Dr. Jerry Krassner presents talks on astronomy, space and current events to professional and general
public audiences. His qualifications include a PhD in Physics and Astronomy, and a 40+ year career in
the aerospace industry. He was a NASA space shuttle mission specialist applicant. Dr Krassner has
performed astronomical observations at a range of optical, infrared, and radio observatories, and is
one of only a handful of scientists to have observed on all 3 generations of dedicated NASA airborne
observatories. He has provided technical consulting services to a variety of US Government agencies,
including serving as Chief Scientist in several. Dr. Krassner has organized or actively participated in
numerous professional conferences and panel discussions, and served on a number of White House
and other committees that address space, public policy, and related issues of the day. Dr. Krassner
has taught professional continuing education courses on satellite design, space policy, and similar
topics. He has been an invited speaker on various professional conference panels, “fireside chats”,
etc.
In addition to his professional activities, Dr Krassner (aka “The Wizard of Stars”) is an active speaker
on cruises, at star parties, and similar general public functions. As examples, he has spoken at NEAF
(the largest amateur astronomy exhibition in the US), York County Star Party (Pennsylvania), NOVAC
star party (Virginia), and other public participation events. He was invited by the NASA Ambassador
outreach program to speak at their total solar eclipse event in Buffalo NY, attended by ~2000
attendees (April 2024). He has presented a number of talks and hosted stargazing parties on several
cruise ships. His broad understanding of astronomy and space activities, ability to explain concepts
at a general public level, and engaging style have made him a sought-after speaker.