Podcast appearances and mentions of rod pyle

If you've seen "Disclosure Day" or "Age of Disclosure," you're going to want to join us for this fascinating discussion with famed bestselling sci-fi/sci-fact author Dr. David Brin. Long known for his universe-spanning visions, storytelling skills, and occasionally contrarian viewpoints, this episode will not disappoint! Our discussion ranged from reactions to Spielberg's "Disclosure Day" to why people believe in AI and more. This week's guest co-host is ace science journalist Susan Karlin. Headlines: Spielberg's "Disclosure Day" Premieres to Mixed Reviews Alien Lore and the Evolution of Sci-Fi Tropes Comparing Modern and Classic Alien Invasion Films NASA's NIAC Program and Cutting-Edge Space Concepts UFO Conspiracies and Cultural Obsessions Main Topic: Spielberg's "Disclosure Day" and the Alien Narrative Film critiques: Plot, character arcs, and visual effects Overused tropes in government conspiracy stories Modern alien movies compared to classics like Independence Day and Close Encounters Recurring alien mythologies and sci-fi's role in cultural reflection Exploration of why UFO conspiracy theories persist Insights from David Brin on skepticism, evidence, and hidden truths Connections drawn between UFO lore and folklore about elves and fairies Examination of AI's parallels to alien encounters, danger, and self-accountability Host: Rod Pyle Co-Host: Susan Karlin Guest: Dr. David Brin Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

If you've seen "Disclosure Day" or "Age of Disclosure," you're going to want to join us for this fascinating discussion with famed bestselling sci-fi/sci-fact author Dr. David Brin. Long known for his universe-spanning visions, storytelling skills, and occasionally contrarian viewpoints, this episode will not disappoint! Our discussion ranged from reactions to Spielberg's "Disclosure Day" to why people believe in AI and more. This week's guest co-host is ace science journalist Susan Karlin. Host: Rod Pyle Co-Host: Susan Karlin Guest: Dr. David Brin Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

If you've seen "Disclosure Day" or "Age of Disclosure," you're going to want to join us for this fascinating discussion with famed bestselling sci-fi/sci-fact author Dr. David Brin. Long known for his universe-spanning visions, storytelling skills, and occasionally contrarian viewpoints, this episode will not disappoint! Our discussion ranged from reactions to Spielberg's "Disclosure Day" to why people believe in AI and more. This week's guest co-host is ace science journalist Susan Karlin. Headlines: Spielberg's "Disclosure Day" Premieres to Mixed Reviews Alien Lore and the Evolution of Sci-Fi Tropes Comparing Modern and Classic Alien Invasion Films NASA's NIAC Program and Cutting-Edge Space Concepts UFO Conspiracies and Cultural Obsessions Main Topic: Spielberg's "Disclosure Day" and the Alien Narrative Film critiques: Plot, character arcs, and visual effects Overused tropes in government conspiracy stories Modern alien movies compared to classics like Independence Day and Close Encounters Recurring alien mythologies and sci-fi's role in cultural reflection Exploration of why UFO conspiracy theories persist Insights from David Brin on skepticism, evidence, and hidden truths Connections drawn between UFO lore and folklore about elves and fairies Examination of AI's parallels to alien encounters, danger, and self-accountability Host: Rod Pyle Co-Host: Susan Karlin Guest: Dr. David Brin Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

If you've seen "Disclosure Day" or "Age of Disclosure," you're going to want to join us for this fascinating discussion with famed bestselling sci-fi/sci-fact author Dr. David Brin. Long known for his universe-spanning visions, storytelling skills, and occasionally contrarian viewpoints, this episode will not disappoint! Our discussion ranged from reactions to Spielberg's "Disclosure Day" to why people believe in AI and more. This week's guest co-host is ace science journalist Susan Karlin. Host: Rod Pyle Co-Host: Susan Karlin Guest: Dr. David Brin Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

Space author Rod Pyle joins Dave Weekley to unpack SpaceX's blockbuster IPO, which valued the company at roughly 100 times revenue and pushed Elon Musk's net worth past $1.3 trillion — more than the next four richest people combined. Pyle explains that Starlink remains the company's only consistently profitable division, raising questions about how newly accountable shareholders will respond to Musk's Mars-focused vision and the troubled development of Starship. The conversation covers the thousands of new millionaires created among early SpaceX employees, emerging competition from Rocket Lab's reusable Neutron rocket, and the controversy surrounding NASA's all-male Artemis III crew announcement, which Pyle notes is an Earth-orbit mission ahead of Artemis IV's planned lunar landing in early 2028.

Dr. Sky Talks With Rod Pyle About What Is the Next Step for Human Evolution / Space X Pros and Cons Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There are NASA Administrators, and then there are NASA Administrators—all are very accomplished individuals, but some stand out for their unique backgrounds and on-the-job successes, and Jim Bridenstine is one of the latter. Entering service as the new NASA Administrator in 2017 with a background as a Navy pilot, Congressman, and museum director, he was an unconventional choice, and faced some headwinds in the appointment—but Jim turned out to be exceptional in the job, especially given the state of NASA when he took it on. Join us to hear his experiences with our favorite space agency and what he's doing today. Headlines: SpaceX Shatters Records with Largest IPO Ever NASA Faces Backlash Over Artemis 3 Diversity Scientists Propose Magnetosphere Shield Against Solar Storms Main Topic: Jim Bridenstine & Quantum Space Jim Bridenstine's Unconventional Path to NASA Leadership Overcoming Political Challenges as NASA Administrator Launch and Evolution of the Artemis Moon Program Securing Bipartisan Support and Budget for Artemis Reflections on Artemis 2 Success and Artemis 3's Challenges The Need for a Robust Lunar Lander Solution NASA's Global Influence and Soft Power The Role of Private Investment in Space Exploration Bridenstine's Leadership at Quantum Space Quantum Space's Ranger Spacecraft and Military Space Tech National Security and Distributed Satellite Architectures Small Satellites and Future Space Warfare Quantum Space's Move to Go Public via SPAC Vision for Moon Bases and Lunar Resource Utilization Geopolitics of the New Moon Race and First Mover Advantage Quantum Space's Ambitions in Cislunar and Lunar Operations Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Jim Bridenstine Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsor: threatlocker.com/twit

There are NASA Administrators, and then there are NASA Administrators—all are very accomplished individuals, but some stand out for their unique backgrounds and on-the-job successes, and Jim Bridenstine is one of the latter. Entering service as the new NASA Administrator in 2017 with a background as a Navy pilot, Congressman, and museum director, he was an unconventional choice, and faced some headwinds in the appointment—but Jim turned out to be exceptional in the job, especially given the state of NASA when he took it on. Join us to hear his experiences with our favorite space agency and what he's doing today. Headlines: SpaceX Shatters Records with Largest IPO Ever NASA Faces Backlash Over Artemis 3 Diversity Scientists Propose Magnetosphere Shield Against Solar Storms Main Topic: Jim Bridenstine & Quantum Space Jim Bridenstine's Unconventional Path to NASA Leadership Overcoming Political Challenges as NASA Administrator Launch and Evolution of the Artemis Moon Program Securing Bipartisan Support and Budget for Artemis Reflections on Artemis 2 Success and Artemis 3's Challenges The Need for a Robust Lunar Lander Solution NASA's Global Influence and Soft Power The Role of Private Investment in Space Exploration Bridenstine's Leadership at Quantum Space Quantum Space's Ranger Spacecraft and Military Space Tech National Security and Distributed Satellite Architectures Small Satellites and Future Space Warfare Quantum Space's Move to Go Public via SPAC Vision for Moon Bases and Lunar Resource Utilization Geopolitics of the New Moon Race and First Mover Advantage Quantum Space's Ambitions in Cislunar and Lunar Operations Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Jim Bridenstine Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsor: threatlocker.com/twit

There are NASA Administrators, and then there are NASA Administrators—all are very accomplished individuals, but some stand out for their unique backgrounds and on-the-job successes, and Jim Bridenstine is one of the latter. Entering service as the new NASA Administrator in 2017 with a background as a Navy pilot, Congressman, and museum director, he was an unconventional choice, and faced some headwinds in the appointment—but Jim turned out to be exceptional in the job, especially given the state of NASA when he took it on. Join us to hear his experiences with our favorite space agency and what he's doing today. Headlines: SpaceX Shatters Records with Largest IPO Ever NASA Faces Backlash Over Artemis 3 Diversity Scientists Propose Magnetosphere Shield Against Solar Storms Main Topic: Jim Bridenstine & Quantum Space Jim Bridenstine's Unconventional Path to NASA Leadership Overcoming Political Challenges as NASA Administrator Launch and Evolution of the Artemis Moon Program Securing Bipartisan Support and Budget for Artemis Reflections on Artemis 2 Success and Artemis 3's Challenges The Need for a Robust Lunar Lander Solution NASA's Global Influence and Soft Power The Role of Private Investment in Space Exploration Bridenstine's Leadership at Quantum Space Quantum Space's Ranger Spacecraft and Military Space Tech National Security and Distributed Satellite Architectures Small Satellites and Future Space Warfare Quantum Space's Move to Go Public via SPAC Vision for Moon Bases and Lunar Resource Utilization Geopolitics of the New Moon Race and First Mover Advantage Quantum Space's Ambitions in Cislunar and Lunar Operations Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Jim Bridenstine Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsor: threatlocker.com/twit

