Podcast appearances and mentions of Mat Kaplan

  • 29PODCASTS
  • 233EPISODES
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  • May 28, 2025LATEST

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Best podcasts about Mat Kaplan

Latest podcast episodes about Mat Kaplan

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
Volcanic worlds across the Solar System

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later May 28, 2025 56:39


Volcanoes aren’t just an earthly phenomenon. They’re found all across the Solar System. In this compilation episode of Planetary Radio, we explore volcanic and geothermal activity on planets, moons, and distant dwarf planets. You’ll hear from Rosaly Lopes, Nick Schneider, Rae Paoletta, Robbie Herrick, Scott Hensley, and Christopher Glein as they share insights into everything from lava flows on Venus and eruptions on Io to the mysterious heat signatures of icy bodies like Eris and Makemake. This journey spans over 20 years of Planetary Radio, featuring interviews hosted by both current host Sarah Al-Ahmed and founding host Mat Kaplan. Then, our Chief Scientist, Dr. Bruce Betts, returns for What’s Up and shares new findings from NASA’s Juno mission, which recently completed close passes by Jupiter’s volcanic moon, Io. Discover more at: https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2025-volcanic-worldsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
The Edward Stone Voyager Exploration Trail

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 29, 2025 57:22


This week on Planetary Radio, we celebrate the enduring legacy of Ed Stone, the longtime project scientist for NASA’s Voyager mission and former director of JPL. Mat Kaplan, senior communications advisor at The Planetary Society, takes us to the unveiling of the Dr. Edward Stone Voyager Exploration Trail at JPL, where we hear from past and present JPL leaders, Voyager mission team members, and Ed Stone’s family. Plus, we kick off the episode with the much-anticipated launch of Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket and wrap up with What’s Up, as Bruce Betts explores the rare planetary configuration that made Voyager’s Grand Tour possible. Discover more at: https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2025-ed-stone-trailSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
Clipper's champions: Space advocates and the fight for a mission to Europa

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 9, 2024 64:16


Jupiter's moon Europa is one of the most promising targets in the search for life. The Planetary Society and space advocates around the world fought to make Europa Clipper a reality. This week, we learn more about the tumultuous history of the mission with Casey Dreier, our chief of space policy. Mat Kaplan, senior communications adviser, gives an update on the successful launch of the European Space Agency's Hera mission and the delayed launch of Europa Clipper due to Hurricane Milton. Then, Bruce Betts, chief scientist at The Planetary Society, discusses two opportunities to view comets in the October sky in What's Up. Discover more at: https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2024-clippers-championsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
Ramses and rockets: Commercial space adventures and the race to Apophis

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 28, 2024 59:33


Get up to speed on the latest in commercial space news. Mat Kaplan, the senior communications advisor for The Planetary Society, returns with an update on the fate of the Boeing Starliner astronauts, the imploding and exploding adventures of Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket, and a brief look forward to SpaceX's Polaris Dawn mission. Asa Stahl, our science editor, shares the good news about the European Space Agency's Ramses mission, which hopes to rendezvous with asteroid Apophis before its closest approach to Earth in 2029. Then our public education specialist, Kate Howells, shares some tips on how to deal with space rocks in her new article, "What would happen if we nuked an asteroid?" We end our show with What's Up with Bruce Betts, our chief scientist, and a new random space fact. Discover more at: https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2024-ramses-and-rocketsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
An Earthling's guide to the "Moons Symphony"

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2024 53:41


Planetary Radio takes a melodic adventure to the Ravinia Festival in Illinois, USA, for the public premiere of the "Moons Symphony." Mat Kaplan, senior communications advisor at The Planetary Society, speaks with a panel of amazing guests, including members of the Europa Clipper, Dragonfly, and Cassini teams, about the discoveries that inspired the music. Then, Bruce Betts, our chief scientist, marks the end of the 2024 Summer Olympics with a random space fact in What's Up. Discover more at: https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2024-moons-symphony See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
Fifty-five hundred worlds and counting: The astonishing diversity of exoplanets

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 3, 2024 70:12


Scientists have discovered over 5,500 exoplanets, but they're just getting started. We dive into the stunning variety of exoplanets beyond our Solar System with Jessie Christiansen, the project scientist for the NASA Exoplanet Archive. But first, The Planetary Society's science editor, Asa Stahl, shares more about the upcoming Habitable Worlds Observatory, a cutting-edge space telescope designed to hunt for worlds that could harbor life. We also give an update on the International Space Station with our senior communications advisor, Mat Kaplan. Stick around for What's Up with Bruce Betts as we discuss the advances in exoplanet detection and share a new Random Space Fact. Discover more at: https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2024-five-thousand-worlds-and-countingSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Last week was a big one for commercial space. Our senior communications advisor, Mat Kaplan, discusses the first crewed Boeing Starliner test and SpaceX Starship launch. Then Asa Stahl, our science editor, lets you know how to observe the upcoming nova in Corona Borealis. RadioLab's Latif Nasser returns to Planetary Radio with a new public naming contest for a quasi-moon of Earth. Then, we dive into some naming conventions for space objects in What's Up with our chief scientist, Bruce Betts. Discover more at: https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2024-nova-and-naming-contestSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

