NASA | Taking on Titan: An Interview with Carrie Anderson

Carrie Anderson shares her journey into space science, inspired by her father and early experiences with astronomy. She discusses her role at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, focusing on the Cassini mission and its Composite Infrared Spectrometer. The mission studies Titan, Saturn's largest moon, known for its thick atmosphere and methane clouds, offering insights into early Earth conditions. Carrie's passion for science and math, influenced by her father, led her to a fulfilling career in space exploration.

What inspired Carrie Anderson to pursue a career in space science?

• Her high school teacher

• Her father's influence and interest in space

• A documentary she watched

• A visit to a space museum

What is the primary function of the Composite Infrared Spectrometer (CIRS) on the Cassini spacecraft?

• To measure the gravitational pull of Saturn

• To capture visible light images of Saturn

• To detect heat beyond the visible spectrum

• To communicate with Earth

Which moon is the largest in our solar system?

• Ganymede

• Europa

• Titan

• Callisto

What makes Titan's atmosphere unique compared to other moons in our solar system?

• It has a thin atmosphere

• It is the hottest moon

• It is composed mainly of oxygen

• It has a thick, planet-like atmosphere

Why is Titan considered a point of interest for scientists studying early Earth?

• It has a similar size to Earth

• It has a similar atmosphere to early Earth

• It is closer to the Sun

• It has abundant water