NASA Scientist's Day and Responsibilities

Michelle Thaller, a scientist at NASA, shares her diverse role in science communication and public engagement. She manages information from over 100 NASA missions, ensuring the public is informed about scientific discoveries. Michelle also highlights the importance of collaboration in science, sharing research through journals and conferences. She describes astronaut training in water to simulate zero gravity and her husband's work in spacecraft testing. Despite the mundane aspects of her job, Michelle finds joy in the creativity and brilliance of scientific discovery.

What is one of Michelle Thaller's main responsibilities at NASA?

• Conducting spacewalks

• Building spacecraft

• Managing communication channels

• Training astronauts

How many active science missions does NASA currently have?

• 100

• 150

• 50

• 75

Why is it important for scientists to share their discoveries?

• To compete with other scientists

• To gain personal fame

• To ensure funding for future projects

• To collaborate and advance science

What is a common activity in the collaborative nature of science?

• Individual funding

• Strategy meetings

• Personal discoveries

• Solo research

What does Michelle's husband do as part of his job?

• Conducts space missions

• Writes scientific papers

• Builds and tests spacecraft

• Manages NASA's social media

How do astronauts train for zero-gravity conditions?

• In a wind tunnel

• On a roller coaster

• In a giant pool of water

• By jumping on trampolines

What is the purpose of the 'bunny suit' mentioned by Michelle?

• To provide comfort during long hours

• To keep engineers warm

• To protect spacecraft from contamination

• To make engineers more visible

What percentage of Michelle's job is similar to other jobs?

• 100%

• 80%

• 50%

• 20%

What aspect of her job does Michelle find most exciting?

• Writing reports

• Attending meetings

• Making new discoveries

• Answering emails

What is a key reason Michelle loves being a scientist?

• The opportunity to work alone

• The routine nature of the job

• The high salary

• The creativity and brilliance involved