There are NASA Administrators, and then there are NASA Administrators—all are very accomplished individuals, but some stand out for their unique backgrounds and on-the-job successes, and Jim Bridenstine is one of the latter. Entering service as the new NASA Administrator in 2017 with a background as a Navy pilot, Congressman, and museum director, he was an unconventional choice, and faced some headwinds in the appointment—but Jim turned out to be exceptional in the job, especially given the state of NASA when he took it on. Join us to hear his experiences with our favorite space agency and what he's doing today. Headlines: SpaceX Shatters Records with Largest IPO Ever NASA Faces Backlash Over Artemis 3 Diversity Scientists Propose Magnetosphere Shield Against Solar Storms Main Topic: Jim Bridenstine & Quantum Space Jim Bridenstine's Unconventional Path to NASA Leadership Overcoming Political Challenges as NASA Administrator Launch and Evolution of the Artemis Moon Program Securing Bipartisan Support and Budget for Artemis Reflections on Artemis 2 Success and Artemis 3's Challenges The Need for a Robust Lunar Lander Solution NASA's Global Influence and Soft Power The Role of Private Investment in Space Exploration Bridenstine's Leadership at Quantum Space Quantum Space's Ranger Spacecraft and Military Space Tech National Security and Distributed Satellite Architectures Small Satellites and Future Space Warfare Quantum Space's Move to Go Public via SPAC Vision for Moon Bases and Lunar Resource Utilization Geopolitics of the New Moon Race and First Mover Advantage Quantum Space's Ambitions in Cislunar and Lunar Operations Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Jim Bridenstine Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsor: threatlocker.com/twit

(June 06, 2026) Did Spencer Pratt really have a chance in L.A? Fraud allegations continue. Host of the ‘This Week in Space’ podcast Rod Pyle joins the show for ‘Cool Space News.’ Today, Rod talks about NASA’s moon base plans, and air leak at the International Space Station, Space X’s highly anticipated IPO, and NASA’s X-59 jet breaking sound barrier for the first time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Recorded live from the International Space Development Conference in McLean, Virginia, Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik are joined by Apollo legend and former Johnson Space Center director Gerry Griffin. Griffin takes us on a journey through his extraordinary career, from his appointment as a flight director in the wake of the Apollo 1 fire, through the audacious decision to send Apollo 8 around the moon, all the way to the nail-biting rescue of Apollo 13. We also venture behind the scenes of Ron Howard's Apollo 13 film, where Griffin reveals the real story behind some of Hollywood's most famous dramatic liberties. It's a rare, firsthand account of the golden age of human spaceflight — from one of the few people who was there for all of it. Headlines: Space Station Faces Recurring Air Leak Crisis Main Topic: Jerry Griffin's Legacy in Space Exploration Transition from Fighter Pilot to Mission Control Gemini and Apollo Era Engineering Breakthroughs The Apollo 1 Fire: Lessons and Safety Changes Fast-Tracking from Apollo 7 to Apollo 8 Lunar Orbit Insights From the Apollo 11 Moon Landing Apollo 13 Crisis Management Onscreen and in Reality The Evolution and Importance of Mission Control Teams Reflections on NASA's Culture and Training Through Decades Preparing Future Generations for Artemis and Beyond (Note: Apologies for the video flickering that occurs in the podcast.) Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Gerry Griffin Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsors: Melissa.com/twit helixsleep.com/space

Recorded live from the International Space Development Conference in McLean, Virginia, Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik are joined by Apollo legend and former Johnson Space Center director Gerry Griffin. Griffin takes us on a journey through his extraordinary career, from his appointment as a flight director in the wake of the Apollo 1 fire, through the audacious decision to send Apollo 8 around the moon, all the way to the nail-biting rescue of Apollo 13. We also venture behind the scenes of Ron Howard's Apollo 13 film, where Griffin reveals the real story behind some of Hollywood's most famous dramatic liberties. It's a rare, firsthand account of the golden age of human spaceflight — from one of the few people who was there for all of it. Headlines: Space Station Faces Recurring Air Leak Crisis Main Topic: Jerry Griffin's Legacy in Space Exploration Transition from Fighter Pilot to Mission Control Gemini and Apollo Era Engineering Breakthroughs The Apollo 1 Fire: Lessons and Safety Changes Fast-Tracking from Apollo 7 to Apollo 8 Lunar Orbit Insights From the Apollo 11 Moon Landing Apollo 13 Crisis Management Onscreen and in Reality The Evolution and Importance of Mission Control Teams Reflections on NASA's Culture and Training Through Decades Preparing Future Generations for Artemis and Beyond (Note: Apologies for the video flickering that occurs in the podcast.) Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Gerry Griffin Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsors: Melissa.com/twit helixsleep.com/space

Recorded live from the International Space Development Conference in McLean, Virginia, Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik are joined by Apollo legend and former Johnson Space Center director Gerry Griffin. Griffin takes us on a journey through his extraordinary career, from his appointment as a flight director in the wake of the Apollo 1 fire, through the audacious decision to send Apollo 8 around the moon, all the way to the nail-biting rescue of Apollo 13. We also venture behind the scenes of Ron Howard's Apollo 13 film, where Griffin reveals the real story behind some of Hollywood's most famous dramatic liberties. It's a rare, firsthand account of the golden age of human spaceflight — from one of the few people who was there for all of it. Headlines: Space Station Faces Recurring Air Leak Crisis Main Topic: Jerry Griffin's Legacy in Space Exploration Transition from Fighter Pilot to Mission Control Gemini and Apollo Era Engineering Breakthroughs The Apollo 1 Fire: Lessons and Safety Changes Fast-Tracking from Apollo 7 to Apollo 8 Lunar Orbit Insights From the Apollo 11 Moon Landing Apollo 13 Crisis Management Onscreen and in Reality The Evolution and Importance of Mission Control Teams Reflections on NASA's Culture and Training Through Decades Preparing Future Generations for Artemis and Beyond (Note: Apologies for the video flickering that occurs in the podcast.) Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Gerry Griffin Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsors: Melissa.com/twit helixsleep.com/space

Recorded live from the International Space Development Conference in McLean, Virginia, Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik are joined by Apollo legend and former Johnson Space Center director Gerry Griffin. Griffin takes us on a journey through his extraordinary career, from his appointment as a flight director in the wake of the Apollo 1 fire, through the audacious decision to send Apollo 8 around the moon, all the way to the nail-biting rescue of Apollo 13. We also venture behind the scenes of Ron Howard's Apollo 13 film, where Griffin reveals the real story behind some of Hollywood's most famous dramatic liberties. It's a rare, firsthand account of the golden age of human spaceflight — from one of the few people who was there for all of it. Headlines: Space Station Faces Recurring Air Leak Crisis Main Topic: Jerry Griffin's Legacy in Space Exploration Transition from Fighter Pilot to Mission Control Gemini and Apollo Era Engineering Breakthroughs The Apollo 1 Fire: Lessons and Safety Changes Fast-Tracking from Apollo 7 to Apollo 8 Lunar Orbit Insights From the Apollo 11 Moon Landing Apollo 13 Crisis Management Onscreen and in Reality The Evolution and Importance of Mission Control Teams Reflections on NASA's Culture and Training Through Decades Preparing Future Generations for Artemis and Beyond (Note: Apologies for the video flickering that occurs in the podcast.) Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Gerry Griffin Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsors: Melissa.com/twit helixsleep.com/space

