Endorsements

Endorsements

I absolutely love your books. As you might suppose, I know hundreds of astronauts and dozens of them are good friends. A few are among the best friends I have.  No one I know has captured the essence of being in space and the historical significance of being in the generation of people who did it first better than you.  I was twenty in 1969; I lived through it all. You did not, and captured it anyway. “Into that Silent Sea” and “In the Shadow of the Moon” are among the best books I’ve ever read.

Mike Griffin, former NASA Administrator and Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering

I feel so fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with Francis through my non-profit Higher Orbits. Our goal with Higher Orbits is to inspire the next generation of STEMists & Explorers, and I can tell you first hand, Francis is great at this mission. His passion for spaceflight makes him an amazing speaker to students of all ages. His breadth of knowledge inspires so many wonderful questions and conversations. He is a pleasure to work with in all aspects and I hope to be able to collaborate with him much more in the future.

Michelle Lucas, President, Higher Orbits Foundation

Francis brings enthusiasm to everything he does. As an educator and author, he has excited people of all ages and experiences to learn more. I have seen firsthand how he makes people feel seen and included in the conversation. Francis has many more things in store and I can't wait to see what else he has to offer.

Kristine Khieu, former Sally Ride Science Educator and Bioengineer

A dynamic person like you is essential to a not-for-profit. It takes talent like yours to make museums a great experience for so many people.

Fred Haise, Apollo 13 astronaut: Board of Directors, Infinity Science Center

In the world of space history and future exploration, Francis French is one of the most intelligent, compelling speakers and authors I know. His work inspires new generations to honor the achievements of the past while learning and imagining the opportunities of tomorrow.

Mark Larson, CEO, Mark Larson Media Services. Chairman Of The Board, San Diego Air & Space Museum

Francis is a force of words. For his peers in space and science, he consistently serves as an ally and accomplice – meaning he is active every step of the way to support colleagues on their journeys and champion opportunity by documenting their experiences for the generations. He is a genuine believer in the possibilities of others, capturing their stories, and radiating them out into the world. It is truly my privilege to be in his orbit, and I look forward to continuing to read his works!

Yvette Gonzalez, Space Science and Bioastronautics Researcher

Since I began my non-profit organization “Taking Up Space,” Francis French has been a dedicated ally in our work to increase Native American representation and decrease the gender gap in STEM. He has helped empower Native American girls to develop and pursue their curiosity, passion, and confidence in STEM by fundraising, writing, event assisting, and chaperoning. He co-presented hands-on learning experiences at STEM education conferences in the Diné (Navajo) nation, chaperoned and coached Pascua Yaqui students in event speaking and media presentations in the Tucson area, and has introduced the students to many inspiring figures from space exploration history. He has assisted greatly with our efforts to allow Native American students from across the country to attend Space Camp in Huntsville, Alabama. Only 27 percent of U.S. women work in STEM fields, and of that percentage only 5 percent are women of color. Francis is helping to provide opportunities for Native American girls to grow the skills and confidence to succeed in STEM. Whether these students one day become astronauts representing the Pascua Yaqui Nation or choose different career paths, these opportunities are sure to have changed their lives forever.

Czarina Salido, Taking Up Space Executive Director, Time in Cosmology Founder & CEO

Francis French is one of the best science writers and communicators I've had the pleasure of working with and listening to. He's a genuine world-class expert on spaceflight/astronomy and aviation topics, as well as extremely knowledgeable about many other aspects of science, technology, and the natural world. He knows how to effectively communicate complex information to the public in a way that is both clear and has a strong sense of humanity. Francis is also an outstanding public speaker (both on stage and on screen), and is able to effectively convey important points in an entertaining way with a sense of humor.

I was very impressed by his diverse skill set, and at his breadth and depth of knowledge on a variety of subjects. Perhaps as importantly, he is also a genuine pleasure to work with.

Burke Burnett, Executive Secretary, Pacific Science Association

One word to describe Francis: synergistic. After working with him for several years, I witnessed how collaborative, creative, and knowledgeable he could be. He often went above and beyond with his ideas and efforts in areas far outside his department. Those efforts would help the organization as a whole - a skill that only great employees possess. I personally think working with him helped me grow and improve my own skills and I hope to work with him again in the future!

Jessica Packard, former Director of Marketing and Communications, San Diego Air & Space Museum

As Oak Hollow Studios began production on the Cosmosphere documentary, it was determined that the film needed an authority on space history and education. The Cosmosphere knew there was no one better than Francis to speak about the history of space exploration, but more importantly to talk about the next generation of explorers and the Cosmosphere's ability to impact those young minds through education. The Cosmosphere is indebted to Francis for his excellent interview and wonderful comments.

