The Houston Association for Space and Science Education (HASSE) is a globally recognized educational organization dedicated to developing future leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers for the space-enabled world ahead. Since its founding in 2005 by James Liu, HASSE has focused on transforming curiosity about space into capability, confidence, and real-world impact.
For more than two decades, HASSE has delivered transformational STEM education and leadership development, reaching thousands of students and educators across four continents. Through its Space School programs, executive education initiatives, and international collaborations, HASSE has cultivated high-potential talent prepared to operate in complex, frontier-driven environments. Alumni have progressed into careers at NASA, SpaceX, and JAXA, as well as into leading universities including Harvard, Stanford, Rice, and Texas A&M. The HASSE network also includes entrepreneurs recognized by Forbes, medical professionals, engineers, and aspiring astronauts shaping the next era of exploration and innovation.
HASSE is also the host of the World Space Vision & AI Challenge, a premier global competition that challenges students to apply AI to solve real-world space exploration challenges. This event unites young innovators, industry leaders, and academic experts to develop solutions that shape the future of human spaceflight, the space economy, and AI-driven advancements.
By bridging education with industry, HASSE continues to ignite curiosity, drive innovation, and equip young minds with the knowledge and skills to lead in space exploration and technology.
HASSE promotes space science and technology through hands-on learning, international collaborations, and mentorship by industry professionals. Space Center Houston is HASSE's official education partner, and the organization works with Texas A&M University, the University of Houston, and private space companies, giving students access to working research facilities and the people who run them.
HASSE fosters global participation by engaging students from diverse backgrounds, providing immersive experiences such as visits to NASA and Russian Space Agency facilities, interactions with astronauts and space scientists, and specialized training in AI, robotics, and planetary research.
HASSE’s programs are grounded in the IGNIS Framework, a systems-level approach to leadership and learning that emphasizes purpose, iteration, and integration. Supported by applied artificial intelligence tools, learners develop the ability to think critically, adapt quickly, and operate with clarity in complex, high-stakes environments shaped by space and advanced technology. With the support of distinguished scholars, industry pioneers, and space exploration leaders, HASSE equips students with the critical thinking, leadership, and teamwork skills necessary for careers in science, engineering, and space technology.
HASSE’s unwavering commitment to educational excellence, technological advancement, and workforce development continues to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and space explorers, ensuring they are prepared to shape the future of space exploration.
Connect students with role models in STEM fields.
Promote STEM in tangible and real-life oriented ways.
Promote fun ways to explore STEM interests through all our programs.
HASSE builds 21st century skills that instill passion and knowledge, increase awareness of global connectedness, and develop interdisciplinary abilities students carry into any field.
Students work inside Houston's space ecosystem: simulating a mission to Mars, designing a Mars exploration rover, launching rockets, and visiting the International Space Station module, the Neutral Buoyancy Lab, and Mission Control at NASA Johnson Space Center, in direct conversation with working scientists and engineers.
In HASSE Space School, NASA engineers, scientists, and managers are specially invited to give professional and interesting presentations to students. It is through these interactions that students are driven to discover their potential, to dream big, and to reach their goals.
Students will be placed in the Mission Control and take part in simulated space missions. They play different roles while working in teams to learn collaboration, crisis management, and teamwork. This helps students to understand the challenges space missions may bring.
Students simulate a US$600 million NASA-style project, practicing how to allocate resources and complete their mission on a tight timeline. The work demands scientific and mechanical skill plus the business judgment to control a budget.
Collaborating with private space companies and NASA experts, students simulate establishing a space company. This project requires students first to design, then to work at the makerspace and complete for the Innovation Excellence Awards.
“As a former NASA astronaut and International Space Station Commander, I have had the privilege of venturing where many dream but few have gone before me. I am honored to share my experiences and encourage today’s students – the future leaders and innovators – to pursue their dreams and ‘reach for the stars’ as well.
An empowering, highly experiential program focused on leadership and personal development, all grounded in STEM. Students have the unique opportunity to learn from NASA experts right at NASA facilities. They acquire essential skills such as leadership through influence, setting and achieving goals, developing initiative, nurturing curiosity, and imagination, and fostering an entrepreneurial mindset, all in the same inspiring environment where I received my space training.
HASSE students engage with astronauts, scientists, and engineers, participating in hands-on missions and simulations. They return better prepared for life as critical thinkers, leaders, innovators, and collaborators, ready to face the world beyond the school gates.
Former NASA astronaut, International Space Station Commander
