From Zoology to Orbit: UBC Alumna Jessica Meir Connects with Students from ISS

A Connection Across the Atmosphere

University of British Columbia (UBC) alumna and NASA astronaut Jessica Meir recently provided students at her former campus with a rare glimpse into life aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Serving as the commander of the NASA SpaceX Crew-12 mission, Meir participated in a live 20-minute Zoom session, bridging the 400-kilometer gap between the orbiting laboratory and the Vancouver campus. With a UBC flag visible in the background and her hair floating in the weightless environment, Meir shared the triumphs and challenges of her eight-month mission.

The Realities of Zero-Gravity Living

During the interactive session, Meir answered a wide range of questions from high school and university students, as well as curious youngsters from a local daycare. She offered a candid look at the logistical hurdles of life in space, explaining that even basic tasks like drinking water or using the washroom require significant adjustment in a zero-gravity environment. Beyond the technical aspects, Meir spoke about the personal sacrifices of long-duration spaceflight, including missing her husband and three-year-old daughter back on Earth.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Scientists

Meir, who studied zoology at UBC between 2009 and 2012, has become a symbol of academic and professional excellence for the university community. Her journey from studying animal physiology to commanding a multi-national space mission highlights the diverse career paths available to STEM graduates. To the delight of the audience—which included a toddler dressed in a miniature NASA spacesuit—Meir demonstrated the playful side of physics by performing somersaults in mid-air, illustrating the unique freedom of microgravity.

A Legacy of Exploration

This event serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of outreach in space exploration. By connecting directly with students, Meir is helping to humanize the experience of being an astronaut while encouraging young minds to pursue ambitious goals in science and exploration. As she continues her eight-month stint on the ISS, her story remains a point of pride for the UBC community and a testament to the global impact of Canadian-educated researchers.