As humanity aims to explore new frontiers in space, the need for good roboticists has never been greater. Robotics leagues and competitions offer a gateway into the field, connecting aspiring engineers with a vibrant community where enthusiasts can learn to accomplish their space dreams. Kelly Biderman, the CEO of Havoc Robotics, joins Planetary Radio to share how the National Havoc Robot League helps to prepare the next generation of space engineers. Then we hear from Florence Pouya, the former captain of the Afghan Girls Robotics Team, as she shares her insights with our senior communications adviser, Mat Kaplan, during their time at the Humans to Mars Summit in Washington, D.C. Stick around for What's Up with Bruce Betts and a new random space fact.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Musical Innertube
The Musical Innertube - Volume 2, Number 138 - Mat Kaplan goes to Mars!

The Musical Innertube

Play Episode Listen Later May 14, 2024 36:35


Our old pal Mat Kaplan of the Planetary Society has just returned from the 2024 Humans to Mars Summit, and he's happy to tell us exactly how close we are to colonizing the Red Planet. 

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
Geothermal activity on the icy dwarf planets Eris and Makemake

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 6, 2024 68:12


A team co-led by the Southwest Research Institute has made a groundbreaking discovery, revealing evidence of hydrothermal or metamorphic activity on the icy dwarf planets Eris and Makemake in the Kuiper Belt. The lead author of this research, Chris Glein, joins Planetary Radio to explain. But our journey doesn't stop there. We dive into the newly reformed US Planetary Science Caucus with The Planetary Society's top space policy experts, Casey Dreier and Jack Kiraly. Our senior communications adviser, Mat Kaplan, celebrates a monumental achievement in space exploration — the successful landing of Intuitive Machine's Odysseus spacecraft on the lunar surface. And don't miss the latest installment of What's Up with Bruce Betts, our chief scientist, as he shares a new random space fact. Discover more at: https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2024-eris-and-makemakeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
What's hidden inside planets?

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 17, 2024 73:50 Very Popular


Venture into the hearts of worlds and uncover how we study planetary interiors this week on Planetary Radio. Sabine Stanley, professor of planetary physics at Johns Hopkins University and author of the new book "What's Hidden Inside Planets?" discusses some of the amazing things that lie under the surfaces of the worlds in our Solar System. But first, Mat Kaplan, senior communications advisor at The Planetary Society, gives an update on the first Commercial Lunar Payload Services mission and the timeline for NASA's Artemis program. We close out this show with Bruce Betts, our chief scientist, as he shares information on our new book, "Casting Shadows: Solar and Lunar Eclipses with The Planetary Society." Discover more at: https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2024-whats -hidden-inside-planetsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Members of The Planetary Society staff revisit some of 2023's most exhilarating moments and groundbreaking discoveries in space this week on Planetary Radio. Kate Howells, Public Education Specialist, announces the winners of The Planetary Society's Best of 2023 awards. Jack Kiraly, Director of Government Relations, shares the strides made in space advocacy. Then Rae Paoletta, Director of Content and Engagement, and Mat Kaplan, Senior Communications advisor and former host of Planetary Radio, return to break down their favorite space moments of the year. Stick around until the end for What's Up with Bruce Betts, the Chief Scientist of The Planetary Society, as he looks forward to the next year of space science and exploration. Discover more at: https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2023-looking-back See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
An astrogeologic experience with Kirby Runyon

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 13, 2023 60:00 Very Popular


Sometimes, when you want to learn more about other worlds, all you have to do is step out your door. Mat Kaplan, Planetary Radio's creator and former host, takes us on an adventure with planetary geologist Kirby Runyon as they tour New Mexico, U.S.'s varied geology and compare it to other worlds. They'll explore the dunes of White Sands National Park, the Mars-like geology of Kilbourne Hole, and the rocks in the Carrizozo Lava flow. Then Bruce Betts, the chief scientist of The Planetary Society, and host Sarah Al-Ahmed discuss the most otherworldly places they've been in this week's What's Up. Discover more at: https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2023-astrogeologic-experience See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
Io and Voyager 2: Lost oceans and found signals

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 13, 2023 57:51


This week on Planetary Radio, we're traveling back in time to uncover the luminous infancy of Jupiter and its impact on its enigmatic moon, Io. Carver Bierson, a postdoctoral researcher at Arizona State University, tells the tale of how Jupiter's radiant beginnings might have turned Io from a water-rich moon into a world with lakes of lava. You'll also hear from two legendary figures of space exploration, Voyager project manager Suzanne Dodd and Voyager project scientist Linda Spilker, as they delve into the endeavor to reestablish contact with the iconic Voyager 2 spacecraft with our senior communications advisor, Mat Kaplan. And don't miss "What's Up" with our chief scientist, Bruce Betts, as he answers a question from our Planetary Society member community. Discover more at: https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2023-lost-oceans-and-found-signals See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trek Geeks Podcast Network
The BIG Sci-Fi Podcast Mat Kaplan

