Senior Researcher, NASA
Dr. Steve B. Howell is currently a Senior Scientist in the Space Science and Astrobiology Division for the NASA Ames Research Center. He previously was the Head of the Division as well as the project scientist for NASA’s premier exoplanet finding missions: Kepler and K2. Steve received his PhD in Astrophysics from the University of Amsterdam and has worked in many aspects of astronomy including pioneering the use of charge-coupled devices in astronomy, building new technology instruments for ground and space-based telescopes plus performing university research, education, and public outreach programs. Howell has written over 800 scientific publications, numerous popular and technical articles, and has authored and edited eight books on astronomy and astronomical instrumentation as well as two science fiction books related to exoplanets.