GSSM Dedicates Artemis I Moon Tree

The South Carolina Governor’s School for Science & Mathematics (GSSM) hosted a dedication ceremony on Wednesday, April 16, to celebrate the planting of a rare second-generation Moon Tree grown from a loblolly pine (Pinus taeda) seedling that traveled around the Moon aboard NASA’s Artemis I mission.

The seedling was among a select group of tree species launched aboard the uncrewed Orion spacecraft in 2022 as part of NASA’s Artemis I mission. After spending more than 25 days in space, the seeds returned to Earth and were germinated and distributed to institutions nationwide committed to STEM education, conservation, and public engagement. GSSM was one of only a few schools selected to serve as stewards of this living piece of space history.

“GSSM is home to so many incredible opportunities—and now, we’re proud to add a Moon Tree to that list,” said Danny Dorsel, president of GSSM. “Thanks to the dedication of our faculty, staff, and students, it’s an honor to be chosen by NASA to help inspire curiosity and exploration, especially in the realm of space. As we nurture the growth of our Moon Tree, we’re also cultivating a passion for learning and discovery within every member of the GSSM community.”

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