Trek Geeks Podcast Network

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 18, 2023 95:20


Long-time Planetary Radio Host Get ready for a cosmic journey like no other! This episode of The BIG Sci-Fi Podcast is about to launch you into an interstellar conversation with none other than Mat Kaplan. With a 20-year legacy as the voice behind Planetary Radio up through the end of 2022, and his current role steering the comms ship at The Planetary Society, Mat's insights are truly out of this world. So, prep your listening gear for a space odyssey of words and wonders. https://www.planetary.org Join the Planetary Society at: https://www.planetary.org/membership This podcast is a proud part of the Trek Geeks Podcast Network and works hard to bring you great content from all over the science fiction universe. We would love to hear your feedback, suggestions, and ideas. Just take a moment to send us an email at thebigscifipodcast@gmail.com. Check our podcast out and learn more about the other great podcasts on the network by visiting trekgeeks.com. Check out all of our social links in one place:https://linktr.ee/thebigscifipodcast Check out Cris' amazing YouTube channel for Trek content galore:https://www.youtube.com/@yellingaboutstartrek1532 Check out Brian's new book available at Amazon for Kindle and in paperback:https://www.amazon.com/stores/Brian-Donahue/author/B0C3BQ93VD?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true Check out Adeena's website for more about her book series, career, and science:https://adeenamignogna.com/

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
Humans to Mars by the 2030s? NASA Associate Administrators weigh in

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 5, 2023 60:33


It's going to take a lot of collaboration to get humans to Mars, but we're up for the challenge. This week on Planetary Radio, Mat Kaplan, senior communications adviser at The Planetary Society, takes us to the 2023 Humans to Mars Summit in Washington, D.C. We'll share his conversation with three NASA Associate Administrators, Nicola Fox, James Free, and James Reuter about the international, commercial, and robotic collaboration it will take to put the first humans on the Red Planet. Then Bruce Betts and Sarah Al-Ahmed share What's Up in the night sky and a chance to win a grab bag of prizes in one of our last space trivia contests. Discover more at: https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2023-humans-to-mars See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

The Planetary Society has just announced the latest awards in its Science and Technology Enabled by the Public (STEP) Grant program. With regular host Sarah Al-Ahmed on vacation, Mat Kaplan returns to introduce the principal investigator for a project that will prepare us to grow food on the Moon and Mars. Another PI and his team plan to analyze extreme life in super salty lakes. Planetary Society Chief Scientist Bruce Betts heads the STEP Grant program. He'll give us an overview, and a quick look at the satisfying success of the previous projects. Stick around as Mat joins Bruce for this week's What's Up. Discover more at: https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2023-step-grant-principal-investigatorsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
Adventures at the 2023 Planetary Defense Conference

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later May 3, 2023 54:07


Planetary Radio creator Mat Kaplan shares a look behind the scenes at the 2023 Planetary Defense Conference in Vienna, Austria. You'll hear exclusive interviews with planetary defense specialists from around the planet as they gather to push the boundaries of asteroid and comet deflection technologies. Stick around for What's Up with Bruce Betts, an update on the night sky, and a look forward to the upcoming Eta Aquarid meteor shower.Discover more at: https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2023-planetary-defense-conferenceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Science Speaks
Space, Storytelling, and Science Communication with Mat Kaplan

When Science Speaks

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 14, 2023 28:53


In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of space exploration with our special guest, Mat Kaplan. Mat is a seasoned radio host who recently stepped away from the mic after two decades and a thousand episodes of the Planetary Society's acclaimed podcast, Planet Radio. In this interview, Mat shares his passion for science and space, his approach to presenting complex information to the public, and his secrets to conducting engaging interviews with renowned scientists, engineers, astronauts, and authors. Main Discussion: Learn about the Planetary Society, a professional home for space enthusiasts for over 22 years, and its programs and initiatives. Explore the origins of the Planetary Society, founded in 1980 by Carl Sagan, Bruce Murray, and Lou Friedman, with the mission to empower the world's citizens to advance space science and exploration. Discover how the Planetary Society has evolved over the years, with tens of thousands of members, and a new generation of talented staff dedicated to their vision of knowing our cosmos and our place within it. Hear about the Planetary Society's contributions to space missions, including allowing the public to share in them by putting their names on plaques or CDs, and their efforts to shepherd missions through Congress by forming a caucus for planetary science and working with the Executive Branch. Learn about the Planetary Society's new initiatives, such as its online member community and book club, and its passion for sharing the beauty and joy of space and science with everyone on Earth. Key Points: Mat Kaplan's inspiring body of work with Planet Mat Kaplan: Radio How Mat combined his twin passions for radio and space exploration Mat's approach to presenting complicated information in an accessible and fascinating way The importance of doing thorough research and homework before interviews The art of listening and being prepared to change directions during interviews Showing appreciation for the work of the guests and sharing their fascination Mat's passion and energy for the topic and how it engages listeners Elements of a good question, including finding unique nuggets of information Utilizing the internet to access resources and enhance interviews Events: Find out about the Planetary Defense Conference in Vienna and the asteroid Hunters IMAX, and how the Planetary Society is involved in these exciting initiatives. Resources Mentioned in the Episode   The Planetary Society - Member Community - Book Club - Planet Radio Podcast

