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NASA researcher to talk about Venus, Mars and E.T.s
October 1, 2004 | |||||
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KOKOMO, Ind.—Area high school classes and the general public are invited to hear NASA research manager Donald Palac speak about “Our Solar System” Monday, October 25, at IU Kokomo. In a 11:30 a.m. presentation in Hunt Hall, Room 116, Palac will discuss what NASA’s robotic explorers have uncovered in recent decades while probing Earth’s nearest neighbors, Venus and Mars. Palac will also review “the tantalizing possibilities of extraterrestrial life discovery in our lifetimes in our own solar system,” said Raghu Gompa, Ph.D., professor of mathematics. Gompa arranged Palac’s visit as a special event to introduce prospective students to the Division of Natural, Information and Mathematical Sciences. With NASA since 1987, Palac managed the design of new rocket engine and power system concepts for the exploration of the Moon and Mars, according to Gompa. “He oversaw development of experiments for the Mars Pathfinder rover, and headed a team to develop a combined science mission to both the Moon and a comet using a new electric rocket engine. Most recently, Palac managed a project to test the theory of flying to space using engines that function as both rockets and jets,” Gompa said. Prior to joining NASA, Palac served 10 years with the United States Air Force, where he helped design and launch the early warning satellites that were used against Iraqi scud missiles in the Persian Gulf War. High school teachers interested in bringing students to the presentation are asked to reserve seating no late than October 22 by calling Marcia Gillette at (765) 455-9369. To learn about the programs offered by IU Kokomo’s Division of Natural, Information and Mathematical Sciences, call (765) 455-9371 or visit www.iuk.edu/arts_sciences/nims. Weekday guests to campus who do not have an IU Kokomo parking pass are asked to park in the lower level of the parking garage, located on the south end of campus. Parking is free.
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