A Lunar Legacy: Celebrating Giant Leaps and Collective Action in Space
Image credits: Hamid Khaleghi via Unsplash
On July 20, 1969, a world in turmoil witnessed a spectacular achievement: two American men setting foot on the lunar surface. It’s easy to focus on these men, this moment. But an estimated 400,000 men and women helped send them there—and bring them safely home.
I’m not just talking about engineers. There would have been no space program without the efforts of electricians, welders, programmers, nurses, administrative assistants, drivers, and other crucial roles. It’s thanks to their collective action—and subsequent decades of international teamwork—that today’s world is safer, healthier, and more connected than ever before, thanks to space services.
Apollo 11 astronaut Buzz Aldrin walks on the surface of the moon on July 20, 1969, in a photograph taken by Neil Armstrong. Image provided by History in HD via Unsplash.
Our modern technology landscape was seeded in the Apollo era. The lunar missions revealed a great deal about the moon’s geology and history, and how they are related to Earth. Perhaps most importantly, post-Apollo international cooperation and engagement have continued to drive space exploration and tech development. Generation after generation have been inspired by the moon landings to pursue careers in science, engineering, math and technology.
All of which brings us to this exciting moment, as we return to the moon, evolve the space economy, and set our sights on Mars.
What should we do in today’s world to build a better tomorrow?
💡 First, let’s lean into the idea that humanity’s life in space tomorrow can make life on Earth better today.
Image credits: Daniel Fox. Dr. Tiffany Vora (second from left) joins the Humans to Mars Summit 2023 panel, Is there a Business Case for Mars Technology?
Dr. Tiffany Vora at the Humans to Mars Summit 2022, together with the panelists of the session on innovation, sustainability, and Mars.
The links are all around us! Sustainability here on Earth and trips off planet both require food and protein security, low-carbon energy sources, circular manufacturing, precision medicine, advanced materials, and more. Fortunately, we have exponential technologies to help us. That’s why I moderated a panel on innovation, sustainability and Mars at the 2022 Humans to Mars Summit. You can watch the video here. Now, at the 2023 Summit, I had the privilege of joining a panel of experts that delved into The Business of Mars: Is There Now a Business Case for Mars Technology? Don’t miss the insightful discussion, you can watch the video here.
Dr. Tiffany Vora joins a panel on Harnessing Allied Space Capabilities, organized by the Atlantic Council.
Not only will these innovations help us make these things and do these tasks; international cooperation to achieve these goals will itself improve life on Earth, from education to markets to geopolitics and diplomacy. These are exactly the systems and processes that we need for the international community to tackle the UN Sustainable Development Goals and to turn the tide against climate change. My recent article on harnessing allied capabilities for space exploration for Forward Defense at the Scowcroft Center at the Atlantic Council dives more deeply into the connections between life in space and life on Earth. Additionally, during the recent Humans to Mars Summit organized by Explore Mars, I moderated a discussion on producing food in space for the benefit of Earth.
As you can see, I’m passionate about strengthening the links between space and Earth! That’s why I’m thrilled to be stepping up as Explore Mars’ Vice President of Innovation Partnerships. If you want to find out how your company can contribute to mankind’s future beyond Earth, please contact me!
💡 Second, let’s broaden participation in the space industry.
Image credits: ThisisEngineering RAEng via Unsplash.
The mindset shift I mentioned above can help. If you’re working on sustainability, you’re working on space! At Explore Mars, we’re working to highlight and promote the efforts of skilled workers in space exploration and products. And remember, we can expect longer and healthier careers, plus more “space jobs” in the future.
Another passion of mine is bringing women and other people from historically underrepresented minorities into STEMM and leadership roles. This is why I’m heading to Antarctica in November with Homeward Bound! You can support my impact by making a donation and amplifying my advocacy work.
💡 Finally, let’s celebrate the Apollo 11 anniversary by thinking about who we want to be, as individuals and as a species, in the coming decades.
Working towards a world full of wonder. Dr. Tiffany Vora brings her son to the science museum.
What ideas, dreams, and ways of being together do we want to bring with us when we leave Earth? What should we leave behind? I’ve been exploring these questions with Humanity in Deep Space and Explore Mars. We would love for you to join the conversations!
And of course, there’s the ultimate question: what future(s) do we want to build, together? I’m working toward a future that is sustainable, inclusive, prosperous—and full of wonder. If you share the same vision, here are some meaningful ways you can help:
Discover more: Learn more about my advocacies by exploring the blog, videos, articles, and podcasts on my website
Support the cause: Donate to my immersive leadership challenge in Antarctica
Amplify the message: Share my Antarctic voyage fundraising videos to individuals, teams, and companies who support climate action and women in STEMM
Partner for the future: Discuss how your organization can contribute to better futures for Earth and space
Collaborate for impact: Reach out to see how I could help your organization make a positive impact in the world.
Let’s talk about the future!
Dr. Tiffany Vora is a scientist, keynote speaker, and expert in biotech, health, and innovation.