Jim Remar, President/CEO at Cosmosphere International SciEd Center & Space Museum

Francis French is a renowned and talented author and thoughtful leader in the space community. He and I have run in the same circles for years, supporting non-profits focusing on STEM education and communicating the wonder of space exploration. I have enjoyed many of his books and cherish the biography of our mutual friend, Al Worden, the Apollo 15 Command Module Pilot in “Falling to Earth.”

Greg “Box” Johnson, former NASA astronaut

The everyday workings of a downtown non-profit are never easy: especially one devoted to providing services and meals to San Diego’s unsheltered population. This past year of pandemic has only compounded these difficulties by a factor of ten. What helped us to survive and thrive is our powerful volunteer base: chief among them, Francis French. In fact, I would call him a “dream volunteer.” Ideally you want someone who cares about the mission above all else; someone who is flexible, gets along with others, and can work around problems. Francis has always excelled at this, chiefly because he cares. When San Diego (and the nation) faced a sudden quarantine/shutdown, TACO quickly had to rethink all its procedures and rules. During this stressful time, Francis didn’t waver in his desire to continue helping, and offered invaluable advice on keeping meals safe. Francis has also assisted TACO with fundraising, social media, and strategic planning. Not many people have such a broad skillset, and even fewer can implement said skills successfully.

Brad Young, former Volunteer Coordinator, Third Avenue Charitable Organization

A great writer and historian, and a very good, supportive friend, Francis French is one of the greatest living aerospace historians. I am a great admirer of his work.

James Hansen, New York Times bestelling author of "First Man: The Life of Neil A. Armstrong."

Francis has tremendous communications skills. His writing is clear, thoughtful, and engaging; his abilities as a public speaker are equally impressive. He is able to connect with an audience -- through both the written and spoken word -- and share his significant expertise in an accessible, entertaining, and captivating way. I've been fortunate to interact with Francis in a number of settings, and it's always been a valuable and enjoyable experience. He is an insightful expert, a passionate advocate, and an inspiring teacher.

Scott Gast, former Senior Associate Counsel to the President, Office of White House Counsel

Any effort to understand the long and thrilling trajectory of space exploration—where it began and where it goes from here—should start with consulting Francis French. Francis speaks and writes with remarkable insight, authority, and—it must be said—humanity. His expertise on the first space age—and the new one—is unmatched, and it’s our good fortune that he has made it his mission to share that knowledge.

Jeff Shesol, former Deputy Chief Speechwriter, White House

I consider you to be the premier writer and communicator on space. It's hard to describe how helpful "In the Shadow of the Moon" was to me during the research and writing of "Rocket Men." The ability to bring this stuff to life for the lay person is a rare one and you certainly did that for me from the start. Finding books like yours - so accurate, informative, and readable all at once - is a rarity, so I was grateful every day to have you by my side!

Robert Kurson, New York Times Bestselling author of “Rocket Men: The Daring Odyssey of Apollo 8 and the Astronauts Who Made Man's First Journey to the Moon”

What a joy to collaborate with Francis French! The arts education non-profit where I work, Classics 4 Kids, serves almost 30,000 elementary students, teachers and parent chaperones each year. Our STEAM music programs emphasize that arts and sciences curriculum has greater impact when taught together. Francis has twice-served as the on-stage educational expert, when the orchestral music was thematically based in astronomy (Bach to the Future) and aerospace (Music Takes Flight!). Francis effortlessly communicated the material to our audience of thousands of elementary students – genuinely maintaining their interest and seamlessly linking themes of our orchestra performances to related scientific content. Participating teachers and students have loved Francis’ presentations within our arts educational events and Classics 4 Kids was thrilled to work with him, bringing science and the arts to young students!

Jennifer DeMik, Director of Development, Classics 4 Kids

The San Bernardino County Museum covers every aspect of the enormous county, and the collection reflects the diversity of the region. Francis jumped in to overhaul the education classes and tours, giving each a thorough professional rewrite and aligning them to the current standards used in the school districts. This included subjects as diverse as histories of European settlers, local wildlife, archaeology, and programs related to special traveling exhibitions such as sharks. The programs needed an enormous overhaul and update, and Francis' dedication to the task gave them new life, allowing visiting students to have true educational experiences and connections to the subject. Francis created entirely new promotional methods within the museum to get the word to the right people about the program offerings, increasing attendance. He also created new talk series programming so that the scientists and others in the museum and locally could showcase their work to the public. It was transformational. He connected to local communities with tact and respect and drew them in to feel like the museum was their home. I have remained connected to his work ever since, and have seen him have a similar effect in every cultural institution he went on to transform. He is a vital force for change, bringing imagination, curiosity and insight to everything he does.

