‘NASA STEM Stars’: Planetary Scientist (Español)

NASA Role Model: Dr. Geronimo Villanueva
NASA Center: Goddard Space Flight Center
Topic: Mars and Ocean Worlds Studies for the James Webb Space Telescope
Original Air Date: July 28, 2021

Is there life on other planets? Are we alone? Join Dr. Geronimo Villanueva, a planetary scientist who discovered water and methane on Mars. The International Astronomical Union named minor planet 1981 EW17 “Villanueva” in recognition for the advances in molecular spectroscopy of planetary and cometary atmospheres. Dr. Villanueva is the principal investigator of the Planetary Spectrum Generator and leader for Mars and Ocean Worlds Studies for the James Webb Space Telescope. He has been chosen as science communicator by the U.S. State Department and Shakira’s foundation “Pies Descalzos” to promote science in developing regions.

STEM Activity: Build It Yourself: Satellite! Game
Objective: Choose a scientific mission for your satellite, and choose the necessary instruments in this online game. Once your satellite is ready, you can launch it and learn about a real NASA mission.
Duration: 30 minutes
Materials Needed: Computer or tablet with a minimum screen size of 1024×768.
Difficulty: Moderate

Next Generation Science Standards:  ESS2.C

“NASA STEM Stars” is a webchat series. Each chat introduces a science, technology, engineering or math career, addresses a STEM topic and highlights a NASA mission. The chat includes a STEM activity that students can do at home. After the interviews, experts answer students’ questions.