The Space Show Presents Open Lines Discussion Today, Sunday, 5-3-26Quick Summary:This meeting focused on open discussion topics in space exploration and national security. Bob shared speculation about a potential SpaceX acquisition of 200+ square miles of land in Louisiana for data centers and manufacturing facilities, though this remained unconfirmed. The group extensively discussed the Artemis 3 mission delay, with participants debating the challenges of SLS rocket assembly versus SpaceX's Starship development approach. Ajay raised significant concerns about Russia's nuclear-powered missile program, specifically the Burevestnik missile tested in October 2025, which he described as difficult to detect and potentially dangerous. The conversation also touched on nuclear power applications for data centers and military bases, with Dr. Ajay mentioning new small modular reactor companies emerging in the market. The discussion concluded with debate about defense strategies against such nuclear capabilities and the current state of hypersonic weapons development.Detailed Summary:Bob discussed a speculative story about SpaceX potentially acquiring a 200-square-mile piece of land in Louisiana, which could be used for data centers, satellite manufacturing, and Starship production. He noted that this would allow SpaceX to shift operations away from California. The conversation concluded with a mention of Artemis 3's delay and a brief reference to Robert's recent article about the potential Louisiana land acquisition.David announced that Robert would be scheduled for a show on May 26th at 6 PM, and discussed upcoming shows including Dr. Eligar Sadeh returning on Tuesday to discuss Astropolitics journal reviewing opportunities. The group briefly discussed unconfirmed news about Elon Musk's salary and potential Mars colonization plans, though Bob repeated that much of this information was speculative. David also mentioned upcoming shows including an ISDC episode with Rod Pyle and Aggi Kobrin on May 12th.Bob shared unconfirmed rumors that SpaceX may be acquiring approximately 136,000 acres of coastal Louisiana marshland near Pecan Island for potential data centers and manufacturing facilities. The discussion explored the strategic benefits of this location, including proximity to intercoastal waterways, power infrastructure, and natural gas facilities, though participants noted concerns about launch debris dispersion and local community impact. The group acknowledged this was speculative information pending official confirmation from SpaceX.The group discussed the delay of the Artemis III mission, with Bob explaining that both Blue Origin and SpaceX requested additional time to prepare their landers for an Earth-orbiting test mission. Robert noted that this delay would impact the scheduling of subsequent Artemis missions in 2028, as SLS rockets can only be assembled one at a time using a single mobile launcher. The discussion compared SLS and Starship assembly processes, with Joe highlighting how SLS involves numerous complex steps due to its design requirements, while Starship's assembly is more streamlined. Bob concluded that Jared Isaacman's goal is to demonstrate SLS's limitations over the next two years, potentially paving the way for Starship and New Glenn rockets to replace SLS in the future.The group discussed the competitive dynamics between SLS and Starship programs, with different perspectives on NASA's intentions. Phil and Joe had a different view, suggesting NASA believed SLS could beat Starship if it increased production rates faster. The discussion also covered technical aspects of Starship's design, with Ajay raising concerns about the high dry weight requiring multiple refueling trips to the moon, while Marshall and others highlighted the importance of SpaceX's new launch facilities in enabling frequent launches.The group discussed different approaches to refueling a lunar mission depot, with Ajay presenting a plan involving expendable tankers while Phil and Bob described a reusable tanker concept aligned with SpaceX's philosophy. Ajay cited NASA and Aerospace Corporation analyses suggesting 10-16 refueling launches would be needed with expendable tankers, though the group noted these estimates were based on V2 configurations rather than the more efficient V3. Bob defended SpaceX's approach, emphasizing the company's focus on reusability and rapid launch capabilities, while acknowledging that current payload limitations might require temporary use of expendable vehicles if development timelines don't meet requirements by mid-2027.The group discussed SpaceX's Starship program and its potential, with Ajay cautioning against extrapolating success from Falcon 9 to other projects. David interrupted the Starship-focused discussion to broaden the conversation, particularly wanting Ajay to share insights about a new Russian nuclear-powered missile system that can fly at low altitudes and evade detection. Ajay explained that this missile system, demonstrated on October 21, poses a significant threat as it cannot be detected by current defense systems and could potentially remain airborne for extended periods. When asked about countermeasures, Ajay indicated he had provided suggestions to defense departments but could not share details in the open forum.Ajay discussed his work on hypersonic and nuclear power applications, highlighting his experience since 1990 and recent developments in nuclear power plants. He mentioned new companies like ILO Atomics and Astra working on 10-megawatt power plants for data centers, which could be factory-built within a year. Ajay also shared his conversations with senators about the Burevestnik missile and his meeting with Jared at Mar-a-Lago, where he inquired about the Falcon Heavy idea. Marshall raised concerns about the time required for permits for nuclear power plants, to which Ajay responded that recent executive orders have reduced the timeline to 3-6 months.The discussion focused on nuclear power applications, particularly small modular reactors and micro-reactors. Ajay explained his work on a 25-megawatt thermal power plant design and discussed the military's micro-reactor program, noting that molten salt reactors would be more suitable than pressurized water reactors for energy applications. The conversation also addressed hypersonic missile technology, with Ajay clarifying that current U.S. hypersonic programs use rocket-boosted systems with limited range, distinguishable from the nuclear-powered hypersonic missiles discussed in the context of Russian weapons. John Hunt suggested that developing such nuclear-powered systems might not be a priority for the U.S. given existing deterrent capabilities and potential public opposition.The group discussed Russia's nuclear-powered missile development, specifically the Burevestnik missile tested on October 21, 2025, which flew for 15 hours at subsonic speeds and demonstrated capabilities to evade missile defenses. Ajay emphasized the danger of these nuclear-capable missiles, noting their ability to approach from any direction and their challenging detection due to flying at low altitudes. cautioned that Russia's technical competence with high-tech projects should be viewed with skepticism, though acknowledged the need to address these developments. The discussion concluded with Dr. Ajay expressing skepticism about fusion energy timelines and advocating for Generation 4 nuclear reactors, particularly molten salt reactors using thorium or uranium-233.The group discussed thorium reactors and fusion technology. Ajay explained that China copied thorium reactor technology from Oak Ridge National Lab in the 1960s, but development was halted due to lack of plutonium production, despite its potential for clean energy. The discussion covered fusion for space applications, with Ajay expressing skepticism about the feasibility of Pulsar Fusion's proposed system due to the high energy requirements and weight constraints for space travel. The conversation also touched on the challenges of space-based data centers, with participants questioning the practicality of using space for cooling purposes given existing technical limitations.The group discussed space-based data centers and energy transmission methods. Joe explained that Overview Energy, backed by Meta, is exploring using infrared lasers to transmit energy from space to ground-based solar farms. Bob highlighted that while space data centers may not be economically viable, they could drive significant launch demand and benefit the aerospace industry. The discussion also touched on the massive capital expenditure plans of major tech companies, with Joe noting that approximately $750 billion in capital expenses could potentially include space-based data center projects, creating new opportunities for rocket companies.The group discussed the challenges of cooling data centers in space, with Ajay explaining that radiating heat into space requires large radiators due to the lack of convection and conduction in vacuum. Joe noted that operating chips at higher temperatures could reduce the size of radiators, but this would negatively impact performance. The discussion also covered nuclear propulsion options for space travel, with Ajay expressing skepticism about the feasibility of implementing nuclear electric propulsion for the planned Mars mission within the proposed timeline. The group agreed that nuclear thermal propulsion, while more efficient, would require significant development time and testing. (Summary provided by Zoom AI).Special thanks to our sponsors:American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Helix Space in Luxembourg, Celestis Memorial Spaceflights, Astrox Corporation, Dr. Haym Benaroya of Rutgers University, The Space Settlement Progress Blog by John Jossy, The Atlantis Project, and Artless EntertainmentWe use Zoom phone numbers for program participation.For real time program participation, email Dr. Space at: drspace@thespaceshow.com for instructions and access.The Space Show is a non-profit 501C3 through its parent, One Giant Leap Foundation, Inc. To donate via Pay Pal, use:To donate with Zelle, use the email address: david@onegiantleapfoundation.org.If you prefer donating with a check, please make the check payable to One Giant Leap Foundation and mail to:One Giant Leap Foundation, 11035 Lavender Hill Drive Ste. 160-306 Las Vegas, NV 89135Upcoming Programs:No Program for Friday, May 29, 2026 | Friday 29 May 2026 930AM PTGuests: Dr. David LivingstonNo program today, Friday, May 26, 2026Broadcast 4596: Zoom: Open Lines Discussion | Sunday 31 May 2026 1200PM PTGuests: Dr. David LivingstonZoom: Open Lines Discussion. Email DrSpace prior to air time for Zoom phone number access. Get full access to The Space Show-One Giant Leap Foundation at doctorspace.substack.com/subscribe

What a wild week in space news! We were all set to discuss Starship Test Flight 12 and NASA's recent press conference updating their lunar base plans, when on Thursday night, Blue Origin lost a New Glenn rocket on the pad during a static test. The explosion appears to have severely damaged the launch structure, LC36, along with the loss of the rocket. Fortunately, there were no casualties. But this does throw NASA's schedule for returning American astronauts to the moon into question, given that the agency had recently signaled their choice of Blue Origin's Blue Moon lander for Artemis 4 in 2028. It's now a toss-up between the US and China, with the competition hotter--and closer--than ever. And of course, we'll still discuss Starship and the latest lunar base plans! Space.com's Mike Wall joins us. Headlines: • Blue Origin's New Glenn Rocket Explodes During Static Fire Test • Manhattanhenge Aligns City Streets with the Sunset Main Topic: NASA's Artemis Moon Base and Lunar Exploration Plans • SpaceX Starship Flight 12 Performance and Booster Mishap Investigation • Starship's Role in Artemis and Competitive Moon Race with China • Moon Base Contract Awards: Landers, Rovers, and Robotics • National Security and Legal Implications of Lunar "Territory" • China's Push for a 2030 Lunar Landing and US Response Strategy Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Mike Wall Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

What a wild week in space news! We were all set to discuss Starship Test Flight 12 and NASA's recent press conference updating their lunar base plans, when on Thursday night, Blue Origin lost a New Glenn rocket on the pad during a static test. The explosion appears to have severely damaged the launch structure, LC36, along with the loss of the rocket. Fortunately, there were no casualties. But this does throw NASA's schedule for returning American astronauts to the moon into question, given that the agency had recently signaled their choice of Blue Origin's Blue Moon lander for Artemis 4 in 2028. It's now a toss-up between the US and China, with the competition hotter--and closer--than ever. And of course, we'll still discuss Starship and the latest lunar base plans! Space.com's Mike Wall joins us. Headlines: • Blue Origin's New Glenn Rocket Explodes During Static Fire Test • Manhattanhenge Aligns City Streets with the Sunset Main Topic: NASA's Artemis Moon Base and Lunar Exploration Plans • SpaceX Starship Flight 12 Performance and Booster Mishap Investigation • Starship's Role in Artemis and Competitive Moon Race with China • Moon Base Contract Awards: Landers, Rovers, and Robotics • National Security and Legal Implications of Lunar "Territory" • China's Push for a 2030 Lunar Landing and US Response Strategy Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Mike Wall Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

What a wild week in space news! We were all set to discuss Starship Test Flight 12 and NASA's recent press conference updating their lunar base plans, when on Thursday night, Blue Origin lost a New Glenn rocket on the pad during a static test. The explosion appears to have severely damaged the launch structure, LC36, along with the loss of the rocket. Fortunately, there were no casualties. But this does throw NASA's schedule for returning American astronauts to the moon into question, given that the agency had recently signaled their choice of Blue Origin's Blue Moon lander for Artemis 4 in 2028. It's now a toss-up between the US and China, with the competition hotter--and closer--than ever. And of course, we'll still discuss Starship and the latest lunar base plans! Space.com's Mike Wall joins us. Headlines: • Blue Origin's New Glenn Rocket Explodes During Static Fire Test • Manhattanhenge Aligns City Streets with the Sunset Main Topic: NASA's Artemis Moon Base and Lunar Exploration Plans • SpaceX Starship Flight 12 Performance and Booster Mishap Investigation • Starship's Role in Artemis and Competitive Moon Race with China • Moon Base Contract Awards: Landers, Rovers, and Robotics • National Security and Legal Implications of Lunar "Territory" • China's Push for a 2030 Lunar Landing and US Response Strategy Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Mike Wall Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

