Leading space scientists to mark Apollo 11's 50th anniversary at the National Archives

11 July 2019

WASHINGTON—On July 17, AGU leaders and space scientists, including NASA’s chief scientist, will discuss the legacy of Apollo 11 ahead of the mission’s 50^th anniversary. Titled “Small Steps and Giant Leaps: How Apollo 11 Shaped Our Understanding of Earth and Beyond,” this event will highlight how the study of the Moon has led to a deeper understanding of Earth and the solar system, including their origins. Panelists will also describe what the world stands to learn from continuing planetary science missions, including to Mars and beyond.

This event is presented in partnership with the National Archives and as a part of AGU’s Centennial celebration. Learn more at centennial.agu.org.

WHO:

Introductory remarks will be provided by Chris McEntee, executive director/CEO of AGU and Robin Bell, Palisades Geophysical Institute research professor at the Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory of Columbia University and president of AGU.

Panelists include:

Jim Green, chief scientist, NASA (moderator)
Sean Solomon, director of the Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory of Columbia University
Sonia Tikoo, assistant professor of geophysics at Stanford University
Steven Hauck, professor of planetary geodynamics at Case Western Reserve University and former editor in chief of Journal of Geophysical Research: Planets
Heather Meyer, postdoctoral fellow at the Lunar and Planetary Institute

WHEN:

Wednesday, July 17, 2019
7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

WHERE:

National Archives
William G. McGowan Theater
701 Constitution Avenue NW
Washington, D.C. 20408

This program will also be streamed live online.

Members of the media should send RSVP information to [email protected].

WHY:

In the 50 years since humans first walked on the surface of the Moon, humankind has made great leaps in what’s known about the Earth and the solar system from studying Moon rocks, imagery, subsequent Apollo missions, satellite data, and more. This event will explore the important legacy of the Apollo program and offer context about the significance of future space study.

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Founded in 1919, AGU is a not-for-profit scientific society dedicated to advancing Earth and space science for the benefit of humanity. We support 60,000 members, who reside in 135 countries, as well as our broader community, through high-quality scholarly publications, dynamic meetings, our dedication to science policy and science communications, and our commitment to building a diverse and inclusive workforce, as well as many other innovative programs. AGU is home to the award-winning news publication Eos, the Thriving Earth Exchange, where scientists and community leaders work together to tackle local issues, and a headquarters building that represents Washington, D.C.’s first net zero energy commercial renovation. We are celebrating our Centennial in 2019. #AGU100