SolveItForKids Science podcast

Yeast is something you probably eat every day (it's in bread!) but would you ever think about sending it into space? That's exactly what Dr. Sergio Santa Maria, the lead scientist for NASA Ames BioSentinel program is doing. BioSentinel is NASA's first biological mission beyond the Earth-Moon system. Their experiment with yeast was launched on the Artemis1 rocket and is now (and forever) flying through space. The goal is to learn how yeast is affected by deep space radiation in hopes of learning how that same radiation might affects humans. Sounds like a cool experiment, doesn't it? It is! Take a listen.

Did you know that YOU can help with biodiversity? It's true! Get inspired by Earth Echo International's program manager, Kasey Gaylord-Opaleski, and youth team leader David Yoon, as they describe all of the amazing ways that kids (of all ages) can help to sustain biodiversity on our planet. Then follow up by doing the challenge described by Earth Echo International. You will be glad that you did as you figure out ways to help our planet.

Have you ever wanted to talk to a spaceship? Well now you can! Human spaceflight developer Rob Chambers, of Lockheed Martin, chats with us about Callisto, a unique vehicle-connected interface that is a collaboration Amazon's Alexa virtual-assistant, and Webex by Cisco, a video software and collaboration software. Join us for this FANTASTIC conversation about how you can talk to the Orion spaceship as it hurtles towards the Moon in 2022.

People often try to be aware of the impact they are making on the planet. They will make sure to drink out of reusable water bottles, use as little plastic as possible, and even walk instead of driving. But did you ever think about how the clothes you wear affect the planet? If not, you'll want to listen to our awesome chat with Louise Ulukaya, founder of Mon Couer clothing, as she explains to us how she uses recycled plastic and abandoned fishing lines to make her clothes for kids. You'll be surprised at all of the science that is involved!

Have you ever wondered how airline pilots land those giant planes? You know the big jumbo jets-- or even the small ones? Don't miss this fun and exciting episode with Guy Wroble, engineer and former airline pilot, who talks to us about physics, weather, and also how the length of the runway plays a part in the landing. You will leave appreciating just how awesome pilots are!

Have you ever watched a sporting event and looked for the science? You should! Sports can't happen without science, technology, engineering, and math. We have Sean Barton, the Director of Curriculum and Strategy for STEM Sports to talk about just how you can see the STEM in sports! Don't miss this awesome episode all about sportsscience!

Did you ever wonder why we need sleep? And what happens to our brains as we sleep at night? We have the awesome Dr. Nancy Cowdin Hennessy, neuroscientist and teacher who explains just what our brain does when its sleepy. This is an episode not to be missed! It may even help you sleep better Zzzzzzzz

Want to create the perfect habitat for eco-friendly plants and animals in your own backyard? Don't miss this fantastic chat with Award-winning science author and birder, Sneed Collard III. Grab a pencil and a pad of paper. You'll want to write down all of his tips for designing your own backyard. You may even find yourself heading to the nearest garden center to pick out a few plants to get started!

Do you wish that you could talk to a robot? It's not that difficult to do, just program it to follow your instructions. The fantastic Dr. Carlotta Barry, electrical and computer engineer, tells us how to do just that in this exciting and informative chat. This episode will have you heading to the nearest website to buy yourself a robotics kit and build a robot of your own! #RoboticsRocks

Have you ever looked up at a tree and wondered just exactly how tall it really is? We can help with that! Brian Campbell, NASA Senior Earth Science Outreach Specialist at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center's Wallops Flight Facility in VA, tells us about the challenge he has for all you citizen scientists out there! It's the NASA GLOBE Trees Challenge 2022: Trees in a Changing Climate and he needs YOUR help! Tune in and learn how you can help measure trees for NASA.