Mary-Louise Hoffman
NASA has selected Battelle and the Future Engineers organization to solicit proposals from K-12 students on what the space agency should call its next Mars 2020 rover through a nationwide competition
Battelle said Monday it will help run the "Name the Rover" contest as NASA prepares for its upcoming mission to hunt for signs of ancient life on the red planet.
Future Engineers will host the contest on a web-based platform where U.S. students can submit their suggestions.
NASA is also looking for volunteers to help the agency review entries and choose proposed 30 names for consideration.
According to Battelle, it will promote the competition using the nonprofit company's portfolio of schools and networks engaged in science, technology, engineering and math education.
The company added it will collaborate with the National Science Teaching Association, STEM Next Opportunity Fund, Association of Science-Technology Centers and Conrad Foundation to help contest participants gain a learning experience.
