UNLV’s home in the heart of the entertainment capital of the world naturally comes with its share of “only-in-Vegas” experiences for students. But one group of science and engineering majors had the opportunity to engage in experiential learning on a whole new level.

They recently spent four days at the Nevada National Security Site (NNSS) to test a new course created in part for NASA astronauts who will soon return to the moon.

UNLV is collaborating with the NNSS and NASA to support the Lunar Surface Operations field experience for astronauts and stakeholders affiliated with NASA’s Artemis program. The course uses the NNSS’ Nevada Space Proving Grounds to teach the ins and outs of operations on lunar environments. 

Thanks to the strong partnerships forged with federal agencies by our Office of Economic Development, Division of Research, and many others on campus, UNLV will help market and administer online elements of the course and explore opportunities for future collaborations. 

But before it formally rolls out for NASA and its partners, about a dozen UNLV students and faculty trekked to locations otherwise off limits to civilians – visiting federally secure research facilities and massive man-made craters, collecting samples, and driving off-road vehicles on tricky terrain.  

It’s an out-of-this-world experience that could only happen here at UNLV, and I invite you to read more about it. And it gets better. We’re also considering the possibility of a future undergraduate course that blends elements of the Lunar Surface Operations Course and will unlock this opportunity for even more UNLV students in the years to come. 

Warm wishes, 

Chris Heavey
UNLV Interim President