Dr. Stefan Kautsch, a professor in the Halmos College of Natural Sciences and Oceanography, received the Lunar and Meteorite Certification presented by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).
“I’m honored and excited to receive this designation,” said Kautsch, whose is passionate about studying the universe and bringing this interest to NSU. “It’s one thing to discuss and learn about our moon and other celestial objects in a textbook, but to have extraterrestrial samples in our class brings learning to the next level.”
Because of this certification, Kautsch is now permitted to “borrow” moon rock and meteorite samples from NASA’s historic Apollo missions, which he plans to incorporate in his physics and astronomy courses.
“We’re always looking for new ways to engage our students,” Kautsch said, “and this will allow me to do just that.” Kautsch also plans to showcase the lunar samples in the Alvin Sherman Library before they are returned to the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas.
Earning this certification is a complex process that includes security requirements to ensure the items on loan are protected. Kautsch’s goal in securing this designation is to increase NSU student interest in STEM courses ranging from physics, astronomy and astrophysics, to astrobiology and environmental sciences.
Additionally, to share his knowledge and expertise in the field, Kautsch was a guest contributor to Florida Publications– Tampa Tribune and The Sun Sentinel .