Astronomy isn't just about looking up at the sky. The Adler Planetarium's Michelle Nichols delves deep into the lessons that astronomy can teach us about our own world and gives an update on when (and why) we're hoping to finish the "race to Mars." Plus: the surprising relationship many scientists have with religion.

As Director of Public Observing, Michelle leads the Adler Planetarium's various telescope and sky observing efforts, including the 'Scopes in the City telescope outreach program, free nighttime observing in the Doane Observatory via Doane at Dusk, Adler's telescope volunteer program, and much more.

Additional resources discussed:

• The Adler Planetarium website
• So you want to be an astronaut? Here's what it takes (USA Today)
• Eggplant (Solanum melongena) Domestication History and Genealogy
• Origins of the Potato
• Astronomy Lab for Kids: 52 Family-Friendly Activities (Lab Series)

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Full episode transcript here: https://curiosity-daily-4e53644e.simplecast.com/episodes/what-space-can-teach-us-about-our-world

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