World Space Week Show Solves a DIY Mystery. Join VP Kamala Harris and the Kids

When I interview engineers who are deeply involved in developing equipment for space, I’ll often ask whether the desire to work on spaceships or interplanetary robotics started in childhood. Kids love space and tons of engineers started out wanting to be an astronaut. So it’s wholly appropriate that a week dedicated to space kicks off with a kids program.

YouTube Originals has launched "Get Curious with Vice President Harris." The special encourages kids to get curious about space. The program follows a group of kids as they meet Vice President Kamala Harris, go on a scavenger hunt with clues delivered by NASA astronaut Shane Kimbrough from the International Space Station, and get unprecedented exclusive access to the US Naval Observatory. "Get Curious with Vice President Harris" was launched on October 7 on NASA’s YouTube Channel and on the YouTube Kids app.

Love of Tech Often Begins in Childhood

The Vice President’s interest in technology goes back to when she was a child. "My mom was a scientist. She would take us to the lab with her on the weekends and after school because she had to work long hours," said Harris to a group of kids during the special. "I just love the idea of exploring the unknown. We're going to learn so much as we increasingly are curious and interested in the potential for the discoveries and the work we can do in space."

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Nadine Zylstra, head of Family, Learning, and Impact for YouTube Originals noted in a statement, "We are over the moon to be working with Vice President Harris on this exciting special that encourages kids to ask questions and explore space.” She went on to explain that the special delivers quality, educational programming to young viewers around the globe. “And it's pretty cool to have the Vice President of the United States and astronaut Shane Kimbrough help us do it."

The Program Works on a DIY Mystery

In "Get Curious with Vice President Harris," kids visit the Naval Observatory where the Vice President lives. They meet with Harris to discuss her role as Vice President and Head of the National Space Council as well as the wonders of space. The students are sent on a journey around the observatory, and at each stop, they receive a new clue from NASA astronaut Shane Kimbrough that helps them find a puzzle piece. They continue to discover new puzzle pieces until they have all the tools needed for a DIY telescope.

"Get Curious with Vice President Harris" is produced by Sinking Ship Entertainment. Susanne Daniels is Global Head of Original Content for YouTube. Nadine Zylstra serves as Head of Family, Learning, and Impact for YouTube Originals. Lauren Vrazilek and Laurel Stier directed the special for YouTube Originals.

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