Dr. Mark Wagner, CEO and co-founder of ARES Learning, joins Ben Gamble on the Astro Ben Podcast to talk about space education and how to inspire the next generation of space explorers. Mark's own path started in the classroom as a high school English teacher and led him to a career in educational technology and space education advocacy.
Ben and Mark discuss how technology is changing the way students learn about space, including the SLOOH online telescope network, and the work of the Aldrin Family Foundation. They also look at why corporations are getting involved in space, what a space curriculum should cover, and the legacy Mark hopes space education leaves behind.
Mark is also the author of the book Space Education: Preparing Students for Humanity's Multi-Planet Future, which he draws on throughout the conversation. It is a good listen for teachers, students and anyone curious about how people get started in the space industry.
What you will hear in this episode
Mark's journey from high school English teacher to space educator
How technology is used in space education, including SLOOH
The Aldrin Family Foundation
Space education for space exploration
Why corporations are "getting in" on space
Mark's book and space curriculum
Space education's legacy
Connect with Dr. Mark Wagner
Listen to the Astro Ben Podcast
More on space careers and education: Maynard Okereke on STEM representation and space education, or browse all Astro Ben Podcast episodes.
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