By Maya Hayslett, Sydney Peterson
Plant the Moon Challenge experiments. AMES, Iowa – The Iowa 4-H Plant the Moon Challenge has been selected for the Iowa STEM Scale-Up Program menu for the 2025-2026 year. This recognition highlights Plant the Moon’s innovative approach to STEM education and its commitment to inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers.
The Plant the Moon Challenge is a global science experiment and project-based learning challenge that engages students in grades 4-12. Participants use lunar and Martian regolith simulants to grow crops, simulating the conditions of space agriculture. The program offers students a unique opportunity to explore space, agriculture and environmental science through hands-on experimentation.
As an Iowa STEM Scale-Up Program, the Plant the Moon Challenge will receive support to expand its reach and impact across the state. Educators can apply to be awarded the opportunity to participate in the selected STEM programs both in and out of the classroom.
This expansion includes a new fall and spring cohort of the program and access to curriculum materials, competition platforms and project kits that serve up to 10 students each. The program will also offer training stipends for educators and connect students with NASA subject matter experts and research scientists through live virtual events.
“We are thrilled to be selected for the Iowa STEM Scale-Up Program menu,” said Maya Hayslett, 4-H crop science youth education specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. “This support will enable us to bring the excitement of space exploration and STEM learning to more students across Iowa, fostering their curiosity and passion for science.”
Interested educators are invited to join Plant the Moon programming staff to discuss what participation in the challenge will look like for Iowa Scale-Up recipients on Wednesday, Jan. 29, at 4 p.m. Central time. Attendees will have the chance to have their questions answered live by their team. You can register online.
The Iowa STEM Scale-Up Program aims to increase student interest and achievement in STEM fields by providing high-quality STEM education programs to schools and organizations throughout Iowa. The Plant the Moon Challenge selection demonstrates the program’s ability to engage students in STEM and equip them with practical, work-ready skills.
For more information, check the 2025-26 STEM Scale-Up program menu (https://educate.iowa.gov/iowa-stem/stem-scale/stem-scale-program-menu). Educators may apply for the Plant the Moon STEM Scale-Up awards (https://educate.iowa.gov/iowa-stem/stem-scale/educator-application) now through March 3, at 4:59 p.m.
For more information, visit the Iowa Plant the Moon Challenge webpage (https://www.ipm.iastate.edu/iowa-plant-moon-challenge) or contact Maya Hayslett at hayslett@iastate.edu.
