Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

Where to Find

App Store

Google Play

Screenwise Verdict

This is the gold standard for educational apps. It's literally NASA—no ads, no manipulation, no garbage. Just pure space content from the people actually launching rockets and exploring the universe.

The redesigned app (updated from the 2011 original) now includes NASA+, which is basically NASA's answer to streaming services, except it's free and won't rot your brain. You get live mission coverage, documentaries, and behind-the-scenes content that's genuinely interesting.

The catch? It's a lot. Common Sense Media is right that younger kids will need help navigating the wealth of information. This isn't a dumbed-down kids' app—it's the real deal, which means some content requires reading comprehension and scientific context.

But for the space-obsessed kid (or adult), this is essential. The AR features are cool, the ISS tracking is legitimately exciting, and the image library is stunning. Install it, set those flyover alerts, and watch your kid's face when the Space Station actually appears overhead.

Age Fit

Best for ages 6-14, especially kids with a genuine interest in space and science. Younger kids (4-5) can enjoy the images and videos with parent guidance, while teens and adults will appreciate the mission depth and NASA+ content.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

95

Pure educational content about space exploration with no concerning elements. Features astronauts, scientists, and positive role models. Content is age-appropriate across all ages with a focus on wonder and discovery.

Imaginative

88

Offers augmented reality experiences to explore rovers and rockets, ISS tracking alerts, and access to 21,000+ NASA images. NASA+ streaming service provides documentaries and mission coverage that spark curiosity about space. However, it's primarily informational rather than creative play—you're consuming rather than building.

Safe

98

No ads, no in-app purchases, no social features, no user-generated content. NASA+ is explicitly family-friendly with age ratings on content. Common Sense Media confirms it's safe. The only minor concern is information overload for young kids without guidance.

Enriching

94

Exceptional educational value with real NASA mission updates, podcasts with astronauts, access to Artemis and James Webb Space Telescope coverage, and 21,000+ authentic space images. Builds scientific literacy and inspires STEM interest. Daily updates keep content fresh and relevant.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Free access to NASA+ streaming with live coverage, documentaries, and mission updates—no subscription required
AR experiences let kids see rovers and rockets in their living room, plus ISS flyover alerts for real-time space tracking
21,000+ stunning space images that auto-update your wallpaper daily (because why not wake up to Saturn?)
Podcasts with actual astronauts and NASA scientists—real experts, not YouTube influencers
Perfect for the kid who won't stop asking about black holes, Mars rovers, or when we're going back to the moon

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What to Watch For

The sheer volume of content can overwhelm younger kids—Common Sense Media notes they'll need guidance to focus
Heavy on text and reading, so pre-readers will need a parent to navigate and explain
Some mission content and scientific explanations may be too advanced for elementary-aged kids without context

Conversation Starters

"Want to see when the International Space Station flies over our house tonight?"
"What do you think astronauts eat for breakfast in space?"
"If you could design a Mars rover, what would you want it to look for?"
"Should we watch the NASA+ documentary about the James Webb Space Telescope?"
"Which planet would you want to visit first and why?"

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