NASA Celebrates UPAEP Scientific Journalism Pioneers in Mexico

NASA recently celebrated the first graduating class of the UPAEP Scientific Journalism Diploma in Mexico. This milestone represents a collaborative effort between the University of the Autonomous Popular State of Puebla (UPAEP), the Mexican Space Agency (AEM), and NASA.

The graduation coincided with the fifth anniversary of the successful AztechSat-1 nanosatellite mission, launched by SpaceX in 2019. AztechSat-1 was the first Mexican nanosatellite to establish communication with the International Space Station (ISS). Developed with support from AEM, the diploma program aims to prepare professionals in science communication, contributing to Mexico’s long-term ambition of becoming a global leader in science.

“AEM has promoted the construction of national capacities to develop independent and sovereign space and satellite technology, while also attracting youth enthusiasm toward science. For this, scientific journalism and outreach are fundamental,” said Salvador Landeros Ayala, General Director, AEM. 

The program’s focus on science communication received high praise from NASA officials, including Graham Mackintosh, an artificial intelligence specialist, who described it as “a great boost to scientific development.”

 “We need initiatives like this diploma to train communicators capable of explaining complex scientific topics with rigor and clarity,” added Nelly Toche, President, Mexican Network of Science Journalists.