Partially reusable launch system and spacecraft
POPULARITY
Categories
NASA unveiled the first completed Space Shuttle on September 17th, 1976, and the Intrepid Sea, Air, & Space Museum is commemorating the occasion. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Viel zu bequatschen in der Folge. Die Energiekrise zieht sich wie ein roter Faden durch die Welt. Wenn es doch nur etwas gäbe, das den Verkehr unabhängig vom Öl machen könnte... Nichtdestotrotz hatten die Studienräte ein gutes Weekend Feeling. Martin wird ob seines Warhammer Team Turniers gleich einem sportjournalistischen Interview unterzogen. Alex wiederum hatte sturmfrei, was er unter anderem dafür genutzt hat, den neuen Streifen von Christopher Nolan anzuschauen: Die Odyssee. Ob die Nolan Version von der Irrfahrt des Alten Griechen was taugt, das erfahrt ihr in dieser Folge von den Geschichts-, Literatur- und Filmexperten Pieler und Batzke. Und weil wir nicht wissen, ob die KI uns in ein paar Jahren einfach auslöscht, breiten wir mal wieder die warme Decke der Nostalgie aus. Alex muss in der mündlichen Prüfung nämlich beweisen, wie reklamegeschädigt er eigentlich ist. Werbeslogans und Werbejingles gilt es zu erraten. Ein lustiges Spiel, bei dem ihr alle mitmachen könnt. Apropos alle mitmachen: Folgt uns mal bei Instagram! Jetzt! Viel Spaß mit der Folge!
Achieve Excellence with the Experts at IISEhttps://iise.org/trainingcenter/The IISE Training Center is unsurpassed in meeting the educational goals of professionals in myriad industries. IISE is an IACET Authorized Provider and “has complied with the ANSI/IACET Standard, which is recognized internationally as a standard of excellence in instructional practices and is authorized to issue the IACET CEU.” Our instructors are experts in essential topics including Lean and Six Sigma, concepts based on long-standing industrial engineering principles. We ensure that our students attain in-depth levels of understanding and practical knowledge of how to apply strategies to achieve business and professional excellence. Students earn digital badges and certificates to share on social media, email signatures, certificates, wherever employers are looking. The world is online - that's where your credentials should reside.What does industrial and systems engineering look like when the system you're working in is 250 miles above Earth?In this special ISE Day episode of Problem Solved, retired NASA astronaut and U.S. Army Colonel Shane Kimbrough joins us to explore the systems, people and decisions behind human spaceflight.Across three missions, Kimbrough spent nearly 400 days in space, commanded the International Space Station and completed nine spacewalks. He also flew aboard three very different generations of spacecraft: the Space Shuttle, Russian Soyuz and SpaceX Crew Dragon. With a master's degree in operations research from Georgia Tech, Kimbrough brings an industrial and systems engineering perspective to environments where efficiency matters and failure can have extraordinary consequences.Kimbrough shares what happens when an astronaut sees a better way to do something aboard the ISS, how experiments and limited resources are managed in orbit, and why even highly automated spacecraft still need human judgment. The conversation also explores NASA's approach to failure and safety, building trust within high-performing teams, preparing for the first critical minutes of a spacewalk, and a leadership philosophy Kimbrough carried from the Army into space: invest in people.Plus, he reflects on one unforgettable final night aboard the ISS, what leaving Earth taught him about our planet, the future of human exploration, and the advice he hopes the next generation of engineers will take with them: do hard things.Happy ISE Day 2026!This special episode of Problem Solved was brought to you by Binghamton University. Learn more at binghamton.edu/ssieLearn more about The Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE)Problem Solved on LinkedInProblem Solved on YouTubeProblem Solved on InstagramProblem Solved on TikTokProblem Solved Executive Producer: Elizabeth GrimesInterested in contributing to the podcast or sponsoring an episode? Email egrimes@iise.org Achieve Excellence with the Experts at IISEhttps://iise.org/trainingcenter/
(00:00:00) 151. Mike Foreman: From Navy Pilot to NASA Astronaut (00:00:12) Meet Mike Foreman (00:02:53) Navy Pilot to NASA (00:03:38) Three Applications Later (00:06:35) Life in NASA (00:08:25) How Astronauts Train (00:10:46) First Spacewalk Nerves (00:11:32) Earth View Effect (00:12:22) Spacesuit Fit Scare (00:15:52) Spacewalk Work and Fatigue (00:18:03) Returning to Gravity (00:21:13) Life After Space (00:22:06) Fame and Being Ordinary (00:23:49) How Many Astronauts (00:24:55) Mars and Artemis Future (00:26:44) Why Explore Mars (00:29:57) Closing Stories and Goodbye What does it take to leave Earth behind and step into space?Sue Stockdale speaks with former NASA astronaut Mike Foreman, whose remarkable career took him from flying helicopters in the U.S. Navy to completing two Space Shuttle missions and multiple spacewalks aboard the International Space Station.Mike shares the persistence required to become an astronaut after eight applications to NASA, the realities of astronaut training, and the physical and mental demands of working in space. He reflects on his first spacewalk, the awe-inspiring view of Earth from orbit, and the challenges of returning to gravity after living beyond our planet.The conversation also explores the future of human space exploration, including the Artemis programme and the possibility of missions to Mars, as well as Mike's thoughts on why exploration continues to matter.In this episode:Mike's journey from Navy pilot to NASA astronautThe astronaut selection process and lessons in persistenceTraining for life and work in spaceThe experience of conducting spacewalksViewing Earth from orbitLife after NASAThe future of lunar and Mars explorationWhether you're fascinated by space, leadership, resilience, or human potential, Mike's story offers a compelling insight into what can be achieved through determination, curiosity and a willingness to venture into the unknown.About Mike ForemanMike Foreman is a former NASA astronaut, retired U.S. Navy Captain, and aerospace engineer whose career has taken him from the cockpit of military aircraft and into space. A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Naval Postgraduate School, and U.S. Naval Test Pilot School, he accumulated more than 7,500 flight hours across over 50 different aircraft types.Selected as a NASA astronaut in 1998, Mike spent more than 637 hours in space during two Space Shuttle missions, STS-123 and STS-129. He completed five spacewalks, totalling over 32 hours, helping to construct and maintain the International Space Station.Today, he shares lessons from his extraordinary experiences as a speaker and serves as the Mayor of Friendswood, Texas.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A CoffeeHost: Sue Stockdale Producer: Sue Stockdale Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra This episode includes AI-generated content.
In this episode, Ray Cochrane records from the Michigan studio on the one year anniversary of losing the show’s original host, Todd Cochrane. The featured story is Anthropic’s $5 million grant program, which pays outside researchers to measure whether AI is actually good for the people using it. Ray also covers Anthropic’s Enterprise Frontier Safeguards, Google’s Fairwind cyber defense program, Meta’s organizational second brain, sixteen green AI projects across Asia-Pacific, an Oklahoma Bitcoin mine condemned after leaking 3.8 million gallons of water, BepiColombo closing in on Mercury, and the 2026 Ig Nobel Prizes. – Want to start a podcast? Its easy to get started! Sign-up at Blubrry – Thinking of buying a Starlink? Use my link to support the show. Subscribe to the Newsletter. Email Ray if you want to get in touch! Like and Follow Geek News Central’s Facebook Page. Support my Show Sponsor: Best Godaddy Promo Codes Get 1Password Full Summary Cochrane opens from the studio in Michigan, recording on the one year anniversary of the show losing its original host, Todd Cochrane, his father. The family has gathered for the occasion. He also plans to record several episodes throughout the week as a commemorative run, so listeners should expect a heavier release schedule than usual. He also shares where things stand. He and Delaney have gone back and forth on relocating to Michigan, but the family is pushing, and the plan is firming up for the coming month or so. Part of the draw is getting his dad’s studio cleaned up and running the way it used to. Finally, he passes along an update on the Zuvers, a story long-time listeners will recognize. The father of the three children is due out of jail soon, though he now faces retrial for the murder of the three boys. Cochrane notes that the original prison term related to their return rather than the murders themselves. The family’s expectation, he says, is that this time the sentence will be permanent. Anthropic Puts $5 Million Behind Measuring AI’s Effect on You The featured story asks a question the industry has mostly avoided. Not whether a model is smart, but whether you are better off after using it. Anthropic is funding independent research to find out, and the structure is the interesting part. The money creates what the field calls evaluations: standardized tests for AI models. Hundreds already exist for coding, math, and reasoning. However, almost none measure whether the tool is good for the human on the other end. Crucially, Anthropic is not building these tests in-house. Grantees receive funding, model access and technical support, then work fully independently. Everything they produce must be published open source, so any developer at any company can run it. As Cochrane puts it, Anthropic is paying to create a ruler other people will use to measure Anthropic. The example Anthropic leads with is deliberately uncomfortable. Claude might offer diet and workout advice to someone asking about weight loss. But if that user has a history of disordered eating, the same response becomes actively harmful. Cochrane connects this to sycophancy, a topic the show has returned to before, and notes that models carry no real memory of who you are unless you tell them. That is exactly why the problem has gone unmeasured. Code compiles or it doesn’t. Math checks out or it doesn’t. Wellbeing has no answer key, because the identical response can help one person and harm the next. The Five Things Anthropic Wants These Tests to Do Cochrane walks through all five criteria, since each targets a specific way this research usually fails. First, state plainly what you are measuring. It is easy to measure something adjacent, such as how often a model uses warm language, then publish numbers about a proxy while claiming insight into loneliness itself. Second, involve clinicians and subject-matter experts in designing and validating the tests. A capable engineer may simply not know what the warning signs of an eating disorder look like in text. Without those people in the room, the test measures what engineers imagine the harm looks like. Third, count overcompliance and overrefusal as harms. Overcompliance is the obvious failure. Overrefusal is the model becoming so cautious it turns useless, or shutting down someone who had nowhere else to ask. Cochrane adds that overrefusal is far harder to spot, because you often cannot tell it is degrading until it has degraded. Fourth, reflect real multi-turn usage. Most safety testing throws one nasty question at a model and checks for refusal. Meanwhile, actual harm builds across a long conversation where every individual message reads as fine. Fifth, validate the automated graders against real experts. Scoring thousands of conversations means an AI grades the AI. Consequently, a subtly wrong grader skews every downstream number in the same direction, and nothing in the process flags it. Cochrane expects this to be the hardest criterion to satisfy, since psychiatric and medical specialists do not come cheap by the hour. Applications close September 21st, and shortlisted applicants will be notified by October 5th. Notably, the announcement names no individual researcher or executive. Sponsor: GoDaddy Economy hosting $6.99/month, WordPress hosting $12.99/month, domains $11.99. Website