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
Looking back on Voyager's 45th Anniversary

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 8, 2023 75:50


Planetary Radio's creator Mat Kaplan guest hosts for this look back at the Jet Propulsion Lab's celebration of the 45th anniversary of the Voyager mission. Stick around for his conversation with Ann Druyan, creative director for the Golden Record carried by the probes. Mat and Bruce Betts reunite for this week's What's Up and space trivia contest.Discover more at: https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2023-voyager-45th-anniversarySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Into the Impossible
SETI and Beyond: A discussion with Brian Keating, Paul Davies, Jim Benford and Mat Kaplan - Replay

Into the Impossible

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 15, 2023 44:00


This brain trust of SETI experts was hosted in February of 2020, back when live, in-studio conversations happened, and discussions of alien artifacts and UAPs was fringe science. The discussion includes James Benford's strategy for finding ETI artifacts and a proposition for both passive and active observations by optical and radio listening, radar imaging and launching probes. A debate on the implications of our own technosignatures. And what if we find nothing? A profound result: suggesting that, perhaps, no ET intelligence has yet come to look at Earth, or perhaps other civilizations are simply not as curious as we, good at concealing their activities, or simply lost to deep time. Many of the topics covered have now become mainstream science! The Director of National Intelligence has just released the second Annual Report on Unidentified Aerial Phenomenon. NASA has commissioned an independent study on unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAPs) led by Professor Keating's friend and colleague, Former chair of Princeton's astrophysics department, and President of the Simons Foundation, David Spergel. https://www.nasa.gov/feature/nasa-to-set-up-independent-study-on-unidentified-anomalous-phenomena/ And of course, our friend, Harvard Astronomy Professor Avi Loeb's Galileo Project for the Systematic Scientific Search for Evidence of Extraterrestrial Technological Artifacts ( https://projects.iq.harvard.edu/galileo/home ). See our latest episode with Avi here: https://youtu.be/N9lUceHsLRw Our Aliens, UFOs, & Extraterrestrial Intelligence playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLJGKdZD30K__D6oamWCq9uvSFKVoatsCf James Benford is President of Microwave Sciences, Inc. in Lafayette, California, specializing in High Power Microwaves and their space applications. His interests include electromagnetic power beaming for space propulsion, and experimental intense particle beams. He has a PhD in Physics in plasma physics (UCSD 1969). He co-edited Starship Century, dealing with the prospect of star travel, an anthology of fact & fiction. See jamesbenford.com. Paul Davies is Director of the Beyond Center for Fundamental Concepts in Science at Arizona State University. His research spans cosmology, astrobiology and theoretical physics. He has made important contributions to quantum field theory in curved spacetime, with applications to inflationary cosmology and black holes. He was among the first to champion the possibility that microbial life could be transferred between Mars and Earth in impact ejecta. He is the author of 28 books, including most recently The Eerie Silence: Renewing Our Search for Alien Intelligence. Mat Kaplan was the host of Planetary Radio from the Planetary Society from its' 2002 premiere through 2022. He was a Planetary Society staff member for more than 15 years, He hosts live events for Southern California Public Radio called NEXT, and frequently serves as moderator or speaker at space and science gatherings. Video of this episode: https://youtu.be/nCXV3PSQGAY Connect with Professor Keating:

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
Planetary Radio stories with Mat Kaplan

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 4, 2023 64:10


New host Sarah Al-Ahmed bids a fond farewell to Mat Kaplan, Planetary Radio's former host, with a heartwarming compilation of messages from fans, followed by a special interview with Mat about his two decades as creator and producer of the show. Be sure to catch Sarah and Bruce Betts in this week's What's Up as they share a special gaming-themed trivia question. Discover more at https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2023-stories-with-mat-kaplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What I Want to Know with Kevin P. Chavous
83. How can we help all students love science?

What I Want to Know with Kevin P. Chavous

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 4, 2023 21:38


Student engagement is key for learning. This is especially important for subjects like science. Some studies have found that while most students enjoy science, many dislike science classes. Why are students less interested in science, especially as they get older? How can we make science education more engaging and accessible for all students?    In this episode, Kevin discusses making science education interesting with the host and producer of Planetary Radio, Mat Kaplan.

