Scott Manley
Scott Manley explains spaceflight, astronomy and rocket science on YouTube, bringing a physics background and a love of space games to the questions fans want answered.
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Latest
Scott’s happenings, collected from public sources, plus his backstory and Starbook, where fans write.
Known for
YouTube
YouTube
YouTube
FilmOverview
- From
- Scotland; moved to California in 1999.
- Background
- Astrophysics and computational physics at the University of Glasgow and Armagh Observatory.
- Early breakthrough
- The 2010 Asteroid Discovery animation, followed by Kerbal Space Program tutorials.
- Also
- B612 strategic advisor and science consultant for Stowaway.
Mini bio
Before YouTube.
Scott grew up in Scotland and studied astrophysics and computational physics at the University of Glasgow and Armagh Observatory. His research focused on small bodies in the solar system and collision probabilities. In 1999, he moved to California to work in technology.
How it started.
One early success was his 2010 animation of asteroid discoveries. It turned orbital data into a moving map of the solar system. Kerbal Space Program gave him another way to teach: helping players understand the physics behind getting their rockets into orbit. His beginner guides became a route into both the game and real space science.
Following the questions.
His channel now puts more emphasis on science than gaming, with launch analysis, space history and regular Deep Space Updates. He says his degrees are in physics and astronomy, while much of his rocket science and engineering knowledge is self taught. He also serves as a strategic advisor to the B612 Foundation.
Science on screen.
Director Joe Penna brought Scott into Stowaway after the pair connected on Twitter. He helped with the science behind the film’s mission to Mars. In his interview with The National, Scott described the encouragement he gets from viewers who go on to study aerospace or pursue space careers.
Creditschronological, newest first
Film
- 2021StowawayScience consultant
Science and video
- 2016Asteroid Update with Jill TarterHost, Asteroid Day interview series
- 2015Kerbal Space Program: Career Mode Guide for BeginnersCreator and presenter
- 2010Asteroid Discovery From 1980 - 2010Animation creator
Awards
Quotes
I'm not a rocket scientist, but I play one on the internet.Scott Manley, Patreon
His introduction to the science and games videos that viewers support through Patreon.
Trivia
- His asteroid-discovery animation uses color to distinguish Earth-crossing asteroids, close approachers and other objects.
- He passed his instrument check ride in June 2026, adding another qualification to his flying.
- His work with Asteroid Day included an interview with SETI pioneer Jill Tarter.
Find Scott
Follow Scott for space news, science explanations and the occasional flight.
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