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The Moon Shot: How Can Data Science Help Us Get Around the Moon?
On Wednesday, April 1, the first crewed Artemis flight is scheduled to complete a mission around the moon with astronauts Reid Wiseman (commander), Victor Glover (pilot), Christina Koch (mission specialist), and Jeremy Hansen (mission specialist). The 10-day trip will act as a precursor to Artemis III, which will assist in preparation for humanity's return to the moon in early 2028.
In this Q&A, we spoke with online M.S. in Data Science student Jasmine Waller, who worked as a data science intern at NASA's Langley Research Center. Waller explains how data science has assisted the evolution of the space industry and discusses the data collection that will occur during the Artemis II mission.
Q: There is a viral video going around with the caption “Born too late for Apollo, born just in time for Artemis.” The space industry has changed significantly since the 1960s. What role has data science played in this evolution?
Data science has significantly transformed the space industry by improving rocket launch strategies, predictive modeling, vehicle design, and large-scale data analysis. By leveraging advanced analytics and machine learning, aerospace companies can simulate launch conditions, predict potential failures, and optimize fuel efficiency before a rocket ever leaves the ground.
For example, SpaceX uses real-time analytics and launch data to improve performance and reliability. This data-driven approach enabled the development of reusable rockets by optimizing landing and recovery, ultimately increasing mission success while reducing space exploration costs.
Q: The launch of Artemis II will mark the first crewed mission around the moon. What kinds of data will be collected and monitored throughout their 10-day mission?
Artemis II is part of an ongoing effort across spaceflight missions to better understand how space travel and its hazards affect human health and performance. Researchers will collect data before, during, and after the mission to help maintain astronaut well-being and mission readiness. Measurements will include blood, saliva, and urine samples, as well as assessments of cardiovascular health, brain function, muscle performance, and motion sickness symptoms.
Q: Why do you think outer space continues to act as a source of great hope for humanity?
Outer space continues to inspire hope because it represents the limitless possibilities that humanity has yet to discover. It fuels our curiosity, pushes the boundaries of innovation, and reminds us that there is always more to learn and achieve. As we push to explore beyond Earth, we are also driven to enhance life on our own planet.
Q: For students interested in working at NASA or even becoming an astronaut one day, why is a data science degree important?
A data science degree is increasingly valuable for anyone interested in working at NASA because space missions generate massive amounts of complex data. Skills in analyzing, interpreting, and modeling this data are crucial for making informed decisions and solving problems in real time. They also enable contributions to research, simulations, and tools that enhance safety and efficiency. In short, a data science degree equips future space professionals with the analytical and technical expertise needed to thrive in one of the most challenging environments imaginable.
Jasmine Waller is a software developer and current student in the University of Virginia School of Data Science, where she is further developing her expertise in analytics and data-driven problem solving. Waller earned her bachelor’s degree in applied mathematics from Old Dominion University, building a strong quantitative foundation that supports her technical work today.
Waller has also served as a data science intern at NASA's Langley Research Center through Amentum. While working under the Center of Maintenance, Operations, and Engineering (CMOE) contract, Waller was tasked with analyzing 10 years of work order data to find trends, calculate asset performance, and identify low-performing assets to support efforts to improve operational efficiency at the research center.
Learn more about the part-time, 100% online M.S. in Data Science at the University of Virginia. Request more information, connect with Admissions, or start your application today.
