# Texas High School Aerospace Scholars (HAS) The Texas High School Aerospace Scholars (HAS) program, offered by NASA Johnson Space Center, is an immersive STEM opportunity designed specifically for high school juniors in Texas. This prestigious program combines a year-long online course with a unique in-person "Moonshot" experience, giving students the chance to explore the fields of aerospace, engineering, and space exploration through hands-on, project-based learning. Best of all, it’s completely free to participate. ## Program Structure The Texas High School Aerospace Scholars program is a hybrid experience that unfolds in two key phases: 1. **Year-Long Online Course**: Students begin with an interactive, self-paced online course focused on STEM concepts, including space exploration, engineering design, and teamwork. The course is supported by NASA experts and features assignments that challenge students to think critically and creatively about real-world aerospace challenges. 2. **In-Person Moonshot Experience**: At the culmination of the online coursework, selected participants are invited to the NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, for an unforgettable week-long onsite experience. During this “Moonshot” phase, students work in teams with guidance from NASA scientists, engineers, and mentors to design innovative solutions to space-related challenges. The program is structured to accommodate a high school junior’s schedule, with the online portion being flexible yet rigorous. The in-person component typically takes place over the summer, providing students with a focused and inspiring environment to apply what they’ve learned. ## What Students Experience Throughout the Texas High School Aerospace Scholars program, students engage in a variety of enriching activities, including: - **Collaborative Team Projects**: Work with peers to tackle complex challenges, such as designing a mission to Mars or planning a sustainable lunar habitat. - **Mentorship from NASA Experts**: Learn directly from NASA scientists, engineers, and professionals who are at the forefront of space exploration. - **Hands-On STEM Exploration**: Participate in activities and simulations that mirror real-world NASA missions. - **Exposure to STEM Careers**: Gain insight into the diverse career paths available in aerospace, engineering, and related fields. This program fosters problem-solving skills, teamwork, and an understanding of what it takes to work in one of the most exciting fields of science and technology. ## Why It Matters for College Applications Participating in the Texas High School Aerospace Scholars program demonstrates a commitment to academic excellence and a genuine passion for STEM. The program’s affiliation with NASA Johnson Space Center adds prestige to any college application, signaling to admissions officers that the student has successfully completed a rigorous and highly selective program. Additionally, the hands-on experience, teamwork, and mentorship can provide compelling stories for application essays and interviews, making students stand out in competitive applicant pools. ## Eligibility To participate in Texas High School Aerospace Scholars, students must: - Be a current high school junior (11th grade) - Attend a Texas high school - Demonstrate interest in STEM fields such as aerospace, engineering, or space exploration No prior experience in aerospace is required, but students should be prepared for a challenging and rewarding learning experience. ## How to Participate The application process for the Texas High School Aerospace Scholars program involves completing an online application form available on the NASA Johnson Space Center website. Applicants may be required to submit academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, or short essays. Deadlines vary, so students are encouraged to check the official program webpage for the most up-to-date information. For more details and to apply, visit the official [Texas High School Aerospace Scholars webpage](https://www.nasa.gov/has). Embark on a journey that could launch your future in STEM with the Texas High School Aerospace Scholars program!