Big Impact Astronomy Podcast

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.

About the Podcast


The Stars

Impact Astronomy features enthusiasts using astronomy for social progress, introducing STEM in developing countries, encouraging girls to consider STEM careers, providing relief, inspiration, and hope for young people in countries in crisis, and more.


The Adventures

In rural communities from the US to Nepal, countries in crisis like Ukraine to Libya, refugee camps in Nigeria and girls schools in Pakistan, these science evangelists foster inspiration, education, development, mental health, and peacebuilding. All under the one sky we all share.


The Host

Mike Simmons has led astronomy organizations and projects for 50 years. Astronomy has taken him around the world where he’s connected with the subjects of Impact Astronomy, seen their impact, and heard their stories. These are personal journeys for both the host and the guests.

Recent Episodes

June 11, 2025
Astronomy Festivals, Clowns, and at the Zoo with TRIBU Cultura Astronómica
Cuauhtémoc, Memo (aka Bruno the Clown), and Magda describe their innovative astronomy programs for kids of all ages in Guadalajara, Mexico including festivals, an eclipse…
May 28, 2025
Astronomy for STEM Education in Libya with Atiyah Alhasadi
Atiyah Alhasadi is the Founder and Chairman of Roaya, an NGO in Libya that fosters STEM education through the study of astronomy with a special…
May 7, 2025
Astronomy for Development With Kevin Govender
Kevin Govender leads the International Astronomical Union's Office of Astronomy for Development, which has had a huge around the world through its grants and programs.
April 16, 2025
From Algeria to the Rest of Africa with Jamal Mimouni
Jamal Mimouni takes on an astronomy journey through Africa starting with his long-standing, active group in Algeria.
April 2, 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.
March 19, 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,…
March 5, 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.
February 19, 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…
February 5, 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…

All Episodes

Our Sponsors

A special thanks to the organizations that help make this program possible.

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