What a wild week in space news! We were all set to discuss Starship Test Flight 12 and NASA's recent press conference updating their lunar base plans, when on Thursday night, Blue Origin lost a New Glenn rocket on the pad during a static test. The explosion appears to have severely damaged the launch structure, LC36, along with the loss of the rocket. Fortunately, there were no casualties. But this does throw NASA's schedule for returning American astronauts to the moon into question, given that the agency had recently signaled their choice of Blue Origin's Blue Moon lander for Artemis 4 in 2028. It's now a toss-up between the US and China, with the competition hotter--and closer--than ever. And of course, we'll still discuss Starship and the latest lunar base plans! Space.com's Mike Wall joins us. Headlines: • Blue Origin's New Glenn Rocket Explodes During Static Fire Test • Manhattanhenge Aligns City Streets with the Sunset Main Topic: NASA's Artemis Moon Base and Lunar Exploration Plans • SpaceX Starship Flight 12 Performance and Booster Mishap Investigation • Starship's Role in Artemis and Competitive Moon Race with China • Moon Base Contract Awards: Landers, Rovers, and Robotics • National Security and Legal Implications of Lunar "Territory" • China's Push for a 2030 Lunar Landing and US Response Strategy Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Mike Wall Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

Rod Pyle, editor-in-chief of Ad Astra Magazine, joins John Landecker on the program to dive into some of the most popular sci-fi movies: Project Hail Mary and Enemy Mine, to see how much they got right, as well as react to the Blue Origin New Glenn rocket explosion.

When one ponders the diet of Mars-bound astonauts, oysters don't often come to mind... but they should. As it turns out, the plucky bivalves have much to offer space voyagers, including water filtration and a ready source of protein. Jacob Scoccimerra, formerly of Nanoracks and now with Monolith Space, initiated a research project with students from the Harrisburg University of Science and Technology, to design, build, and operate a closed-circuit, automated support environment for oysters in a simulated space analog. It's a fascinating discussion that may leave you hungry. Headlines: SpaceX IPO Filing Reveals Company Finances NASA Opens JPL Operations to New Bidders, Eyes Management Shakeup Viral Cardboard Star Wars Fan Film Gets a Nod SpaceX Announces Crypto Billionaire's Planned Mars Flyby on Starship Main Topic: Oysters in Space – Bioregenerative Life Support and Student Research Jacob Discusses Monolith Space and Roots in Chemical Engineering Origins and Environmental Role of Oysters in Water Filtration Applying Aquatic Organisms to Space-Based Life Support Systems Harrisburg University Student Collaboration and Prototype Development Technical and Biological Challenges of Running Aquatic Habitats in Space Educational Outcomes and Cross-Disciplinary Engineering Experience Potential Earth Applications and Insights for Aquaculture Industry Broader Prospects for Bioregenerative Systems in Space (e.g., other aquatic species, food sustainability) Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Jacob Scoccimerra Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsor: outsystems.com/twit

When one ponders the diet of Mars-bound astonauts, oysters don't often come to mind... but they should. As it turns out, the plucky bivalves have much to offer space voyagers, including water filtration and a ready source of protein. Jacob Scoccimerra, formerly of Nanoracks and now with Monolith Space, initiated a research project with students from the Harrisburg University of Science and Technology, to design, build, and operate a closed-circuit, automated support environment for oysters in a simulated space analog. It's a fascinating discussion that may leave you hungry. Headlines: SpaceX IPO Filing Reveals Company Finances NASA Opens JPL Operations to New Bidders, Eyes Management Shakeup Viral Cardboard Star Wars Fan Film Gets a Nod SpaceX Announces Crypto Billionaire's Planned Mars Flyby on Starship Main Topic: Oysters in Space – Bioregenerative Life Support and Student Research Jacob Discusses Monolith Space and Roots in Chemical Engineering Origins and Environmental Role of Oysters in Water Filtration Applying Aquatic Organisms to Space-Based Life Support Systems Harrisburg University Student Collaboration and Prototype Development Technical and Biological Challenges of Running Aquatic Habitats in Space Educational Outcomes and Cross-Disciplinary Engineering Experience Potential Earth Applications and Insights for Aquaculture Industry Broader Prospects for Bioregenerative Systems in Space (e.g., other aquatic species, food sustainability) Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Jacob Scoccimerra Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsor: outsystems.com/twit

When one ponders the diet of Mars-bound astonauts, oysters don't often come to mind... but they should. As it turns out, the plucky bivalves have much to offer space voyagers, including water filtration and a ready source of protein. Jacob Scoccimerra, formerly of Nanoracks and now with Monolith Space, initiated a research project with students from the Harrisburg University of Science and Technology, to design, build, and operate a closed-circuit, automated support environment for oysters in a simulated space analog. It's a fascinating discussion that may leave you hungry. Headlines: SpaceX IPO Filing Reveals Company Finances NASA Opens JPL Operations to New Bidders, Eyes Management Shakeup Viral Cardboard Star Wars Fan Film Gets a Nod SpaceX Announces Crypto Billionaire's Planned Mars Flyby on Starship Main Topic: Oysters in Space – Bioregenerative Life Support and Student Research Jacob Discusses Monolith Space and Roots in Chemical Engineering Origins and Environmental Role of Oysters in Water Filtration Applying Aquatic Organisms to Space-Based Life Support Systems Harrisburg University Student Collaboration and Prototype Development Technical and Biological Challenges of Running Aquatic Habitats in Space Educational Outcomes and Cross-Disciplinary Engineering Experience Potential Earth Applications and Insights for Aquaculture Industry Broader Prospects for Bioregenerative Systems in Space (e.g., other aquatic species, food sustainability) Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Jacob Scoccimerra Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsor: outsystems.com/twit

When one ponders the diet of Mars-bound astonauts, oysters don't often come to mind... but they should. As it turns out, the plucky bivalves have much to offer space voyagers, including water filtration and a ready source of protein. Jacob Scoccimerra, formerly of Nanoracks and now with Monolith Space, initiated a research project with students from the Harrisburg University of Science and Technology, to design, build, and operate a closed-circuit, automated support environment for oysters in a simulated space analog. It's a fascinating discussion that may leave you hungry. Headlines: SpaceX IPO Filing Reveals Company Finances NASA Opens JPL Operations to New Bidders, Eyes Management Shakeup Viral Cardboard Star Wars Fan Film Gets a Nod SpaceX Announces Crypto Billionaire's Planned Mars Flyby on Starship Main Topic: Oysters in Space – Bioregenerative Life Support and Student Research Jacob Discusses Monolith Space and Roots in Chemical Engineering Origins and Environmental Role of Oysters in Water Filtration Applying Aquatic Organisms to Space-Based Life Support Systems Harrisburg University Student Collaboration and Prototype Development Technical and Biological Challenges of Running Aquatic Habitats in Space Educational Outcomes and Cross-Disciplinary Engineering Experience Potential Earth Applications and Insights for Aquaculture Industry Broader Prospects for Bioregenerative Systems in Space (e.g., other aquatic species, food sustainability) Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Jacob Scoccimerra Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsor: outsystems.com/twit

Poor Mars. After a warm, wet childhood, the planet dried out and became cold and arid. And why? Mostly because it lost most of its atmosphere, scraped away by solar radiation. NASA's Maven mission studied the phenomenon of atmsoperic loss for years, but has now gone silent. Enter Mars ESCAPADE—the Escape and Plasma Acceleration and Dynamics Explorers—twin orbiters that will study the loss of Martian atmosphere more closely than ever before. The mission has been executed at a budget price. was largely built by industry upstart Rocket Lab, and launched on a New Glenn rocket. It will arrive at Mars in 2028, but we're giving you an early look at why it's an important and, frankly, very cool mission. Headlines: SpaceX Unveils Starship V3 Launch Plans NASA Details Artemis 3 Earth Orbit Mission Updates Psyche Probe Performs Mars Gravity Assist for Asteroid Mission Main Topic: ESCAPADE Mars Mission—Twin Satellites to Study Atmospheric Loss Introducing ESCAPADE: Twin Orbiters for Studying Mars' Upper Atmosphere Explaining Why Mars Loses Its Atmosphere and Comparative Planetology Stereo Measurements: Scientific Advantages of Two Orbiters Over One How ESCAPADE's Orbits and Science Campaigns Are Structured Rocket Lab and Commercial Partnerships Expand Mission Flexibility Unique Launch Timing and Innovations in Trajectory Planning Early Data from Escapade's Loiter Phase and Earth's Magnetotail Onboard Cameras to Capture Mars Auroras and Possibly Earth-Moon Portraits Extended Mission Possibilities and Future Science Goals The Role of Space Weather and Mars' Magnetic Field in Atmospheric Loss Implications for Future Mars Missions, Technology, and Human Exploration Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Dr. Robert Lillis Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

Poor Mars. After a warm, wet childhood, the planet dried out and became cold and arid. And why? Mostly because it lost most of its atmosphere, scraped away by solar radiation. NASA's Maven mission studied the phenomenon of atmospheric loss for years, but has now gone silent. Enter Mars ESCAPADE—the Escape and Plasma Acceleration and Dynamics Explorers—twin orbiters that will study the loss of Martian atmosphere more closely than ever before. The mission has been executed at a budget price. was largely built by industry upstart Rocket Lab, and launched on a New Glenn rocket. It will arrive at Mars in 2028, but we're giving you an early look at why it's an important and, frankly, very cool mission. Headlines: SpaceX Unveils Starship V3 Launch Plans NASA Details Artemis 3 Earth Orbit Mission Updates Psyche Probe Performs Mars Gravity Assist for Asteroid Mission Main Topic: ESCAPADE Mars Mission—Twin Satellites to Study Atmospheric Loss Introducing ESCAPADE: Twin Orbiters for Studying Mars' Upper Atmosphere Explaining Why Mars Loses Its Atmosphere and Comparative Planetology Stereo Measurements: Scientific Advantages of Two Orbiters Over One How ESCAPADE's Orbits and Science Campaigns Are Structured Rocket Lab and Commercial Partnerships Expand Mission Flexibility Unique Launch Timing and Innovations in Trajectory Planning Early Data from ESCAPADE's Mission and Earth's Magnetotail Onboard Cameras to Capture Mars Auroras and Possibly Earth-Moon Portraits Extended Mission Possibilities and Future Science Goals The Role of Space Weather and Mars' Magnetic Field in Atmospheric Loss Implications for Future Mars Missions, Technology, and Human Exploration Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Dr. Robert Lillis Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

