The Overview 02/26
“Life is full of so many small, unexpected pleasures, not just in space but right here on Earth, and I think I see them more clearly now than I used to because microgravity insists you pay attention.”
A NOTE FROM SPACE FOR HUMANITY’S DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS
Space for Humanity family,
I’m writing today to say hello and to welcome you to the new Space for Humanity newsletter!
My name is Brandon Fibbs. After several decades in documentary television production, I recently joined Space for Humanity as Director of Communications. I’m honored to step into this role at a time when our organization’s mission feels more vital than ever before.
Like many of you, I was first drawn to Space for Humanity because of its belief that space isn’t just about exploration — it’s about perspective. It’s about what happens when people see our planet as a pale blue dot in the inky blackness and return fundamentally changed, ready to serve, to build, and to lead with greater empathy and compassion. And that’s what I hope this newsletter will continue to reflect going forward.
In the coming months, this space will be where we share the stories of our Citizen Astronauts and other astroalumni, the impact those extraordinary astronauts are making in their communities, behind-the-scenes moments from our programs, updates on our partnerships and global work, and reflections on what it means to turn awe into action.
My goal is simple: to make this newsletter something you look forward to. I want this to be a place where you feel connected to Space for Humanity’s people and its purpose.
Most importantly, I want this to be a conversation. If there’s something you’d like to see more of, a story you think should be told, or an idea you’d like to share, I hope you’ll let me know.
Thank you for being part of this community. Whether you’ve been with us from the beginning or just joined us recently, your support is what makes this work possible. I’m excited for what’s ahead and grateful to be on this journey with you.
Toward our Shared Horizon,
Brandon Fibbs
Director of Communications
Space for Humanity
#2Space4Earth
A NOTE FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR REGARDING BLUE ORIGIN PAUSING ITS NEW SHEPARD FLIGHTS
As Space for Humanity looks to the future, we also need to discuss the recent past. As you may have heard, Blue Origin announced it is pausing its suborbital flights for a minimum of two years.
Although Space for Humanity is vehicle agnostic, we have been fortunate to utilize Blue Origin's flights to elevate our Citizen Astronaut Program. We have nothing but gratitude for the talented individuals at Blue Origin who helped make space more accessible. While we wish Blue Origin continued success as it expands its services into space, suborbital flights represent just one part of a broader constellation of programs Space for Humanity has developed.
In the coming months, we have exciting announcements that expand our reach, accelerate our mission, and provide more ways to increase access to space for you and our entire community.
Ad Astra,
Antonio Peronace
A LOOK BACK AT 2025
We are living in a remarkable moment. Not just for Space for Humanity and the broader aerospace community, but for humanity itself. Scientific discovery is accelerating. Access to space is expanding. And for the first time in history, we are watching our collective journey beyond Earth unfold in real time.
Because of your support, Space for Humanity is playing a pivotal role in that journey, helping to translate possibility and potential into real, measurable impact. Before looking ahead, it’s worth pausing to reflect on what we’ve accomplished together in 2025.
Over the past year, we continued to create opportunities for individuals to experience space in ways that extend far beyond any single flight. Our work is never just about reaching orbit — it is about what happens afterward, when a brand new perspective is transformed into phosphorescent purpose.
In 2025, we were proud to support Amanda Nguyen’s historic flight aboard Blue Origin’s first all-female mission. Her journey was a milestone for representation, resilience, and leadership. Like every mission we bolster, Amanda’s flight was never about just one person. It was about the countless people who see themselves in her story and realize, perhaps for the first time, that space is also within reach for them. This is how we take the Overview Effect experienced by one and multiply it into a shift in perspective for millions.
That transformation doesn’t begin or end above the Kármán Line. It’s why we expanded our Zero-G program, creating new pathways for people to experience weightlessness and wonder firsthand. Last summer, participants from six nations flew alongside our dedicated space mentors. For some, it was their first time on an airplane. For all, it was their first time floating freely. Watching their awe reaffirmed why this work matters. Since returning home, these students, educators, advocates, and emerging leaders have carried that sense of possibility back to their communities, demonstrating that space has the power to connect, inspire, and uplift across borders and cultures.
That same spirit guides our work back here on Earth.
From contributing to the formation of the bipartisan Advancing Humanity in Space Congressional Caucus to collaborating with schools, museums, and global institutions, we have worked to ensure that conversations about space are also conversations about responsibility, cooperation, and our shared future. We advanced space diplomacy by supporting initiatives connected to the Artemis Accords, organizing Space Day at the Italian Embassy, and hosting events with the United Nations Office of Outer Space Affairs. Whether in Congress, at the Smithsonian, at international forums, or in classrooms, our message has remained consistent: space is not merely a destination, it is a catalyst for positive change.
Katya Echazarreta and Sara Sabry continue to expand STEM education, launch new initiatives, earn global recognition, and inspire others to pursue ambitious goals. Their work reminds us that when passion meets opportunity, leadership follows, and its impact reaches far beyond any single mission.
We concluded the year by gathering our growing community of partners and supporters at our inaugural Celestial Soirée, where we honored Ed Dwight’s extraordinary legacy. It was a moment to celebrate not only what we have achieved, but the shared values that unite this extraordinary community.
Thank you for your continued belief in this mission. Your passion, generosity, and engagement are what make this work possible. You are, quite literally, what propels us forward.
For a deeper look at our work this year, please explore our Annual Report. In it, you will see firsthand the depth of the work made possible by your support. You will also see how quickly our momentum is building.
In the months ahead, we’ll begin unveiling the exciting plans and changes shaping our work in 2026. You won’t want to miss it!
See you next month with more news, more launches, and a lot more "space" for YOU to connect with our Citizen Astronauts!
The S4H Team
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