Wendy Sparks, former Director of Education and statewide education coordinator at multiple cultural institutions, former Deputy Director of Operations, Union of Concerned Scientists.

From the start of his employment at the Fleet Science Center, I knew that Francis would make his mark!  His passion for space science writing, his dedication to ensuring opportunities for diverse audiences in STEM, and his ‘get it done’ approach translated to new program opportunities for the agency reaching new audiences. Francis expanded the organization’s programming by engaging nationally known authors for book talks and signings. He successfully managed summer camp programs and coordinated a collaborative programming schedule with partner agencies, meeting the needs of families. Francis did this with a playful spirit and a thoughtful approach caring about those he worked with. 

When I transitioned away from the informal education arena, I felt assured that Francis would carry on and was proud when he was named Director of Events for Sally Ride Science, and then Director of Education at the San Diego Air and Space Museum. 

To this day, I have no doubts that Francis will continue to make his mark!

Aly Evans, former Director of Education, Fleet Science Center

Francis is my go-to source for knowledge about everything space related. He's a world-class writer, editor and educator. I would have been in the weeds without him. He's also an engaging and informative public speaker, as well as a terrific on-camera interviewee. Francis was interviewed by the print and electronic media on many occasions during our time together at the San Diego Air & Space Museum, and he always brings a new perspective to facts from the space program. I've also had the opportunity to hear several of his public presentations, and every time I learned something new.

David Neville, Marketing and Communications Director, San Diego Air & Space Museum

Francis, you are the best witness of space memories.

Patrick Baudry, first French space shuttle astronaut

Francis is an absolutely bewitching public speaker. He is an active and enthusiastic participant in Nerd Nite San Diego (it's like TED Talks, but less pretentious) and his enthusiasm infects the entire crowd. He is a rare combination of intelligent and entertaining.

Not only are his talks well-presented, but they're accompanied by entertaining slides and well-timed jokes. Francis remains the only speaker to date who has made the audience at NNSD both laugh and cry in the same talk.

He is a true delight.

Lauren Chen, Founder of Nerd Nite San Diego (second-largest global presentation series, behind TED Talks)

Francis is a truly inspirational speaker, with entertaining and enlightening talks on a variety of topics. He is charming and affable and has an easy rapport that makes his presentations fun and informative. Highly recommended!

Chuck Wagner, legendary Broadway performer and television actor.

It is heart-warming that you and your work have been inclusive. You have consciously reached out to those who are on the fringes, who hesitate in many ways, for many reasons to participate in mainstream activities. You have been a wonderful link, connecting those deep in science, space travel, and research with readers and science/space enthusiasts through your writing and programs.

Brinda Gill, textiles expert and author, India

Francis French is passionate about connecting people to new information and experiences. One way he does this is through his engaging writing and speaking. I know Francis primarily through his association with Sally Ride Science and the San Diego Air and Space Museum, but his interests and connections extend across the globe and indeed, seemingly, across the universe!

Francis is equally comfortable and talented at talking with small children as he is with foreign dignitaries or the culturally famous. While he is well-known for his historical and current knowledge of all things space-related, it is surprising how often we end up discussing art, food, psychology or pop-culture. Why? Because it’s all connected, and Francis loves to explore those connections. His charisma and enthusiasm can make apparently obscure or specific subjects like the mechanics of space travel or strategy in educational funding relevant to day-to-day life. Francis’ skills and knowledge make him a valuable resource and a delight to be around. I’m always excited for his next endeavor!

Brooks Pauly, Environmental Engineer

Francis and I have had many opportunities over the past 10+ years to work together, as a Space Camp Hall of Famer, Director of Education at the San Diego Air & Space Museum and now as an educator, speaker and author. He's a true professional. With knowledge of anything space related, historically or current, he's better than referencing any website. Whether it's the written word or verbally, Francis can take just about any STEM or space topic and tailor it for the appropriate age group — that is a true talent and gift that he gives the reader or listener. I feel fortunate to know Francis and to continue working with him, no matter what challenge or venture he undertakes. He keeps us all on our toes!

Celia Lee, Sr. former Director, Donor Relations & Protocol, U.S. Space & Rocket Center

Spacefest has been affiliated with Francis French since 2009, when we held our event in San Diego. He has exceptional knowledge in the space history field, and has become a regular on the Astronaut scene. I always look forward to seeing him, and chatting with him (he is hilarious). Not only is Francis dependable and generous, he is so uplifting and kind! He is a fantastic moderator, and is quick on his feet in front of an audience. He is receptive and keen on feeling out everybody's energy. Most of all, he is always willing  to give suggestions and help better everything he is involved with!