Poor Mars. After a warm, wet childhood, the planet dried out and became cold and arid. And why? Mostly because it lost most of its atmosphere, scraped away by solar radiation. NASA's Maven mission studied the phenomenon of atmospheric loss for years, but has now gone silent. Enter Mars ESCAPADE—the Escape and Plasma Acceleration and Dynamics Explorers—twin orbiters that will study the loss of Martian atmosphere more closely than ever before. The mission has been executed at a budget price. was largely built by industry upstart Rocket Lab, and launched on a New Glenn rocket. It will arrive at Mars in 2028, but we're giving you an early look at why it's an important and, frankly, very cool mission. Headlines: SpaceX Unveils Starship V3 Launch Plans NASA Details Artemis 3 Earth Orbit Mission Updates Psyche Probe Performs Mars Gravity Assist for Asteroid Mission Main Topic: ESCAPADE Mars Mission—Twin Satellites to Study Atmospheric Loss Introducing ESCAPADE: Twin Orbiters for Studying Mars' Upper Atmosphere Explaining Why Mars Loses Its Atmosphere and Comparative Planetology Stereo Measurements: Scientific Advantages of Two Orbiters Over One How ESCAPADE's Orbits and Science Campaigns Are Structured Rocket Lab and Commercial Partnerships Expand Mission Flexibility Unique Launch Timing and Innovations in Trajectory Planning Early Data from ESCAPADE's Mission and Earth's Magnetotail Onboard Cameras to Capture Mars Auroras and Possibly Earth-Moon Portraits Extended Mission Possibilities and Future Science Goals The Role of Space Weather and Mars' Magnetic Field in Atmospheric Loss Implications for Future Mars Missions, Technology, and Human Exploration Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Dr. Robert Lillis Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

Poor Mars. After a warm, wet childhood, the planet dried out and became cold and arid. And why? Mostly because it lost most of its atmosphere, scraped away by solar radiation. NASA's Maven mission studied the phenomenon of atmospheric loss for years, but has now gone silent. Enter Mars ESCAPADE—the Escape and Plasma Acceleration and Dynamics Explorers—twin orbiters that will study the loss of Martian atmosphere more closely than ever before. The mission has been executed at a budget price. was largely built by industry upstart Rocket Lab, and launched on a New Glenn rocket. It will arrive at Mars in 2028, but we're giving you an early look at why it's an important and, frankly, very cool mission. Headlines: SpaceX Unveils Starship V3 Launch Plans NASA Details Artemis 3 Earth Orbit Mission Updates Psyche Probe Performs Mars Gravity Assist for Asteroid Mission Main Topic: ESCAPADE Mars Mission—Twin Satellites to Study Atmospheric Loss Introducing ESCAPADE: Twin Orbiters for Studying Mars' Upper Atmosphere Explaining Why Mars Loses Its Atmosphere and Comparative Planetology Stereo Measurements: Scientific Advantages of Two Orbiters Over One How ESCAPADE's Orbits and Science Campaigns Are Structured Rocket Lab and Commercial Partnerships Expand Mission Flexibility Unique Launch Timing and Innovations in Trajectory Planning Early Data from ESCAPADE's Mission and Earth's Magnetotail Onboard Cameras to Capture Mars Auroras and Possibly Earth-Moon Portraits Extended Mission Possibilities and Future Science Goals The Role of Space Weather and Mars' Magnetic Field in Atmospheric Loss Implications for Future Mars Missions, Technology, and Human Exploration Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Dr. Robert Lillis Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

The Space Show Presents ISDC 2026 with Rod Pyle, Aggie Kobrin & Dr. Pascal Lee, Tuesday, 5-12-26Quick Summary:The Space Show hosted a discussion about the upcoming ISDC (International Space Development Conference) in McLean, Virginia, featuring Aggie Kobrin, Rod Pyle, Pascal Lee, Sherry Bell, and select members of The Space Show Wisdom Team. The participants discussed the conference's location, schedule, key speakers including Apollo astronaut Jack Schmidt, and various tracks covering topics from AI in Space to Mars exploration. Pascal explained the current technical readiness levels for Mars missions, noting that while conceptually feasible, reliable systems for a round-trip mission remain challenging. The group also discussed the conference's networking opportunities, student participation, and various awards to be presented, including the new NSS Apollo Legacy Award to Jack Schmidt. The conversation concluded with reflections on the evolution of space technology and the conference's role in bringing together diverse perspectives in the space community.Detailed Summary:Our program focused on discussing the upcoming ISDC (International Space Development Conference) in McLean, Virginia. Aggie Kobrin provided details about the event, noting that approximately 400 students are registered to attend from various countries, with about 50% coming from Romania and 50% from India. The conference will feature keynote speakers, astronauts, and NASA representatives, along with multiple tracks and sessions over four days.The meeting discussed the upcoming space conference scheduled for June 4-7, featuring over 100 speakers including astronauts, NASA officials, and space industry leaders. Key speakers mentioned include Jack Schmidt from Apollo 17, Jerry Griffin, Michael Lopez Allegria, and science fiction author David Brin, who will receive the Clark Award. The conference will include plenary sessions, panel discussions, student tracks, networking events, and a Saturday night party with auction and DJ, though political representatives have not yet confirmed their attendance.The group discussed various tracks and speakers. They confirmed that Jarod Isaacman, who was previously invited, will not be attending due to a trip to Europe. Phil explained the focus of the interplanetary infrastructure track, which explores making space travel between planets more routine and cost-effective. Aggie described the “Launch Pads and Many Roads to Space” track as a way to accommodate student presentations that don't fit into other tracks. The group also mentioned several competitions, including a student competition and the Rothblatt competition, where audience members vote on finalists. Philip confirmed that the interplanetary track is full, with the abstract submission deadline having passed on April 15th.Pascal joined the meeting to discuss his role as co-chair of the ISDC conference with Rod, highlighting new tracks including Interstellar, Mars, and AI in Space. Pascal announced that Jack Schmidt, an Apollo astronaut, would be honored with the new NSS Apollo Legacy Award at the conference, particularly in recognition of the upcoming Artemis II mission. The Mars track was noted to have a record number of contributions and speakers, with plans to discuss practical steps toward human Mars missions, including considerations around Starship and NASA's current situation.The team discussed the current status of the conference program, noting that while most tracks are full, there is limited space available in “many roads to space” for additional presentations. They reported receiving about 300 abstract submissions this year, with around half being accepted. Pascal announced that the option to submit citable papers following presentations will be extended to all tracks this year, allowing papers between 2-20 pages. The group also confirmed details about meal speakers throughout the conference, including Arty Olimani, Jim Green, Jeffrey Manber, and others, and discussed that while some sessions may be taped for marketing purposes, the conference generally requires in-person attendance.The group discussed strategies for engaging younger audiences in space settlement topics, highlighting challenges in getting people below 35 to read comprehensive books like “High Frontier.” Rod shared that NSS published a Space Settlement Workshop book covering key steps in space development, while Pascal mentioned his student's work on transitioning from the ISS to a station with artificial gravity. Aggie noted the success of engaging younger students at space events, mentioning hundreds of enthusiastic students from junior high to graduate level participating in poster sessions and other activities.The discussion focused on details about an upcoming space conference, including its location at the Hilton Hotel in McLean, Virginia, which is accessible via subway from both Dulles and Reagan airports. Aggie explained that while hotel rooms are still available, early bird pricing has ended, with current rates around $189-200 per night. The conference typically attracts around 400 student attendees among its thousand participants, and Rod shared inspiring stories from previous events about how space programs positively impacted young people's lives. The conversation concluded with David asking about accessibility for newcomers to space topics, though the response was cut off at the end of the transcript.The group discussed the accessibility and appeal of the ISDC conference, emphasizing that while it caters to space enthusiasts and specialists, it is designed to be inclusive for a broader audience, including those new to space topics. They highlighted the evolution of space technology and ideas over the years, noting how once-futuristic concepts have become reality. The conversation also covered various awards to be presented at the conference, including the Arthur C. Clarke Award for David Brin, Space Pioneer Awards, and a Distinguished Service Merit Award for Fred Becker. Pascal expressed his enthusiasm for ISDC as a unique gathering of diverse space community members, highlighting its accessibility and networking opportunities.Pascal discussed the current challenges and requirements for a human mission to Mars, explaining that while the concept is feasible on paper, reliable systems for a round-trip lasting up to 900 days are still needed. He emphasized the importance of focusing on the moon first and highlighted the role of robotics and AI in future Mars missions. Pascal also addressed concerns about planetary protection, suggesting that crew members returning from Mars should be quarantined as a precautionary measure. The discussion highlighted the complexity and challenges of space exploration, particularly regarding Mars missions, and the value of networking and conversations at events like ISDC.The upcoming ISDC 2027 conference in Los Angeles was mentioned, then we continued going over ISDC format, tracks, and unique features. Phil highlighted the value of meal tickets and networking opportunities at the conference, while Marshall suggested the possibility of a dedicated robotics track in the future. The conversation also touched on the potential for discussing non-human biologicals at the conference, though Rod noted that any related information would likely remain classified. Aggie and Rod provided information about the conference website and registration options, and the group briefly discussed the evolving use of business cards in professional settings.Special thanks to our sponsors:American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Helix Space in Luxembourg, Celestis Memorial Spaceflights, Astrox Corporation, Dr. Haym Benaroya of Rutgers University, The Space Settlement Progress Blog by John Jossy, The Atlantis Project, and Artless EntertainmentOur Toll Free Line for Live Broadcasts: 1-866-687-7223 (Not in service at this time)For real time program participation, email Dr. Space at: drspace@thespaceshow.com for instructions and access.The Space Show is a non-profit 501C3 through its parent, One Giant Leap Foundation, Inc. To donate via Pay Pal, use:To donate with Zelle, use the email address: david@onegiantleapfoundation.org.If you prefer donating with a check, please make the check payable to One Giant Leap Foundation and mail to:One Giant Leap Foundation, 11035 Lavender Hill Drive Ste. 160-306 Las Vegas, NV 89135Upcoming Programs:oadcast 4540: Zoom: Dr. Ryan Dowdy | Friday 15 May 2026 930AM PTGuests: Dr. Ryan DowdyZoom: ISDC, Artemis II food, astronaut nutrition and moreBroadcast 4521: Manny Pimenta, Phillippe van Nedervelde | Sunday 17 May 2026 1200PM PTGuests: Manny Pimenta, Phillipe van NederveldeZoom: Our guests present “Virtual Moon” to us Get full access to The Space Show-One Giant Leap Foundation at doctorspace.substack.com/subscribe

