Under the Midnight Sky: The Farm Boy Who Reached the Stars: A True Story of American Resilience

“With more than 16 years in the industry and 16 years at NASA, Geoff’s story is not only of individual success and hard work, but also of NASA’s transition to a new era of space exploration, in which he played many key leadership roles. He has accomplished what most of us come here hoping to do—move our mission—and America’s space program—forward.”

—Charles F. Bolden Jr., Former NASA Administrator & Retired Major General

From dirt roads to deep space—one man's journey to the stars against all odds.

In this stirring memoir, Geoff Yoder shares his remarkable transformation from a struggling farm boy in western Pennsylvania to leading the world’s largest civilian space science organization at NASA. Told he would never succeed—and often underestimated—Geoff pressed forward with nothing but grit, faith, and an insatiable curiosity about the universe.

Under the Midnight Sky is a beacon for anyone who’s ever been told they’re not good enough. It’s a story about rising beyond low expectations, pushing past painful setbacks, and daring to dream big—even when the world says you shouldn't. From chasing stars in the quiet of rural nights to helping shape space missions that would inspire a nation, Geoff’s journey proves that your past doesn’t have to define your future.

Through raw reflection and hard-won wisdom, this book offers a powerful message: success isn’t reserved for the chosen—it belongs to those who refuse to give up.

Perfect for dreamers, doers, and anyone ready to believe in their own impossible.

Mr. Yoder retired from NASA in 2016 after a distinguished career spanning leadership roles in both engineering and science. He served as Acting Associate Administrator and Deputy Associate Administrator in the Science Mission Directorate, overseeing a portfolio of over 100 missions, including the groundbreaking James Webb Space Telescope. His work touched every corner of NASA's mission-from the Constellation and Commercial Crew programs to iconic observatories like Hubble and Chandra. A lifelong advocate for curiosity and exploration, Mr. Yoder now shares his journey with students, inspiring the next generation to keep asking questions and never stop wondering.