What steps should a Biochemistry Undergraduate take to pursue a career in Aerospace Medicine?

To pursue a career in Aerospace Medicine as an undergraduate with a Biochemistry background, it’s crucial to follow a series of strategic steps: Understand Aerospace Medicine: Gain insight into what aerospace medicine entails. It encompasses the health and safety of astronauts and aviation personnel, addressing medical challenges in environments ranging from commercial flights to space […]

Is the phrase “Born too late to explore the Earth, but too early to explore the stars” still relevant in today’s world?

The phrase “Born too late to explore the Earth, but too early to explore the stars,” reflects a sentiment of being caught between two eras of exploration. Historically, the age of terrestrial exploration seems to have passed with much of Earth’s surface having been mapped and studied. At the same time, the ability to explore […]

What is the optimal landing site location for the first human settlement on Mars?

Choosing the optimal landing site for the first Martian colony involves several critical considerations that prioritize safety, resource availability, scientific return, and technological constraints. One of the top contenders often discussed is the region of Elysium Planitia, near the equator of Mars. This site offers a balance of several essential factors: Safety and Landing Feasibility: […]

What research project would you be interested in seeing conducted on the International Space Station?

I would be interested in seeing an experiment focused on understanding the impacts of microgravity on brain function and cognitive performance in astronauts. This research could provide insights into how extended space travel might affect mental health and cognitive abilities, crucial for future long-duration missions to Mars or beyond. The experiment could utilize advanced neuroimaging […]

At what depth beneath Europa’s ocean would the water pressure be similar to that experienced on Earth?

Europa, one of Jupiter’s largest moons, has a subsurface ocean beneath its icy crust, making it a fascinating subject for scientific inquiry. On Earth, humans generally experience pressures up to about 1 atmosphere, equal to approximately 101.3 kilopascals (kPa) at sea level. To determine at what depth Europa’s ocean might exert a similar pressure, we […]

Is it possible to pursue a career in space exploration with a major in chemistry and a minor in computer science?

Yes, pursuing a career in space exploration with a background in chemistry and computer science is possible, and indeed, your skill set can be valuable in this field. The space exploration industry is highly interdisciplinary, often requiring expertise from various scientific and technical areas. Here are some ways you can leverage your chemistry major and […]

Do you have inquiries for Professor Luciano Iess?

Professor Luciano Iess is a renowned figure in the field of space science and planetary exploration, known for his involvement in a number of pivotal space missions and research projects. His work primarily revolves around the use of radio science experiments to gather crucial data about the characteristics and dynamics of celestial bodies. One of […]

Could an Asteroid Strike Occur in 2032, and How Can We Prepare?

The notion of an asteroid impacting Earth is both fascinating and concerning. Currently, NASA and other space agencies around the world actively monitor near-Earth objects (NEOs) for potential collision threats. The chances of an asteroid hitting Earth in 2032 would depend on current and updated tracking data. For example, the asteroid 2013 TV135 raised concern […]

Is it possible for a brown dwarf to support life?

Brown dwarfs, which are often described as “failed stars,” are objects that bridge the gap between the largest planets and the smallest stars. They have masses between 13 and 80 times that of Jupiter, insufficient to sustain the fusion of hydrogen into helium in their cores, which is the primary energy source for stars. As […]

What are the serious factors preventing us from being the sole intelligent species in the universe?

The question of whether we are the only intelligent life form in the universe is steeped in complexity and conjecture, with several factors worth considering. First, the sheer size of the universe suggests that it holds vast potential for various forms of life. The observable universe contains around two trillion galaxies, each home to millions […]