builder trial available. Use codes at geeknewscentral.com/godaddy to support the show. Anthropic’s Enterprise Frontier Safeguards Keep Your Logs in Your Vault Anthropic’s second announcement targets a completely different audience. Catching misuse across many sessions requires keeping logs. However, banks and hospitals cannot hand that data to an outside vendor, because regulators will not allow it. Safety monitoring and compliance were in direct conflict. The fix moves where the data lives. Activity logs go into the customer’s own cloud bucket at Amazon, Microsoft or Google, locked with keys the customer controls. Automated systems scan a rolling window for serious abuse such as credential theft, and alerts route straight to the customer’s own security team. No human at Anthropic reads it, and Anthropic does not charge for the feature. The backstory explains the urgency. Anthropic had begun retaining thirty days of data with its Fable 5 model, specifically to catch patterns that only appear across multiple sessions. Regulated customers had to walk away immediately. Over a hundred organizations helped shape the result, including a quarter of the Fortune 100 and every US globally systemically important bank. It works across Claude Code, Claude Enterprise, Amazon Bedrock, and Microsoft Foundry. Wells Fargo’s security team put it simply, saying their logs stay in a Wells-managed environment under Wells-managed keys. Cochrane adds a personal note on the same retention change. Because transcripts now persist thirty days after last touch, he can keep Claude Code threads open far longer and lean on clear without losing context. Google’s Fairwind Program Hands Patching to the Machines Google is running the same play from the defensive side. Normally, a human engineer must reproduce a security flaw, understand it, write a fix, then prove the fix broke nothing else. That can stretch to weeks, and attackers live in exactly that gap. Fairwind pairs two systems to close it. Gemini 3.8 Flash Cyber is a model tuned for security work. CodeMender hunts for flaws and writes the patches. Together, Google says they produce verified, deployment-ready patches in minutes, running inside the customer’s own environment. Access is deliberately restricted to three groups: national cyber authorities; critical infrastructure operators in healthcare, telecom, energy, and finance; and major technology platform providers. More than 650 partners are involved. Cochrane’s take centers on logging quality. Systems that emit specific, unique errors rather than generic ones let these tools find real issues almost immediately. Furthermore, he sees value in purpose-tuned models over general ones, since different training data and methodology surface gaps a single familiar model would miss. Meta Built an AI That Learns From Its Own Experts Every organization has two or three people who actually understand the hard systems. When they are busy, everyone waits. When they leave, the knowledge leaves too. Most AI assistants address this with retrieval, searching documents when you ask. Meta went the other way. A long-running offline process digests the source material ahead of time into more than 200 structured knowledge files, so the thinking happens before anyone asks. On top sit what Meta calls recipes, step-by-step procedures mirroring how a specialist actually works a problem. The reported numbers are concrete. Restructuring cut tokens consumed per turn by 80 percent. Assessments that took days now take minutes. The team built the whole system in six weeks across three sprints. Cochrane focuses on the feedback loop. Normally, an expert corrects an assistant in chat; the answer improves once, then the system forgets. Meta’s version compiles corrections into knowledge files and regression-tests them, so fixes stick without retraining the model. However, he raises two real caveats from his own attempts. Building those knowledge files is token-heavy, and codebases change. If the offline process does not rerun, the documentation drifts away from the code it describes. He also predicts this will become a service offered by AWS, GitHub, or GitLab rather than something each company builds alone. Sixteen Green AI Projects Across Asia-Pacific Google DeepMind named the first cohort of its Accelerator: AI for the Planet program. Sixteen organizations span New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, Indonesia, Thailand, India, Australia and Japan, receiving three months of access to Google’s AI stack plus mentorship and a Singapore bootcamp. Several stand out. A New Zealand outfit called 800 Trust uses bioacoustics, monitoring an ecosystem by listening to it and running AI over continuous audio to track biodiversity. Wildlife.ai builds open-source AI camera traps. Australia’s X-Centric replaced the soil lab with a handheld X-ray reader that answers a farmer standing in the field. In India, Climitra Carbon verifies invasive species removal and converts the biomass into biochar. Access matters more than money, as Cochrane points out. A six-person conservation nonprofit cannot run frontier models, because the compute bill alone would consume its operating budget. The organizations closest to these problems have always been furthest from the tooling. An Oklahoma Bitcoin Mine Condemned After Leaking 3.8 Million Gallons Cochrane corrects the figure up front. Many outlets report three million gallons, but El Reno city officials put it at 3.8 million. A Bitcoin mining operation on West Jensen Road leaked water and dropped pressure badly enough to close El Reno Public Schools, the Canadian County Courthouse, and other city and county offices. It happened during a month with 24 days above 100 degrees, in a region under severe to extreme drought. The leak is not the damning part. The city issued a stop-work order on the site back in 2023 for electrical, construction, and fire safety violations, then never followed up. The facility ran roughly three years under an order nobody enforced. Interim city manager Ken Brown did not dodge it, saying simply, “We failed.” The site is now posted as condemned with a ten-day removal notice, and a hearing with operator Athlon BT is set for September 14th. Reaching the company has proven difficult, with a website stuck on a maintenance notice and an unanswered California phone number. Cochrane draws one distinction that the coverage keeps blurring. This is a Bitcoin mining rig, not a hyperscale AI data center. The residents who lost pressure absorbed the cost, and nobody billed the operator for the aquifer. BepiColombo Closes In on Mercury After Eight Years Reaching the closest planet to the Sun took nearly eight years, which sounds backward until you understand the physics. Falling toward the Sun means gaining enormous speed, and a spacecraft arriving too fast simply sails past. So the mission spent those years shedding velocity across nine gravity-assist flybys: one at Earth, two at Venus, and six at Mercury itself. On September 3rd, the transfer module separated and was discarded more than 200 million kilometers from Earth. Mission control marked the moment with “Roll call completed, GO for separation.” Importantly, the spacecraft has not arrived yet. Orbit insertion is November 21st, the two science orbiters separate around December 9th and 10th, and science operations begin in April 2027. That November date is revised, having slipped from an earlier plan. Two orbiters fly because they do different jobs. Europe’s Mercury Planetary Orbiter studies the planet and what lies beneath its surface. Japan’s Mio studies the magnetosphere. Mercury having a magnetic field at all is genuinely odd, since a planet that small should have cooled and lost it long ago. The mission honors Giuseppe “Bepi” Colombo, the Italian mathematician who worked out how to slingshot a spacecraft to Mercury in the first place. NASA Builds a Rocket Engine Talk You Can Hear NASA hosts a webinar on Friday, October 2nd at 2 pm Eastern, titled “The RS-25 Engine and the Future of Artemis Missions.” It runs about two hours, is open to anyone, and RSVPs close September 25th. The RS-25 is not new hardware. It is the Space Shuttle main engine, the same design that flew 135 shuttle missions across three decades, now bolted four at a time into the SLS core stage. Together they produce roughly 2.2 million pounds of thrust at 111 percent of their original shuttle rating. Throwing them away is the strange part. These are precision engines built to fly repeatedly, yet Artemis expends four on every launch. NASA got a proven engine and skipped a decade of development, and that is the trade. The accessibility work is the real story. The event includes an audio-described video of an engine test firing, a live Q&A with an Artemis engineer, and a panel on accessibility in space and science. A test firing normally sells entirely on spectacle. Conveying that, and the engineering underneath it, without the visuals is a genuine design problem NASA built the whole event around solving. Buried Underwear Wins a 2026 Ig Nobel The 2026 Ig Nobel Prizes were awarded September 3rd in Zurich. Marc Abrahams launched them in 1991 at the satirical magazine Annals of Improbable Research, and what began as a roast is now something researchers actively want. The soil science prize went to a team that buried 1,000 pairs of underwear across more than 25 countries and dug them up two months later. Measuring how much cotton rotted turns out to be a cheap, surprisingly good proxy for how biologically alive the soil is. The biomechanics prize recognized a precise, cross-species definition of kissing that works for animals and excludes passing food. By that definition, polar bears kiss, some birds kiss, and so do ants. Nature reports the behavior traces back roughly 21.5 million years to the ancestor of all large apes, meaning ancient humans very likely kissed Neanderthals. Cochrane’s favorite was the physics prize, awarded for a splash-free urinal design that reportedly cuts spray to 1.4 percent of normal. Cochrane closes by pointing listeners to the GNC Insider program, the newsletter, and podcastapps.com for a modern podcast app. Feedback on the show’s format is explicitly welcome at geeknews@gmail.com, where either Ray or Chris will read it. The post Anthropic’s $5 Million Push to Measure AI’s Effect on Wellbeing #1876 appeared first on Geek News Central.
heesy and Fondue learn about cheese in space. We talk about cheese on missions like Apollo, the Space Shuttle, the Space Station and Artemis II. We learn about a $750,000 Mars space food challenge and we talk about 3D printed cheese. And of course, we tell a very cheesy joke!Find us at www.justcheesy.com and everywhere you enjoy social media! https://linktr.ee/JustCheesyWhy is cheddar the most dangerous of all the cheeses? Because it is very sharp!Show Notes Freeze dried cheesehttps://freezedryinc.com/product/space-cheese/https://mooncheese.comcheese that has traveled to spacehttps://www.sciencefriday.com/educational-resources/foods-for-extreme-environments/https://www.discovermagazine.com/a-giant-leap-for-cheddarkind-brits-launch-cheese-into-space-28713https://airandspace.si.edu/collection-objects/space-food-macaroni-and-cheese-sts-27/nasm_A19890318000https://www.flandersdairyproducts.com/en/news/belgian-cheese-into-spacehttps://airandspace.si.edu/collection-objects/space-food-cheese-cracker-cubes-apollo-blue/nasm_A19990247000https://www.eater.com/2011/12/15/6629369/dutch-astronaut-to-bring-cheese-to-space-station-partyhttps://www.atlasobscura.com/places/spacex-space-cheesehttps://www.npr.org/2010/12/10/131955636/Last-Wordhttps://www.space.com/10459-wheel-cheese-launched-space-private-spacecraft.htmlhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brou%C3%A8rehttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cheese_Shop_sketchhttps://www.nationalgeographic.com/science/article/astronaut-space-food-moon-marshttps://tastewise.io/blog/space-food-trendshttps://www.nasa.gov/humans-in-space/the-menu-for-mars-designing-a-deep-space-food-system/https://www.nasa.gov/prizes-challenges-and-crowdsourcing/marstotable/https://www.nasa.gov/directorates/stmd/prizes-challenges-crowdsourcing-program/nasa-challenge-winners-cook/https://www.nasa.gov/general/nasa-study-to-analyze-fermented-food-samples-from-space/https://www.cas.org/resources/cas-insights/space-food-artemisMentioned in this episode:No sponsor AdThis is to try to get a sponsor ad.
