Check your gravity with NASA’s Artemis II zero-g indicator

NASA has introduced a delightful new collectible that embodies the spirit of exploration. Meet Rise, the plush toy that served as the zero-gravity indicator and mascot for the Artemis II crew. This fan-designed toy is now available for purchase, with proceeds contributing to the agency’s employee morale initiatives. Described as a perfect gift for space enthusiasts and a charming addition to any collection, Rise is inspired by the iconic 'earthrise' image first captured by the Apollo 8 mission in 1968. The toy was created by Lucas Ye, a talented 9-year-old from California, who emerged victorious in NASA and Freelancer.com's 'Moon Mascot' online challenge. Rise's design features a cap resembling Earth rising over the Moon, a tribute that resonates deeply with the Artemis II crew. Christina Koch, an Artemis II mission specialist, noted the emotional connection to the earthrise theme, stating, "This little guy really resonated with us because the theme is the earthrise photo taken on Apollo 8, which is inspirational to all of us." The plush toy showcases a vibrant blue-and-green cap and a design that echoes the rocket ship and star field, forming the constellation Orion. This is a nod to the Orion spacecraft that the Artemis II astronauts utilized during their ten-day journey to the Moon and back, further enriching the symbolic value of Rise for future generations of explorers.