NASA recently opened a search for the coolest-sounding job ever: a new planetary protection officer (yes, really, it’s a thing).
There’s been no shortage of applicants — including one self-professed “Guardian of the Galaxy” named Jack Davis.
Jack, a fourth grader in New Jersey, sent a handwritten letter to NASA expressing his interest in the very cool gig. “I may be nine but I think I would be a fit for the job,” he wrote.
Jack carefully described his planet-protecting work experience and research for NASA’s HR team. “I am great at video games… I have seen almost all the space and alien movies I can see,” he said. “I have also seen the show Marvel Agents of Shield and hope to see the movie Men in Black.”
Jack also suggested he would be put to good use in matters of alien espionage. “I am young, so I can learn to think like an Alien.”
NASA was impressed by Jack’s letter. Not only did the organization respond with one of their own, the planetary research director, Jonathan Rall, even phoned Jack. (No big deal, just fielding calls from NASA at the age of 9. Totally going to play Xbox afterward.)
When 4th grader and self-proclaimed “Guardian of the Galaxy”, Jack, wrote to us about applying for a job, we replied https://t.co/932pj3Q50Bpic.twitter.com/RhcGdnzGAw
— NASA (@NASA) August 4, 2017
James L. Green, director of NASA’s planetary science division, drafted the response letter to Jack and shared more about the job.
“It’s about protecting Earth from tiny microbes when we bring back samples from the Moon, asteroids and Mars. It’s also about protecting other planets and moons from our germs as we responsibly explore the Solar System,” Green wrote.
“We are always looking for bright future scientists and engineers to help us, so I hope you will study hard and do well in school… We hope to see you here at NASA one of these days.”
So it sounds like Jack didn’t get the job this time around — but this chapter of his life sure won’t hurt when it comes to getting into college. And it sounds like he’ll have a definite in at NASA in the future.
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