Scientists are recognizing the similarities between the workings of the DNA code and computer science. DNA is, after all, a complex information storage system. But comparing DNA as an information storage system to our largest and fastest computers is like comparing the Space Shuttle with a bow and arrow.Harvard biologists have been amazed at what they have learned about the DNA workings of a single-celled protozoan. Its DNA routinely solves mathematical problems that only a very advanced modern computer can handle.All of us have seen the complex problem of the traveling salesman. He has seven points of departure, and seven destinations. The problem is to work out the most efficient route for him to follow. By comparison, the protozoan under study solves the equivalent problem with up to 50 points of departure and 50 destinations.This little protozoan has two nuclei, with nucleus arranging the same DNA differently. The smaller nucleus stores only the DNA needed to live in small units and must be reassembled before they do anything. This means it may discard up to 95 percent of the DNA, similar to compressed computer information. When the protozoan needs to reassemble its DNA, each end of each unit needs to find the proper end of the only other unit it attaches to. This is not "simple" life. Even scientists now recognize that this one-celled creature is a complex computer. And this bears witness to God, Who is the author of life, mathematics and all knowledge.Isaiah 40:12"Who hath measured the waters in the hollow of his hand, and meted out heaven with the span, and comprehended the dust of the earth in a measure, and weighed the mountains in scales, and the hills in a balance?”Prayer: I thank You, Father, that You have given knowledge to us. Amen.Ref: Kathy Sawyer, “Biological Software,” Princeton Alumni Weekly. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1232/29?v=20251111
Überhitztes Deutschland: Verbrannte Felder, Siegmund-Fieber, magere Tiere zum Schlachthof, Laster gegen Klimawandel. Und überraschende Goldmedaillen. Dramatische Gartenbeichte. Und der chilenische Diaabend der Mutmacher am 2.9. im PoshTeckel. Herzlich willkommen zur Wochenschau mit Paul und Hajo Schumacher und diesen Themen: Trump riskante Flugshow. Migrantische Tiere: Auf einmal klebte die Gottesanbeterin an der Scheibe. Die Raumfahrtübelkeit des Senators, Kotzen im Space Shuttle und die geheimnisvolle Maßeinheit Garn. Spioninnen auf KI-Brains angesetzt? Kunst: läuft gut, lohnt sich nicht. Kassel, Koblenz, Karlsruhe: Hilfe, die Berliner-Party-Monster kommen. Die Tragödie des Cambridge-Professors. Katzen- oder Hundehaushalt? Hitzewochenende im unklimatisierten Kleintransporter. Plus perverse Glücksgefühle - mein schöner Schuppen. Folge 66.Shownotes:Wir empfehlen: Hyperpolitik von Anton JägerSuse und Hajo laden zum Dia-Abend mit Chile- und Überwinter-Tipps am 2.9. im PoshTeckel"Mama, wie geht eigentlich Erholung?" - das neue Donnerstagsformat von PaulPodcast Elefantenrunde mit Frank Stauss und HajoDie MutMacher auf steady unterstützenHier den kostenlosen MutMach-Newsletter abonnierenHier gehts direkt zu Suses Workshops Der MutMachPodCast auf InstagramPauls Band Udo Butter und das Team mit allen AuftrittsterminenBücher:Suse SchumacherDie Psychologie des Waldes, Kailash Verlag, 2024Michael Meisheit + Hajo SchumacherLaufende Ermittlungen - großartige Krimi-Reihe mit dem Berliner Kommissar Peer Pedes.Band 1, 2 und 3 erscheinen bei Droemer Knaur.Kostenlose Meditationen für mehr Freundlichkeit (Metta) und Gelassenheit (Reise zum guten Ort) unter suseschumacher.deWir bedanken uns bei Markus C. Hurek für das tolle Coverfoto. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
"Seeking a Human Spaceflight Program Worthy of a Great Nation" presents the final report from the Review of U.S. Human Space Flight Plans Committee, which undertook an independent evaluation of the nation's human space flight initiatives and alternatives. The report emphasizes the need for a safe, innovative, affordable, and sustainable trajectory for U.S. space exploration beyond the Space Shuttle era. It outlines key objectives, including the development of new capabilities for the International Space Station, support for lunar missions, and the stimulation of commercial space flight.
"Seeking a Human Spaceflight Program Worthy of a Great Nation" presents the final report of the Review of U.S. Human Space Flight Plans Committee, which undertook a comprehensive evaluation of U.S. human space flight initiatives. The Committee's mission was to ensure that the nation is on a safe, innovative, affordable, and sustainable path for future space exploration, particularly in light of the Space Shuttle's retirement. By identifying a variety of options for human space flight, the report emphasizes the importance of supporting missions to the Moon, fostering commercial space capabilities, and maximizing the use of the International Space Station.
"Seeking a Human Spaceflight Program Worthy of a Great Nation" presents the final report from the Review of U.S. Human Space Flight Plans Committee, which undertakes a critical examination of U.S. human space flight initiatives and potential alternatives. The Committee aims to ensure that the nation embarks on a safe, innovative, affordable, and sustainable trajectory for human space exploration, especially following the retirement of the Space Shuttle. Key objectives include enhancing capabilities for the International Space Station, supporting missions to the Moon and beyond, and fostering commercial space flight.
After separation from the carrier aircraft the pilots completed a controlled descent and precise landing at Edwards Air Force Base, confirming earlier aerodynamic predictions and providing engineers with valuable information for the construction and operation of the orbital shuttle ...
On this day in 2002, Frederick D. Gregory was sworn in as NASA's first Black Deputy Administrator. Gregory's career included three space shuttle missions, becoming the first Black astronaut to command a shuttle mission and later becoming the first Black person to lead NASA. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Why did NASA lose its dominance in space while SpaceX became the world's launch leader?In this fascinating conversation, David and Stacy Whited sit down with bestselling author, economist, and historian Rainer Zitelmann to explore why capitalism—not government bureaucracy—is driving the future of space exploration. From the failures of the Space Shuttle program to Elon Musk's reusable rockets, Rainer explains how free markets are transforming the new space race and why Mars may ultimately be settled by entrepreneurs rather than governments.The discussion also dives into Rainer's remarkable personal journey from a committed Marxist and Maoist to one of the world's strongest defenders of capitalism. He shares why he believes capitalism has lifted billions out of poverty, why socialism has repeatedly failed throughout history, and why the battle over economic freedom could determine humanity's future both on Earth and beyond.If you've ever wondered why SpaceX continues to outperform government space programs—or what the next frontier for civilization really looks like—this is a conversation you won't want to miss.
The Smithsonian Institution National Air & Space Museum's Jennifer Levasseur discusses the history of the 135-mission Space Shuttle program (1981-2011), its accomplishments, and two tragic failures that led to the deaths of 14 shuttle astronauts. Ms. Levasseur, the curator in charge of the Space Shuttle Discovery at the Air & Space Museum's Udvar-Hazy Center in Virginia, where this interview took place, also takes us on a tour of the shuttle orbiter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Smithsonian Institution National Air & Space Museum's Jennifer Levasseur discusses the history of the 135-mission Space Shuttle program (1981-2011), its accomplishments, and two tragic failures that led to the deaths of 14 shuttle astronauts. Ms. Levasseur, the curator in charge of the Space Shuttle Discovery at the Air & Space Museum's Udvar-Hazy Center in Virginia, where this interview took place, also takes us on a tour of the shuttle orbiter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On the road or at the dinner table, this family friendly trivia podcast goes wherever you do. Facebook PatreonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
With four Space Shuttle missions totaling 231 days in space, United States Air Force Colonel Carl Walz has stories from space that will keep you on the edge of your seat! During his terrestrial down-time, he was ALSO the lead singer for Max Q, the legendary rock-and-roll band composed of astronauts, whose founders included one of our other recent show guests, Astronaut Hoot Gibson! It's another great SocialFlight Live show! Save up to 5% on Your AVEMCO Aircraft Insurance when you mention "SocialFlight"!“SocialFlight Live!” is a live broadcast dedicated to supporting General Aviation pilots and enthusiasts during these challenging times. Register at SocialFlightLive.com to join the live broadcast every Tuesday evening at 8pm ET (be sure to join early because attendance is limited for the live broadcasts).SocialFlight Partners: Avemco Insurance https://www.avemco.com/socialflight Aspen Avionics https://www.aspenavionics.com Avidyne https://www.avidyne.com Continental Aerospace Technologies https://www.continental.aero EarthX Batteries https://www.earthxbatteries.com Hartzell Engine Technology https://www.hartzell.aero Hartzell Propellers https://hartzellprop.com/Innovative Aerosystems https://iascorp.com/Lightspeed Aviation www.lightspeedaviation.com Michelin Aircraft https://aircraft.michelin.com/ Phillips 66 Lubricants https://phillips66lubricants.com/industries/aviation/ Tempest Aero https://www.tempestaero.com Trio Avionics https://www.trioavionics.com uAvionix https://www.uavionix.com Wipaire https://www.wipaire.com
Get Huel today with this exclusive offer for New Customers of 15% OFF with code alexoconnor at https://huel.com/alexoconnor (Minimum $50 purchase).For early, ad-free access to videos, and to support the channel, subscribe to my Substack: https://www.alexoconnor.com.Chris Hadfield is a retired Royal Canadian Air Force colonel, test pilot, and CSA astronaut. As the first Canadian to perform extravehicular activity in outer space, he has flown two Space Shuttle missions and also served as commander of the International Space Station. Get Chris's book Final Orbit.TIMESTAMPS:(0:00) Have We Lost Interest in Space Travel? (3:56) What Is There To Learn In Space? (12:01) Is Space Exploration National Or Global? (18:00) Will Civilians Need Training To Go To Space? (22:35) The Psychological Challenges of Space Exploration (26:28) Are Astronauts Thrill Seekers? (34:33) Writing Fiction As An Astronaut (42:58) How Chris Became a Novelist (50:32) The Biggest Risk Chris Has Ever Taken (53:09) How Chris Tackles FearCONNECT:My Website YouTubeInstagramTikTokTwitterFacebookCONTACT:Business email: contact@alexoconnor.comBrand enquiries: David@modernstoa.co
For the second installment of Space on Tap, a special “Are We There Yet?” live event series, we asked what scientists and their robotic coworkers are really looking for on Mars. Plus, the crew of the final shuttle mission, STS-135, reunited for the mission's 15th anniversary.
In 1986, seven astronauts boarded Space Shuttle Challenger for what was meant to be a routine tenth flight of the orbiter. Seventy-three seconds after lift-off, the shuttle broke apart in front of millions of viewers, in what remains one of the worst disasters in the history of human spaceflight. But how did a craft NASA claimed was as safe as an airliner come to fail in full view of a watching nation? Who knew the risks, and when? And why, seventeen years later, did it happen again? This is a Short History Of the Space Shuttle Challenger Disaster. A Noiser podcast production. Hosted by John Hopkins. With thanks to Dr. Matthew Hersch, an historian at New York and Harvard universities, and author of Dark Star: A New History of the Space Shuttle. Written by Kate Harrison | Produced by Kate Simants | Production Assistant: Chris McDonald | Exec produced by Katrina Hughes | Sound supervisor: Tom Pink | Sound design by Mirianna Pitman-Latham and Matthew Peaty | Assembly edit by Dorry Macaulay | Compositions by Oliver Baines, Dorry Macaulay, Tom Pink | Mix & mastering: Cody Reynolds-Shaw | Fact check: Sean Coleman Unlock the next two episodes of Short History Of… right now by subscribing to Noiser+. You'll also get ad-free listening and early access to shows across the Noiser podcast network, including Real Survival Stories and Sherlock Holmes Short Stories. Just click the subscription banner at the top of the feed, or head to www.noiser.com/subscriptions to get started. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Albuquerque Astronaut Mike Mullaine, who flew aboard two Space Shuttle missions, on Discovery, and Atlantis, joins TJ to discuss a new tv show he is a part of entitled "Once Upon a time in Space". He talks about the Space race, the early space program, and the future for it as well. Once upon a time in Space is scheduled to air Tuesday July 14th, 2026 on NMPBS, and will stream online as well. All this and more on News Radio KKOBSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Who are the leaders helping guide the future of the space and satellite industry, and why do they choose to serve? In this episode of the SSPI podcast, Why I Serve, we meet Andrew Faiola, Commercial Vice President at Astroscale and Chair of the SSPI Board of Directors. Andrew reflects on more than two decades in satellite communications, beginning with a 1992 Space Shuttle mission that sparked his interest in the industry and now connects directly to his work in on-orbit servicing and space sustainability. In this conversation we find out: What first drew him into the satellite industry How the industry has adapted through major technology shifts Why he has chosen to serve through SSPI, GSOA, MSUA and the SSPI UK Chapter What makes SSPI different as a membership organization His vision for SSPI's next two year why the industry must do a better job telling its story And why the people entering the industry make him optimistic This episode is part of SSPI's Space and Satellite Futures track, focused on leadership and the next generation of the industry. If you are interested in satellite communications, on-orbit servicing, space sustainability, professional leadership and the future of the space and satellite community, this conversation offers a thoughtful view from SSPI's new Chair.
