StarTalk with Neil deGrasse Tyson Season 3 Episode 17 Kathy Sullivan

Kathy Sullivan is the guest on season 3 episode 17 of StarTalk with Neil DeGrasse Tyson. Kathy Sullivan is a former NASA astronaut, NOAA oceanographer, and the first American woman to walk in space- which makes for an exciting conversation on the show.

Neil DeGrasse Tyson starts the conversation discussing why a background in science is a great asset for astronauts. Kathy shares her own experience of first becoming an oceanographer and then going on to become an astronaut. Kathy emphasizes how curiosity is central to both fields and how the systematic mindset required for science is equally necessary for space exploration. She credits her training as an oceanographer which helped her know where to look for methane while on the Hubble Telescope.

The conversation then moves on to Kathy's experience being the first American woman to walk in space. She recounts the mission and shares what it felt like to be on the spacewalk. Neil DeGrasse Tyson notes that space is a very alien place for humans, and Kathy chimes in, sharing what it's like to adjust to zero gravity. Kathy also describes the stomach-churning experience of re-entering Earth's atmosphere.

Neil and Kathy also talk about the importance of nurturing curiosity in children. Kathy mentions her involvement with the "Girls in Science" program which benefits young women pursuing STEM careers. They discuss the various ways in which the science field has changed over the years, especially when it comes to including and encouraging diversity.

The show also addresses the topic of climate change and its impact on our oceans. Kathy shares some of her work in the NOAA, where she led research on aquatic sanctuaries. She explains how ocean currents and tides impact the climate, and why it's important to preserve marine life. There is also a discussion on how the advancement of technology has helped scientists collect better data and interpret it more accurately.

Later in the show, Neil DeGrasse Tyson discusses the Challenger explosion with Kathy. Kathy knew some of the crew members and shares her experience of mourning the loss of her colleagues. She also talks about the safety concerns that come with space exploration, including what can be done to ensure the safety of astronauts.

In the latter segment of the show, they take a few viewer questions. One viewer asks about the future of space exploration, to which Kathy responds that she hopes to see more private companies and individuals work alongside NASA. Another viewer asks about whether we'll ever find life in the universe. Neil and Kathy have a fascinating conversation around the possibilities of life existing in other parts of our galaxy or beyond.

The episode ends with Neil DeGrasse Tyson asking Kathy what message she would like to leave with viewers. Kathy says that she would like people to understand that science is a process of discovery, not an outcome. She encourages people to stay curious, ask questions, and keep learning.

Overall, season 3 episode 17 of StarTalk with Neil DeGrasse Tyson featuring Kathy Sullivan is an inspiring conversation about the importance of science, discovery, and exploration. Kathy's experiences as an astronaut and oceanographer provide an excellent glimpse into the world of space travel and underscores the significance of curiosity and exploration in science.