In this talk, Joseph Carol explores the powerful intersection between space exploration and human health, uncovering how the challenges of surviving in space are driving innovations in medicine here on Earth. From protein crystallization to telehealth, he demonstrates how space medicine is already transforming the way we heal, connect, and sustain life on Earth. His passion shining through, Joseph invites us to challenge the notion that space is reserved only for astronauts, and ultimately shows us how its profound discoveries are worthwhile and belong to everyone. Joseph Carol graduated from Haverford College in the spring of 2025 with a Bachelor of Science in astrophysics and a strong academic foundation in medicine and health sciences. His research includes work at Merck involving monoclonal antibodies crystallized in microgravity aboard the International Space Station, as well as studies at the University of Virginia on the effects of space radiation on immune function — research that culminated in his senior thesis. He is pursuing a career in space medicine and will soon begin an Erasmus Mundus Master’s program in the field, continuing his journey toward advancing human health in space and, one day, hopefully reaching space himself. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx