News Emily Calandrelli is Inspiring a New Generation of Science and Space Enthusiasts By Betsy Cribb Betsy Cribb Betsy is the features editor at Southern Living. She writes about a veritable potpourri of topics for print and digital, from profiling Southern movers-and-shakers and celebrating family traditions to highlighting newsy restaurant openings and curating the annual holiday gift guide. Prior to joining the Southern Living team in 2017 as the style editor, she worked at Coastal Living as an assistant editor covering pets and homes. Southern Living's editorial guidelines Updated on September 2, 2022 Share Tweet Pin Email "I didn't really know any scientists when I was growing up," says Emily Calandrelli. The West Virginia-born engineer first chose her career path for practical reasons but soon found herself enamored with the subject. "I discovered a world of possibilities and became obsessed," she says. Now, Calandrelli (@thespacegal) is sharing her love of science with the next generation. In addition to hosting Fox's Xploration Outer Space and authoring the Ada Lace children's book series, she also has her own Netflix show for kids, Emily's Wonder Lab. "Science is interactive and joyful," she says. "It's about being curious and finding fun ways to answer questions." She also wants her youngest fans to learn that this field is for everyone. "I filmed the show when I was nine months pregnant, and I'm so proud of that representation," she says. "We didn't really address it; I just happened to be pregnant doing science. I love that kids can look at that and grow up with the assumption that you can be a mom and a scientist." Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit