NASA’s Artemis II zero-g indicator turns cute plush toy—here’s how to get one

In a playful twist on space exploration, NASA has turned its Artemis II mission’s zero-g indicator into a must-have collectible. The plush toy Rise, originally flown aboard the Orion spacecraft, is now available for purchase through the NASA Exchange. Proceeds from its sale will support employee morale initiatives, blending space science with community engagement.

Rise made its debut during the Artemis II mission as a fan-favorite mascot, designed to signal the moment the spacecraft entered microgravity. But its inspiration runs deeper than mere functionality. The toy’s design pays homage to the iconic "Earthrise" photograph captured by the Apollo 8 crew in 1968—a sight that redefined humanity’s perspective of our planet. Now, Rise wears a cap that mirrors this legendary scene, symbolizing the connection between past and present lunar missions.

From contest to capsule: The birth of Rise

The zero-g indicator’s journey began as a global design challenge. In 2025, NASA partnered with Freelancer.com to host the "Moon Mascot" competition, inviting creatives of all ages to submit ideas. Among thousands of entries, 9-year-old Lucas Ye from California emerged as the winner. His winning concept—Rise—was meticulously crafted to reflect the wonder of space exploration.

NASA’s selection of Rise wasn’t just about aesthetics. The agency sought a mascot that could resonate with audiences while serving a practical purpose. During launch and orbit, toys like Rise provide a visual cue for astronauts and mission control to confirm zero gravity has been achieved. This tradition, dating back to Soviet-era missions, adds a touch of whimsy to the otherwise technical process of spaceflight.

A collectible with purpose

The official Rise plush is now listed on the NASA Exchange, the agency’s online store for space-themed merchandise. Described as "perfect for display, gifting, or inspiring the next generation of explorers," the toy is marketed as a fun addition to any space enthusiast’s collection. Its availability is limited, making it a sought-after item for both seasoned collectors and newcomers to the hobby.

Purchasing Rise isn’t just about owning a piece of NASA history—it’s also a way to contribute to the agency’s employee morale programs. These initiatives support NASA staff through team-building activities, wellness programs, and community events, reinforcing the agency’s commitment to its workforce beyond the launch pad.

How to bring Rise home

For those eager to add Rise to their collection, the NASA Exchange provides clear instructions for ordering. The website emphasizes the toy’s educational value, noting that it can spark curiosity in children about space science and engineering. Whether displayed on a shelf, gifted to a young dreamer, or used as a conversation starter, Rise serves as a tangible link to NASA’s Artemis program and the broader mission of space exploration.

As NASA continues to push the boundaries of human spaceflight, items like Rise remind us that innovation and inspiration often come in the most unexpected forms. This unassuming plush toy isn’t just a gravity indicator—it’s a symbol of how space exploration captures our collective imagination, one cuddly cosmonaut at a time.