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
Planetary Society All-Stars Review the Year in Space

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 28, 2022 68:19 Very Popular


It's Mat Kaplan's last episode as host of Planetary Radio. He has gathered several of his colleagues to celebrate an outstanding year across the Solar System and beyond. New host Sarah Al-Ahmed sticks around to join Bruce Betts and Mat for her first What's Up appearance, including listeners' suggestions for what Mat should take on next! Discover more at  https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2022-year-in-space-reviewSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
Artemis 1 Orion capsule comes home, and the best of Planetary Radio

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 21, 2022 76:42 Very Popular


Host Mat Kaplan returned to Naval Base San Diego to greet the return of the Artemis 1 Orion spacecraft aboard the USS Portland. Stay with us for a collage of entertaining excerpts of 10 of the very best Planetary Radio episodes produced over the last two decades. Incoming host Sarah Al-Ahmed points to a new article about the JWST's stunning infrared image of Neptune. Don't miss Mat serenading Bruce Betts in this week's What's Up! Discover more at  https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2022-best-of-planetary-radio-orion-capsule-recoverySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
One Last Blast: Author of ‘The Martian' Andy Weir with JPL Chief Engineer Rob Manning

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 14, 2022 83:42


A rollicking conversation with two of the most entertaining, most creative Planetary Radio guests across our 20-year history about the role of creativity in space and life. Andy Weir's “The Martian” and “Project Hail Mary” have been New York Times number one bestsellers. Rob Manning oversees all engineering operations at the Jet Propulsion Lab, and knows as much as any human being about how to land on the red planet. Sarah Al-Ahmed helps Mat Kaplan celebrate the success of Artemis 1, while Bruce Betts receives his 20th anniversary gift from Mat! Discover more at  https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2022-rob-manning-andy-weirSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Daily Star Trek News
INTERVIEW: The Hosts of Planetary Radio Get Excited About Space and Star Trek

Daily Star Trek News

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 12, 2022 45:55


Mat Kaplan has been hosting the Planetary Society's podcast, Planetary Radio, since its inception 20 years ago. He recently announced that he was retiring from the program, with Sarah Al-Ahmed taking his place. Managing Editor T. Rick Jones wanted to talk to him before he left the show and also wanted to meet his successor. This video is the result. It turns out they're both huge Star Trek fans as well as space nerds, so there was lots to geek out about! Plus, it's the return of T's Trek Trivia (sort of.)

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
Scientist and Hubble Repairman John Grunsfeld

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 7, 2022 75:02


John Grunsfeld didn't just ride the Space Shuttle into orbit five times. He accumulated two-and-a-half days of spacewalk time as he worked on the Hubble Space Telescope. The former NASA associate administrator returns to Planetary Radio for a very personal conversation with Mat Kaplan. We'll also attend a screening of the great new documentary, “Goodnight Oppy” about the Mars Exploration Rovers. Sarah Al-Ahmed celebrates the 50th anniversary of the last Apollo moon mission, and Bruce Betts continues that theme with the new space trivia contest. Discover more at  https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2022-john-grunsfeld-goodnight-oppySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
Giving the University of Arizona Mirror Lab a spin

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 23, 2022 69:52


It has been on host Mat Kaplan's bucket list for years. Join him for a tour of the cavernous Richard F. Caris Mirror Lab at the University of Arizona, where the mirrors for the Giant Magellan Telescope or GMT are being spun into reality. Want your own GMT? You might win a model kit when Bruce Betts delivers this week's What's Up space trivia quiz. Stumped by what to get that space nerd in your life? Check out The Planetary Society's gift guide! Mat and Sarah Al-Ahmed share their favorite suggestions. Discover more at  https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2022-buell-jannuzi-ua-mirror-labSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Off-Nominal
85 - The Highest I've Been

Off-Nominal

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 18, 2022 62:53


Mat Kaplan, host of Planetary Radio for The Planetary Society, joins Jake and Anthony to talk about the 20th anniversary of the show, his upcoming retirement, and what it's been like to cover space in this way for all those years.TopicsOff-Nominal - YouTubeEpisode 85 - The Highest I've Been (with Mat Kaplan) - YouTubeVisibly Loose Nuts - UNISEX | WeMartians PodcastDr. Pete Flavored Soda - SodaStreamPlanetary Radio | The Planetary SocietyInterview with Louis Friedman | The Planetary SocietyPlanetary Society on Twitter: “It's official: LightSail 2 has reentered Earth's atmosphere and burned up, as expected. What a phenomenal mission this was! We are proud of everything this spacecraft accomplished, and of all the people who made it happen.”Follow MatMat_Kaplan (@PlanRad) / TwitterPlanetary Radio | The Planetary SocietyPlanetary Society (@exploreplanets) / TwitterFollow JakeWeMartians Podcast - Follow Humanity's Journey to MarsWeMartians Podcast (@We_Martians) | TwitterJake Robins (@JakeOnOrbit) | TwitterFollow AnthonyMain Engine Cut OffMain Engine Cut Off (@WeHaveMECO) | TwitterAnthony Colangelo (@acolangelo) | TwitterOff-Nominal MerchandiseOff-Nominal Logo TeeWeMartians Shop | MECO Shop

