Are you a JPLer? Do you work elsewhere in the space industry?

Much to the chagrin of my parents, I never took high school physics, and somehow managed to substitute linguistics for my undergraduate math requirement.

But I come from a family of physicists and engineers, and have a deep appreciation for JPL’s work.

I often use data analysis and emerging digital techniques in my investigative reporting. I just as often rely on well-placed sources to report rigorous stories about Los Angeles institutions — including the University of Southern California.

You’re reading this story in L.A. Material, a new news outlet founded by a group of seasoned L.A. Times journalists. You can read more about our publication here.