Nova Awards
The Nova awards recognize accomplishments in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math). There are four Nova awards for Cub Scouts, Webelos Scouts, Scouts BSA, and Venturers. Each award covers one component of STEM—science, technology, engineering, or mathematics. For their first Nova award, Scouts earn the distinctive Nova award patch. The next three awards are each recognized with a separate pi (π) pin-on device that attaches to the patch.
Beyond the Nova awards, Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, and Venturers are eligible to work on the more rigorous Supernova awards, which recognize more advanced work in STEM and recognized by a medal and a certificate.
Cub Scouts and Webelos Scouts have one Supernova award each. Scouts BSA can work toward two: The Dr. Bernard Harris Supernova Bronze Award and the Thomas Edison Supernova Silver Award. Venturers have three available: the Dr. Sally Ride Supernova Bronze Award, the Wright Brothers Supernova Silver Award, and the Dr. Albert Einstein Supernova Gold Award.