A new monument named Earth Rise near NASA's Johnson Space Center honors Black astronauts, scientists, engineers, and civil rights leaders who contributed to the space program.

The monument bears the inscription We can do more together, inviting people to pursue their dreams regardless of obstacles and offering inspiration and hope.

The sculpture at St. Thomas the Apostle Episcopal Church in Nassau Bay was unveiled on a Sunday and funded with $125,000 from the John and Joseph Talbot Fund of the Episcopal Diocese of Texas.

Church leaders describe Earth Rise as both public art and a statement about who is remembered in public spaces, highlighting themes of racial reconciliation and diversity as strength.

Eight honorees are recognized, including Ed Dwight, Robert Henry Lawrence Jr., George Robert Carruthers, Ruth Bates Harris, NASA Astronaut Group 8, Dr. Bernard Harris Jr., Sunita Williams, and Charles Bolden Jr.

Charles Bolden Jr., a former NASA administrator and astronaut, spoke at the ceremony and stressed the importance of recognizing underrepresented contributors.

The monument is accessible year-round and free to the public, serving as a reminder to pursue space-related aspirations with dedication.