The Mars Generation

The Mars Generation was founded in 2015 by 18-year-old Abigail Harrison, also known as "Astronaut Abby".[1][2]

Harrison started STEM and space advocacy work at the age of 13 by initially setting up a Twitter account under her childhood nickname "Astronaut Abby." She used her @AstronautAbby[3] Twitter account to connect with NASA employees to try and procure a quote for her National History Day project.[4]

In May 2013, at 15 years old, Harrison partnered with her mentor, Astronaut Luca Parmitano, as his Earth Liaison and shared his experience living in space on the International Space Station during Expedition 36 and Expedition 37.[5] Harrison set up an international outreach program consisting of classroom web chats, an email pen pal program, classroom visits, blogging on AstronautAbby.com, writing for other publications, speaking at events, and sharing on social media.[6] This program was the basis for the development of The Mars Generation nonprofit in 2015.[7][8]

The Mars Generation offers 3 main programs.[9][10] The Future of Space Outreach program encourages the support of space exploration and STEM education.[11][12][13]

The Student Space Ambassador Leadership Program (SSA) is a dual program in mentorship and leadership designed to provide school and career guidance to students ages 13–24.[14] The program also provides encouragement for students to share their passion and excitement about space exploration and STEM education as ambassadors within their communities.[15][16]

This program provides full paid scholarships to include transportation, flight suits and a small spending stipend for students demonstrating financial need to attend U.S. Space Camp.[17][18] In order to apply for consideration students need to be age 15–17, demonstrate interest in space exploration and an aptitude in STEM and complete the application, including obtaining a recommendation from a teacher and/or mentor.[19][20]

• Official website