Harvard's Center for Public Leadership’s Post

Space Study Sheds Light on Human Perception and Safety in Zero Gravity, Los Angeles CA (SPX) Mar 26, 2024 A study by York University reveals astronauts' remarkable skill in orienting themselves and estimating distances in the absence of gravity. The research, a collaborative effort with the Canadian Space Agency and NASA, suggests significant implications for astronaut safety in space. It could also offer insights into how aging impacts human balance systems on Earth, according to Faculty of H, : Los

[NASA Astronaut And Director Ellen Ochoa Awarded Presidential Medal of Freedom] The first Hispanic woman to launch into space is now the second female astronaut to be awarded the United States' highest honor. Ellen Ochoa, who later directed NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston, was bestowed with the Presidential Medal of Freedom during a ceremony at the White House on Friday (May 3). Ochoa is the 10th astronaut to receive the medal. "For most, the American dream is to be successful in whatever endeavor you choose here on Earth. For Dr. Ellen Ochoa, her dream was in the heavens," said President Joe Biden, who presided over the ceremony. "Ellen was the first Hispanic woman to go to space, ushering in a whole new age of space exploration and what it means for every generation to reach for the stars." Individuals chosen for the Presidential Medal of Freedom have significantly contributed to the prosperity, values or security of the United States, world peace or other societal, public or private endeavors, according to the White House. "Wow, what an unexpected and amazing honor!" said Ochoa, upon first hearing that she was going to be honored, according to a statement issued by NASA. "I'm so grateful for all my amazing NASA colleagues who shared my career journey with me." In addition to the Presidential Medal of Freedom, Ochoa has been recognized for her role in the U.S. space program with NASA's highest award, the Distinguished Service Medal, and in 2017 was inducted into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame in Florida. Schools bear her name today in California, New Jersey, Oklahoma, Texas and Washington. Source: https://lnkd.in/e5W7X2YD #galaxyaerosgh #space #spaceexploration #spacenews

The Human Body in Space What exactly happens to the body in space and what are the risks? Are the risks the same for astronauts who spend six months on the space station versus those who may be away on a Mars mission for years? The simple answer is: No. NASA is researching risks for Mars missions which are grouped into five human spaceflight hazards related to the stressors they place on the body. These can be summarized with the acronym “RIDGE,” short for Space Radiation, Isolation and Confinement, Distance from Earth, Gravity fields, and Hostile/Closed Environments. Learn more about RIDGE: https://lnkd.in/gXSbM-RG

I had lunch with astronaut Michael J. Foreman during my first visit to NASA. Mike boasts an impressive spacefaring resume, having participated in two Space Shuttle missions: STS-123 in 2008 and STS-129 in 2009. He's logged an astounding 637 hours in space, including over 32 hours dedicated to extravehicular activities (EVAs) crucial for constructing the International Space Station. The event was exclusive, but for those interested, similar experiences can be arranged at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. In our conversation, Mike revealed a common question he's asked: "How long did it take for you to become an astronaut?" His answer surprised many: "It took me 42 years." Wow. He was exactly 42yo when he went on his first space mission. Reflecting on his journey, he noted, "People often seek a formula, but for me, it was a lifelong endeavor. Every decision, every action, propelled me closer to my childhood dream." His insights show the importance of persistence and dedication in achieving goals, even amid uncertainty. At the end, I asked Mike about the most memorable image he has from space. “The Aurora Borealis.” He described it as a breathtaking sight, especially when viewed from the vastness of space. What about you? Do you have any ambitious dreams you're pursuing? #ContentMarketing #Branding #Reputation #Strategy #Communications

Why It Matters

Why is the space station up there? The space station is Earth's only microgravity laboratory. This football field-sized platform hosts a plethora of science and technology experiments that are continuously being conducted by crew members, or are automated. Research aboard the orbiting laboratory holds benefits for life back on Earth, as well as for future space exploration. The space station serves as a testbed for technologies and allows us to study the impacts of long-term spaceflight to humans, supporting NASA's mission to push human presence farther into space. Learn more about the research happening on the space station, and opportunities to conduct your science there.

The future is female.

This is a pretty striking example of how historical attitudes to Earth-based nature, and the colonial attitudes that accompanied it, have found a new home in the Space economy. This isn’t to say that the Earth-based environmental and infrastructure sector has it all figured out - we don’t. But it’s interesting how attitudes and language that would have impacts on a company’s social license to operate are totally ok in the Space environment, though perhaps that may change. The fields of space ethics and space policy will be a pretty lively place in the coming years…

Help determine the future of Low Earth Orbit activity. Submissions open through 27 September. "The Space Operations Mission Directorate invites you to provide feedback to the proposed goals and objectives that will shape NASA’s next generation of human presence in low Earth orbit. NASA has identified six categories of goals and objectives: Science, Exploration-Enabling Research and Technology Development, Commercial LEO Infrastructure, Operations, International Cooperation, and Workforce and Engagement" https://lnkd.in/gAtsZQ4r

On October 1, 1962, a pivotal moment in space exploration and human achievement occurred when **President John F. Kennedy** delivered a momentous speech at Rice University, boldly declaring that the United States would land a man on the Moon before the decade was out. This ambitious goal not only aimed to demonstrate U.S. technological superiority during the Cold War but also captured the imaginations of millions, inspiring a generation to dream big and strive for greatness. Kennedy's speech came at a time when NASA was still developing the technology needed for human space flight following the Soviet Union's early successes in space, including launching the first human, Yuri Gagarin, into orbit. In response to this growing competition, Kennedy articulated a vision that united the country in the pursuit of a monumental challenge: “We choose to go to the Moon in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard.” This declaration catalyzed the Apollo program, which would eventually culminate in the historic Apollo 11 mission in July 1969, during which astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin became the first humans to set foot on the lunar surface. Beyond technical achievements, the Apollo program fostered immense advancements in science and technology, influencing numerous fields, from materials science to computer technology. The space race spurred innovation and collaboration, inspiring further investments in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education and exploration. Thousands of people worked tirelessly toward a common goal, emphasizing teamwork, ingenuity, and perseverance. Kennedy’s vision helped rally public support for space exploration, changing NASA’s trajectory and solidifying America’s leadership in space. As we reflect on this inspirational event from October 1, we are reminded of the power of visionary leadership and collective ambition in achieving extraordinary feats. This moment serves as a testament to what humanity can accomplish when we dare to dream and work collaboratively toward an ambitious goal. **What big dreams or challenges inspire you today, and how can we harness collective efforts to turn those dreams into reality?** #JFK #SpaceExploration #ApolloProgram #Inspiration #Teamwork #DreamBig #History #STEM