A recent graduate from Pasadena, California, made an exciting discovery using NASA’s old data. By applying artificial intelligence, he found around 1.5 million new cosmic objects. His work quickly went viral, catching the attention of NASA’s new administrator, Jared Isaacman, who jokingly offered the young scientist a fighter jet ride if he applied for a job.
Matteo Paz used data from NASA’s retired NEOWISE infrared mission, analyzing about 200 billion records during his research at Caltech’s Planet Finder Academy. With the help of his mentor, astrophysicist Davy Kirkpatrick, he identified signals that had gone unnoticed before. This achievement not only won him recognition but also a position as a research assistant at Caltech.
On December 27, 2025, Isaacman tweeted, “Matteo please apply to work at NASA and I will personally throw in a fighter jet ride as a signing bonus.” Paz replied with a cheerful photo asking, “Where do I sign?” Their exchange captivated social media, drawing attention to both the incredible discovery and the enthusiasm for fostering young talent in science.
Paz’s discoveries were detailed in The Astronomical Journal and are now helping inform the James Webb Space Telescope’s observations. This achievement adds to his impressive background, including being the first-place winner of the 2025 Regeneron Science Talent Search and a future undergraduate at MIT.
Isaacman, confirmed as NASA’s administrator just weeks earlier, has made it clear he aims to cut through red tape to empower innovative thinkers like Paz. He believes breakthroughs in science can inspire the next generation, highlighting the role of young minds in advancing our understanding of the universe.
Such stories resonate amid rising interest in science, especially among youth. According to a recent survey from the National Science Board, 75% of high school students are eager to learn more about careers in STEM fields. This enthusiasm is crucial for the future of science and technology—a path illuminated by young achievers like Paz.
For more on the exciting developments in space exploration, check NASA’s latest updates here.