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
Space Policy Edition Bonus: Q&A with Casey Dreier and Bill Nye

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 4, 2022 98:56 Very Popular


While we wait for the result of the upcoming U.S. midterm elections, enjoy this special bonus episode of Space Policy Edition featuring The Planetary Society's Chief Advocate and CEO answering dozens of space policy questions submitted by our members. These twice-annual policy briefings are moderated by Mat Kaplan, and are an exclusive benefit for Planetary Society members. Want to submit questions next time? Join us at planetary.org/join Our regular Space Policy Edition episode will be published next Friday, November 11, after the U.S. midterm elections.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Into the Impossible
Mat Kaplan of Planetary Radio introduces a New Host and Interviews Brian Keating for an Update on The Simons Observatory

Into the Impossible

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 2, 2022 21:58 Very Popular


Join host Mat Kaplan as he proudly introduces the person who will take on the show he created 20 years ago. Then we'll join astrophysicist Brian Keating at a joyful gathering of cosmologists who hope to reveal secrets of the Universe through the new Simons Observatory. You might win Brian's new book about thinking like a Nobel Prize winner in the What's Up space trivia contest. There's more to discover at https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2022-introducing-new-host Youtube video of the Simons Observatory event panel: We Are Cosmologists, Ask Me Anything: https://youtu.be/c4L782wUStw Connect with me:

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
Meet the new Planetary Radio host! (and enjoy a beer with a cosmologist)

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 26, 2022 48:08 Very Popular


Join host Mat Kaplan as he proudly introduces the person who will take on the show he created 20 years ago. Then we'll join astrophysicist Brian Keating at a joyful gathering of cosmologists who hope to reveal secrets of the Universe through the new Simons Observatory. You might win Brian's new book about thinking like a Nobel Prize winner in the What's Up space trivia contest. There's more to discover at https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2022-introducing-new-hostSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
Innovate! NASA's leading-edge fellows share their amazing projects

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 12, 2022 61:03 Very Popular


Mat Kaplan once again hosted the live webcast from the annual NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts or NIAC symposium. He presents a speed dating sample of highlights. How about a Mars habitat grown from mushrooms? A lunar farside radio telescope built by robots? Or a kilometer-long space station launched by a single rocket? We'll also join Planetary Society chief scientist Bruce Betts for another What's Up scan of the night sky and more. There's more to discover at https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2022-2022-niac-projectsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Casual Space
179: The Moons Symphony with international composer Amanda Lee Falkenberg

Casual Space

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 7, 2022 70:41


The worlds of music, art and science can symbiotically exist and share center stage together to offer a sense of awe, wonder and inspiration about moons of the solar system, and ultimately about our home planet. Award winning composer and pianist Amanda Lee Falkenberg has created THE MOONS SYMPHONY- a project 5-years in the making, consulting with planetary scientists from NASA's JPL to ensure the science was anchored in scientific accuracy. Listen to hear not only the most beautiful and incredible music, but to hear directly from Amanda how science influenced each of the moons within the symphony.  THE MOONS SYMPHONY Album is available here: https://lnk.to/TheMoonsSymphony Enjoy learning more about Amanda's journey in creating this masterpiece here: https://www.moons-symphony.com/blog About Amanda Lee Falkenberg: International award-winning composer and pianist Australian born Amanda Lee Falkenberg began her journey into composition through years spent in ballet studios as an accompanist, including the Australian Ballet company in 2000. She wrote over 120 pieces to accompany ballet dancers as they trained, which led to her Moving With Music album series.  In 2003 her first full-length orchestral ballet was commissioned, Edge of the World, and performed by the International Barossa Music Festival Orchestra with the prestigious Leigh Warren and Dancers, which received glowing reviews from the national press.  Inspired by visual imagery, Falkenberg's natural progression led her to write for film and TV, stage plays, documentaries, animation series and feature films, including her cinematic soundtrack to the screen adaption of Wilfred Thesiger's Arabian Sands. In 2017, she conducted the world premiere of her orchestral suite Sea Trilogy with the London Film Music Orchestra at their Gala Concert. Later that year, she completed her Arabian inspired concerto for piano and orchestra, Crossing of the Crescent Moon, after which she began her next large scale project, THE MOONS SYMPHONY.  Described by The Beauty of Space Art Authors Jon Ramer and Ron Miller as "…one of the most extraordinary achievements in space-inspired music, and perhaps the first to be accomplished in direct collaboration with astronomers and scientists", Falkenberg has presented the work and its scientific inspiration to global audiences including the NASA/JPL, Caltech, the Planetary Society of Los Angeles live radio show in Imperial College London 2022, the London Science Museum, COP26 in Glasgow, 2021, the Dubai Expo in 2021, the Euro Planet Science Congress EPSC in Geneva, 2019, and the TEDx Youth Conference, 2018.  Falkenberg has received many nominations and won multiple international contests, including the Great American Song Contest, Marvin Hamlisch emerging film composer contest in New York, the International Composition Competition in Italy, Hollywood Music in Media Awards (HMMA), and the Los Angeles Music Awards.  ​Falkenberg is an artist member of the International Association of Astronomical Artists (IAAA) who organized an elaborate multimedia/visual art project in in coordination with THE MOONS SYMPHONY" More about the MOONS SYMPHONY's PERFORMANCES: 

