STEM in 30 | Scientist or Guinea Pig: Science in Space

Smithsonian National Space & Air Museum

Do you like being poked, prodded, and analyzed?

If you said yes, then you may have a future as an astronaut. Astronauts don’t just conduct scientific experiments, they are part of an experiment themselves. Learning about the human factors of spaceflight is an important element to a future trip to Mars. Join STEM in 30 as we explore the effects of space on the humans who travel there.

In this episode of STEM in 30, we will be joined by NASA astronaut Anna Fisher. Fisher has a Doctor of Medicine from UCLA and worked in several hospitals in the Los Angeles area prior to her selection as an astronaut. She will discuss her experience in the first class of astronauts to include women and her work with the robotic arm as well as her background in medicine and how NASA keeps up with the health of the astronaut corps.

The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum’s STEM in 30 series of live, fast-paced, 30-minute webcasts are designed to increase interest and engagement in STEM for students. In recognition of the premiere of Star Trek, 50 years ago this September, this episode of STEM in 30 explores how one of the most popular shows in television history has inspired generations of scientists, astronauts, and engineers, and introduced many technologies that have gone from science fiction to science reality.