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“We are closer to finding life” outside Earth, says Laysa Peixoto, a Brazilian astronaut who recently shared her experiences and scientific findings during the CCXP23 pre-event. Peixoto, who works at NASA’s L’SPACE Academy, believes that discovering life on other planets is not a question of if, but when.
Peixoto made history at the age of 19 as the first Brazilian to command an aircraft from NASA. Currently, she is involved in developing space exploration technologies at the academy and has also undergone training to become the first Brazilian woman to travel to space.
On a personal level, Peixoto firmly believes in the possibility of intelligent life in the universe. Scientifically speaking, she asserts that we are getting closer to finding various forms of life, some of which we may not have even identified yet. Contrary to the popular portrayal of “smart life” in science fiction movies, Peixoto suggests that there are numerous types of life in space.
Water, a crucial element for life as we know it, has been found on multiple planets, and Peixoto hopes that future expeditions will uncover signs of life on Mars. She draws comparisons between the imaginary world of the novel “Dune” and the diverse characteristics of planets that astrophysicists and astronomers have discovered. Peixoto highlights the possibility of planets entirely covered by water, capturing her fascination with the vastness of the universe.
Peixoto’s interest in astronomy and geophysics was sparked in 2020 after attending a class by Andrea Ghez, the Nobel laureate in physics for her groundbreaking research on black holes. She emphasizes the importance of representation in science and advocates for increased female participation in astronomy and astrophysics. Peixoto believes that media, particularly science fiction films, should portray women as scientists and explorers, breaking traditional gender stereotypes.
Additionally, Peixoto stresses the need for programs and projects that shed light on the achievements of women who have made significant contributions to science. She argues that it is crucial for children and teenagers to see individuals like themselves succeeding in scientific fields. She points out that many women scientists have had their stories erased or overshadowed throughout history.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Peixoto immersed herself in a research project related to space. She learned to use various software programs to analyze different aspects of astronomy. At the age of 18, while studying physics at the Federal University of Minas Gerais, Peixoto participated in The International Astronomical Search Collaboration program, which searched for celestial bodies in collaboration with NASA. She helped discover a new asteroid, which was subsequently named LPS0003, with her initials featured as an identifier. Peixoto explains that the process of identifying and naming an asteroid involves analyzing images captured by telescopes.
Catastrophic asteroid impacts, as depicted in films like Netflix’s “Don’t Look Up,” are a cause for concern for scientists. Peixoto acknowledges that while movies tend to exaggerate the threat, the possibility of an asteroid colliding with Earth does exist. NASA continuously monitors celestial bodies that pass through our solar system to assess the risk of a potential impact.
Peixoto’s journey into NASA began through her involvement in asteroid research. Despite studying physics at UFMG, she managed to gain entry into the prestigious U.S. government agency with the support of Manhattan University. Her passion for astronomy and dedication to research propelled her career in the field.
In conclusion, Laysa Peixoto’s enthusiasm and optimism regarding the search for life outside Earth are evident in her belief that it is only a matter of time before we make groundbreaking discoveries. Her advocacy for greater representation and recognition of women in astronomy and astrophysics showcases her commitment to fostering a more inclusive scientific community. As she continues to explore the mysteries of the universe, Peixoto serves as an inspiration and role model for aspiring scientists, especially young girls who dream of venturing into the final frontier.
