NASA Observes the 50th Anniversary of Earth Day Live Shots

In 1968 William Anders, an astronaut on the Apollo 8 mission, captured “Earthrise” — a photo of Earth appearing above the Moon’s horizon. The photo helped unite a generation to appreciate the fragility and beauty of our planet and inspire the first Earth Day less than two years later.

To mark the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, NASA is reflecting on what we’ve learned about our home planet. Chat with NASA scientists on Wednesday, April 22 from 6:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. EDT to find out how NASA satellites have changed our understanding of Earth, how different technologies have benefited the environment and how viewers can join NASA in observing Earth Day from home.

Interviews will be conducted using video chat programs including Skype and Facetime

To Schedule an interview fill out this form: https://forms.gle/1vHuKfhheLid7TKu8

NASA has been at the forefront of space exploration, from landing robots on Mars to sending humans into space. But one of NASA’s biggest fields of study is our planet, Earth. Of all the planets that NASA studies, none have matched the complexity of Earth. NASA’s Earth observing satellites provide a global mosaic of change over time. That coupled with observations from the air, sea and land provide a robust view of our dynamic planet.

NASA technology is all around us. The very technology that helps us understand planets in the solar system also helps us understand and protect Earth. NASA’s aeronautics division is using ‘spinoff’ technology right now to develop an all-electric aircraft that will make airline travel greener. Another division is testing a strong, lightweight composite material that will make wind turbines larger and more efficient.

Participating Interviewees
Douglas Terrier / Chief Technologist, NASA HQ
Sandra Cauffman / Acting Director, Earth Science Division, NASA HQ [interviews in Spanish]
Carlos Del Castillo / NASA Scientist [interviews in Spanish]
Annmarie Eldering/ NASA Scientist
Peter Griffith/ NASA Scientist

Suggested Questions
When most people think of NASA, they think space exploration. What is NASA’s connection to Earth Day?
What has NASA learned about Earth in the last five decades?
How does NASA help to protect our environment here on Earth?
NASA technology is everywhere. What are some space technologies that can benefit the environment here on Earth?
Where can people learn more about NASA Earth Day activities?

Find out more on Twitter @NASAEarth and online at nasa.gov/earthday