and the successful proposals are expected to be announced on July 18.