What to expect at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026 and an interview with the Manager of Onsite Learning at the Smithsonian's National Air & Space Museum. Also, how L3Harris converted the Qatari-gifted 747 into Air Force One, the Cirrus TRAC10, window seat lawsuits, a rule change to allow supersonic flight over the United States, and an update on Boom Supersonic's strategy for its self-developed Symphony engine. Image by Linda and Lily. Guest Dick Knapinski is Director of Communications for the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA). He has served in that capacity since 2010 and has been with the organization since 1992. Dick serves as the liaison between the media and EAA throughout the year, particularly during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, the world’s largest fly-in convention. The event runs July 20-26, 2026. Dick Knapinski Boeing Plaza will be packed with aircraft to celebrate the aviation technology theme. Currently planned innovation displays for July 21 include BETA Technologies, Bye Aerospace, Jetson, American Drone, MagniX, Zipline, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Airhart Aeronautics, Merlin Labs, Amazon Delivery, and Starlight Productions. In addition to the displays on Boeing Plaza, Bye Aerospace, Jetson, BETA Technologies, American Drone, and ScaleWings plan to fly during the afternoon air show. Drone delivery company Wing will display the latest developments in its operations at Twilight Flight Fest. Learn more about the AirVenture Airshows and performers, Aircraft Anniversaries & Gatherings, Authors Corner, AviationTech, KidVenture, and the Fly-In Theater. Rare warbird static/flying displays will include the B-29 “Doc,” as well as a rare Consolidated PB4Y and the CAF’s B-24 Liberator on static display at Boeing Plaza. Vicky Benzing will fly her P-51 “Plum Crazy,” and Bernie Vasquez will demo a Republic P-47 Thunderbolt in afternoon shows. The Aviation Gateway Park will spotlight helicopters, advanced vertical lift platforms, and eVTOL aircraft through static displays and interactive exhibits. Before joining EAA, Dick built a broadcasting career in Wisconsin, including stints as Program Director at WNBI Radio, News Director at WMGV Radio, and Station Manager at WLFM-FM/Wisconsin Public Radio. He also spent years as a sportswriter for the Appleton Post-Crescent. Dick holds a private pilot certificate and remains active as a writer and spokesperson for EAA. Aviation News How was the new Air Force One prepared for flight? The two permanent VC-25 replacements were selected in 2015, and the $3.9 billion fixed-price contract was signed in February 2018. Boeing began physical refurbishment work in February 2020 on two 747-8I airframes originally built for the bankrupt Russian carrier Transaero. Boeing has already reported $2.5 billion in losses on the program. The current delivery target for the first jet is between 2027 and 2028, with the second jet to follow later. The ex-Qatari 747-8 “bridge” aircraft was gifted to the U.S. Air Force in May 2025 and entered service on July 1, 2026. L3Harris did the conversion in about 10 months. The quick conversion was accomplished due to several factors: Pre-staged employees operated on a 24/7, three-shift structure. (Boeing has worked a normal single-shift industrial pace, with no incentive to surge, staff once costs started ballooning.) The bridge aircraft came with a luxury interior. (Boeing's jets had incomplete interiors – basically shells.) Missing VC-25 elements. Reports (unconfirmed by the government) include no evidence of defensive countermeasures and a lack of EMP hardening. L3Harris didn’t out-engineer Boeing. They ran a 24/7 surge crew on a plane that already had a finished VIP interior, targeted a much narrower requirement (“executive airlift” vs. full presidential command-post survivability), and the government has not been forthcoming about which hardened-aircraft features (EMP shielding, missile countermeasures, full secure comms suite) were omitted. See also: Trump wants the $400M Qatari-gifted new Air Force One to be the centerpiece of his presidential library. But there's a problem. Cirrus launches TRAC10, a new light aircraft for the flight training market Purpose-designed for flight schools and to be powered by a turbocharged Rotax 916 iSc FADEC engine, the plane has a three-seat interior, a Garmin flight deck, and the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System. Cirrus says they have 100 orders from 13 flight schools. United Airlines must face lawsuit over ‘window seats’ that lack windows Not every “window seat” has a window. Sometimes it has a wall. That's just the way it is. But last August, some passengers filed class actions against United Airlines and Delta Air Lines, claiming that the carriers failed to properly disclose the lack of a window during the booking process. United claimed that “window seat” described the seat’s location and did not contractually promise that the seat would, in fact, have a window. In San Francisco, U.S. District Judge James Donato rejected the airlines' request to dismiss the suit. New Rule Clears Way for Quiet Supersonic Flights By way of history: The FAA issued 14 CFR § 91.817 in April 1973, prohibiting civil aircraft from flying at speeds exceeding Mach 1 over land in the United States. The ban came as a result of early Air Force and NASA-controlled boom tests over cities, concerns over the Boeing 2707 SST program, and the impending arrival of the Concorde. NASA’s X-59 QueSST is flying specifically to gather community-response data on its “quiet boom” design. In a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (Proposed rule: Enabling Supersonic Overland Flight), the FAA is looking to replace the blanket Mach-1 ban with a noise-based standard. Supersonic flight over land would be permitted if the boom signature falls under a certain loudness threshold. The NPRM states, “Manufacturers have demonstrated it is possible to fly supersonic aircraft without sonic booms reaching the surface by using sonic boom abatement techniques, making complete prohibition on civil supersonic flight outside of test areas no longer appropriate and an unnecessary restraint on the growth of the U.S. aviation sector.” The NPRM shifts the regulatory trigger from speed to noise. Right now, § 91.817 just bans anything faster than Mach 1 over land. The proposed rule keeps that structure but adds an exception: an operator may exceed Mach 1 if it can demonstrate that the sonic boom’s overpressure at the surface does not exceed 0.11 pounds per square foot (psf). This NPRM only covers en-route/overland boom noise. A separate rule on takeoff/landing noise is expected later this year, with both rules targeted for finalization by mid-2027. The comment period ends August 17, 2026, at 11:59 PM EDT. Boom Supersonic Q2 2026 Update https://youtu.be/gtf0-bVSbeA?is=GmG8VhICNm4wg7tP The FAA proposal to change from speed regulation to noise regulation is something Boom Supersonic and others have been seeking. In the Boom Supersonic Q2 2026 Update video, Blake Scholl reveals Boom's strategy for the Symphony engine. The company intends to market a variant of the engine for behind-the-meter power generation that AI companies can utilize for power. In large part, the engine OEMs wouldn’t develop an engine for the Overture because the huge development cost couldn’t be covered by the expected engine volume. So when Boom announced it was developing its own engine, the business case was unclear. But by focusing on the ground power generation market, Boom can spread development costs over a greater number of engines. Also, that revenue stream would generate cash flow for the Overture program. National Air and Space Museum Celebrates 50 Years With Opening of Five New Galleries Hillel attended the Smithsonian's National Air & Space Museum media preview of the opening of the five galleries. Last episode, we listened to two recordings from that event. This week Hillel speaks with Mike Hulslander, the museum's Manager of Onsite Learning. Mike has worked in museums and zoos for more than 28 years and has researched, written, presented, and evaluated science programs for school groups, families, and the general public. At the Air and Space Museum, he is responsible for science-focused programs and exhibitions. Mike also manages the Museum's learning centers: How Things Fly and the Design Hangar. Mike is also an adjunct faculty member at the National Center for Earth and Space Science Education. He serves as a science educator on the Student Spaceflight Experiments Program national review panel for experiment selection and has participated in reviews for the past 11 missions aboard the Space Shuttle and the International Space Station. Supersonic demo Lift vs. Angle of Attack Hosts this Episode Max Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, Rob Mark, David Vanderhoof, Hillel Glazer, and Brian Coleman.
Astronaut Col. Eileen Collins, the First Female Shuttle Commander talks about Breaking Barriers & her new movie "SPACEWOMAN"! In 1990, Col. Collins was selected to be a pilot astronaut with NASA Astronaut Group 13, eventually becoming the first woman to command a US spacecraft. Her NASA missions included a space rendezvous between Space Shuttle Discovery and the Russian space station Mir, deploying the Chandra X-Ray Observatory, and most notably commanding NASA's "return to flight" mission after the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster. During this mission she became the first astronaut to fly the Space Shuttle orbiter through a complete 360-degree pitch maneuver so astronauts aboard the International Space Station could photograph the orbiters belly and ensure it was safe for re-entry. Save up to 5% on Your AVEMCO Aircraft Insurance when you mention "SocialFlight"! “SocialFlight Live!” is a live broadcast dedicated to supporting General Aviation pilots and enthusiasts during these challenging times. Register at SocialFlightLive.com to join the live broadcast every Tuesday evening at 8pm ET (be sure to join early because attendance is limited for the live broadcasts).SocialFlight Partners: Avemco Insurance https://www.avemco.com/socialflight Aspen Avionics https://www.aspenavionics.com Avidyne https://www.avidyne.com Continental Aerospace Technologies https://www.continental.aero EarthX Batteries https://www.earthxbatteries.com Hartzell Engine Technology https://www.hartzell.aero Hartzell Propellers https://hartzellprop.com/Innovative Aerosystems https://iascorp.com/Lightspeed Aviation www.lightspeedaviation.com Michelin Aircraft https://aircraft.michelin.com/ Phillips 66 Lubricants https://phillips66lubricants.com/industries/aviation/ Tempest Aero https://www.tempestaero.com Trio Avionics https://www.trioavionics.com uAvionix https://www.uavionix.com Wipaire https://www.wipaire.com.