Many of us grew up idolizing astronauts as the best of the best that America—and other nations—have to offer. After leaving NASA, many of them go on to relatively routine careers in business or academia, but some stay "on mission" and continue striving to improve the human condition. The 100-plus astronauts behind Astronauts for America, led by Garrett Reisman and Steve Lindsey—a Democrat and Republican—have decided to speak out about their concerns for our democracy. As the nonprofit's website says, "Astronauts For America is a nonpartisan organization of former NASA astronauts who have sworn to defend the Constitution of the United States. We are committed to science, evidence-based decision-making, public service, and the rule of law." Reisman and Lindsey join us for this important episode. Headlines: Pentagon Releases Official UFO Files Online James Webb Space Telescope Directly Observes Nearby 'Super Earth' Curiosity Rover's Wheels Show Severe Wear on Mars Curiosity Rover Gets Its Robotic Arm Stuck on a Martian Rock Main Topic: Astronauts for America—Combatting Political Polarization Group of 100+ Retired Astronauts Form Nonpartisan Organization Mission to Counter Extreme Partisanship and Foster Civil Discourse Oath to Uphold the Constitution Drives Their Advocacy Experiences in Space and Military Inform Their Approach Emphasis on Data, Science, and Rule of Law in National Debate Concerns Over Erosion of Democratic Norms and Civic Trust Civil Rights, Political Violence, and Challenges in Congress Prompt Action Organization Seeks to Educate, Engage the Public, and Partner with Other Groups Launch of Voter Scorecards Based on Constitutional Values, Not Policy Positions Call for Informed Citizen Participation and Election Integrity Initiatives Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guests: Garrett Reisman and Steve Lindsey Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsors: outsystems.com/twit threatlocker.com/twit Melissa.com/twit

Many of us grew up idolizing astronauts as the best of the best that America—and other nations—have to offer. After leaving NASA, many of them go on to relatively routine careers in business or academia, but some stay "on mission" and continue striving to improve the human condition. The 100-plus astronauts behind Astronauts for America, led by Garrett Reisman and Steve Lindsey—a Democrat and Republican—have decided to speak out about their concerns for our democracy. As the nonprofit's website says, "Astronauts For America is a nonpartisan organization of former NASA astronauts who have sworn to defend the Constitution of the United States. We are committed to science, evidence-based decision-making, public service, and the rule of law." Reisman and Lindsey join us for this important episode. Headlines: Pentagon Releases Official UFO Files Online James Webb Space Telescope Directly Observes Nearby 'Super Earth' Curiosity Rover's Wheels Show Severe Wear on Mars Curiosity Rover Gets Its Robotic Arm Stuck on a Martian Rock Main Topic: Astronauts for America—Combatting Political Polarization Group of 100+ Retired Astronauts Form Nonpartisan Organization Mission to Counter Extreme Partisanship and Foster Civil Discourse Oath to Uphold the Constitution Drives Their Advocacy Experiences in Space and Military Inform Their Approach Emphasis on Data, Science, and Rule of Law in National Debate Concerns Over Erosion of Democratic Norms and Civic Trust Civil Rights, Political Violence, and Challenges in Congress Prompt Action Organization Seeks to Educate, Engage the Public, and Partner with Other Groups Launch of Voter Scorecards Based on Constitutional Values, Not Policy Positions Call for Informed Citizen Participation and Election Integrity Initiatives Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guests: Garrett Reisman and Steve Lindsey Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsors: outsystems.com/twit threatlocker.com/twit Melissa.com/twit

Many of us grew up idolizing astronauts as the best of the best that America—and other nations—have to offer. After leaving NASA, many of them go on to relatively routine careers in business or academia, but some stay "on mission" and continue striving to improve the human condition. The 100-plus astronauts behind Astronauts for America, led by Garrett Reisman and Steve Lindsey—a Democrat and Republican—have decided to speak out about their concerns for our democracy. As the nonprofit's website says, "Astronauts For America is a nonpartisan organization of former NASA astronauts who have sworn to defend the Constitution of the United States. We are committed to science, evidence-based decision-making, public service, and the rule of law." Reisman and Lindsey join us for this important episode. Headlines: Pentagon Releases Official UFO Files Online James Webb Space Telescope Directly Observes Nearby 'Super Earth' Curiosity Rover's Wheels Show Severe Wear on Mars Curiosity Rover Gets Its Robotic Arm Stuck on a Martian Rock Main Topic: Astronauts for America—Combatting Political Polarization Group of 100+ Retired Astronauts Form Nonpartisan Organization Mission to Counter Extreme Partisanship and Foster Civil Discourse Oath to Uphold the Constitution Drives Their Advocacy Experiences in Space and Military Inform Their Approach Emphasis on Data, Science, and Rule of Law in National Debate Concerns Over Erosion of Democratic Norms and Civic Trust Civil Rights, Political Violence, and Challenges in Congress Prompt Action Organization Seeks to Educate, Engage the Public, and Partner with Other Groups Launch of Voter Scorecards Based on Constitutional Values, Not Policy Positions Call for Informed Citizen Participation and Election Integrity Initiatives Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guests: Garrett Reisman and Steve Lindsey Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsors: outsystems.com/twit threatlocker.com/twit Melissa.com/twit

Many of us grew up idolizing astronauts as the best of the best that America—and other nations—have to offer. After leaving NASA, many of them go on to relatively routine careers in business or academia, but some stay "on mission" and continue striving to improve the human condition. The 100-plus astronauts behind Astronauts for America, led by Garrett Reisman and Steve Lindsey—a Democrat and Republican—have decided to speak out about their concerns for our democracy. As the nonprofit's website says, "Astronauts For America is a nonpartisan organization of former NASA astronauts who have sworn to defend the Constitution of the United States. We are committed to science, evidence-based decision-making, public service, and the rule of law." Reisman and Lindsey join us for this important episode. Headlines: Pentagon Releases Official UFO Files Online James Webb Space Telescope Directly Observes Nearby 'Super Earth' Curiosity Rover's Wheels Show Severe Wear on Mars Curiosity Rover Gets Its Robotic Arm Stuck on a Martian Rock Main Topic: Astronauts for America—Combatting Political Polarization Group of 100+ Retired Astronauts Form Nonpartisan Organization Mission to Counter Extreme Partisanship and Foster Civil Discourse Oath to Uphold the Constitution Drives Their Advocacy Experiences in Space and Military Inform Their Approach Emphasis on Data, Science, and Rule of Law in National Debate Concerns Over Erosion of Democratic Norms and Civic Trust Civil Rights, Political Violence, and Challenges in Congress Prompt Action Organization Seeks to Educate, Engage the Public, and Partner with Other Groups Launch of Voter Scorecards Based on Constitutional Values, Not Policy Positions Call for Informed Citizen Participation and Election Integrity Initiatives Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guests: Garrett Reisman and Steve Lindsey Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsors: outsystems.com/twit threatlocker.com/twit Melissa.com/twit

Lander, lander... who's got a lander? With NASA planning orbital tests of the Artemis landers in 2027 and a crewed landing in 2028, the pressure is on for SpaceX and Blue Origin to make good on their Human Landing System contracts. Who's actually going to put American astronauts back on the Moon first? This week's episode digs into the high-stakes race between the companies, surfacing new details and doubts about whether either lander will be ready in time. Both have to fly into Earth orbit, refuel multiple times, and perform robotic test landings on the moon (in addition to the Artemis III rendezvous and docking tests) before NASA can land astronauts on the moon — and they need to get it all done by 2028. We talk to Space.com's senior space guy, Mike Wall, about the risks and realities of the new space race to the moon. Headlines: Artemis 2 Astronauts Tour White House and Late Night Shows Private Company Plans Asteroid Rendezvous with Apophis NASA's Artemis Moon Lander Readiness and Delays Main Topic: Lunar Landers and Artemis Program Artemis 4 Moon Landing Delays and Timeline Uncertainty SpaceX Starship vs. Blue Origin Blue Moon: Designs and Progress Technical Hurdles: Life Support, Refueling, and Descent Systems Starship's Role as Lander, Cargo Hauler, and Potential Space Station Alternative Blue Origin's Test Schedule Impacted by Launch Mishap International Lunar Landers: China's Upcoming Missions Lunar Surface Infrastructure, Moon Bases, and Resource Rights Legal Uncertainty Around Moon Land Rights and Exclusion Zones Artemis Momentum, Funding, and Political Support Long-Term Prospects for Sustained Human and Robotic Lunar Presence Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Mike Wall Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsor: helixsleep.com/space

