Megatomic

Ms. Nichols and Dr. Helton, this question is for both of you. Where did your interest in space start? Was Star Trek a starting point for you, or were you interested in space exploration and research before your exposure to Star Trek? And why do you feel this kind of research is really important?

Thanks to both of you for doing this!

I am so glad to hear some praise for the liberal arts from a scientist. I personally studied philosophy in college but work in technology and am really interested in the sciences. I feel like too often we try to put people in one box or the other!

Thanks so much for answering my question. As a follow-up, would you say Star Trek had any special influence on your interest in space? Or was there any other sci-fi in particular that really influenced you and your career choice?

Some people never grow up.

FTFY

I think it is perfectly reasonable and normal for older people to go out and have fun, just like younger people. Sometimes you just have to let loose. Though hopefully not so loose that you attempt to assault a bouncer as a group.

Thanks a ton for your answer! I'm huge Star Trek fan, and of you in particular!

So when you first took the role in Star Trek, was it at all motivated by your interest in space? And did being in Star Trek make you more interested in space than you were before?

Very positive attitude. I have found in my own line of work (IT) that this kind of attitude is the difference between a good employee and a best employee.