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
It's Not Just NASA: Space Agency Leaders at the Artemis 1 Launch Attempt

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 14, 2022 77:59 Very Popular


More than 100,000 came to the Kennedy Space Center hoping to see Artemis 1 head for the Moon on August 29. Among them were leaders of the European Space Agency (ESA), the German Aerospace Center (DLR), and the Italian Space Agency (ASI). They sat down with Mat Kaplan for conversations about the international collaboration behind the Artemis program, along with some of the other brilliant successes they have achieved. We also celebrate the 60th anniversary of President John F. Kennedy's speech that set the United States on course for the Moon. There's a JWST T-shirt waiting for the winner of the new What's Up space trivia contest. And there's more to discover at https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2022-esa-dlr-asi-leadersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
Citizen Science: Join the search for Martian clouds

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 3, 2022 35:07 Very Popular


NASA Jet Propulsion Lab scientists Armin Kleinboehl and Marek Slipski lead a new project that is recruiting thousands of citizen explorers. They explain to host Mat Kaplan how this massive effort may help us finally understand how the once plentiful Martian surface water disappeared. Then we look back to the dawn of science as Bruce Betts closes out our latest What's Up space trivia contest. And there's a meteor shower around the corner! There's more to discover at https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2022-cloudspotting-on-marsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
Science from the Moon, and former NASA chief scientist Jim Green looks back

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 20, 2022 79:59 Very Popular


Host Mat Kaplan leads with a special announcement. Then we spend a fascinating hour with the former director of NASA's Planetary Science division and retired chief scientist Jim Green, who reports on a recent workshop that explored the potential of radio telescopes on the Moon's farside. He also shares anecdotes from his long history of space science and NASA service. There's more to discover at https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2022-james-green-lunar-science See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
Sail on! Bill Nye and others celebrate LightSail 2's three years in space

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 22, 2022 57:02 Very Popular


The Planetary Society's LightSail 2 rocketed into orbit three years ago. Society CEO Bill Nye, chief operating officer Jennifer Vaughn, and LightSail program manager Bruce Betts join Mat Kaplan for a look at the long road to this award-winning mission, the current status of the spacecraft, and what's ahead. Society editorial director Rae Paoletta provides a sneak peek at the June Solstice edition of The Planetary Report, and digital community manager Sarah Al-Ahmed shares highlights of the just-completed meeting of the American Astronomical Society. Take your shot at winning Bruce's new book about the solar system in this week's What's Up segment. There's more to discover at https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2022-lightsail-2-third-anniversary-nye-betts-vaughn See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
Portrait of a Scientist: A Conversation with Psyche mission leader Lindy Elkins-Tanton

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 15, 2022 69:39 Very Popular


Lindy Elkins-Tanton's wonderful new memoir is titled, “A Portrait of the Scientist as a Young Woman.” Host Mat Kaplan talks with Lindy about this sometimes harrowing, often heroic, and adventurous chronicle of her path toward leadership of the Psyche asteroid mission. This new conversation follows their brief encounter in a Jet Propulsion Lab clean room that we presented last May. Your chance to win Lindy's book arrives in this week's What's Up segment with Bruce Betts. Discover more at https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2022-lindy-elkins-tanton-portrait-of-the-scientist-book See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
Planetary Radio at the Humans to Mars Summit

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 8, 2022 80:52 Very Popular


Join host Mat Kaplan in Washington D.C. for conversations with outstanding presenters at the first in-person Humans to Mars Summit in three years. You'll hear from Inspiration 4 astronaut Sian Proctor, chief engineer for NASA's robotic exploration program “Hoppy” Price, and the designer of  award-winning Martian homes. NASA deputy administrator and former space shuttle commander Pam Melroy delivered a brilliant keynote. Then Bruce Betts tells us about the new STEP Grant opportunity from The Planetary Society.  Hear and discover more at https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2022-2022-humans-to-mars-summit See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
Planetary Radio Live in London: The Moons Symphony

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 1, 2022 99:19 Very Popular


Host Mat Kaplan has returned from the UK and the recording of The Moons Symphony by the London Symphony Orchestra. You'll hear excerpts from our Planetary Radio Live show celebrating this intersection of art and science with composer Amanda Lee Falkenberg and three distinguished planetary scientists. It was produced at Imperial College London before a live audience. Hear and discover more at https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2022-planetary-radio-live-moons-symphony See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
Heavy Metal: An encounter with the Psyche spacecraft

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later May 4, 2022 46:27 Very Popular


Psyche is a 279 kilometer-wide (173 mile-wide) hunk of metal in space. Psyche is also a magnificent spacecraft that will soon head toward its namesake in the asteroid belt. Host Mat Kaplan recently visited the JPL clean room where the probe was in final preparation for launch. You'll hear conversations with mission leaders including principal investigator Lindy Elkins-Tanton and project manager Henry Stone. We're fresh out of metal asteroids at The Planetary Society, but you might win the rubber variety in this week's What's Up space trivia contest. Discover more at https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2022-Psyche-mission-elkins-tanton See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
Yuri's Night: Join the party!

