Dr. Moogega Cooper

Driven by a lifelong fascination with exploring beyond our planet, Dr. Moogega “Moo” Cooper is a scientist and leader in planetary protection. She has contributed to multiple Mars missions and interdisciplinary efforts that enable safe exploration of planetary bodies. Dr. Cooper earned her B.S. in Physics from Hampton University and her M.S. and Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Drexel University, completing her doctorate at age 24 with research on sterilizing spacecraft from extremophile microorganisms.

As a child, science provided a pathway out of difficult circumstances. As a result, she uses her platform to help inspire all, including underserved communities to be able to picture this career path as a possibility for themselves. She joins the Griffith Observatory Foundation Board fueled by the understanding that the gravity of science communication is enough to change any trajectory, and what an epic way to do so than through the iconic beacon of science and gateway to the stars, the Griffith Observatory.