Honored and Grateful: A Journey Through the Cosmos

Today marks an extraordinary milestone in my journey as a STEAM educator and an advocate for scientific literacy. I am deeply honoured to be recognized by the Clark County Board of Commissioners for my dedication to sharing the wonders of the universe with our community.

My journey began in the vibrant city of Madrid, Spain, where my fascination with the cosmos was sparked at a young age. Inspired by my mother's love for the stars and my sisters' enthusiastic encouragement of stargazing, I developed a deep passion for astronomy and the sciences. This passion has been the driving force behind my life's work.

When I moved to Las Vegas, I found a community that shared my curiosity and excitement for space exploration. Over the past eleven years, I have had the privilege of working with numerous organizations to promote scientific literacy, including the Scouts of America, the Las Vegas-Clark County Library District, Civil Air Patrol, Native Tribal Organizations, UNLV, and many more. My contributions to citizen science projects for NASA, JPL, The Planetary Society, and others have been some of the most rewarding experiences of my career.

In 2013, I joined the Las Vegas Astronomical Society, and since 2018, I have served as the Vice President of the Society’s Education Outreach Program. This role has allowed me to conduct over 100 STEAM events annually, sharing my passion and knowledge with thousands of community members. In 2022, I was selected for NASA’s Solar System Ambassador’s Program, further fueling my commitment to space exploration and public education.

Today's recognition is a testament to the support and encouragement I have received from so many incredible individuals and organizations. I am especially grateful to Commissioner Gibson and Commission District Liaison Blanca Vazquez for their unwavering support and belief in my mission. Their enthusiasm and dedication have been instrumental in my journey.

I am humbled by this honour and remain committed to inspiring curiosity and promoting scientific literacy. The universe is vast and full of wonders, and together, we can explore it, learn from it, and be inspired by it.

Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this journey. Your support means the world to me. Let's continue to look up and explore the cosmos together!

With gratitude and humility,

Francisco Silva

An Adventure in Helldivers 2

In February 2024, the gaming world witnessed the release of Helldivers 2, a title that has captured the imagination of players around the globe. It's not just another game; it's a vibrant experience where cooperation and strategy intertwine in the fight to spread Super-Earth-controlled democracy across hostile alien worlds. Every session in Helldivers 2 has reminded me what it means to join forces with friends, share laughter, and face impossible challenges together.

This is the link to my videos on YouTube

One of the most captivating features of this game is its dynamic universe. Each mission feels unique thanks to the "Game Master" who delivers surprises, such as unexpected hordes of enemies or abrupt changes in the environment. This element ensures that no two playthroughs are the same; there's always something new to discover, a new tactic to try out.

I'm particularly fascinated by how the team's actions influence the intergalactic war. Every victory and every defeat shapes us within this universe, transforming us not just into combatants, but into architects of our collective destiny.

Our primary adversaries are the Terminators, with their menacing insectoid forms, and the Automatons, precise machines designed to dominate us. Each presents a distinct challenge; however, a camaraderie is always forged in the fight against these relentless foes.

While both are formidable, my favorites remain the Automatons. There's something fascinating about facing these advanced machines, especially when they unleash their calculated tactics and sophisticated technology. Nevertheless, I can't deny that the Terminators also possess their own lethal allure.

One of the game's gems is the support and communication between team members. Every mission becomes an exercise in synchronization, where calling for "strategies" can be the difference between victory and defeat. This coordination not only helps us survive; it strengthens our friendships and creates unforgettable memories.

The introduction of the Illuminados has added a new layer of intrigue and complexity to the game. Their arrival through a black chasm not only presents us with new challenges but also expands our perspective on this vast universe.

I love how each server is represented by a distinct planet, turning the simple act of switching servers into a visually captivating experience. It not only reinforces the feeling of being cosmic explorers but also adds a touch of mystery and excitement to the journey.

From my ship, which I've christened the "Shield of Humanity," I continue to face challenges and celebrate victories alongside my fellow Helldivers. Each mission is a reminder of what it means to work as a team, adapt to changing circumstances, and fight for a common cause.

Helldivers 2 has not only been a commercial and critical success; it has been a personal adventure that has taught me about resilience, the importance of communication, and the immeasurable value of friendship. As we face new threats in this dynamic universe, we will continue together, ready to protect our stellar home.