Speakers Astrobiology Workshop: From Tang to Television

Todd Gary, Director of the Institute for Understanding Biological Systems, at Tennessee State University, presented information about medical research and biotechnology breakthroughs resulting from research in space. Dr. Gary shared some of the research on extra-solar planets and plant research being done with NASA support by the Center of Excellence for Information Systems at Tennessee State University. Email Todd Gary tgary@coe.tsuniv.edu

Keith Watt, Assistant Director of the Arizona State University Mars Education Program presented information about The Mars Mapping Program using one of space exploration's most important inventions, satellite imaging. NASA and Arizona State University's Mars Education Program is offering students nationwide the opportunity to be involved in authentic Mars research by participating in the Mars Student Imaging Project Email Keith Watt kilo@ExodusProject.com

Marilynn Duran, Curriculum Specialist and Science Trainer for Williamson County Schools used the Apollo 13 movie to simulate problem-solving strategies starting with the famous line, "Houston, we have a problem." Email Marilynn Duran marilynd@wcs.edu

Judy Butler, Director of Education and Community Outreach, with the Institute for Understanding Biological Systems at TSU facilitated the workshop and covered the following topics: lesson plans that introduce students to the spin-offs from NASA research in communication, remote sensing, and transportation and using Internet resources to bring "Space and Daily Life" to the classroom in exciting ways. Email Judy Butler judy@dragonflyenterprises.org