What was your childhood dream? Many kids often aspire to be engineers, doctors, or pilots, but one 9-year-old boy named Jack Davis took his ambition to a whole new level by applying for a job at NASA as a Planetary Protection Officer—a role tasked with safeguarding Earth from extraterrestrial microbes brought back by space missions.
Jack’s application stood out among countless others, as it showcased not only his enthusiasm but also his creativity. He wrote:
“My name is Jack Davis, and I would like to apply for the Planetary Protection Officer job. I may be nine, but I think I would be fit for the job. My sister says I’m an alien, I’ve watched almost all the space and alien movies I can find, and I’m great at video games. Being young, I can even learn to think like an alien!”
Jack’s letter became an instant sensation when a family friend shared it on Reddit. It caught NASA’s attention, prompting a heartfelt response from Dr. James L. Green, Director of NASA’s Planetary Science Division.
Dr. Green replied:
“
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.”
Dr. Green encouraged Jack to work hard in school, adding:
“We are always looking for bright future scientists and engineers to help us. I hope to see you at NASA one day!”
Jack even received a phone call from Jonathan Rall, NASA’s Planetary Research Director, and was encouraged to pursue his dream of becoming a real-life “Guardian of the Galaxy.”
As a bonus, the Liberty Science Center in New Jersey invited Jack to serve as the official kid science advisor at the Jennifer Chalsty Planetarium.
Jack’s ambition, humor, and determination remind us all that no dream is too big—especially when paired with a creative spark and a touch of courage.
