Paper Title
WITNESSING THE LAUNCH OF FALCON-9: A TRANSCONTINENTAL STEAM STUDY OF ALGAE AND ARTISTIC ENGAGEMENT IN SPACE SCIENCE

Abstract
This paper explores a unique intersection of life sciences and space sciences through the lens of artistic observation and scientific engagement. On June 23, 2025, algae cultivated in a laboratory in Slovenia were launched aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 – Transporter 14 mission. The launch, observed remotely by a collaborative team across Ljubljana (Slovenia), Bali (Indonesia), and California (USA), was preceded by three postponements and ultimately took place on the fourth attempt. The launch was accompanied by music containing the lyric: “I am not returning the same,” which became prophetic after it was revealed three weeks later that the capsule was lost due to parachute failure. Notably, the capsule also contained the cremated remains of 166 individuals who had chosen to be memorialized in space; these remains were irretrievably lost with the capsule. A video report and original musical composition were created in response, integrating a dedication to Science and Arts written before the launch. This project investigates how observation, emotional engagement, and creative expression shape the scientific process and our understanding of it. The central research question asks: How does artistic and human observation affect the experience and interpretation of a space science event? Through this multimedia STEAM-based reflection - including video, music, and narrative - this work highlights the value of integrating art into scientific endeavors, especially when studying living organisms such as algae in extraterrestrial contexts.