Don examines a pocket calendar that belonged to a woman stranded in the Arctic, a space shuttle at the center of a harrowing ordeal more than 200 miles above Earth and a musical instrument which produced heavenly sounds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jason Fraley celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Smithsonian National Air & Space Museum by flashing back to his 2015 chat with astronaut Christopher Ferguson when the museum screened his 3D/IMAX film “Journey to Space," narrated by Patrick Stewart. Ferguson famously commanded the final mission of NASA's iconic Space Shuttle program in 2011 before this year's exciting Artemis II launch. (Theme Music: Scott Buckley's "Clarion")
The Light Gate Welcomes GUEST: RobertSalas (author/experiencer) Date: June 29, 2026 Time: 5-7pm pacific / 8-10pm eastern Episode 165 Discussion: UFOs Tonight, "The Light Gate," welcomes Robert Salas. Robert is a graduate of the US Air Force Academy, class of 1964. He holds a Masters Degree in Aerospace Engineering from the Air Force Institute of Technology and a Masters in Education from the University of Washington. He served seven years on active duty before separating from the Air Force in 1971. While on active duty, he worked as a Weapons Controller, flew target drones, commanded intercontinental ballistic missiles as a launch officer, and worked as an Air Force missile propulsion engineer on the Titan III programs. From 1971-1973 he worked as a safety and reliability engineer for Martin-Marietta Aerospace and Rockwell International on SpaceShuttle design proposals. From 1974 until his retirement from federal service in 1995, he worked for the FAA as an aircraft structures certification engineer. From 1991-1993 he served as an FAA attache to the US Embassy in Indonesia, advising that government on aircraft certification. From 1998-2016, he was employed as a High School mathematics teacher. In 2005, Robert published the book, "Faded Giant" with coauthor James Klots, which details his 1967 UFO incident while stationed at Malmstrom AFB, Montana. In 2013, he published, "Unidentified: the UFO Phenomenon," providing new details on the phenomenon. His latest book is "UAPs and the Nuclear Puzzle" (2023.) In 2010, he co-sponsored a press conference at the National Press Club in Washington DC where he and six other ex-military witnesses testified to the propensity of UFO incidents at US nuclear weapons bases. In May 2013, he participated in the Citizen's Hearing on Disclosure at the National Press Club, Washington DC. In October 2021, he organized another press conference with three other ex-military witnesses on the connection between UAP and nuclear incidents. In June 2022, he testified to a special session of the Senate in Brazil. In February 2023, he made a full presentation to AARO about the 1967 Malmstrom Incident. In September 2023, he testified to the House of Deputies Legislature. Robert Salas has spoken at International conferences in 15 countries across the world and has been publicly speaking and appearing on television since 1996. LINKS: TANTOR MEDIA: https://tantor.com/author/robert-salas.html USAF CLASS OF 1964: https://www.usafaclasses.org/1964/Salas_Robert/history.htm IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3970832/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/robert.salas1 United Public Radio & UFO Paranormal Radio www.uprntalkradio.com
Looks Unfamiliar is a podcast in which writer and occasional broadcaster Tim Worthington talks to a guest about some of the things that they remember that nobody else ever seems to.Joining Tim this time is political commentator Mark Thompson, who's hoping that it's not too weird remembering Lenny Henry's Smiths Square Crisps adverts, the 'Allied Lyons - A Great British Company' campaign, The Quiet Earth, Steve Jackson Games' Illuminati, early Channel 4 sitcoms The Optimist and Father's Day and a variety of just about legal payphone 'workarounds'. Along the way we'll be predicting which would prove most profitable out of Findus Crisps and Golden Wonder Shark Jumps, explaining how Roy Jay was too weird for 'It's Weird...;, revealing how to repel adolescent phone box miscreants armed only with Red Red Wine by UB40 and considering whether Channel 4 could actually have happened without John Alderton's old shirts.You can find more editions of Looks Unfamiliar at http://timworthington.org/. You can also find Mark on Looks Unfamiliar talking about Whiz Kids, Crash ZX Spectrum, Night Shift, Public Information Film family The Blunders, The Last Train and The Drak Pack here, Libby's Moonshine, A. Mazing Monsters, Agony, Being Erica, Hawkeye Collins And Amy Adams – Can You Solve The Mystery? and We Know Where You Live plus an extra secret bit about watching television on holiday here, V: The Series, Dirty Dick, The Giftie, The Mad Death, The Different Story (World Of Lust And Crime) by Peter Schilling and Space Shuttle here and Twiggy Twiggy (Twiggy Vs. James Bond) by Pizzicato Five, Your Party Needs You, Jasper Carrott's I've Got This Mole, Society, Lost In Austen, Tarantulas: The Deadly Cargo and Shadow Chasers here, as well as Running Scared on The Golden Age Of Children's TV here.If you enjoy Looks Unfamiliar, you can help to support the show by buying us a coffee here. Don't bother with the Lyons website though. The more you read it, the more confused you'll get over whether it's actually available or not.
Colonel Eileen Collins was the first woman to pilot and command a Space Shuttle, and the person NASA trusted to lead the program back into space after the loss of Columbia. But her story is about so much more than the milestones. In this episode, Sarah Al-Ahmed sits down with Eileen Collins to discuss “Spacewoman,” a new documentary written and directed by Hannah Berryman, based on Collins' book “Through the Glass Ceiling to the Stars: The Story of the First American Woman to Command a Space Mission.” They talk about what drove her to keep pushing forward, the personal cost of pursuing an extraordinary career, and what it means to break barriers, not just for yourself, but for everyone who comes after you. Then, Bruce Betts, our Chief Scientist, joins us for What's Up to explore what distinguished pilots and commanders from mission specialists in the space shuttle era, and why that distinction was so critical to Eileen's path to the commander's seat. Discover more at: https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2026-spacewomanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dr. Eligar Sadeh, Tuesday, May 5, 2026, #4535Quick summaryThe Space Show featured a discussion with Eligar Sadeh, editor of the Journal of Astropolitics, about the recent Space Symposium in Colorado Springs and cislunar space governance. Sadeh explained how the symposium focused heavily on establishing U.S. dominance in cislunar space, particularly through the Artemis program, with emphasis on being the first mover in establishing governance structures and rules of engagement. The discussion covered concerns about NASA science budget cuts, the sustainability of the Space Launch System, and the role of public-private partnerships in lunar development. Sadeh noted that while the U.S. space community emphasized military and strategic priorities, international scholars, particularly from developing space nations, were increasingly contributing to astropolitical research through his journal. The conversation also touched on challenges with Starlink satellite congestion and the potential for space asset disruption, though Sadeh emphasized the importance of establishing international governance frameworks to prevent harmful interference in space.Detailed SummaryEligar discussed his recent activities, including his work as an adjunct professor at the University of Colorado, his involvement with the journal Astropolitics, and his focus on lunar governance and astropolitics. He highlighted the growing interest in cislunar space and lunar governance, noting a significant increase in paper submissions to the journal and plans for a special issue and international conference on the topic. Eligar also mentioned the prominent role of defense and military interests in the current space industry, particularly with the Space Force's increasing budget and focus on space superiority. The conversation touched on personal updates, including Eligar's children's current activities and his relationship status.Eligar discussed the emerging focus on cislunar space at a recent space symposium, highlighting the strategic importance of establishing governance structures and securing gravitational high ground in the Earth-Moon system. He noted that while the Artemis program aims for aggressive lunar exploration and potential human habitation by 2032, there are significant challenges with the Space Launch System's sustainability and the reliance on new commercial capabilities like SpaceX's Starship. Eligar emphasized that the civil program appears to be a cover for establishing U.S. superiority in the cislunar domain, particularly in response to geopolitical competition with China and Russia.The discussion focused on concerns about proposed NASA science cuts and their impact on the space community. Eligar noted that while there was awareness of these cuts during networking discussions at the Space Symposium, there was limited pushback, with many participants appearing to align with the Trump administration's direction. The conversation then shifted to broader governance challenges in the cislunar domain, with Eligar emphasizing the need for maintaining space as a commons and establishing rules for interoperability among the 62 states participating in the Artemis program. The discussion concluded with a reference to a 20-year-old paper co-authored by Eligar and David on public-private partnerships in lunar development, which remains relevant to current space governance challenges.Eligar discussed the challenges of establishing a permanent lunar presence, highlighting issues such as freedom of movement, resource utilization, and the harsh lunar environment, including metallic and adhesive dust. He emphasized the need for reusable and sustainable lunar transportation systems, suggesting that achieving a cost of $100 per kilogram with Starship could be crucial. Eligar also explained the concept of cislunar space as the gravitational high ground incorporating Lagrange points between Earth and the Moon, which provides access to various orbital domains and the lunar surface. Joe noted the disconnect between desired goals and current capabilities, advocating for increased repetition in accessing lunar space to support a permanent presence.The discussion focused on NASA's lunar mission plans and budget constraints. Joe expressed concerns that the Moon Enterprise would likely crowd out other NASA programs due to limited congressional funding, similar to previous large initiatives like the Space Shuttle and International Space Station. Eligar agreed that SLS is not sustainable, noting it's only planned for up to Artemis 5 with a cadence of one launch per year, and emphasized the geopolitical aspects driving the lunar race, including the need for reusable transportation systems and establishing a presence in the Aitken Basin for potential mining opportunities.The discussion focused on the Space Symposium's emphasis on getting to the lunar surface first rather than focusing on sustainability or cost efficiency. Eligar noted that while there was general support for the Artemis program and Accords, there was limited discussion about alternative lunar surface models or modifications to the current Artemis plan. The conversation highlighted a potential disconnect between the symposium's rhetoric about achieving rapid progress and budgetary realities, including concerns about over-reliance on Starship variants and cuts to science programs. John suggested that the science program cuts might be a strategic budget maneuver similar to defense programs, with the expectation that Congress would eventually restore funding.Eligar discussed NASA's proposed permanent lunar presence around 2030 and debated various technical choices in rocket design and propulsion. The conversation then shifted to concerns about space congestion, particularly with multiple satellite constellations being planned by different countries, though Eligar noted that cislunar space remains decades away from similar congestion issues. David raised questions about the global scope of the astropolitics journal, with contributions coming from scholars in developing space states who are focused on using space for socio-economic development rather than military dominance.The group discussed perceptions of Jared Isaacman and NASA's leadership in space governance, particularly regarding the Artemis program. Eligar explained that while there are good ideas in the current approach, there are concerns about U.S. dominance in space policy, noting a European concept of “equivalence” where different countries could develop governance approaches independently while maintaining interoperability standards. The discussion highlighted the tension between U.S. efforts to establish space superiority and the need for international cooperation, with Joe emphasizing that China and the U.S. are the dominant powers in space, making other countries effectively choose between aligning with one of these powers.We also discussed the growing importance of satellite communication systems for military purposes, with Joe noting that multiple countries are developing Starlink-like systems following the Ukraine war. They explored the challenges of denying access to these systems and the potential for kinetic attacks on satellites, with Eligar emphasizing the importance of establishing governance structures and rules of the road in space. The discussion concluded with Eligar providing an update on the journal Astropolitics, which is growing in influence among emerging space powers and has expanded its editorial board with new members including someone from the Romanian Space Agency.Eligar then mentioned plans for a special issue of Astropolitics journal focused on lunar astropolitics, governance strategy, and policy dynamics in cislunar space, with a global conference planned for early next year and publication expected in a year to year and a half. He agreed to provide David with contact information for potential guests for the Space Show and discussed the possibility of updating a previous article with Haym and himself in the fall. Regarding the timeline for returning humans to the Moon, Eligar expressed doubt about the 2028 target, suggesting 2030 would be more realistic due to ongoing challenges with the lunar landing vehicle.The group discussed public-private partnerships in space, with Eligar noting that realistic timelines for landing vehicles are now around 2030 rather than 2028 due to delays on both Blue Origin and SpaceX sides. Joe raised questions about international public-private partnerships, particularly in countries like India, while Eligar shared insights about emerging space capabilities in countries like Brazil, Cambodia, Thailand, and Indonesia. The discussion concluded with plans to follow up on these topics in a future issue of Astropolitics journal, with Eligar offering to rewrite and get the paper peer-reviewed.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:Please note that due to out of town guests for a family party, our next live Space Show program will be June 9, Tuesday, 7 PM PDT. Please check the Upcoming Show Menu on our home page for updates as they appear. Thank you. Get full access to The Space Show-One Giant Leap Foundation at doctorspace.substack.com/subscribe
