NASA will launch the Disney character Buzz Lightyear aboard space shuttle Discovery on May 31 in a mission to excite students about science, math and space travel.
During the STS-124 mission, the 12-inch-tall action figure will partner with astronauts to deliver daily blog journals from space and launch a series of educational games and online sessions related to the mission.
"NASA is excited to help students understand the science and engineering currently under way on the International Space Station," NASA's Dr. Joyce Winterton said.
While in space, the character will fly in zero gravity as part of an experiment tied to the NASA's "Toys in Space" educational program.
"Toys in Space" is scheduled to run through 2008 and feature unique materials for teachers to use in their classrooms.
The Space Ranger Education Series, which is part of the "Toys In Space" program, will also encourage students to pursue studies in science, technology and math.
"The Space Ranger Education Series will give teachers the opportunity to incorporate a fun and engaging moment into the classroom with a character that children really love," chairman of Walt Disney Parks Jay Rasulo said.
The mission coincides with the official launch of the Toy Story Mania attraction at Walt Disney World in Florida.
After the mission, Buzz Lightyear will transfer from the space shuttle to the International Space Station for the summer.
The character then joins the crew of the space station to help open the Toy Story mania attraction at Disneyland on June 17.
Buzz Lightyear is scheduled to return to earth in the fall. Disney plans to host a "ticker tape" parade at Walt Disney World.
Discovery is scheduled to launch from Kennedy Space Center on May 31 at 5:02 p.m.
