Ask an Astrobiologist: A Colloquium with NASA and BMSIS
Join NZAN and Vic Uni for an evening of astrobiology.
Pathways to the Future of Space Exploration
Join Mt Maunganui College’s event, Pathways to the Future of Space Exploration, at Mount Maunganui College to look into what the future might hold for our tamariki interested in exploring space opportunities. Hear from our NASA guest speakers, explore opportunities for space careers showcased by NZ universities or enjoy our immersive space experiences.
Dr Sanjoy Som
Dr. Sanjoy Som is a planetary scientist and founder of the Blue Marble Space Institute of Science. His research spans atmospheric geology, hydrothermal systems, and the early Earth–Mars connection, with fieldwork from Iceland to New Zealand. A passionate science communicator, he blends research with public outreach, advancing global collaborations in astrobiology and space exploration.
Dr Mitch Schulte
Dr. Mitch Schulte, NASA’s Mars mission science lead, oversees science for Perseverance, Opportunity, and the ExoMars rover. A field astrobiologist, his research spans hydrothermal systems to ancient microfossil sites, advancing life-detection science from Earth’s extremes to rover instruments searching for signs of life on Mars.
Dr Graham Lau – the Cosmobiologist
Dr. Graham Lau is an astrobiologist and science communicator serving as Director of Communications & Marketing at Blue Marble Space and Senior Research Investigator at BMSIS. Host of NASA’s Ask an Astrobiologist, he combines geomicrobiology fieldwork—from sulphur studies in the High Arctic to X-ray spectroscopy—with outreach, coaching, and educational programmes leadership.
2025 ESSENZ Astrobiology Conference – Day 2
Join ESSENZ at Mount Maunganui College for a special day dedicated to Earth and Space Sciences teachers, celebrating ten years of astrobiology in Aotearoa. Hear from NASA and BMSIS scientists, explore how to bring the Universe into your classroom, and connect with fellow educators passionate about space science.
2025 ESSENZ Astrobiology Conference – Day 1: Field Trip to Waimangu
Teachers and educators from Earth and Space Sciences New Zealand join us on an epic field trip to Waimangu to learn about the origins of life on Earth!
From Aotearoa to the Origins of Life: Christchurch Teachers’ Astrobiology Day
Celebrate with us ten years of astrobiology in Aotearoa with a one-day event for teachers at the Air Force Museum, Christchurch. Hear from NASA and BMSIS scientists, explore our new exhibition, and discover how astrobiology can inspire future-ready science classrooms.
Exploring Life’s Origins – A Geothermal Field Day for Primary Teachers
Primary teachers explore the geothermal wonders of Ōrākei Kōrako and Wai-O-Tapu, learning how these extraordinary landscapes connect to astrobiology and the search for life beyond Earth.
Dr Michaela Dobson
Dr Michaela Dobson investigates the earliest evidence of life on Earth and how extreme environments—past and present—can guide the search for life elsewhere. From Rotorua hot springs to NASA-supported Mars analog missions, her work bridges geology, astrobiology, and science communication.