Earth Day Interview – Dr Katherine Calvin (NASA Chief Scientist and Senior Climate Advisor)

United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs promotes international cooperation in the peaceful use and exploration of space and in the utilization of space science and technology for sustainable economic and social development. Climate action is among the key priorities of the Office in the quest to maximize access to space benefits for everyone, everywhere. The visit to the United Nations premises in Vienna of Dr Katherine Calvin, NASA’s Chief Scientist and Senior Climate Advisor offered a unique opportunity to pick her brain about these topics.

Dr Calvin joined Martin Nesirky, Director of the United Nations Information Service Vienna, for a special interview on International Mother Earth Day. Earth Day, celebrated annually on April 22, is an apt reminder for humanity to be a better shepherd of our only home.

Dr Calvin speaks about the benefits of space exploration and utilization for life on Earth through being a key tool for climate action and evidence-based decision-making; highlights exciting NASA missions; explains the significance of the United Nations in space multilateralism; and sheds light on the intersection between climate science and government policymaking. She also delves into benefits that both developed and developing countries enjoy thanks to space assets and the role of the commercial space industry for progress in the sector.