Former NASA astronaut Ron Garan, who spent 178 days in space, experienced the ‘overview effect,’ a shift in perspective that made him realize Earth’s thin atmosphere sustains all life. From orbit, he saw no borders or economies, only “an iridescent biosphere teeming with life,” leading him to call humanity’s focus on economic systems over planetary health a fundamental lie.
Garan’s time in space inspired a deep connection with all life on Earth and a call to prioritize the planet’s health. He now advocates for environmental preservation, founding the Manna Energy Foundation to provide clean water and Fragile Oasis to promote global change.
His message highlights the urgent need for collective efforts to protect Earth’s fragile environment, ensuring a thriving future for all.