The Overview
The National Medal of Honor Heritage Center is launching a design challenge with the aim of engaging K-12 student teams (3-4 students per team) in the Design Engineering Process and connecting them to a real-world career, a Museum Exhibit Designer.
In this role, students will explore the history of the Challenger incident and the Space Medal of Honor and learn more about current and future space explorations to better guide the design of their exhibit prototypes.
This design challenge is competitive and includes a monetary prize. One student team will be selected from each category as the winning team. The monetary prize will be awarded to the classroom/school of the winning student team from each category.
The Mission
Design Approaches
Honoring the Challenger 7
What is a Museum Exhibit Designer?
A Museum Exhibit Designer is a professional who conceptualizes, plans, and creates the physical and interpretive experiences within museum exhibits. They are responsible for transforming raw information and artifacts into engaging and educational displays that tell a compelling story to visitors.
This role involves a blend of creativity, technical knowledge, and project management, often working with curators, educators, architects, and fabricators to bring an exhibit to life. They consider aspects like visitor flow, lighting, graphics, interactive elements, and accessibility to ensure an impactful and memorable experience.
Learn more about this career here: What does an exhibit designer do? (article by Sonaku)
What is the Congressional Space Medal of Honor?
The Congressional Space Medal of Honor is the highest award for spaceflight achievement that can be awarded by the United States Congress. It is given to any astronaut who in the performance of their duties has distinguished themselves by exceptionally meritorious efforts and contributions to the welfare of the Nation and mankind.
This prestigious medal recognizes extraordinary bravery, significant scientific or engineering contributions, or a heroic act that directly contributes to the success or safety of space exploration.
- Learn more about the Medal here: Congressional Space Medal of Honor (article by NASA)
- Learn more about the Medal here: Congressional Space Medals of Honor – Public Law
- Learn more about the Medal here: The Congressional Space Medal of Honor
How did Francis Richard “Dick” Scobee’s Space Medal of Honor end up on exhibit at the National Medal of Honor Heritage Center?
Francis Richard “Dick” Scobee, commander of the Space Shuttle Challenger, was posthumously awarded the Congressional Space Medal of Honor. His medal holds significant historical importance and is a poignant reminder of his sacrifice and contribution to space exploration.
The Congressional Space Medal of Honor belonging to Francis Richard “Dick” Scobee was presented to Chattanooga’s National Medal of Honor Heritage Center. This significant donation ensures that his legacy and the story of the Challenger crew are preserved and shared with future generations through an exhibit dedicated to heroism and service.
Learn more here: “CHALLENGER COMMANDER DICK SCOBEE’S SPACE MEDAL OF HONOR PRESENTED TO CHATTANOOGA’S NATIONAL MEDAL OF HONOR HERITAGE CENTER” (article by National Medal of Honor Heritage Center)
Who was Space Medal of Honor recipient Francis Richard “Dick” Scobee?
Francis Richard “Dick” Scobee was an American astronaut and the commander of the ill-fated Space Shuttle Challenger mission STS-51-L. Born in Cle Elum, Washington, he was a United States Air Force officer and test pilot before joining NASA’s astronaut corps in 1978. Scobee was a veteran of two spaceflights, having served as pilot on STS-41-C in 1984 before commanding the Challenger’s final mission.
He was known for his calm demeanor, extensive piloting experience, and dedication to space exploration and education. His commitment to inspiring future generations was evident in his involvement with the “Teacher in Space” project that was part of the Challenger mission.
Learn more about him here: Francis Richard Scobee | Congressional Space Medal of Honor (video by National Medal of Honor Heritage Center)
What happened to the Space Shuttle Challenger and her crew?
On January 28, 1986, the Space Shuttle Challenger disintegrated 73 seconds after liftoff, leading to the tragic loss of all seven crew members aboard. The disaster was caused by the failure of an O-ring seal on the right solid rocket booster, which allowed hot gases to escape and compromise the external fuel tank.
The crew included Commander Francis R. Scobee, Pilot Michael J. Smith, Mission Specialists Judith A. Resnik, Ronald E. McNair, and Ellison S. Onizuka, Payload Specialist Gregory B. Jarvis, and Christa McAuliffe, a civilian teacher who was part of the “Teacher in Space” project.
