NASA threw down the space-crafting gauntlet for Etsy crafters a few weeks ago, challenging them to create and submit their own NASA-inspired art:

Entrants share an original handmade item or work of art inspired by NASA and NASA's programs, such as the Space Shuttle Program and human spaceflight, aeronautics, science and exploration of the universe.

The challenge is part of NASA's effort to reach out to the female members of the younger generation; Etsy's user base is 96 percent women, and most are under 35. The contest's grand prize winner will get a $500 shopping spree on Etsy, and a trip to attend the launch of the space shuttle Endeavor in February 2011.

The submissions thus far include paintings, sculptures, jewelry, clothing, and much more, so we went ahead and picked out some of our favorites and asked what inspired their artists. Take a gander at the whole lot of submissions if you have a minute.

This little pocket rocket was made by Etsy crafter trinlayk, who specializes in amigurumi (aka crocheted stuffed animals) that she sells on Etsy and at science fiction conventions.  She says her creation was inspired by a lifetime fascination with science fiction and space:

I remember the early space shots that led up to landing on the moon, as well as remembering sitting in the family in front of our big TV in the Den (past my bedtime? up early?) to see them as well as the later moon landing.