NASA’s Artemis II mission is set to make history as the first crewed lunar mission in over 50 years. This groundbreaking voyage will see four astronauts fly around the Moon, paving the way for future lunar exploration and eventual human landings. However, the Artemis II crew isn’t traveling alone—they need a zero gravity indicator (ZGI), and they’re inviting the public to design a plush toy that will serve as their “Moon Mascot.”

This exciting initiative offers a unique opportunity for space enthusiasts, designers, and creatives worldwide to have their design accompany the Artemis II crew in space. The chosen mascot will float weightlessly aboard the Orion spacecraft, symbolizing the spirit of space exploration.

What is a Zero Gravity Indicator (ZGI)?

A zero gravity indicator (ZGI) is a small, lightweight object that visibly floats once a spacecraft enters microgravity. Traditionally, these objects serve a practical function by providing an early visual cue that the crew has reached space. While astronauts feel the effects of weightlessness, the plush toy will be the first to “announce” the absence of gravity—a fun and educational way to engage the public in space missions.

Many past space missions have included plush toys or mascots as their ZGIs. For example:

• NASA’s Crew-5 mission took a plush Einstein doll as its ZGI.

• Crew-6 carried a fluffy toy of UAE astronaut Hazzaa AlMansoori’s mascot.

• Roscosmos (Russia’s space agency) often sends soft toys into space, like small bears or space-themed mascots.

NASA’s Artemis II is following this tradition, but instead of choosing an existing toy, the agency is asking the public to help create something new and meaningful.

The Moon Mascot Design Challenge

NASA has launched the Moon Mascot: NASA Artemis II ZGI Design Challenge, inviting individuals of all ages and backgrounds to submit a creative design for the plush toy that will travel around the Moon. The competition, hosted on Freelancer.com, is open to global participation.

This is more than just a contest—it’s a chance to leave a personal mark on space exploration history. The winning design will be fabricated by NASA’s Thermal Blanket Lab and placed aboard the Artemis II spacecraft.

What NASA is Looking For

NASA is looking for a design that meets specific criteria:

Symbolism

• The plush toy should represent the spirit of Artemis II, exploration, and discovery.

• It could incorporate lunar themes, the Artemis program’s vision, or human spaceflight ideals.

• It can draw inspiration from mythology, science fiction, space technology, or Earth’s relationship with the Moon.

Design Considerations

• The toy should be small and lightweight, suitable for microgravity conditions.

• It must be soft and flexible so it can safely float inside the cabin.

• No hard or sharp parts that could pose a safety hazard to astronauts.

Uniqueness

• The mascot should be original and stand out as a memorable representation of Artemis II.

• It should have a universal appeal that resonates with children and adults alike.

Educational and Fun

• The design should inspire young audiences to learn about space exploration.

• NASA aims for this plush toy to become an icon for future Artemis missions.

The Submission Process and Timeline

The contest is open now and runs until May 27, 2025. Participants can submit their designs through Freelancer.com, where NASA will evaluate all entries.

Steps to Enter

Create a unique design

• Consider what makes a great plush mascot.

• Sketch, model, or digitally illustrate your concept.

• Make sure it meets NASA’s requirements.

Submit your entry

• Visit the official Freelancer.com contest page:

NASA Artemis II Moon Mascot Contest

• Upload your design and provide an explanation of its significance.

Finalists Selection

• Up to 25 finalists will be selected by NASA.

• One final design will be chosen by the Artemis II crew.

Winning Design Fabrication

• NASA’s Thermal Blanket Lab will manufacture the winning plush toy.

• The toy will fly aboard Orion around the Moon.

What Makes This Mission Special?

Artemis II is more than just a flight around the Moon—it’s a critical step in NASA’s plan to return humans to the lunar surface. The mission will:

• Test Orion’s life support systems.

• Confirm the safety of deep-space human travel.

• Prepare for Artemis III, which aims to land the first woman and the first person of color on the Moon.

The plush ZGI will become a symbol of this monumental journey, a small yet meaningful companion to the astronauts on their historic mission.

Past Space Mission Mascots

If you need inspiration for designing your Artemis II mascot, here are some past zero gravity indicators:

“Little Earth” (SpaceX Crew Dragon, 2019)

• A small blue plush globe that floated aboard SpaceX’s first Crew Dragon test flight.

“Tremor” the Apatosaurus (SpaceX Crew Dragon, 2020)

• A sparkly plush dinosaur brought by astronaut Doug Hurley’s son.

“Gagarin Toy” (Russian Soyuz missions)

• Russia often sends plush toys as ZGIs, including bears, cosmonaut dolls, and even a small Gagarin figure.

“Snoopy” (Apollo 10 & Artemis I)

• Snoopy has long been a NASA mascot and was even the official Artemis I ZGI.

Your design could be the next iconic space mascot—the first plush toy to circle the Moon in over 50 years!

How This Inspires the Next Generation

NASA’s Artemis program is about more than just space travel—it’s about inspiring humanity, especially the next generation of scientists, engineers, and astronauts.

By opening this contest to the public, NASA is sending a powerful message:

Anyone, regardless of age, background, or expertise, can contribute to space exploration.

If you’re an artist, engineer, student, or simply a space enthusiast, this is your chance to be part of history.

Join the Challenge and Be a Part of Space History

Why Participate?

• Your design could fly around the Moon aboard Orion.

• Be featured in NASA’s Artemis II mission coverage.

• Inspire millions worldwide to engage with space exploration.

• Contribute to an educational and historical space milestone.

How to Get Started

• Visit the official contest page:

NASA Artemis II Moon Mascot Contest

• Read the full guidelines and design specifications.

• Submit your plush mascot idea before May 27, 2025.

A Mascot for the Next Era of Lunar Exploration

NASA’s Artemis II mission marks a new age of human spaceflight, and this plush mascot will represent the hopes, dreams, and curiosity of people around the world.

Whether you’re an aspiring designer, a space enthusiast, or someone who simply loves the idea of a plush toy floating in zero gravity—this is your chance to make an impression.

Submit your design and become part of this extraordinary mission to the Moon!

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