Explore

“Exploration is in our nature. We began as wanderers, and we are wanderers still. We have lingered long enough on the shores of the cosmic ocean. We are ready at last to set sail for the stars.” 

― Carl Sagan

I love to plan. My earliest memories involve drawing calendars and daydreaming about my future. Maybe you were this way, too. This month, we’re focusing on what it means to explore, a pastime often relegated to summer breaks or holidays. What I’ve learned is that you don’t need Ferdinand and Isabella’s wealth or NASA’s backing to explore. You just need hope. 

Every day, scientists and researchers are pushing the limits of exploration. How can you do the same in your community? Your professional life? Or simply your day-to-day existence. 

Whenever you arrive in a new city or situation, the first thing you do is poke your toes in the water. But what compelling insight would you discover if you just dove right in? 

Today, the farthest human-made object from Earth is the Voyager I probe, a spacecraft launched in 1977 carrying two phonographic records. 

Carl Sagan envisioned the project. Among the discs’ content are the music of J.S. Bach, greetings from around the world, and myriad nature sounds, including a mother and child. Id