The Challenger disaster was a pivotal moment in NASA’s history, leading to significant changes in safety protocols and design reviews for the Space Shuttle program.
- Learn more about the incident here: “35 Years Ago: Remember Challenger and Her Crew” (article by NASA)
- Watch President Ronald Reagan’s address to the nation on the day of the incident here: Challenger: President Reagan’s Challenger Disaster Speech – 1/28/86 (video from the Reagan Foundation)
Why should this story be told through an exhibit?
The story of the Challenger and its crew, particularly Francis Richard “Dick” Scobee, is more than just a historical event; it’s a profound narrative of human ambition, sacrifice, and resilience. Presenting this story through an exhibit allows for a multi-sensory and immersive experience that goes beyond simply reading facts.
An exhibit can:
- Humanize the Story: By showcasing artifacts, personal stories, and visual media, an exhibit can help visitors connect emotionally with the individuals involved.
- Educate and Inspire: It can explain the science and engineering behind spaceflight, the challenges faced, and the enduring spirit of exploration. It can also inspire future generations in STEM fields.
- Honor Sacrifice: An exhibit provides a dedicated space to remember and honor those who lost their lives in the pursuit of scientific advancement.
- Promote Reflection: It can encourage visitors to reflect on the lessons learned from the Challenger disaster regarding safety, risk, and the importance of critical review in complex endeavors.
- Preserve Legacy: By physically displaying items like Scobee’s Space Medal of Honor, the exhibit acts as a tangible link to history, ensuring that the legacy of these heroes is never forgotten.
Recognizing all space medal of honor recipients
What is a Museum Exhibit Designer?
A Museum Exhibit Designer is a professional who conceptualizes, plans, and creates the physical and interpretive experiences within museum exhibits. They are responsible for transforming raw information and artifacts into engaging and educational displays that tell a compelling story to visitors.
This role involves a blend of creativity, technical knowledge, and project management, often working with curators, educators, architects, and fabricators to bring an exhibit to life. They consider aspects like visitor flow, lighting, graphics, interactive elements, and accessibility to ensure an impactful and memorable experience.
Learn more about this career here: What does an exhibit designer do? (article by Sonaku)
What is the Congressional Space Medal of Honor?
The Congressional Space Medal of Honor is the highest award for spaceflight achievement that can be awarded by the United States Congress. It is given to any astronaut who in the performance of their duties has distinguished themselves by exceptionally meritorious efforts and contributions to the welfare of the Nation and mankind.
This prestigious medal recognizes extraordinary bravery, significant scientific or engineering contributions, or a heroic act that directly contributes to the success or safety of space exploration.
- Learn more about the Medal here: Congressional Space Medal of Honor (article by NASA)
- Learn more about the Medal here: Congressional Space Medals of Honor – Public Law
- Learn more about the Medal here: The Congressional Space Medal of Honor
How did Francis Richard “Dick” Scobee’s Space Medal of Honor end up on exhibit at the National Medal of Honor Heritage Center?
Francis Richard “Dick” Scobee, commander of the Space Shuttle Challenger, was posthumously awarded the Congressional Space Medal of Honor. His medal holds significant historical importance and is a poignant reminder of his sacrifice and contribution to space exploration.
The Congressional Space Medal of Honor belonging to Francis Richard “Dick” Scobee was presented to Chattanooga’s National Medal of Honor Heritage Center. This significant donation ensures that his legacy and the story of the Challenger crew are preserved and shared with future generations through an exhibit dedicated to heroism and service.
Learn more here: “CHALLENGER COMMANDER DICK SCOBEE’S SPACE MEDAL OF HONOR PRESENTED TO CHATTANOOGA’S NATIONAL MEDAL OF HONOR HERITAGE CENTER” (article by National Medal of Honor Heritage Center)
Who was Space Medal of Honor recipient Francis Richard “Dick” Scobee?
Francis Richard “Dick” Scobee was an American astronaut and the commander of the ill-fated Space Shuttle Challenger mission STS-51-L. Born in Cle Elum, Washington, he was a United States Air Force officer and test pilot before joining NASA’s astronaut corps in 1978. Scobee was a veteran of two spaceflights, having served as pilot on STS-41-C in 1984 before commanding the Challenger’s final mission.
