WINNERSS addresses the main current and future research topics in space sciences-origins of the universe, beginning(s) of life in the universe, the habitability of our home planet. These themes have origins in what we have learned in the age of space exploration and bring together the diverse disciplines of physics, astronomy, astrophysics, geology and geophysics, chemistry, atmospheric science, oceanography, astrobiology - or collectively, the space sciences. 

This has come about through evolution of our knowledge and our understanding of the role of different processes that have shaped our environment. These include the asteroid impacts on the earth and in our solar system, the discovery of possible microbial of life in Martian rocks that came to earth as meteorites, the discovery of planetary systems around other stars. At the same time, there has been a significant evolution in our knowledge and understanding of the universe and the fragility of the environment on our home planet. 

The sustainability and global environment are highlighted by global change processes such as weather extremes, the "ozone hole," and concerns about global warming illustrated by events such as the breakup of Antarctic icebergs the size of Rhode Island. Following the long tradition of the Wisconsin Idea, WINNERSS will strive to highlight research in these and related topics through the following:

K-12 Education Programs

• Support for schools and school districts in implementing standards based curriculum.
  
• Distance learning/web-based programs, seminars and activities focusing on earth and space science content and standards.
  
• Professional development in space science for teachers through summer workshops.
  
• Teacher in-services in earth and space sciences.

• Global Learning and Observations to Benefit the Environment (GLOBE)
  
• EarthKAM - Program for hands on astronomy in the classroom with visiting scientists

• Public exhibits
  
• Public presentations
  
• Web-based presentation

WINNERSS is a collaborative effort between:

The Office of Space Science Education (OSSE) of the Space Science and Engineering Center (Graduate School), Department of Astronomy (College of Letters and Science), the Center for Sustainability And Global Environment Program (SAGE, Institute for Environmental Studies), the Office of Education Outreach (School of Education), and the Wisconsin Alumni Association (WAA).