Hello! My name is Jennifer Ayala and I have been a volunteer with the NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador program since 2013. I enjoy giving presentations and hands on activities for audiences of all ages. My background includes a Bachelor of Science in Geography/Meteorology from Ohio University and a Master in Library and Information Science from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. I have over 20 years of scientific experience in positions ranging from meteorologist to scientific librarian. I have always loved space and space missions and frequently get lost in the space, astronomy and astronaut biography sections at the library. Currently my adventures have landed me in Ann Arbor Michigan.
WXGIRL
Many have asked me why the name WXGIRL? It originally came from my background as a meteorologist. In college I was the only female in my graduating class so it became a sort of nickname that has stuck. WX was used as shorthand for weather in morse code and it is a popular term with some weather geeks. It is also used frequently in National Weather Service shorthand but I’ve seen it elsewhere. Here is a summary from another meteorologist who uses it in his username.
SSA?
What is a Solar System Ambassador or SSA? The Solar System Ambassador program is sponsored by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory as part of NASA. We are a group of over 1000 volunteer working around the world. SSAs go through an application process and are selected by NASA to represent the agency at events. We provide information on NASA missions and space and Earth science to all types of audiences. NASA provides us with training, presentation materials and access to experts so that we can learn all of the latest information about each mission. The goal of the program is to provide information on NASA missions and science education to our local communities.
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