He was known for his calm demeanor, extensive piloting experience, and dedication to space exploration and education. His commitment to inspiring future generations was evident in his involvement with the “Teacher in Space” project that was part of the Challenger mission.
Learn more about him here: Francis Richard Scobee | Congressional Space Medal of Honor (video by National Medal of Honor Heritage Center)
What happened to the Space Shuttle Challenger and her crew?
On January 28, 1986, the Space Shuttle Challenger disintegrated 73 seconds after liftoff, leading to the tragic loss of all seven crew members aboard. The disaster was caused by the failure of an O-ring seal on the right solid rocket booster, which allowed hot gases to escape and compromise the external fuel tank.
The crew included Commander Francis R. Scobee, Pilot Michael J. Smith, Mission Specialists Judith A. Resnik, Ronald E. McNair, and Ellison S. Onizuka, Payload Specialist Gregory B. Jarvis, and Christa McAuliffe, a civilian teacher who was part of the “Teacher in Space” project.
The Challenger disaster was a pivotal moment in NASA’s history, leading to significant changes in safety protocols and design reviews for the Space Shuttle program.
- Learn more about the incident here: “35 Years Ago: Remember Challenger and Her Crew” (article by NASA)
- Watch President Ronald Reagan’s address to the nation on the day of the incident here: Challenger: President Reagan’s Challenger Disaster Speech – 1/28/86 (video from the Reagan Foundation)
Why should this story be told through an exhibit?
The story of the Challenger and its crew, particularly Francis Richard “Dick” Scobee, is more than just a historical event; it’s a profound narrative of human ambition, sacrifice, and resilience. Presenting this story through an exhibit allows for a multi-sensory and immersive experience that goes beyond simply reading facts.
An exhibit can:
- Humanize the Story: By showcasing artifacts, personal stories, and visual media, an exhibit can help visitors connect emotionally with the individuals involved.
- Educate and Inspire: It can explain the science and engineering behind spaceflight, the challenges faced, and the enduring spirit of exploration. It can also inspire future generations in STEM fields.
- Honor Sacrifice: An exhibit provides a dedicated space to remember and honor those who lost their lives in the pursuit of scientific advancement.
- Promote Reflection: It can encourage visitors to reflect on the lessons learned from the Challenger disaster regarding safety, risk, and the importance of critical review in complex endeavors.
- Preserve Legacy: By physically displaying items like Scobee’s Space Medal of Honor, the exhibit acts as a tangible link to history, ensuring that the legacy of these heroes is never forgotten.
Watch this short interview with Mrs. June Scobee-Rodgers, the wife of deceased Francis Richard “Dick” Scobee who was Commander of the Space Shuttle Challenger:
[Video Placeholder: Interview with Mrs. June Scobee-Rodgers]
Option #3
What is a Museum Exhibit Designer?
A Museum Exhibit Designer is a professional who conceptualizes, plans, and creates the physical and interpretive experiences within museum exhibits. They are responsible for transforming raw information and artifacts into engaging and educational displays that tell a compelling story to visitors.
This role involves a blend of creativity, technical knowledge, and project management, often working with curators, educators, architects, and fabricators to bring an exhibit to life. They consider aspects like visitor flow, lighting, graphics, interactive elements, and accessibility to ensure an impactful and memorable experience.
Learn more about this career here: What does an exhibit designer do? (article by Sonaku)
What is the Congressional Space Medal of Honor?
The Congressional Space Medal of Honor is the highest award for spaceflight achievement that can be awarded by the United States Congress. It is given to any astronaut who in the performance of their duties has distinguished themselves by exceptionally meritorious efforts and contributions to the welfare of the Nation and mankind.
This prestigious medal recognizes extraordinary bravery, significant scientific or engineering contributions, or a heroic act that directly contributes to the success or safety of space exploration.
- Learn more about the Medal here: Congressional Space Medal of Honor (article by NASA)
- Learn more about the Medal here: Congressional Space Medals of Honor – Public Law
- Learn more about the Medal here: The Congressional Space Medal of Honor
How did Francis Richard “Dick” Scobee’s Space Medal of Honor end up on exhibit at the National Medal of Honor Heritage Center?
