Heroes Using Space for the People of Earth

Big Impact Astronomy Podcast

Join us on an adventure through the telescope to the stars and back. We’ll visit people around the world who are having a big impact on the lives of others who share their place on Earth. Whatever our cultural differences, we share the same sky. We are all fellow passengers traveling through the galaxy on Spaceship Earth.

Why Astronomy?

Astronomy is the most accessible and universal of all the sciences. Where there are no labs in schools, there is an astronomy lab overhead. Where there is no culture of science, traditional lore connects people with the stars. In schools and universities, refugee camps, children’s hospitals, and more, astronomy is used to improve lives, communities, and society.

Enter The Heroes

Big Impact Astronomy features the work of the thousands of enthusiasts using astronomy – and its connection to all sciences and cultures – for social progress. These science evangelists introduce STEM in developing countries, encourage girls to consider STEM careers, provide relief, inspiration, and hope for young people in countries in crisis, and much more.

Adventures Await

From space agencies in the US to Ethiopia, countries in crisis from Ukraine to Libya, girls in Nigeria to camps for refugees from Boko Haram, and rural communities from Nepal to the US, these science evangelists bring the extraordinary down to Earth for inspiration, education, development, mental health, and peacebuilding. All under the one sky we all share.

Your Host

Mike Simmons, host of Big Impact Astronomy, has a 50-year history of leading astronomy organizations and projects, the last 25 years internationally. Astronomy has taken him around the world where he’s connected with the subjects of Big Impact Astronomy, seen their impact, and heard their stories. These are personal journeys for both the host and the guests.

2 Apr 2025

Exploring Space from Above and Below with Ron Rosano

From making a telescope with John Dobson to going to space, Ron Rosano has shared the cosmos from his special perspective.

19 Mar 2025

Inspiring Girls and Refugee Children in Nigeria with Olayinka Fagbemiro

From children in Internally Displaced People (IDP) camps who have escaped Bobo Haram to girls who don't know that science is an option for them, Olayinka and her team bring STEM through astronomy to the unserved of Nigeria.

5 Mar 2025

Astrophotography and Aboriginal Sky Lore in Western Australia with John Goldsmith

John takes us on a journey through a wondrous landscape that melds alien-like terrain, spectacular skies, and the ancient lore of the Aboriginal community.

19 Feb 2025

Astronomy, Mental Health, and Community with Joyful Mdhluli

Joyful shares her work at the Office of Astronomy for Development of the International Astronomical Union where she focuses on the Astronomy for Mental Health flagship program, which leverages the rejuvenating impact of nature and the awe of contemplating the

5 Feb 2025

Bringing the Cosmic Web Down to Earth with Mark Neyrinck

In a fascinating episode that takes us from the neurons in our brain to the largest structure of the Universe, cosmologist Mark Neyrinck shares his insights (featured on PBS Nova) into the large-scale cosmic web of galaxies and filaments that

29 Jan 2025

Access to the Universe: DEI in Astronomy with Jörg Matthias Determann

The author of "Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Astronomy: A Modern History", Jörg discusses the value of astronomy for all cultures, how its universal appeal connects us, and how even science fiction can inspire marginalized groups.

22 Jan 2025

Astronomy for Blind and Low Vision People with Cesare Pagano and Andra Stoica

Cesare and Andra have brought the cosmos to blind and low vision people in their countries, but they also lead the Inclusive Outreach sub-working group of the IAU Working Group on Equity and Inclusion, helping people with disabilities around the

15 Jan 2025

“Stars Shine for Everyone” Global Telescope Program with Jean Pierre Grootaerd

Partnering with the International Astronomical Union Office for Astronomy Outreach, Jean Pierre's homegrown program in Belgium sends volunteer-made telescope mounts with donated telescopes to classrooms around the world.

4 Dec 2024

Inspiring Students With Astronomy in Nepal With Manisha Dwa

Manisha Dwa inspires students in Nepal through astronomy. She is a leader in the Nepal Astronomical Society and joins us with other active members of that organization. She represents Nepal in several international organizations and also founded Women in Science

27 Nov 2024

Empowering and Inspiring African Students With Mirjana Povic

Astrophysicist Mirjana Povic shares her journey from war-torn Yugoslavia to Ethiopia, where she's revolutionizing astronomy education. Learn how she's using the stars to combat poverty, empower girls, and inspire the next generation of African scientists.

20 Nov 2024

Inspiring Girls in Pakistan With Yumna Majeed

Yumna inspires girls in cities and isolated rural regions across Pakistan to reach for the stars. Often volunteering her time and resources to follow her passion, Yumna's dedication inspires young Pakistanis to follow their dreams.

13 Nov 2024

Debunking Myths and Rediscovering Wonder with Phil Plait

Phil Plait, known widely as “The Bad Astronomer,” shares his journey in science outreach, from debunking astronomy myths to writing popular books and consulting for science fiction films and shows. He emphasizes the importance of reconnecting people with the wonder

Recent Episodes

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