Lander, lander... who's got a lander? With NASA planning orbital tests of the Artemis landers in 2027 and a crewed landing in 2028, the pressure is on for SpaceX and Blue Origin to make good on their Human Landing System contracts. Who's actually going to put American astronauts back on the Moon first? This week's episode digs into the high-stakes race between the companies, surfacing new details and doubts about whether either lander will be ready in time. Both have to fly into Earth orbit, refuel multiple times, and perform robotic test landings on the moon (in addition to the Artemis III rendezvous and docking tests) before NASA can land astronauts on the moon — and they need to get it all done by 2028. We talk to Space.com's senior space guy, Mike Wall, about the risks and realities of the new space race to the moon. Headlines: Artemis 2 Astronauts Tour White House and Late Night Shows Private Company Plans Asteroid Rendezvous with Apophis NASA's Artemis Moon Lander Readiness and Delays Main Topic: Lunar Landers and Artemis Program Artemis 4 Moon Landing Delays and Timeline Uncertainty SpaceX Starship vs. Blue Origin Blue Moon: Designs and Progress Technical Hurdles: Life Support, Refueling, and Descent Systems Starship's Role as Lander, Cargo Hauler, and Potential Space Station Alternative Blue Origin's Test Schedule Impacted by Launch Mishap International Lunar Landers: China's Upcoming Missions Lunar Surface Infrastructure, Moon Bases, and Resource Rights Legal Uncertainty Around Moon Land Rights and Exclusion Zones Artemis Momentum, Funding, and Political Support Long-Term Prospects for Sustained Human and Robotic Lunar Presence Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Mike Wall Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsor: helixsleep.com/space

Lander, lander... who's got a lander? With NASA planning orbital tests of the Artemis landers in 2027 and a crewed landing in 2028, the pressure is on for SpaceX and Blue Origin to make good on their Human Landing System contracts. Who's actually going to put American astronauts back on the Moon first? This week's episode digs into the high-stakes race between the companies, surfacing new details and doubts about whether either lander will be ready in time. Both have to fly into Earth orbit, refuel multiple times, and perform robotic test landings on the moon (in addition to the Artemis III rendezvous and docking tests) before NASA can land astronauts on the moon — and they need to get it all done by 2028. We talk to Space.com's senior space guy, Mike Wall, about the risks and realities of the new space race to the moon. Headlines: Artemis 2 Astronauts Tour White House and Late Night Shows Private Company Plans Asteroid Rendezvous with Apophis NASA's Artemis Moon Lander Readiness and Delays Main Topic: Lunar Landers and Artemis Program Artemis 4 Moon Landing Delays and Timeline Uncertainty SpaceX Starship vs. Blue Origin Blue Moon: Designs and Progress Technical Hurdles: Life Support, Refueling, and Descent Systems Starship's Role as Lander, Cargo Hauler, and Potential Space Station Alternative Blue Origin's Test Schedule Impacted by Launch Mishap International Lunar Landers: China's Upcoming Missions Lunar Surface Infrastructure, Moon Bases, and Resource Rights Legal Uncertainty Around Moon Land Rights and Exclusion Zones Artemis Momentum, Funding, and Political Support Long-Term Prospects for Sustained Human and Robotic Lunar Presence Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Mike Wall Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsor: helixsleep.com/space

Lander, lander... who's got a lander? With NASA planning orbital tests of the Artemis landers in 2027 and a crewed landing in 2028, the pressure is on for SpaceX and Blue Origin to make good on their Human Landing System contracts. Who's actually going to put American astronauts back on the Moon first? This week's episode digs into the high-stakes race between the companies, surfacing new details and doubts about whether either lander will be ready in time. Both have to fly into Earth orbit, refuel multiple times, and perform robotic test landings on the moon (in addition to the Artemis III rendezvous and docking tests) before NASA can land astronauts on the moon — and they need to get it all done by 2028. We talk to Space.com's senior space guy, Mike Wall, about the risks and realities of the new space race to the moon. Headlines: Artemis 2 Astronauts Tour White House and Late Night Shows Private Company Plans Asteroid Rendezvous with Apophis NASA's Artemis Moon Lander Readiness and Delays Main Topic: Lunar Landers and Artemis Program Artemis 4 Moon Landing Delays and Timeline Uncertainty SpaceX Starship vs. Blue Origin Blue Moon: Designs and Progress Technical Hurdles: Life Support, Refueling, and Descent Systems Starship's Role as Lander, Cargo Hauler, and Potential Space Station Alternative Blue Origin's Test Schedule Impacted by Launch Mishap International Lunar Landers: China's Upcoming Missions Lunar Surface Infrastructure, Moon Bases, and Resource Rights Legal Uncertainty Around Moon Land Rights and Exclusion Zones Artemis Momentum, Funding, and Political Support Long-Term Prospects for Sustained Human and Robotic Lunar Presence Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Mike Wall Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsor: helixsleep.com/space

As you have doubtless heard, the White House has once again proposed drastic budget cuts of about 24% for NASA's 2027 budget. It's deja vu all over again for us, as we followed an almost identical story last year. And as with last year, Congress has signaled the new budget to be DOA. This time, however, we had a NASA administrator in the seat when this budget arrived and he said he could work with it—despite a near halving of the NASA science budget and proposed cancellation of well over 50 science missions, many already successful and returning great science after the bulk of the program has been paid for. We invited Jenniter Vaughn, the CEO of The Planetary Society, onto the show to discuss. Headlines: Blue Origin's New Glenn 3 Rocket Fails Key Mission Despite Successful Landin Discovery of Possible Hidden Moons Around Uranus in Planetary Rings Hubble Space Telescope Celebrates Its 36th Year in Orbit Main Topic: NASA Science Budget Crisis and Advocacy with Planetary Society CEO Jennifer Vaughn Jennifer Vaughn's Journey to Leading the Planetary Society Deep Cuts Proposed for NASA's Science Budget and Widespread Opposition Congressional Pushback and Ineffectiveness of Copy-Paste Budget Proposals Risks to Active and Developmental NASA Missions if Funding Slashed Brain Drain and Damage from Funding Instability at NASA and Partner Institutions Importance of Public Advocacy and Opportunities to Take Action Prospects and Cautions for New NASA Leadership Amid Budget Challenges Broader Impact on US Space Leadership, Innovation, and Long-Term Planning Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Jennifer Vaughn Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

As you have doubtless heard, the White House has once again proposed drastic budget cuts of about 24% for NASA's 2027 budget. It's deja vu all over again for us, as we followed an almost identical story last year. And as with last year, Congress has signaled the new budget to be DOA. This time, however, we had a NASA administrator in the seat when this budget arrived and he said he could work with it—despite a near halving of the NASA science budget and proposed cancellation of well over 50 science missions, many already successful and returning great science after the bulk of the program has been paid for. We invited Jenniter Vaughn, the CEO of The Planetary Society, onto the show to discuss. Headlines: Blue Origin's New Glenn 3 Rocket Fails Key Mission Despite Successful Landin Discovery of Possible Hidden Moons Around Uranus in Planetary Rings Hubble Space Telescope Celebrates Its 36th Year in Orbit Main Topic: NASA Science Budget Crisis and Advocacy with Planetary Society CEO Jennifer Vaughn Jennifer Vaughn's Journey to Leading the Planetary Society Deep Cuts Proposed for NASA's Science Budget and Widespread Opposition Congressional Pushback and Ineffectiveness of Copy-Paste Budget Proposals Risks to Active and Developmental NASA Missions if Funding Slashed Brain Drain and Damage from Funding Instability at NASA and Partner Institutions Importance of Public Advocacy and Opportunities to Take Action Prospects and Cautions for New NASA Leadership Amid Budget Challenges Broader Impact on US Space Leadership, Innovation, and Long-Term Planning Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Jennifer Vaughn Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

As you have doubtless heard, the White House has once again proposed drastic budget cuts of about 24% for NASA's 2027 budget. It's deja vu all over again for us, as we followed an almost identical story last year. And as with last year, Congress has signaled the new budget to be DOA. This time, however, we had a NASA administrator in the seat when this budget arrived and he said he could work with it—despite a near halving of the NASA science budget and proposed cancellation of well over 50 science missions, many already successful and returning great science after the bulk of the program has been paid for. We invited Jenniter Vaughn, the CEO of The Planetary Society, onto the show to discuss. Headlines: Blue Origin's New Glenn 3 Rocket Fails Key Mission Despite Successful Landin Discovery of Possible Hidden Moons Around Uranus in Planetary Rings Hubble Space Telescope Celebrates Its 36th Year in Orbit Main Topic: NASA Science Budget Crisis and Advocacy with Planetary Society CEO Jennifer Vaughn Jennifer Vaughn's Journey to Leading the Planetary Society Deep Cuts Proposed for NASA's Science Budget and Widespread Opposition Congressional Pushback and Ineffectiveness of Copy-Paste Budget Proposals Risks to Active and Developmental NASA Missions if Funding Slashed Brain Drain and Damage from Funding Instability at NASA and Partner Institutions Importance of Public Advocacy and Opportunities to Take Action Prospects and Cautions for New NASA Leadership Amid Budget Challenges Broader Impact on US Space Leadership, Innovation, and Long-Term Planning Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Jennifer Vaughn Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