Francis Richard “Dick” Scobee, commander of the Space Shuttle Challenger, was posthumously awarded the Congressional Space Medal of Honor. His medal holds significant historical importance and is a poignant reminder of his sacrifice and contribution to space exploration.
The Congressional Space Medal of Honor belonging to Francis Richard “Dick” Scobee was presented to Chattanooga’s National Medal of Honor Heritage Center. This significant donation ensures that his legacy and the story of the Challenger crew are preserved and shared with future generations through an exhibit dedicated to heroism and service.
Learn more here: “CHALLENGER COMMANDER DICK SCOBEE’S SPACE MEDAL OF HONOR PRESENTED TO CHATTANOOGA’S NATIONAL MEDAL OF HONOR HERITAGE CENTER” (article by National Medal of Honor Heritage Center)
Who was Space Medal of Honor recipient Francis Richard “Dick” Scobee?
Francis Richard “Dick” Scobee was an American astronaut and the commander of the ill-fated Space Shuttle Challenger mission STS-51-L. Born in Cle Elum, Washington, he was a United States Air Force officer and test pilot before joining NASA’s astronaut corps in 1978. Scobee was a veteran of two spaceflights, having served as pilot on STS-41-C in 1984 before commanding the Challenger’s final mission.
He was known for his calm demeanor, extensive piloting experience, and dedication to space exploration and education. His commitment to inspiring future generations was evident in his involvement with the “Teacher in Space” project that was part of the Challenger mission.
Learn more about him here: Francis Richard Scobee | Congressional Space Medal of Honor (video by National Medal of Honor Heritage Center)
What happened to the Space Shuttle Challenger and her crew?
On January 28, 1986, the Space Shuttle Challenger disintegrated 73 seconds after liftoff, leading to the tragic loss of all seven crew members aboard. The disaster was caused by the failure of an O-ring seal on the right solid rocket booster, which allowed hot gases to escape and compromise the external fuel tank.
The crew included Commander Francis R. Scobee, Pilot Michael J. Smith, Mission Specialists Judith A. Resnik, Ronald E. McNair, and Ellison S. Onizuka, Payload Specialist Gregory B. Jarvis, and Christa McAuliffe, a civilian teacher who was part of the “Teacher in Space” project.
The Challenger disaster was a pivotal moment in NASA’s history, leading to significant changes in safety protocols and design reviews for the Space Shuttle program.
- Learn more about the incident here: “35 Years Ago: Remember Challenger and Her Crew” (article by NASA)
- Watch President Ronald Reagan’s address to the nation on the day of the incident here: Challenger: President Reagan’s Challenger Disaster Speech – 1/28/86 (video from the Reagan Foundation)
Why should this story be told through an exhibit?
The story of the Challenger and its crew, particularly Francis Richard “Dick” Scobee, is more than just a historical event; it’s a profound narrative of human ambition, sacrifice, and resilience. Presenting this story through an exhibit allows for a multi-sensory and immersive experience that goes beyond simply reading facts.
An exhibit can:
- Humanize the Story: By showcasing artifacts, personal stories, and visual media, an exhibit can help visitors connect emotionally with the individuals involved.
- Educate and Inspire: It can explain the science and engineering behind spaceflight, the challenges faced, and the enduring spirit of exploration. It can also inspire future generations in STEM fields.
- Honor Sacrifice: An exhibit provides a dedicated space to remember and honor those who lost their lives in the pursuit of scientific advancement.
- Promote Reflection: It can encourage visitors to reflect on the lessons learned from the Challenger disaster regarding safety, risk, and the importance of critical review in complex endeavors.
- Preserve Legacy: By physically displaying items like history, ensuring that the legacy of these heroes is never forgotten.
Watch this short interview with Mrs. June Scobee-Rodgers, the wife of deceased Francis Richard “Dick” Scobee who was Commander of the Space Shuttle Challenger:
[Video P Scobee’s Space Medal of Honor, the exhibit acts as a tangible link to laceholder: Interview with Mrs. June Scobee-Rodgers]
"One Small Step..."
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