NASA is gearing up for the first flight test of its Orion spacecraft, an exploration vehicle that’s being built to take humans to deep space locations like Mars.
On December 4, Orion will be launched into space atop a Delta IV Heavy Rocket — a launch vehicle that’s nearly 180 feet tall.
[seealso slug="nasa-2015-budget"]
During the test flight, many of Orion’s key systems will be tested. NASA researchers will evaluate the spacecraft’s “launch and high speed re-entry systems,” like the jettison motor, parachutes and heat shield.
And as if that wasn’t cool enough, NASA has announced you can be part of Orion’s flight test. Well, your name can be.
All you have to do is fill out this form, and your name will be added to a microchip aboard Orion as it makes its way into space.
What’s more, NASA says your name will go on future exploration flights and it could even make it all the way to Mars!
"When we set foot on the Red Planet, we’ll be exploring for all of humanity. Flying these names will enable people to be part of our journey," said Mark Geyer, the Orion Program manager.
BONUS: Scientists Pretend to Live on Mars in the Utah Desert