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 20, 2022 57:58 Very Popular


Host Mat Kaplan joined the Los Angeles celebration of humanity becoming a spacefaring species. He talked with the Yuri's Night founders and others under the Space Shuttle Endeavour.  The much-anticipated Planetary Science and Astrobiology Decadal Survey was issued as we finished this week's show. Planetary Society senior space policy adviser Casey Dreier will give us a brief overview of its recommendations. We'll close with Bruce Betts and your chance to win a r-r-r-rubber asteroid in the space trivia contest. Discover more at https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2022-yuris-night See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
Space Policy Edition: NASA's 2023 Budget Request

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 8, 2022 65:52 Very Popular


The Biden administration is proposing $26 billion for NASA next year, with significant increases benefiting the Artemis program, Mars Sample Return and Earth Science missions. But not everything is good news: NEO Surveyor and Mars Ice Mapper are both slated for significant cuts, and inflation may take a bite out of any increases NASA would receive on paper. With Congress facing elections in the fall, how likely is it that NASA will get this funding? What consequences will this have on Planetary Society priorities? And what does this mean for the future of exploration? Chief Advocate Casey Dreier and host Mat Kaplan are joined by The Planetary Society's Chief of D.C. Operations, Brendan Curry, to explore NASA's next big budget. Discover more here: https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/nasa-budget-request-brendan-curry See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
Neptune Odyssey: why we need to visit an ice giant

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 6, 2022 45:19 Very Popular


Recommendations made in the 2023-2032 Planetary Science and Astrobiology Decadal Survey will be revealed on April 19. One of the 11 design studies commissioned for the survey explores a flagship mission to Neptune. The Neptune Odyssey project engineer is Brenda Clyde. Her colleague, Kirby Runyon, is the project scientist. They'll take us inside this exciting concept and remind us of why an ice giant orbiter is long overdue. Even Bruce Betts and Mat Kaplan were surprised by the answer to this week's space trivia contest. You'll hear it and more in What's Up. Hear and discover more at https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2022-brenda-clyde-kirby-runyon-neptune-odyssey See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
5,000 worlds and counting: the success of TESS

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 2, 2022 48:06


Michelle Kunimoto was one of Forbes magazine's 30 Under 30 in science. Now she leads the most successful search for exoplanets that relies on data delivered by the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite or TESS. She shares this fast-growing catalog of worlds in her first Planetary Radio conversation. Bruce Betts and Mat Kaplan also kick off a new series of great prizes in the What's Up space trivia contest. Discover more at https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2022-michelle-kunimoto-tess See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
Saving the world one telescope at a time: The Shoemaker NEO grant winne

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 16, 2022 56:48


The Planetary Society has awarded another eight Gene Shoemaker near-Earth object grants to outstanding amateur astronomers and observatories around the world. We'll meet recipients from Chile, Croatia and the United States after chief scientist Bruce Betts tells us about the program. Bruce will then return with Mat Kaplan for yet another What's Up tour of the sky and a new space trivia contest. Discover more at https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2022-shoemaker-neo-awards See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
Nobel laureate John Mather: The promise of the James Webb Space Telescope

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 2, 2022 63:44


The JWST's instruments have been turned on. Now begins the months-long preparation for observations that will reveal our universe as never before. 2006 Nobel Prize for Physics laureate John Mather is the senior project scientist for the new telescope. He shares his hope for what's to come and a look back at how this mighty instrument came to be. He and Mat Kaplan also take a deep dive into the origin of the cosmos. Bruce Betts says early risers have a treat waiting for them in the predawn sky. Discover more at https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2022-john-mather-jwst See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
Curiosity rolls on: Mars Science Laboratory project scientist Ashwin Vasavada

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 19, 2022 51:53


We are approaching the 10th anniversary of Curiosity's arrival in the Red Planet's Gale crater. The rolling laboratory is still making profound discoveries as it reveals beautiful vistas and closeups. Project scientist Ashwin Vasavada shares some of the most significant finds in the last year. We're deep into winter in the northern hemisphere, making Orion, Mat Kaplan's favorite constellation, hard to miss in the night sky. Bruce Betts tells us there's much more to see in this week's What's Up. Discover more at https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2022-ashwin-vasavada-curiosity-update See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.