The Space Show Presents Shubber Ali, Sunday, 4-19-26Quick Summary:This Space Show program featured Shubber Ali, the original founder of Space Cynics, discussing his return to critiquing space industry claims and over hyping. Shubber explained how Space Cynics began in the mid-2000s as a blog focused on questioning exaggerated claims about space technology, particularly around reusable rockets and commercial space ventures. The discussion centered heavily on Shubber's criticism of current space projects, including Elon Musk's data center plans in space, orbital mirrors for solar power, and space-based solar power systems. Shubber argued these projects were economically unfeasible due to launch costs, engineering challenges, and unrealistic timelines, using detailed calculations to demonstrate why proposed constellations would take decades to deploy rather than the claimed 5-year timeframes. The conversation also touched on NASA's Artemis program, government debt concerns, and the challenges of space colonization, with Shubber expressing skepticism about many current space industry promises while acknowledging the long-term potential for space development.Detailed Summary:The Wisdom Team discussed the background of Shubber Ali, who joined the meeting late due to a family commitment. They shared memories of past encounters, including a NASA Ames event and Shubber's work on the X33 “Adventure Star” project 25 years ago. The conversation touched on personal updates, including Shubber's recent move from California to Maryland and his company's location in Maine. The conversation ended with a brief discussion about potential future topics to cover, including data centers and reflecting mirrors, though the specific focus was not finalized.David welcomed Shubber Ali to the Sunday Space Show to discuss the resurrection of Space Cynics, a blog and award system that Shubber had originally founded in the mid-2000s. Shubber explained that Space Cynics focused on critiquing outlandish claims made by space companies, particularly through their “Walking Eagle Award” given to companies making unrealistic promises. Shubber shared his background working at KPMG in the 1990s, where he managed a space consulting team that produced the first annual State of the Space Industry report in collaboration with SpaceVest and other partners. The discussion began to cover the history of RLV (Reusable Launch Vehicle) companies from that era, though the transcript ended before this topic was fully explored.Shubber discussed the history of reusable rockets and space industry economics, highlighting how SpaceX's success demonstrated the viability of reusable technology despite earlier failures like the Space Shuttle program. He criticized current space industry hype, particularly around data centers in space, explaining that such projects face significant challenges in physics, engineering, and timeline feasibility. Shubber provided specific calculations showing that deploying a large constellation of data center satellites would take decades, not the 5-year timeline often proposed, and emphasized that basic mathematical analysis could disprove many space industry claims.Shubber expressed skepticism about Elon Musk's business ventures, particularly SpaceX and the Boring Company, arguing that while Musk has vision and funding, the actual execution relies heavily on his team. Shubber criticized the overvaluation of AI companies, claiming there's a significant bubble in the AI industry that will likely burst, with most AI applications being overhyped and overvalued. Philip disagreed, arguing that AI provides real value through productivity gains in areas like document drafting and research, though Shubber countered that these benefits are limited and often require significant human correction due to AI errors and hallucinations.Next, the discussion focused on evaluating business proposals and technological ideas, particularly around supply and demand economics. Shubber explained his approach to identifying problematic business projections, emphasizing how increased supply typically leads to lower prices unless demand grows commensurately. The conversation also addressed Elon Musk's Hyperloop concept, with AJ suggesting it was a bad idea without providing specific economic reasoning, which led to moderation intervention from David to keep the discussion focused on Shubber's planned topics. The discussion concluded with technical considerations around satellite positioning and space-based solar power challenges.We talked about the feasibility of space-based solar power, with Shubber and Phil both expressing skepticism about the technology's practicality in the near term. Shubber emphasized engineering challenges including launch costs, construction of large structures at geostationary orbit, and the inability to service equipment there, while Phil focused on economic inefficiencies due to energy conversion losses and high launch costs. The conversation also covered the status of space hotels, with David sharing insights about Bob Bigelow's withdrawal from the space hotel business following personal tragedy, and the group debated the value and hype surrounding NASA's Artemis program, particularly regarding the SLS rocket and moon missionsThe team discussed the Artemis program and NASA's budget challenges. Shubber criticized the SLS project as inefficient and suggested opening it up to commercial competition. The conversation then shifted to the national debt and unfunded liabilities, particularly regarding Social Security. Shubber explained the financial challenges of the current system and expressed skepticism about proposed solutions like moving Social Security to a cryptocurrency system. The discussion concluded with a brief mention of orbital mirrors and their potential applications, though Shubber expressed doubts about their practicality and use cases.The group discussed the feasibility and business case of using orbital mirrors to provide artificial sunlight, particularly for solar farms. Shubber and Philip analyzed the technical requirements, including the size of mirrors needed and the challenges of maintaining continuous sunlight. The discussion also touched on environmental impacts, including effects on agriculture and wildlife, and the long-term prospects for human space colonization, with Shubber suggesting that while space colonization may be necessary in the very long term, current public interest in returning to the moon remains limited.The group discussed space tourism and commercial space missions. They clarified that while Axiom missions have taken approximately 16 people to the ISS, these were not traditional space tourists but rather business investors funding scientific research. The conversation then shifted to GRU Space, a company claiming to develop the first lunar hotel, though participants expressed skepticism about its credibility and media presence. The discussion concluded with Shubber outlining a framework for evaluating space business proposals based on physics, engineering, and economics principles.The discussion focused on the challenges and realities of space technology investments, particularly regarding StarCloud's satellite project. Shubber explained how companies like StarCloud secure funding through connections and hype rather than proven technology, contrasting them with older-style VCs like Ed Tuck who focused on legitimate due diligence. The conversation then shifted to nuclear energy, where Shubber expressed support for nuclear power while noting that regulatory and construction challenges, rather than technical feasibility, are the main obstacles. The discussion concluded with a debate about the role of space advocates, where Shubber emphasized the importance of balancing ambitious vision with realistic timelines to maintain credibility and avoid damaging the broader space industry through unwarranted hype.The declining quality in journalism and scientific reporting was a topic. Shubber shared his experience of discovering that even respected publications like Scientific American contained inaccurate information, leading him to question the credibility of mainstream media. David described how his experience as a parent of a child with cystic fibrosis revealed widespread miscommunication between journalists and scientists, with researchers confirming that journalists often misunderstood their work. The discussion concluded with Ajay expressing concern about increasing dishonesty in scientific research, though Shubber clarified that the core scientific method remains sound and that issues arise when researchers prioritize agenda-driven outcomes over objective truth.The group discussed the challenges of modern engineering and space technology, particularly focusing on SpaceX's Starship development and the complexity of creating new products compared to historical examples like the Model T. Shubber mentioned his plans to write an upcoming OP-ed about space exploration and financial concerns, comparing the current situation to Britain before the fall of Singapore. The conversation concluded with a discussion about the likelihood of experiencing the Kessler syndrome by 2050, with participants expressing varying levels of optimism about humanity's ability to prevent such a scenario.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
On this episode we are joined by Dr. Rainer Zitelmann, to discuss his book New Space Capitalism: The Entrepreneurial Path to the Stars. We discuss why government-funded space programs were initially successful but also why the future of space exploration, and the space economy, will be driven by private companies. Dr. Zitelmann explains what he believes to be the key driver of unlocking the economic potential of space and why it's conceivable that ventures such as space tourism, orbital data centers and asteroid mining might be listed on the stock exchange. This is a conversation for everyone who wants an early look at an industry that is about to “take off”!-----50 YEARS OF TREND FOLLOWING BOOK AND BEHIND-THE-SCENES VIDEO FOR ACCREDITED INVESTORS - CLICK HERE-----Follow Niels on Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube or via the TTU website.IT's TRUE ? – most CIO's read 50+ books each year – get your FREE copy of the Ultimate Guide to the Best Investment Books ever written here.And you can get a free copy of my latest book “Ten Reasons to Add Trend Following to Your Portfolio” here.Learn more about the Trend Barometer here.Send your questions to info@toptradersunplugged.comAnd please share this episode with a like-minded friend and leave an honest Rating & Review on iTunes or Spotify so more people can discover the podcast.Follow Kevin on SubStack & read his Book.Follow Rainer on Instagram and read his book.Episode TimeStamps: 00:00 - Why incentives may explain why humans stopped going to the moon01:07 - Kevin introduces Dr. Rainer Zitelmann and New Space Capitalism02:47 - How childhood fascination with space led to a lifelong interest05:45 - Why Apollo succeeded and why it may have been a historical exception09:22 - The Space Shuttle program and the limits of government-led innovation13:50 - How SpaceX changed the economics of launch services20:32 - Why private property rights may be essential for space capitalism24:36 - The legal uncertainty around owning land and resources in space32:23 - How Mars settlement could be financed through private ownership42:49 - Asteroid mining, space resources and the business case beyond Earth48:06 - Space tourism and why early innovation often starts with the wealthy53:51 - How investors might think about the emerging space economy58:27 - Why space capitalism is no longer science fictionCopyright © 2025 – CMC AG – All Rights Reserved----PLUS: Whenever you're ready... here are 3 ways I can help you in your investment Journey:1. eBooks that cover key topics that you need to know about In my eBooks, I put together some key discoveries and things I have learnt during the more than 3 decades I have worked in the Trend Following industry, which I hope you will find useful. Click Here2. Daily Trend Barometer and Market Score One of the things I'm really proud of, is the fact that I have managed to published the Trend Barometer and Market Score each day for more than a decade...as these tools are really good at describing the environment for trend following managers as well as giving insights into the general positioning of a trend following strategy! Click Here3. Other Resources that can help youAnd if you are hungry for more useful resources from the trend following world...check out some precious resources that I have found over the years to be really valuable. Click HerePrivacy PolicyDisclaimer
