Dr. Maya Nasr is a remote sensing scientist at EDF and Harvard University, where she leads mission planning for MethaneSAT and develops machine learning models. With a PhD in Aerospace Engineering from MIT, she is dedicated to enhancing global space representation and combating nationality-based discrimination. As co-founder of HUMANS, she launched a symbolic project to the ISS and soon the Moon, featuring messages in 64 languages. She also co-led the Space Law & Policy Project Group at SGAC and has contributed to notable projects like MOXIE for Mars 2020.
- Background and Motivation:
What inspired your passion for aerospace?
My passion for space exploration began early. The skies mesmerized me, fueling my curiosity about our existence and the universe's origins. As a child, I dreamed of becoming a scientist and an astronaut, writing in my journals about meeting stars and planets. Watching the Curiosity rover land on Mars in 2012 solidified my ambition to make my mark in space. Limited opportunities in Lebanon and political instability drove me to leave my family and apply to colleges in the US to pursue my dreams.
How did MIT influence your career?
MIT was pivotal in my journey into space exploration. Accepted in 2014 for a bachelor’s in aerospace engineering, I completed my PhD there, continuously inspired by my professors and peers. Meeting Apollo astronauts and working on NASA’s Mars 2020 rover reaffirmed my career path and fueled my passion throughout my studies.
What is your role with MethaneSAT?
As a remote sensing scientist on MethaneSAT at the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) and Harvard University, I lead mission planning for in-orbit lunar calibration and develop machine learning models for cloud/shadow segmentation and anomaly detection. This work helps ensure accurate satellite data and contributes to tracking methane emissions, addressing climate change.
What’s the significance of MOXIE?
At MIT, I worked on the MOXIE (Mars Oxygen In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) Experiment) project, which is first of its kind and aims to produce oxygen from the Martian atmosphere. From 2016 to 2023, my role involved analyzing data and calibrating sensors, critical for the mission's success and scalability. This project is a stepping stone for future human missions to Mars, and being part of it was a defining moment in my career.
HUMANS project: What is HUMANS?
I am dedicated to enhancing global representation in space and addressing nationality-based discrimination. As co-founder and project lead of HUMANS—Humanity United with MIT Art and Nanotechnology in Space—I helped launch a symbolic project to the International Space Station (ISS) in May 2023. Inspired by the Golden Record, HUMANS features global messages about space from 80 countries in 64 languages. Launched to the ISS and heading to the Moon, it symbolizes global space access and representation.
- Space Policy and Advocacy:
What policies are crucial for space?
As an interdisciplinary professional, I’ve worked in space law, policy, and ethics, co-led the Space Law & Policy Project Group, and led the US Space Policy Task Force and Congressional Legislation. I’ve also led subgroups on space resources, ethics, and disarmament, and presented at the UN Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS). I advocate for sustainable, equitable space governance, focusing on international cooperation, resource utilization, and human rights to avoid carrying Earth's conflicts and colonial legacy into space.
What advice do you have for young aerospace enthusiasts?
Take risks: I didn’t believe I could get accepted to a US university from my village in Lebanon, but I did. Seek mentorship from inspiring people, and network actively even when you don’t think you need it. Lastly, parents, support and believe in your children. Their journey is challenging, and your encouragement makes a big difference
- Career Rewards and Future Goals:
What’s been the most rewarding aspect of your career to date?
The most rewarding aspect of my career has been receiving messages from students and women in Lebanon and around the world who share a passion for space and STEM, and who see a possibility of making their dreams a reality.
What are your future aspirations?
My goal is to advance space knowledge, enhance global representation, and address nationality-based discrimination. I plan to continue in mission operations to deepen my understanding of space technologies, science, and policy. Long-term, I aspire to work at the intersection of space policy, strategy, and diplomacy, developing sustainable solutions for exploration and commercialization. Ultimately, I aim to shape space exploration to benefit all of humanity and ensure space serves as a tool for global impact through interdisciplinary and international collaboration.
You are on the LebNet Boston Leadership team, how can LebNet support your goals?
I plan to leverage LebNet’s support to organize events and panels with space experts, provide career coaching and networking opportunities, and establish aerospace fellowships at Lebanese schools and universities to empower future space professionals and drive space innovation in the Lebanese community.
In conclusion, my journey has taught me the importance of perseverance, passion, and the power of a supportive community. I hope to inspire others to pursue their dreams, no matter how unattainable they may seem. Together, we can make space exploration inclusive and beneficial for all of humanity.