Kelsey Poor, Head of the annual Spacefest conference

Francis values personal relationships and excels at enhancing human connection during the execution of a project. As fellow inductees to the Space Camp Hall of Fame, I have watched him serve an ongoing mission that is so much larger than himself. Such a role highlights his inherent service orientation and showcases his natural ability to inspire both kids and adults to pursue STEM fields and reach for the stars in pursuit of their dreams. As board members for Higher Orbits, Francis was by my side as I undertook the role of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Coalition Chair. His vision, collaboration, communication, and creativity were all invaluable skillsets that he so beautifully and willingly offered to me to help chart a path for the organization. In short, Francis is, indeed, wicked awesome. I am so grateful to be in his orbit.

Tara Sweeney, former Vice President, Space Camp

Francis has been of great assistance to me in the weekly production of news items for the international museum website, Global Museum. His background as a researcher and writer has proved invaluable, and he has a wide knowledge of museums and their operations.

Roger Smith, Global Museum

I've had the pleasure of knowing Francis for about 5 years. In that time I have learned what a gifted writer he is and what a wealth of knowledge of space history he possesses. He has also been very encouraging and shared some great ideas for education and development with me. His personality is very charismatic, reliable, honest and thoughtful. As a speaker and educator, his presence reaches out and fills a room in a very inviting way. He's a storyteller, and a very good one, so he easily captures your attention. If you are considering him for an event, a workshop, etc... you will be making a wise choice!

Amy Young, former Event Coordinator, Operations and Social Media Manager at The Space Station Museum

I met Francis when we both worked in Balboa Park at different institutes as Education Directors. He worked for the Air and Space Museum and I worked for the San Diego Art Institute. Francis is incredibly knowledgeable about science and space, but he is also quite informed on contemporary art. He was a guest curator for an exhibit at the San Diego Art Institute and has written articles of formal critique on art shows. He has offered critiques of my work as an artist which I found to be very insightful. He is informed in contemporary art trends and movements as well as art history. This blend of knowledge in science and art make him a unique educator. His passion for both of these fields show in the exemplary quality of his work.

Sheena Rae Dowling, contemporary artist and art educator

Francis is one of those rare speakers who manages to translate his passion and deep knowledge of spaceflight without ever speaking down to his audience. He’s passionate about getting history right, always educates with humour, and is unquestionably a trusted authority in all things space history. He's also one of the kindest collaborators; I admired his work as an author before beginning my own professional career and he's been an incredible and generous colleague and friend helping a young author.

Amy Shira Teitel, The Science Channel

Throughout my long time as an official of the Council of the European Union and the European Commission, I have always kept a close look on the development of international co-operation in space. For many years, I was covering US manned spaceflight for Germany’s aerospace monthly Fliegerrevue, and I have been involved in the editorial work of two TV documentaries on the space race and the history of Soviet spaceflight in the 90s. I have known Francis French since he was a teenager, and his earliest magazine articles covering little-known moments in space history. His subsequent bestselling books and speaking engagements, and unique interviews with many of the original spacefarers, Russian, European and American, make his work invaluable to the field of history. In a highly technical field, he added the social dimension to spaceflight. This allowed him to capture a whole new audience now that spaceflight has almost become a part of daily life.

Jürgen Esders, Officer of the Council of the European Union and the European Commission

Francis is the person you need in your network because he’ll make new connections and exciting opportunities happen for you like greased lightning. I also greatly enjoy reading his articles and publications. His writing style is ever so engaging, informative yet clear and accessible to diverse audiences. Francis is a deep thinker, and great storyteller. If I were in school again, he would be the teacher I’d want to listen to and learn from.

Zed Sehyr, Ph.D., Research Scientist, Laboratory for Language and Cognitive Neuroscience, San Diego State University

One of the best authors out there, Francis has a way of crafting a story — even one you’ve heard before — in a way that makes you so engaged. He’s also a wonderful public speaker. We’ve had him on our podcast a number of times and will continue to book him. The enthusiasm with which he talks adds so much more value to his already valuable wealth of knowledge. I’m fairly sure there’s little Francis can’t do. You should hear him sing!

Dave Giles, podcaster, “Space and Things,” singer-songwriter.

