Free Educational Topics in Los Angeles & Orange County
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Dare Mighty Things – A Short History of NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory
David Lehman, Project Manager, Retired from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory
The origins of NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory date back to the 1930s, when Caltech professor Theodore von Kármán oversaw pioneering work in rocket propulsion. After unsuccessful and sometimes hazardous experiments, several of his graduate students were forced to move their work off campus. They chose the Arroyo Seco, a dry canyon wash north of the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California – and future home of JPL. This early work grew into a laboratory of over 6000 employees that has sent spacecraft to every planet in our solar system and two spacecraft now in interstellar space. MORE >
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Journey to the Moon: A Kid’s Guide to Space Exploration
David Lehman, Project Manager, Retired from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Embark of an educational adventure designed specifically for students in Kindergarten through 12th grade. This engaging presentation covers a spectrum of topics aimed at fostering a fascination for space exploration including: (1) facts about the Moon for kids, (2) a short history of NASA’s exploration of the Moon, (3) why kids would want to go to the Moon, (4) how kids can go to the Moon, (5) a summary of NASAs plans to return to the Moon with its ARTEMIS program, and (6) how kids can prepare to become a NASA astronaut. Join Mr. Lehman on this captivating journey as we ignite the spirt of exploration and curiosity for the next generation of space enthusiasts. “Journey to the Moon” promises to be an informative and inspiring experience for students eager to learn about the wonders of our universe. MORE >
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WE ARE GOING! To the Moon with NASA
David Lehman, Project Manager, Retired from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Are you ready to embark on an extraordinary journey to the Moon? Learn about NASA's ARTEMIS program to ignite your imagination and curiosity like never before! Imagine standing on the lunar surface, witnessing breathtaking lunar landscapes, and exploring uncharted territories. ARTEMIS is not just a mission; it's a testament to human ingenuity and our unrelenting pursuit of knowledge. MORE >
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Are We Alone?
David Lehman, Project Manager, Retired from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory
This presentation explores the fundamental question of whether we are alone in the universe. It begins by defining life and its essential characteristics. The exploration continues with a review of human efforts to search for extraterrestrial life, including a summary of the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence Institute’s quest by Earth-based telescopes, the James Webb Space Telescope's study of techno-signatures of planets in other star systems, and the Mars Sample Return mission’s plans to bring back actual samples (which may include ancient life-forms) from Mars. The presentation also delves into the Drake Equation's role in estimating the number of civilizations in our galaxy and the Fermi Paradox, which questions why extraterrestrial life has not yet been observed. The talk concludes with strategies to boost our chances of answering the question “..Are We Alone?...” MORE >
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Mars Explorers Unite: A Cosmic Adventure for Kids!
David Lehman, Project Manager, Retired from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Embark on a captivating journey to the red planet with a presentation for students from Kindergarten to 12th grade. Delve into the mysteries of Mars to provide a kid-friendly understanding of the planet. They will learn about NASA’s endeavors on Mars, from its initial exploration to current missions. They will also learn NASA's plans for the future, igniting curiosity about the endless possibilities of Martian exploration. The kids will discover the allure of Mars and why it has captivated the imagination of scientists and dreamers alike. The kids will learn about how one might journey to Mars, and about the essential elements and tools required for survival on the red planet. For kids aspiring to become a NASA astronaut or work for NASA in other positions, the presentation will offer valuable insights into how to achieve their goals. This presentation aims to inspire and educate, fostering a sense of wonder and determination in the next generation of space enthusiasts. MORE >