What happens next when science can confidently announce the discovery of an alien life form? Whether it's a fully functioning civilization or a lowly Martian microbe, the implications are vast. Dr. Brianne Suldovsky of Portland State University has studied this mostly ignored question and come up with some interesting conclusions--and, like the best science, more questions. How this can best be communicated in an age of mistrust in large institutions and science is a vexing one, and the conversation looked at it from a variety of angles. And--it was fun. Join us! Headlines: Artemis 2 Heat Shield Passes Inspection Despite Social Media Panic SpaceX Nears Version 3 Starship Launch After Delays New Naked-Eye Comet and Lyrid Meteor Shower Viewing Tips Main Topic: Communicating the Discovery of Extraterrestrial Life Lack of Research on Public Communication of Alien Life Discoveries Religious Backgrounds and How They Shape Views on Science and Space Public Trust, Misinformation, and Institutional Perception Challenges Risks, Uncertainties, and Ethics in Announcing Life Discoveries What Happens if Private Companies Discover Alien Life First Measuring Public Beliefs: the Extraterrestrial Belief Scale and Conspiracies Religious, Psychological, and Societal Impacts of Alien Life Announcements Direct Public Involvement in Decisions About Contacting Alien Life Navigating AI, Social Media, and Pattern Recognition in Spreading Space News Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Brianne Suldovsky Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

What happens next when science can confidently announce the discovery of an alien life form? Whether it's a fully functioning civilization or a lowly Martian microbe, the implications are vast. Dr. Brianne Suldovsky of Portland State University has studied this mostly ignored question and come up with some interesting conclusions--and, like the best science, more questions. How this can best be communicated in an age of mistrust in large institutions and science is a vexing one, and the conversation looked at it from a variety of angles. And--it was fun. Join us! Headlines: Artemis 2 Heat Shield Passes Inspection Despite Social Media Panic SpaceX Nears Version 3 Starship Launch After Delays New Naked-Eye Comet and Lyrid Meteor Shower Viewing Tips Main Topic: Communicating the Discovery of Extraterrestrial Life Lack of Research on Public Communication of Alien Life Discoveries Religious Backgrounds and How They Shape Views on Science and Space Public Trust, Misinformation, and Institutional Perception Challenges Risks, Uncertainties, and Ethics in Announcing Life Discoveries What Happens if Private Companies Discover Alien Life First Measuring Public Beliefs: the Extraterrestrial Belief Scale and Conspiracies Religious, Psychological, and Societal Impacts of Alien Life Announcements Direct Public Involvement in Decisions About Contacting Alien Life Navigating AI, Social Media, and Pattern Recognition in Spreading Space News Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Brianne Suldovsky Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

(April 10, 2026) Three unions unite in massive LAUSD strike threat... parents begin to panic. Los Angeles officials are raising the alarm of crippling Olympics costs. Author, journalist, and co-host of ‘This Week in Space’ Rod Pyle joins the show to talk over NASA’s Artemis II return to Earth.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week's episode is devoted to the flight of Artemis 2. From the spectacular, on-time launch to the lunar flyby to reentry preparation, we chart all the major events of the mission. Some are technical and scientific--the interest in the small meteoritic impacts on the lunar farside and the spectacul solar eclsipse witnessed by the crew—and some are more human interest, such as the messages to the crew from Apollo moonwalker Charlie Duke and the posthumous message from Apollo 8/13 astronaut Jim Lovell, to the very emotional moment where the crew named a crater after Reid Wiseman's recently deceased wife, Carroll. It's a humdinger of a show packed with facts and relevant discussion. Join us! Main Topic: The Artemis II Mission Rod & Tariq Share Launch Site and Newsroom Experiences Spacecraft Amenities: The Ongoing Space Toilet Saga On-the-Ground Reporting at Kennedy and Johnson Space Centers Inside the Orion Capsule: Size, Crew Life, and Design Spectacular Launch: Countdown, Liftoff, and Astronaut Impressions Cameras and Tech: Photo Gear and Laser Communications on Artemis 2 Smoothest Crewed Launch Beyond Earth Orbit in Over 50 Years Life Aboard Orion: Living Space, Exercise, and Hygiene Challenges Emotional Moments: Naming Lunar Craters and Tribute to Crew Family Wakeup Calls from Apollo Astronauts—Legacy Meets Next Generation Crew Lunar Flyby: Scientific Observations and Lunar Impact Flashes Capturing Rare Sights: Earthset, Night Views, and Eclipses from Moon Orbit Presidential Call: Communications Hiccups and Political Overtones Return and Splashdown: Heat Shield Concerns, Recovery Procedures, and Records Set Reflections on Budget Constraints, Press Facilities, and NASA Operations Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsors: Melissa.com/twit threatlocker.com/twit

Amanda Silberling of TechCrunch joins Mikah Sargent on this episode of Tech News Weekly! How accurate are Google's AI Overviews? The usage of AI in investigative journalism. Artemis 2! And what Apple's next 50 years could look like. Mikah talks about a New York Times report that looks into the accuracy of Google's AI Overviews, which pull information from a group of various sources, from news articles to tabloids, and even social media posts. Amanda is fascinated by some tech reporters' slow adoption of utilizing AI in their journalistic process after coming across an article on the discovery of Bitcoin's creator, Satoshi Nakamoto. Rod Pyle of This Week in Space joins the show to talk about the Artemis II space mission! And Scott Stein of CNET chats with Mikah about Apple's first 50 years and what the next 50 years may look like for the company. Hosts: Mikah Sargent and Amanda Silberling Guests: Rod Pyle and Scott Stein Download or subscribe to Tech News Weekly at https://twit.tv/shows/tech-news-weekly. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsors: framer.com/tnw bitwarden.com/twit joindeleteme.com/twit promo code TWIT

Amanda Silberling of TechCrunch joins Mikah Sargent on this episode of Tech News Weekly! How accurate are Google's AI Overviews? The usage of AI in investigative journalism. Artemis 2! And what Apple's next 50 years could look like. Mikah talks about a New York Times report that looks into the accuracy of Google's AI Overviews, which pull information from a group of various sources, from news articles to tabloids, and even social media posts. Amanda is fascinated by some tech reporters' slow adoption of utilizing AI in their journalistic process after coming across an article on the discovery of Bitcoin's creator, Satoshi Nakamoto. Rod Pyle of This Week in Space joins the show to talk about the Artemis II space mission! And Scott Stein of CNET chats with Mikah about Apple's first 50 years and what the next 50 years may look like for the company. Hosts: Mikah Sargent and Amanda Silberling Guests: Rod Pyle and Scott Stein Download or subscribe to Tech News Weekly at https://twit.tv/shows/tech-news-weekly. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsors: framer.com/tnw bitwarden.com/twit joindeleteme.com/twit promo code TWIT

Amanda Silberling of TechCrunch joins Mikah Sargent on this episode of Tech News Weekly! How accurate are Google's AI Overviews? The usage of AI in investigative journalism. Artemis 2! And what Apple's next 50 years could look like. Mikah talks about a New York Times report that looks into the accuracy of Google's AI Overviews, which pull information from a group of various sources, from news articles to tabloids, and even social media posts. Amanda is fascinated by some tech reporters' slow adoption of utilizing AI in their journalistic process after coming across an article on the discovery of Bitcoin's creator, Satoshi Nakamoto. Rod Pyle of This Week in Space joins the show to talk about the Artemis II space mission! And Scott Stein of CNET chats with Mikah about Apple's first 50 years and what the next 50 years may look like for the company. Hosts: Mikah Sargent and Amanda Silberling Guests: Rod Pyle and Scott Stein Download or subscribe to Tech News Weekly at https://twit.tv/shows/tech-news-weekly. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsors: framer.com/tnw bitwarden.com/twit joindeleteme.com/twit promo code TWIT

We've seen NASA go through a lot of drama this year, and recently, some remarkable changes have been announced under the new administrator, Jared Isaacman. We're taking a deep dive into what's changed, what's the same, and what to expect. But first: Tariq and Rod are in Houston monitoring the Artemis 2 mission, which launched flawlessly on Wednesday. It's been a thrill since launch day, which Tariq saw in Florida, and shows no sign of slowing. We're bringing it to you from the field, so strap on in and join us! Headlines: Artemis 2 Launched This Week! Challenges Hit Artemis 2 After Launch: Toilet Problems and Personal Computing Issues Artemis 2 Crew Prepares for Lunar Flyby and Science Activities NASA Faces Another Budget Cut for 2027 Main Topic: New NASA, Artemis Overhauls, and Future Missions NASA Reshuffles Artemis 3–5: Landings Delayed, Missions Reassigned SLS Development Locked; Vulcan Centaur 5 Upper Stage Selected Aggressive Timeline for 29 Moon Missions and 22 Landings in Next Decade Push for Moon Bases by 2032 with $20 Billion Investment Gateway Lunar Station Put on Ice; Hardware Repurposed for Moon Base and Mars Surprise Nuclear-Powered Mars Mission Announced for 2028 New Mars Helicopter Fleet to Debut as Part of Skyfall Payload Shift Away from Private Space Stations; NASA to Build New Core Module NASA Workforce Hit by Layoffs, Launches New NASA Force Hiring Initiative Geopolitics, China's Role, and Space Race 2.0 Narrative (Video of Artemis 2 Launch Courtesy of Space.com) Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsor: helixsleep.com/space

(April 02, 2026) 5 takeaways from President Trump’s address on Iran. Takeaways from the Supreme Court’s birthright citizenship case. Author, journalist, and host of ‘This Week in Space’ Podcast Rod Pyle joins the show to talk about the successful launch of NASA's historic Artemis II moon mission.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.