Big Impact Astronomy - Ron Rosano Interview

Apr 2, 2025

Ron Rosano, a suborbital astronaut and seasoned astronomy educator, shares his inspiring journey from space novice to spaceflight participant. He discusses the transforming experience of viewing Earth from space and its implications for environmental awareness. Ron highlights the need for educational outreach in underrepresented communities, sharing his extensive work in schools globally. Additionally, he sheds light on the contrast of astronomy education practices across countries, reinforcing the importance of collaboration and inclusivity in academia.

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Intro

00:00 • 3min

Viewing Earth from Space: Insights and Inspiration

02:46 • 19min

Cultural Perspectives on Astronomy Education

21:23 • 2min

Inspiring Young Minds: A Journey in Space Education

23:51 • 6min

Stars in the Arctic: Bridging Astronomy and Education

29:21 • 6min

A New Era of Space Awareness and Responsibility

35:02 • 2min

The Importance of Astronomy for Underserved Communities

36:42 • 3min

Ron Rosano flew into space on a suborbital flight with Virgin Galactic on October 6, 2023, and has pursued a passion of space travel and astronomy outreach with schools in with the public since 1995.

In awe of the starry sky since he was a child and inspired by the Apollo Moon landings, Ron has closely followed NASA and other space missions for as long as he can remember. He has parlayed this passion into extensive astronomy education outreach as an informal educator for more than 25 years, meeting with more than 220 schools in 15 countries. Ron is the creator and editor of the Suborbital Flight Journal, a complete record of all human suborbital flights.

Since 2008, Ron has conducted more than 70 events as a NASA Solar System Ambassador, giving presentations on Mars rovers, the James Webb Space Telescope, the Apollo Moon landings, and more. Ron serves on the advisory council of the Astronomical Society of the Pacific, the board of advisors of the Human Space Program and the Board of Directors of the Nepal Youth Foundation. He works for a property management company and pursues interests in photography and jazz drumming.

Mike Simmons is the founder of Astronomy for Equity ( https://bmsis.org/astro4equity/ ). Others on the team, including people around the world in astronomy and space exploration, authors and philosophers, designers and artists and more will be added as the website is developed.

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