Deep Dive
Why does Dr Nicola Fox consider watching a mission launch an emotional experience?
Watching a mission launch is a mix of emotions because it involves years of hard work, stress, and anticipation. The moment the spacecraft lifts off is incredibly proud, but it also brings a sense of separation anxiety as the spacecraft goes on its mission, never to be seen again. It's like sending a child off to college, and there's often a period of post-launch blues.
Why was the landing of the OSIRIS-REx mission particularly significant for Dr Nicola Fox?
The landing of the OSIRIS-REx mission was significant because it brought back the first asteroid samples from deep space, the largest sample of its kind ever recovered. The moment the capsule entered Earth's atmosphere and the parachute deployed was particularly nerve-wracking and exciting, as it ensured a safe landing.
What does Dr Nicola Fox hope to discover from the asteroid samples brought back by the OSIRIS-REx mission?
Dr Nicola Fox hopes to discover clues about the early formation of the solar system and the conditions before life started on Earth. The samples will be used immediately by researchers, and 75% will be preserved for future generations to analyze with more advanced technology.
How did Dr Nicola Fox's father introduce her to the wonders of space?
Dr Nicola Fox's father, an avid follower of NASA's astronaut programs, introduced her to space by giving her a running commentary during the Apollo 11 moon landing when she was eight months old. He also used objects around their hotel room to teach her about the solar system during family holidays.
Why did Dr Nicola Fox experience a 'wily coyote moment' when she started her current role at NASA?
Dr Nicola Fox described her initial feelings about her new role as a mix of total joy and paralyzing fear. She likened herself to Wile E. Coyote, who would run off the cliff and her former deputy would pull her back to think things through. Without that safety net, she felt the fear of taking on such a significant responsibility.
What is the significance of the Parker Solar Probe mission for Dr Nicola Fox?
The Parker Solar Probe mission is significant for Dr Nicola Fox because it is the first mission to fly into the sun's atmosphere, proving the existence of solar wind as predicted by Professor Eugene Parker. The mission is groundbreaking and has already provided valuable data, despite the challenges of flying so close to the sun.
How did Dr Nicola Fox's personal tragedy change her perspective on life and work?
Dr Nicola Fox's personal tragedy, the sudden death of her husband, made her realize that bad things can happen to anyone and that she could survive such a loss. It also reinforced the importance of her work on the Parker Solar Probe, which provided a sense of purpose and support during a difficult time.
What is Dr Nicola Fox's favorite book and why did she choose it for the desert island?
Dr Nicola Fox's favorite book is 'Pale Blue Dot' by Carl Sagan. She chose it because it features the iconic image of Earth as a pale blue dot taken by the Voyager 1 spacecraft, which highlights the fragility and uniqueness of our planet. The book and the image remind her of the importance of our place in the universe.
What luxury item did Dr Nicola Fox choose for the desert island and why?
Dr Nicola Fox chose a big box of Lego as her luxury item for the desert island. She finds building with Lego to be a stress-relieving activity, especially after tough days at work. It helps her relax and provides a creative outlet.
Which track did Dr Nicola Fox choose to save from the waves first and why?
Dr Nicola Fox chose to save 'Boulevard of Broken Dreams' by Green Day because it has become her anthem. Initially, it was a sad song that resonated with her during a difficult time, but now it empowers her and reminds her of her resilience.
- Dr. Fox's father sparked her interest in space from a young age.
- She studied physics at Imperial College London.
- She secured a postdoctoral fellowship at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Centre.
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