Francis French is one of the leading research writers and historians in the world. Mr. French has an overall depth and knowledge of space history and his books and lectures has added new information about the incredible Apollo program. Mr. French was one of our keynote speakers at the Angelo State University campus during the Apollo 50th anniversary special program of the historic Apollo 11 moon landing. He has made an incredible contribution to the field of space history and research that will last for generations to come.

Dr. Herman Howard, Graduate and Undergraduate Chair, Communication and Mass Media Department, Angelo State University

I first met Francis French at a science festival held at UCSD when he was working as the Director of Events for Sally Ride Science. My first impression of him was that of a person who was actively working with principles of equity, inclusion, diversity, and belonging.

Shalene Baxter, former Education Specialist, San Diego Air & Space Museum

Francis is an expert on spaceflight and related fields and a scholar of spaceflight history. He is also a lively and highly entertaining public speaker - actually one of my favorite speakers in the spaceflight field, and that is really saying something! I've had the pleasure of working with Francis at numerous public events and I have seen him present multiple times. He is always a consummate professional who engages very well with his audience. Highly recommended.                   

Geoffrey Notkin, Emmy Award-winning television personality

There are only a few writers who truly know the history and development of spaceflight, and even fewer who can speak on the subject with wit and presence. If you have read any of his books, collaborations or solo work, or seen any of his presentations, you already know. If not, you should. In addition to being able to communicate the fantastic experience of spaceflight, he is a dedicated educator and scholar. Read him, hear him, hire him.

Michael Cassutt, acclaimed book author and television writer

Francis is a highly gifted communicator both via live presentations and writing. His numerous books have become authoritative references for many aspects of the human spaceflight efforts of the space age, and his live presentations are highly sought. He is highly telegenic, and appears on television regularly to comment on spaceflight topics. Additionally, his experience in educational outreach gives him valuable insights into STEM and general education communication issues. My professional interactions with Francis have included general and technical editing on my own books, and his input has been invaluable. A highly recommended partner in all his professional roles.

Rod Pyle, Senior Editor, Ad Astra Magazine

I have been honored to have known Francis for several years as a friend and colleague. He is great at encouraging other writers and historians in their work, and always is there to offer constructive comments and advice regarding projects. His priceless encouragement has aided me in getting many writing projects off the ground. Francis is a well-respected, much appreciated member of the spaceflight community.

Emily Carney, author and historian

Francis is a well-known space historian, educator and author. He is both authoritative and passionate about his chosen subject. His books possess technical depth, a flair for history, and a warm human insight. Francis has a gift for communication and is a able and funny public speaker, who illuminates his subject and brings others gracefully into the conversation.

Keith Haviland, Film Producer

I first met Francis when he was with Sally Ride Science. Later, we worked together on an exhibit of my extensive collection of Soviet space memorabilia. Francis' knowledge of the history of space exploration is really without equal. He works to make science education accessible to everyone. Francis is an extremely talented and engaging writer about many different topics from space, to natural history. He is a pleasure to work with, and I look forward to continuing our ventures and partnerships.

Neil Glick, ANC Commissioner

Francis endeavored on some terrific writing and proofreading space-related projects for my company and we couldn’t be happier with his output. He is amazingly skilled, met all deadlines and though occupying an elite role in the space-writing community, remains humble. I look forward to working with him on similar projects in the future.

Jason Rubin, Business Development Manager, The Trade Group

I have known Francis for over 15 years now through his various positions at the Fleet Science Center, Sally Ride Science, and the San Diego Air and Space Museum. His authored works speak for themselves - meticulously researched and well-written. But he is also an engaging and eloquent speaker on space history, as I have witnessed myself countless times. And as a scientist I can attest that he knows the technology behind the story, which makes a huge difference in telling it. Check out his books, and if you get the chance to listen to him speak in person - take it! Even if you are not a space or history enthusiast, you'll learn a lot and enjoy the experience.

Phil Blanco, astrophysicist

Francis is a fantastically knowledgeable and accurate writer, reader, and editor. He is also a gifted speaker: very calm and authoritative. If you get a chance to work with him, jump on it. He will make you and your project measurably better.

Bruce McCandless III, author and space historian

I have known Francis through the space industry for over twenty years. Francis has been a dedicated educator in furthering the public's knowledge about the history of spaceflight. Francis has added to spaceflight history with several books and articles that he has authored over the years. His work at the San Diego Air and Space Museum honed his skills at speaking and presenting to audiences all over the world. Francis presents his subjects with a combination of fact, knowledge, creativity, and humor that constantly entertains his audiences. I highly recommend Francis French to those who require someone to keynote their event.

Larry McGlynn, President, McGlynn, Clinton, Hall & MacRae