Mat Kaplan loves hosting and producing Planetary Radio. He was just 17 when he got his first job in broadcasting, yet it wasn't until the 2002 premiere of the Society's popular, weekly podcast and public radio series that he combined his twin loves of space and radio. A Planetary Society staff member for more than 21 years, Mat also moderates many of the Society's events and webinars.

Mat's extensive background in journalism has ranged from public radio reporter covering the political conventions to movie reviewer for an international magazine. Some may remember him as a correspondent for a pioneering national TV series about personal computers. Mat also enjoyed a 30-year career in higher education that included major television awards and recognition for service to the community. He and his wife live in the San Diego region near his two adult daughters who were raised to be citizens of the solar system.

Mat has served as moderator or host for many other events about space and science topics, including his annual hosting of the NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts webinar and the KPCC "NEXT" series about the future. He is a passionate presenter about the mission of The Planetary Society, the importance of space exploration and development, and the history of human fascination with Mars, including robotic exploration of the Red Planet.