Abigail Harrison

Abigail Harrison, known as Astronaut Abby, is a science communicator and founder of The Mars Generation, a nonprofit organization focused on advancing human space exploration and STEM education. As president of its executive board, Harrison has developed a platform that reaches global audiences through advocacy and outreach, establishing her as a recognized voice in the space community. She is noted for her public speaking engagements, where she shares insights on Mars missions and space exploration, drawing from her preparation, which includes earning a pilot's license, rescue SCUBA diver certification, and training as an emergency medical technician.

Harrison is the author of the book "Dream Big! How to Reach for Your Stars," published by Penguin Random House, which details her journey and encourages aspiring explorers. As a research scientist at Harvard Medical School and a graduate student at Queen’s University studying Arctic geochemistry, she conducts fieldwork in extreme environments such as Siberia, developing skills relevant to space missions. Her participation as a Matthew Isakowitz Fellow at Voyager Technologies highlights her involvement in aerospace innovation.

With a social media following exceeding one million and appearances on platforms including BBC News and YouTube discussions with astronauts such as Luca Parmitano, Harrison engages audiences with her focus on Mars exploration. She serves as a keynote speaker at conferences on STEM careers and space exploration, sharing firsthand experiences and goals in the field. Through these platforms, she addresses skepticism about ambitious goals by demonstrating thorough preparation and community leadership.

Harrison collaborates with organizations such as The Planetary Society, sharing her progression from a school project to a space advocate. Her ability to communicate complex scientific concepts and connect them with human aspiration supports her role in fostering interest in space among diverse audiences worldwide.