An Interview With Laura Forczyk

Forczyk is a NASA Subject Matter Expert for planetary science mission and serves on the advisory boards for the Lifeboat Foundation and the Society of Women in Space Exploration. “Astralytical”

“I’ve always had a fascination with the stars.”

What inspires you?

I gain inspiration from dreaming about a better future for humanity in space. Many before me have dreamed of a similar future. The groundwork they’ve laid inspires me to push forward toward a vision of the future I may or may not see. Maybe I’m working for a better future for my kids for hypothetical grandkids. Regardless, I use the power of that dream to push me forward

What did you want to be when you were younger?

Since third grade, I’ve been aspiring to become an astronaut on the Moon! In high school, I was fascinated by the physics of the Universe. But I also loved history and international relations. Thankfully I’ve found a way to become involved in all of those areas and more in my career.

Which subjects did you enjoy at school?

Math and history were my favorite subjects growing up. Then I took physics in high school and fell in love with it. I’ve also always loved reading, although not necessarily the books we read in English class.

What would you like to tell your younger self?

Because of the way our culture upholds hierarchy and the school system discourages nonconformity, I struggled throughout young adulthood to take initiative and pursue my passions. I would tell my younger self that I don’t need to ask permission or wait for someone to invite me to do something I want to do. I wish I had developed confidence earlier in life to brazenly pursue the path I wanted to explore.

Why did you choose STEM?

My parents bought me a small telescope at a young age and introduced me to science fiction. I learned about the Apollo program in third grade and wrote a short story envisioning myself on the Moon. My parents sent me to Space Camp in Huntsville, Alabama in middle and high school. By the time I was picking my college major, I had already fallen in love with physics and wanted to know everything about how the Universe came to be.

How important is it for you to stand out?

We all stand out in our own ways. It’s less important for me to stand out above others and more important for me to be true to myself and encourage others to do the same. I value authenticity.

What difficulties did you face in the industry, as a woman?

As a girl, I was always encouraged by my family and teachers. However, once I entered graduate school, I began to notice how some people would treat me less seriously or make assumptions about me because of my gender. As I continued in my early career, I experienced several incidences of sexual harassment and inappropriate behavior, especially by men in power. In one case, I decided not to pursue a job I really wanted because of inappropriate behavior by the CEO towards me. Now that I’m more advanced in my career, I do everything I can to support and champion young women who are eager to enter the space industry.

What advice would you give to the next generation of female scientists?

Don’t let anyone stop you! You belong here. We need you. You bring something to the field that no one else can