Humanity has explored far beyond the reaches of Earth, nearly to the edge of interstellar space (and we’re getting closer every day). We have visited every planet in the solar system except Pluto, many more than once. Given that no human has traveled out of Earth orbit in almost 30 years and none has gone farther than our moon, how did we visit those other places? With robots!

Dr. Tim Livengood, a senior space science researcher at the National Center for Earth and Space Science Education, visits the Library to tell true stories about space-exploring robots. His current research involves measuring deposits of water on the moon, using the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter, and employing special telescopes to learn about other planets’ atmospheres. Livengood will also discuss the importance of STEAM education (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) in pursuing careers in science and space exploration.

Appropriate for ages 6-18.