The esteemed organization of the United States dedicated to pushing the frontiers of space exploration is wholeheartedly embracing the cutting-edge era of livestreaming. Recently, NASA revealed its plans to initiate a beta version of an on-demand streaming service known as NASA+—and as you correctly surmised, the logo boasts a delightful, twinkling star.
While an exact launch date remains undisclosed, NASA expressed that it is expected to transpire “later this year.” Initially, the ad-free streaming service will be accessible through NASA’s beta site and an enhanced NASA app. The novel web page will prominently feature daily space-related news, encompassing updates about the renowned Artemis program. Additionally, the agency has pledged to accentuate content from its diverse web services and incorporate novel features on its science-focused site.
Excitingly, NASA reassures that this new streaming service will be entirely free and compatible with both iOS and Android devices. Moreover, the app will be seamlessly integrated with popular streaming platforms such as Roku, Apple TV, and Fire TV. As eloquently quoted in the press release by NASA communications administrator Marc Etkind, the space agency aims to “bring space to your fingertips on demand.”
A captivating video advertisement has been unveiled by NASA, offering a glimpse of the diverse range of public content that will be available on the new platform, including educational materials for children and intriguing documentaries.
Up until now, NASA has relied primarily on NASA TV for disseminating most of its public educational video content and live broadcasts of rocket launches. The agency maintains a continuous stream of cable-like content on both the NASA website and YouTube. This live stream has been active on YouTube since 2018, featuring reruns of engaging discussions with experts from NASA and esteemed companies like Lockheed Martin, as well as live streams from the International Space Station (ISS) and captivating launch coverage.
However, the current system feels somewhat antiquated. NASA even provides its rendition of daily TV guides for its streaming schedule. Recognizing the imperative for a more user-friendly experience, NASA acknowledges that space enthusiasts and the inquisitive public should possess the freedom to cherry-pick the content they wish to view.
The agency endeavors to enhance the technological aspect of its primary websites. Through the optimization of the manner in which the public interacts with NASA’s online content, the organization aims to make its information more readily available, easily discoverable, and fortified in security for all.
