Youth Activity Archive

Activity Description: Read or perform a NASA‑style launch script to learn how a real terminal countdown works during an Artemis‑type mission.

Items Needed:

• 5 printed mission scripts (see below activity)
• (Optional) Printed role cards
• (Optional) Simple props such as clipboards or headsets
• (Optional) Space‑themed backdrop or signs

Instructions (Estimated Total Time: 10–15 min):

1. Assign the roles. (2–3 min)
   • Choose cast members for each role. Give each person their script section and role card except the OTC, SPE, and CGLO Launch Team Members who can memorize their single word line of “Go!” and when to say it.
2. Explain the purpose of the script. (1–2 min)
   • Share that this is a reading of the real style of communication used at Kennedy Space Center during Artemis missions. Make sure everyone knows when their part begins.
3. Perform the script reading. (4–5 min)
   • Read the mission script from start to finish. Youth should speak clearly and stay in character for each role. Acting is optional, but the voice acting is key.
   • Join together for the final “LIFTOFF!” line.
4. Compare countdown types. (1–2 min)
   • Explain that a terminal countdown is very different from a regular countdown. A simple countdown just goes ‘10…9…8…’ until you reach zero. But a NASA terminal countdown uses special commands, time jumps, and teamwork. Every person has a job, and each command must be said correctly. If even one person forgets their line or gives the wrong response, the whole mission could be delayed or stopped. Launches are coordinated, not just counted down.

Mission Script: Kennedy Space Center Simulation

This script is designed for a group of youth to simulate the final moments of a mission like Artemis I.

The Cast:

• Narrator: Explains the science and the “why” behind each step.
• Counter: Tracks the “T-Minus” mission clock and time jumps.
• MSC (Mission Status Controller): Calls out the technical milestones of the rocket.
• NTD (NASA Test Director): Leads the technical poll.
• LD (Launch Director): The final authority for the mission.
• OTC Launch Team Member: A technical expert who confirms their systems are ready.
• SPE Launch Team Member: A technical expert who confirms their systems are ready.
• CGLO Launch Team Member: A technical expert who confirms their systems are ready.

The Script:

• Narrator: “Welcome to the Kennedy Space Center Firing Room. The following is a simulation of the actual protocols and commands used during the Artemis and Shuttle missions. In these final minutes, every word spoken follows a strict NASA script to ensure the safety of the crew and the success of the mission.”
• Counter: The mission clock is currently PAUSED at L-Minus 15 Minutes
• NTD: “Launch Director, we are ready for the final launch team poll.”
• LD: “Attention on the net, this is the Launch Director performing the final poll for launch. Verify no constraints and go for launch.”
• NTD: “Orbiter Test Conductor (OTC)?”
• OTC: “GO!”
• NTD: “Safety Professional Engineer (SPE)?”
• SPE: “GO!”
• NTD: “Ground Launch Organizer (CGLO)?”
• CGLO: “GO!”
• NTD: “Launch Director, the team is unanimous. We are GO for launch.”
• LD: “You have permission to launch. Release the hold and initiate terminal count at T-minus 10 minutes.”
• Counter: “The time goes by and we are now at T-Minus 10 minutes and counting.”
• MSC: “The countdown has resumed.”
• Narrator: “The Ground Launch Sequencer (the master computer) has initiated the terminal count. Today, we are launching the Orion spacecraft. Orion is the ‘crew capsule’ where the astronauts live. It is designed to be their home and life-support system as they travel 240,000 miles to the Moon.”
• Counter: “The time goes by and we are now at T-Minus 6 minutes.”
• MSC: “Spacecraft is on internal power.”
• Narrator: “Orion is now set to internal power. Up until this moment, the capsule was plugged into the launch pad like a phone in a wall charger. Now, NASA has ‘unplugged’ the cord. For the rest of the mission, Orion must rely on its own batteries and solar panels to keep the crew alive.”
• Counter: “The time goes by and we are now at T-Minus 33 seconds.”
• MSC: “Ground Launch Sequencer is Go for Auto-Sequence Start.”
• Narrator: “From this point on, the rocket’s onboard computers are making the decisions. If the computer sees even a tiny problem, it will stop the launch in a split second.”
• Counter: “T-Minus 10 seconds.”
• Narrator: “The command for core stage engine start is sent. We are now in the final moments of the mission.”
• MSC: “Engine Start Sequence Initiated.”
• Counter: “9… 8… 7…”
• Narrator: “Main Engine Ignition! The four RS-25 engines roar to life at T-minus 6.36 seconds.”
• Counter: “3… 2… 1… 0!”
• MSC: “Solid Rocket Booster Ignition and…”
• ALL CAST MEMBERS: “LIFTOFF!”

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