BU Hosts Discussion on Samantha Harvey's Novel "Orbital"

Event features BU alumni and NASA leaders reflecting on the book's themes of space exploration and the human experience.

Published on Mar. 3, 2026

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Boston University recently held a discussion event focused on Samantha Harvey's novel "Orbital", which was selected as the university's 2026 Common Read. The event featured BU President Melissa Gilliam leading a panel discussion with BU alumni Jenny Gruber, the NASA Artemis Campaign chief of programmatics and operations branch, and NASA astronaut Bob Hines, along with STH Dean G. Sujin Pak. The discussion explored the book's themes of space exploration and the human experience.

Why it matters

The BU Common Read program aims to engage the entire campus community in discussing important contemporary works of fiction and non-fiction. "Orbital" was chosen for its ability to spark conversations around the future of space travel, scientific discovery, and the challenges and triumphs of the human spirit. The event allowed students, faculty, and alumni to connect over these themes and consider their relevance to both BU and the broader world.

The details

The discussion event was held on February 25 at the Tsai Performance Center on BU's campus. Panelists shared their personal and professional perspectives on the novel's themes, as well as their own experiences in the fields of space exploration and scientific research. The event was open to the BU community and featured audience Q&A.

  • The BU Common Read discussion took place on February 25, 2026.
  • "Orbital" by Samantha Harvey was selected as the 2026 BU Common Read.

The players

Melissa Gilliam

President of Boston University.

Jenny Gruber

BU alumna (ENG'99,'99) and NASA Artemis Campaign chief of programmatics and operations branch.

Bob Hines

BU alumnus (ENG'97) and NASA astronaut.

G. Sujin Pak

Dean of the School of Theology at Boston University.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, Grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

The BU Common Read discussion on "Orbital" provided an opportunity for the university community to engage with themes of space exploration, scientific discovery, and the human experience. The event featured diverse perspectives from BU alumni and leaders in the space industry, fostering important conversations about the book's relevance and impact.