Our guest today is Doug Cooke, an aerospace consultant who spent 38 years at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston and NASA Headquarters in Washington, D.C. STEM-Talk host and IHMC founder Dr. Ken Ford, a former Associate Director of NASA's Ames Research Center and Director of NASA's Center of Excellence in Information Technology, interviewed Doug just four days after the astronauts of NASA's Artemis II mission splashed down in the Pacific Ocean following a historic 10-day roundtrip from the Earth to the Moon. In today's episode, Ken and Doug discuss the Artemis mission as well as NASA's plans to return humans to the lunar surface by 2028. Doug also shares his concern that China could one day surpass America's leadership role in human spaceflight. During his 38 years at NASA, Doug played critical roles in the Space Shuttle, International Space Station and Human Exploration spaceflight programs. During the last three years of his NASA career, he served as Associate Administrator of the Exploration Systems Mission Directorate, which oversees the development of systems critical to NASA’s plans for human exploration of the Moon and Mars, including the Artemis program. Show notes: [00:04:05] Ken opens our interview with Doug by talking about the Artemis II mission, which is the first crewed mission beyond low earth orbit since Apollo 17 in 1972. Harrison Schmidtt, who was on Apollo 17, was our guest on episode 4. Ken asks Doug for his key takeaways of the Artemis II mission, which set the record for a manned mission from Earth, traveling 252,756 miles into space and breaking Apollo 13's record. [00:06:18] Ken explains that the Artemis missions signal a new age of space exploration as well as the beginning of a new space race between the U.S. and China. NASA aims to land humans on the Moon by 2028 while China expects to land humans on the moon in 2030. Ken has previously stated that he does not have confidence in NASA's current mission architecture to achieve NASA's stated goal of 2028, and asks Doug for his thoughts on the matter. [00:07:28] Ken asks if it is true that Yuri Gagarin, who become the first human to fly into space, is what initially sparked Doug's interest in science and space. [00:08:54] Ken notes that Gagarin's orbit around the earth inspired President Kennedy to vow that the United States would ramp up its space program and become the first nation to land a man on the moon. Ken mentions that he believes the Apollo 11 mission, which landed astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin on the lunar surface, was one the greatest technological advances in world history. Ken asks Doug for his thoughts on the success of the Apollo program. [00:10:28] Ken mentions that Doug went to college at Texas A&M and majored in aerospace engineering. Kens asks Doug how he got a job at NASA after graduating. [00:12:21] Ken explains that Doug was instrumental in the development of the space shuttle and the International Space Station during his time at NASA. Doug talks about what it was like working on those projects at NASA. [00:15:16] Ken mentions that Doug also had an instrumental role in the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO), Lunar Crater Observation and Sensing Satellite (LCROSS), and the broader Exploration Technology Program. Ken points out that Doug became head of the exploration technology program in 1990 under then NASA Associate Administrator Mike Griffin, who was our guest on episodes 134 and 189. Ken asks Doug about meeting Mike. [00:16:17] Ken mentions that Mike Griffin and Lisa Porter were our guests on episode 189, where they voiced concerns about NASA's current plans for a return to the moon. Ken goes on to mention that near the end of Doug's career at NASA, he was the head of Exploration Systems Mission Directorate (ESMD), which is responsible for the development of systems critical to NASA's plans for future exploration of the Moon and Mars. Ken asks Doug to talk about his role as head of the directorate and the work he did there. [00:18:55] Ken explains that Doug has written extensively on the issues with the Artemis mission architecture, most notably in a recent article for space news. Before jumping into the article, Ken asks Doug to talk about why it is important and also a national-security concern that we return to the moon before China. [00:21:12] Looping back to Doug's op-ed in Space News, Ken notes that Doug stressed the need for NASA to develop a plan-B for the Artemis mission, with Doug and others noting that without a plan-B, the U.S. risks of losing the space race to the Moon. Doug has also gone on record to say that China has a far simpler, more direct, and more technically conservative plan than NASA. Ken asks Doug to elaborate on this. [00:22:37] Ken asks Doug to talk about the issues he and others have identified with NASA's current proposed landing system. [00:26:14] Ken asks Doug to give a better understanding for the listeners of just how tall the proposed SpaceX lander is, and why that is a potential problem for not only landing on the moon in the proposed locations, but also for the astronauts exiting and entering. [00:28:51] Ken asks Doug to talk about what plan-B for Artemis looks like. [00:30:12] Ken asks Doug about the powerful thrust generation of the SpaceX lander. This raises the concern of regolith blast and generating significant debris fields while landing and thus reducing the scientific value of the region immediately surrounding the landing site. [00:30:59] Ken asks if Doug has any other thoughts on a potential plan-B. [00:33:02] Ken notes that the success of the mission hinges on the least proven element, namely the lander. While other elements of the mission architecture are well established, the hardest and least tested elements are normally the weakest links. Ken asks Doug's thoughts on this position. [00:34:31] Ken asks Doug to talk about the complexity of the Artemis mission architecture and that it is largely driven by the Lander and NASA's requirements. There was a high interest in re-usability which increased complexity. Neither of the two Landers under development are an optimal design for a lunar lander. [00:35:37] Ken asks Doug about the role of commercial companies sometimes called “new space” in space exploration. [00:37:02] Ken asks Doug if he feels discouraged by the fact that the U.S. has squandered a 60-year head start in space exploration. [00:37:36] Ken explains that China aims to send humans to Mars by 2050, and NASA aims to do the same by 2040, while Elon Musk proposes to send humans to Mars by 2029, which Ken says is a completely untenable notion. Ken notes that statements such as that from Musk vastly understate the difficulty entailed in a Mars mission. Given that Doug was part of the early planning of a Mars mission at NASA, he asks Doug to talk about the challenges that such a mission faces. [00:42:17] Ken and Doug discuss the problem with EDL (Entry Descent and Landing) that Mars uniquely poses. [00:43:09] Ken also brings up the issue of crew health and wellness. By the time they reach Mars, given the extended time spent in a high-radiation, micro-gravity environment, maintaining crew health in transit is critical to mission success. [00:43:47] Ken poses the concern that if it becomes likely that China will reach the moon before the U.S. can return, then NASA or the political leadership may adopt the attitude that we've already been to the moon, and that we should just jump straight to Mars. [00:46:24] Ken asks for Doug's thoughts on NASA's current leadership and workforce. [00:49:01] Ken quizzes Doug about the aims, goals, and mission architecture of Artemis III and IV. [00:51:16] Ken notes that the design of Artemis III might negatively impact the overall mission goal of landing on the Moon by 2028. [00:52:04] Ken shifts to talk more about Artemis IV, elements of which, Ken notes, need much more testing to be ready. [00:52:58] Ken closes our interview noting that Doug will return for another interview on STEM-Talk in 2028 to see if Artemis is on schedule. Ken ends by asking Doug about how he started his hobby of collecting Civil War artifacts after he retired and moved to Gettysburg, as well as his hobby of collecting antique cars. [00:55:17] Ken closes by asking Doug to name the favorite car he has collected. Links: Doug Cooke bio Learn more about IHMC STEM-Talk homepage Ken Ford bio Ken Ford Wikipedia page
Today on the Our Town w/ Troy Bye, we welcome author Charles H. Souther, a storyteller and historian whose life experiences span one of the most transformative periods in American history. Souther is the author of the memoir From the Mules and Wagon to the Space Shuttle, a reflective and deeply personal account of growing up in a rural America that would evolve from horse-drawn transportation and isolated farming communities into the modern technological age of rockets, computers, and space exploration. Raised in the American South during a time when daily life revolved around agriculture, faith, family, and close-knit communities, Souther witnessed firsthand the enormous cultural, economic, and technological shifts that reshaped the nation throughout the 20th century. His writing preserves the memories, traditions, and values of an earlier generation while documenting the transition into the modern world. Through vivid storytelling, Souther recounts experiences from childhood, farm life, community gatherings, wartime eras, changing transportation, industrial growth, and the rise of the Space Age — offering readers a rare bridge between two vastly different Americas. His work resonates with audiences who appreciate oral history, Southern heritage, Americana, and the stories of ordinary people living through extraordinary change. Souther's book is more than a memoir — it is a historical snapshot of a disappearing way of life and a tribute to the resilience, ingenuity, and work ethic of generations who endured hardship while helping build modern America. The title itself symbolizes the remarkable arc of progress he witnessed during his lifetime: from mules and wagons on dirt roads to humanity launching the Space Shuttle into orbit. In this episode, we explore Souther's personal journey, the inspiration behind his writing, the lessons he believes younger generations should remember, and how preserving local stories and lived experiences helps communities maintain their identity and connection to the past. To buy a copy of the book, click here https://www.amazon.com/dp/0980241502?ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_ZX3WQW7FBC8XZ9KQEE87 Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town with Troy Bye, a brand of the Our Town Company, LLC Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCP5NjTsQ72k00C5n7ghLapAWatch on Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/0JwD62zXPncMeFeQdTVomH Audio only available in all other platforms where you get your podcasts Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/our-town-w-troy-bye-50033a234/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/
This video discusses the role of the "cia" and aerospace corporations in holding onto "ufo" secrets, highlighting the challenges of gaining access to such information. It also references President "eisenhower's" past attempts to access "area 51" secrets. The discussion further touches on the push for "disclosure" and the alleged opposition from a "deep state" / "vatican archives" alliance.00:00:00 - Topics 00:01:36 - Trump is pushing UFO disclosure, Deep State is doing all it can to stop it. https://x.com/ThePatriotOasis/status/205292060367858915700:03:55 - Pentagon confirms rolling releases every few weeks. https://x.com/overclassifiedx/status/2053145896859361367 00:09:01 - The CIA and aerospace corporations are where the real UFO secrets are stored https://x.com/MichaelSalla/status/205343121507240775200:10:23 - Live feeds from NASA's ISS and Space Shuttle missions showed many UFOs. https://x.com/MichaelSalla/status/2053433500976504866 00:13:09 - The truth of what exists and has been happening underground. https://x.com/MichaelSalla/status/205343964020863435000:14:25 - David Grusch reveals (Deep State) officials in the CIA and DIA are trying to stop Trump administration. https://x.com/MichaelSalla/status/205359611782931685000:15:54 - Iran's Hidden Stargates? . https://exopolitics.org/irans-hidden-stargates-dr-michael-salla-exposes-the-real-reason-behind-the-iran-conflict/ 00:17:21 - DOW video of an alleged UAP https://x.com/MichaelSalla/status/205383424576892937600:22:03 - the removal of enriched Uranium from Venezuela https://x.com/MichaelSalla/status/2053874674434547761 00:23:55 - Trump administration has implemented a UFO disclosure timetable https://x.com/MichaelSalla/status/2054164091476881806 00:27:24 - Representative Burlison identifies some of the private contractors. https://x.com/MichaelSalla/status/2054309081683309040 00:34:06 - Sleeping Dog documentary about Jeremy Corbell's UFO research. https://x.com/MichaelSalla/status/2054317697400291509 00:39:22 - Japan is following the US lead in UFO disclosure. https://x.com/MichaelSalla/status/2054509428141892048 00:40:57 - Jake Barber says “We can summon UFO's 100% of the time in daylight" https://x.com/InterstellarUAP/status/2054417602089202055 00:44:22 - Rep. Eric Burlison just confirmed that the Trump admin completely cut AARO gatekeepers out of the UAP release. No filters, no bureaucrats, raw files straight to public https://x.com/overclassifiedx/status/205458827204802996000:46:06 - If Rep Eric Burlison brings classified videos or documents to a congressional meeting, he can show them to the world and not face prosecution under the Speech or Debate clause. https://x.com/TheUfoJoe/status/2054587257869439331 00:48:10 - A 1952 CIA doc refers to a "temple under the Sphinx" resurrecting Edgar Cayce's claims about a Hall of Records under one of its paws. https://x.com/MichaelSalla/status/2054745233649278994 00:51:48 - CIA seized 40 boxes of JFK and MK-ULTRA files https://x.com/LeadingReport/status/2054623083353301339 The Deep State doesn't approve of Trump-appointed officials. https://x.com/MichaelSalla/status/205486316153518929300:57:04 - Deep State Collapse? Stargates, White Hats & Humanity's Awakening EXPOSED https://x.com/MichaelSalla/status/2054884358763249942 01:00:00 - Space Arks, Advanced Beings and Hidden Technology https://x.com/MichaelSalla/status/2054942561530208668 01:04:38 - Brother Guy Consolmagno, Ph.D, former Vatican Chief Astronomer and a Jesuit, does not believe UFOs are an important topic https://x.com/MichaelSalla/status/2055247913781956777 01:10:59 - Portal Technology, Ancient Weapons, and the Middle East https://x.com/MichaelSalla/status/205524933335676153801:15:31 - Trump, Pentagon & Alien Secrets - Disclosure Imminent – Get Ready! https://x.com/MichaelSalla/status/2053808176428920864 Join Dr. Salla on Patreon for Early Releases, Webinar Perks and More.Visit https://Patreon.com/MichaelSalla/
What does it actually take to send humans back to the moon? This week on Pod Have Mercy, John sits down with NASA engineer Jimmy Warner to talk about the future of space exploration, moon bases, Mars missions, and the real science behind the Artemis program. Jimmy shares stories from his 18 years at NASA working on projects including Orion, the Space Shuttle, Gateway, and future lunar habitat systems.The conversation explores everything from lunar dust and ion propulsion to space station living, flat earth conspiracies, sci-fi movies, and the spiritual awe that comes from seeing Earth from space. Jimmy also shares how NASA is preparing for permanent human presence on the moon and why the moon is only the first step toward Mars.It's a fascinating conversation about science, engineering, wonder, and what humanity's future in space could look like.
