NASA invites digital content creators to apply for a chance to attend the launch of the Europa Clipper spacecraft on October 10, 2024. 

The Europa Clipper mission will employ nine science instruments to gather data during approximately 50 close flybys of Europa. 

NASA’s research suggests an ocean twice the volume of Earth’s oceans may exist beneath Europa’s icy surface, making it a target of interest in the search for potentially habitable environments beyond Earth.

The space agency plans to select up to 50 social media users for a two-day event at Kennedy Space Center in Florida. 

“If your passion is to communicate and engage the world online, then this is the event for you,” NASA said in a news release.

Participants will receive access similar to news media, including the opportunity to view the SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket launch carrying the Europa Clipper spacecraft.

Selected attendees will tour NASA facilities at Kennedy Space Center and interact with Europa Clipper subject matter experts. The event aims to connect space enthusiasts who are active on social media platforms.

Applications opened on September 3, 2024, with a deadline of 10 AM EDT on September 9. NASA will consider all social applications on a case-by-case basis, looking for individuals who:

• Actively use multiple social networking platforms
• Regularly produce multimedia content
• Have the potential to reach large or unique audiences
• Demonstrate an established history of social media posting
• Show highly visible and respected previous postings

The event is open to international applicants, and NASA expects to send acceptance notifications by September 30. Participants are responsible for their travel expenses, accommodations, and other costs.

NASA emphasizes that launch dates may change due to various factors. The agency will adjust the NASA Social date accordingly and email registrants any changes. Attendees are encouraged to make flexible travel arrangements.

NASA will provide launch coverage for those unable to attend in person. Updates will be shared on the agency’s social media accounts and the Europa Clipper Mission blog. Interested individuals can apply through the NASA Social website.

Influencers at Major Events

The Democratic National Convention (DNC) recently granted media credentials to 200 social media influencers for the convention in Chicago held in August. This marked the first time any major U.S. political party officially included content creators in their convention press corps.

NATO also turned to social media influencers to connect with younger generations. The military alliance invited 26 content creators from various countries to attend its summit in Washington in July.