Neil deGrasse Tyson prepares astronomy talk for Rocket City

American astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson takes on the Orion Amphitheater stage on June 8 in association with the U.S. Space and Rocket Center. 

Tyson plans to bring his long running series, “This Just In: The Latest Discoveries of the Universe,” to Huntsville, discussing the most significant space findings from the last two years. 

Tyson, a PhD recipient from Columbia in astrophysics, is no stranger to the lecture stage. He has been presenting astronomical theories since age 15.  

His most recent work comes from his podcast, “Star Talk,” blending pop culture and scientific discovery. Rolling Stone Magazine named it ‘one of the top 10 comedy podcasts’ in 2014. The show has subsequently been spun-off into a National Geographic television show, a YouTube series, and radio broadcasts.  

Tyson’s growing media appeal has enhanced his work as the Director of the Hayden Planetarium, part of the American Museum of Natural History, by bringing the vastness of advanced scientific knowledge to mainstream societal consumption. 

His numerous published articles on astronomy have been developed into several books like the 2017 work Astrophysics For People in a Hurry and Death by Black Hole: And Other Cosmic Quandaries.    

In 2004, then President George Bush appointed Tyson to the “Moon, Mars, and Beyond” Commission, which included advocating for a stronger relationship between NASA and the private sector. 

Also that year, NASA awarded him their highest civilian honor, the Distinguished Public Service Award, for his contributions to science communication. To this day, he continues to be a vocal supporter of greater NASA funding. 

Tickets go on sale February 11 at 10am and start at $59. Early ticket access is currently available to Orion Amphitheater email subscribers.