This week, we’re talking with astronaut Butch Wilmore who has spent 465 days off-planet, giving him a literally out-of-this-world perspective on God’s creation. From fighter jet pilot to Space Shuttle commander, Wilmore’s career was a testament to preparation and discipline. However, his faith was truly tested when a spacecraft Wilmore was manning began losing thrusters—and he was just a prayer away from spiraling toward potential disaster. Next up, we speak with Brooke Envick, a veteran dean in higher education, who recounts how achieving every professional milestone left her feeling empty. She discusses combining lessons from neuroscience with practices like gratitude and prayer, revealing how a sudden, debilitating health crisis forced her into a necessary stillness that ultimately paved the way for profound, lasting internal change. Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned: Jesus Calling Podcast Jesus Calling Jesus Always Jesus Listens Past interview: Nikki DeLoach Upcoming interview: Caroline Beidler Jesus Calling for Moms Butch Wilmore Boeing Starliner Stuck in Space: An Astronaut's Hope Through the Unexpected - Book by Butch Wilmore Brooke Envick True Ascension: Unlocking Greatness Through Faith, Fortitude, and Foresight - Book by Brooke Envick Interview Quotes: “You can see the vibrancy, you can see life in the colors. Understanding and knowing that the atmosphere protects the planet and enables us to have the air to breathe that we need, and all of that, and it’s all supplied by our Lord and Savior, our God, the Creator of all things, that is a special thing to view from that vantage point.” - Butch Wilmore “In all types of strenuous situations that we come through in life—to where realizing the Lord’s in control, He is sovereign, working providentially for His Glory and our ultimate good, if we believe. And that is the mainstay of who I am, what I understand, what I know God’s Word to say. And again, even in those moments, it brings intense comfort and intense hope. There’s always, always, eternal hope, regardless of what takes place.” - Butch Wilmore “You’ve got to be completely committed, all in, and that commitment breeds the preparation that is required for whatever the tasks are that you’re undertaking, because the responsibility is great, sometimes greater in certain areas than others.” - Butch Wilmore “I have to come at whatever the task is with a complete mindset of being prepared, disciplined in that preparation, because that’s what it takes—and in those extremist situations, maintaining the focus that’s required to do the task, whatever that might be.” - Butch Wilmore “Anything that we have, everything that we are capable of doing, everything that we are tasked with doing, He’s given us the ability, and to Him be the glory.” - Butch Wilmore “Life is tough, and in every situation, everything in life, you have to want whatever it is that’s going forward. You have to want it, you’ve got to be committed, you’ve got to prepare, because the responsibility is great that God requires of us, in all aspects of our lives.” - Butch Wilmore “God was still shaping me in that moment and it taught me that real change doesn’t always come from moving faster or starting over. Sometimes it actually happens from stopping and listening and allowing God to align your inner life before sending you forward again.” - Brooke Envick “I found that scripture gave me a lot of insight into broader wisdom and lessons from the Bible, prayer gave me a connection and ongoing conversation with God, and meditation brought alignment to my life. It helped me slow down and focus my thoughts and become more intentional about how I was responding to life, instead of simply reacting to it.” - Brooke Envick “What we return to consistently is what begins to shape our thought patterns, emotional responses, and also our sense of peace. So when we connect with God daily, we reinforce those neural pathways associated with calm, trust, and meaning. Devotionals like Jesus Calling help us create space for that daily attunement and moments when we need to pause and listen and realign our thoughts with truth and with trust. What I’ve seen in my own life is that daily connection doesn’t remove challenges, but it changes how we move through them.” - Brooke Envick “Faith isn’t meant to be passive. God gives us direction, purpose, and trust, but He expects us to use the tools He gives us to make progress.” - Brooke Envick “Faith shapes the why, which is our meaning, our purpose, and our trust in God, and neuroscience reveals the how.” - Brooke Envick ________________________ Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel! Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7 Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY ________________________ Connect with Jesus Calling Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest YouTube Website TikTok Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
In this episode of WarDocs, Dr. David Hilmers, a retired Marine Colonel, four-time NASA Space Shuttle astronaut, and dual-trained physician in internal medicine and pediatrics offers a sweeping perspective on what it means to apply hard-won lessons from space exploration, global infectious disease response, and humanitarian medicine to the pressing challenges facing military medicine today. Dr. Hilmers traces a career that began with a chance bulletin posted in Japan advertising NASA's new astronaut program. With an aviation background and advanced degrees in electrical engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School, he applied on a whim and spent twelve years at NASA — flying the first mission of Atlantis, the first post-Challenger flight, two classified DOD missions, and a scientific mission just before starting medical school. After retiring from the astronaut corps, he fulfilled his lifelong dream of medicine, completing a dual residency before dedicating subsequent decades to sub-Saharan HIV, Ebola response in Liberia, malnutrition research, refugee health in Bangladeshi camps, and hepatitis B elimination across the Pacific. The conversation covers the parallel demands of deep space medicine and austere combat environments — both defined by communication blackouts, limited resources, and the need for expert decision-support without a physician readily available. Dr. Hilmers describes his consultancy work for NASA on Earth-independent medical operations using mixed reality and large language models, and explains how these same AI-driven tools represent a critical force multiplier for a special forces medic, Navy corpsman, or Space Force guardian operating in denied or degraded environments. He introduces the knapsack problem — a NASA-developed optimization framework that balances mission requirements against the mass, volume, power, and training cost of medical equipment — and argues persuasively that this model is directly applicable to the prolonged field care challenge posed by large-scale ground combat operations (LSCO). As the golden hour becomes a relic of counterinsurgency-era warfare, AI-powered kit optimization and just-in-time procedural training become existential requirements, not enhancements. On wearable technology, Dr. Hilmers articulates a layered, agentic-AI approach to battlefield health monitoring — smart garments, sweat sensors, tactical watches, smart rings, helmet concussion dosimeters, and hearables — all operating under strict emissions control, with edge computing that pushes actionable alerts to the individual soldier without requiring eyes on a screen. The real holy grail is seamless integration into situational awareness networks that give squad leaders and brigade commanders real-time readiness data. Dr. Hilmers closes with a frank assessment of soft power: the withdrawal of USAID and PEPFAR funding has ceded influence in the Pacific and across the developing world to China, with projected millions of preventable deaths. He calls on military medicine to lead humanitarian engagement as both a moral imperative and a strategic tool. His final advice to young military medicine professionals — dare to be more than you think you can be, and know that it is never too late to reinvent yourself — distills a life of uncommon service into a single, actionable mandate. Chapters (00:00:00-00:01:44) Introduction: From Aviator to Astronaut to Academic Physician (00:01:45-00:06:25) AI Tools for Austere Environments: Space, Combat, and Remote Medicine (00:06:26-00:13:19) Lessons from Ebola, Refugee Camps, and Global Infectious Disease (00:13:20-00:18:49) The Knapsack Problem: Optimizing Medical Kits for Prolonged Field Care (00:18:50-00:27:16) Wearable Technology and the Digital Twin Warfighter (00:27:17-00:31:18) Bench to Battlefield: Academia, Industry, Military Collaboration and Closing Advice Chapter Summaries (00:00:00-00:01:44) Introduction: From Aviator to Astronaut to Academic Physician Dr. Hilmers recounts a career trajectory shaped by opportunism and determination. Drafted-era military service led to Marine aviation, graduate engineering degrees at the Naval Postgraduate School, and a chance NASA application while stationed in Japan. Twelve years as an astronaut on four Space Shuttle missions gave way to the long-deferred dream of medicine — a dual residency and decades of academic and humanitarian work that followed. (00:01:45-00:06:25) AI Tools for Austere Environments: Space, Combat, and Remote Medicine Dr. Hilmers draws direct parallels between deep space medical operations and combat or remote-area medicine: limited communications, absence of ground-based expert support, and the demand for just-in-time training. His NASA consultancy work on Earth-independent medical operations using mixed reality and large language models maps directly onto the needs of a corpsman, special forces medic, or Space Force guardian in a denied environment. (00:06:26-00:13:19) Lessons from Ebola, Refugee Camps, and Global Infectious Disease The Liberia Ebola response revealed the fatal flaw of large, fixed treatment units in an outbreak that moved dynamically across the country. That lesson produced the EZ Pod — a collapsible, helicopter-transportable isolation unit developed at Baylor. Experience in Bangladeshi Rohingya refugee camps reinforced the life-saving power of vaccination and the growing threat of climate-driven disease migration. The core lesson: enter a community to ask what is needed, not to impose solutions. (00:13:20-00:18:49) The Knapsack Problem: Optimizing Medical Kits for Prolonged Field Care Drawn from NASA mission planning, the knapsack problem is a systematic optimization of medical kit contents against the probability, fatality, and resource cost of each anticipated condition. Dr. Hilmers argues this framework is essential as LSCO scenarios eliminate the golden hour and require prolonged casualty care in the field. AI is positioned as the engine that can dynamically optimize triage decisions, antibiotic allocation, and resource sequencing in real time. (00:18:50-00:27:16) Wearable Technology and the Digital Twin Warfighter A layered ecosystem of smart garments, sweat sensors, tactical watches, smart rings, helmet concussion dosimeters, and hearables can create a real-time digital twin of the individual soldier and the collective readiness of a unit. The critical design constraints are EMCON compliance, MIL-SPEC durability, edge computing without internet dependency, and seamless integration into situational awareness networks from the squad level to the brigade. The holy grail is actionable data pushed to the soldier without requiring eyes off the mission. (00:27:17-00:31:18) Bench to Battlefield: Academia, Industry, Military Collaboration and Closing Advice Effective innovation requires continuous, bottom-up communication among academia, industry, and the military — and that means all three groups must get their hands dirty in field testing. Dr. Hilmers cautions against fitting a "sexy AI application" to a problem it does not solve. His closing message to young military medicine professionals: take every opportunity the military offers, dare to exceed your own expectations, and know that reinvention is always possible. Take Home Messages Austere Environments Share a Common Medical Playbook: Whether the setting is a spacecraft bound for Mars, a combat forward operating base, or a refugee camp in Bangladesh, the medical challenges converge: degraded communications, absent specialist support, and the need for expert clinical decision-making at the point of care. Building systems — AI tools, training protocols, or equipment kits — that address these shared demands creates solutions with broad applicability across military and humanitarian contexts. Optimize the Kit Before the Mission, Not During the Crisis: The knapsack problem is an operational imperative. Every gram of medical equipment displaces something else, and every gap in the kit becomes a potential fatality during prolonged casualty care. AI-driven optimization of medical kit contents against mission-specific risk profiles must become a standard pre-deployment process, especially as LSCO eliminates the expectation of rapid evacuation. Just-in-Time Training Is a Force Multiplier, Not a Substitute for Preparation: AI-enabled procedural guidance at the point of care — showing a corpsman exactly how to perform a cricothyrotomy in the moment it is required — can bridge lethal knowledge gaps in combat. This capability augments, it does not replace, rigorous pre-deployment training. The human must remain in the loop; AI is an advisor, not a commander. Wearable Technology Only Delivers Value When Integrated Into the Fight: A smart ring that predicts illness or a helmet sensor that quantifies blast exposure generates no operational value if the data is not actionable at the point of decision. Battlefield wearables must operate under strict emissions control, function without internet connectivity, perform edge computing locally, and surface alerts to the soldier or commander seamlessly — without requiring eyes off the mission. The integration challenge is harder than the sensor challenge. Military Humanitarian Medicine Is Both a Moral Obligation and a Strategic Asset: Soft power is not a secondary mission — it is a strategic instrument. Withdrawal from programs like USAID and PEPFAR cedes influence to adversaries in every region where that presence is abandoned. Military medicine, with its global footprint, logistical capacity, and trained personnel, is uniquely positioned to demonstrate that American warfighters can be both deadly and compassionate. Investing in military humanitarian medicine builds alliances that firepower alone cannot secure. Dr. Hilmers Biography David C. Hilmers, MD, EE, MPH, MSEE, is a multifaceted physician, professor, and former NASA astronaut with a diverse career spanning aerospace medicine, international humanitarian relief, and military service. A faculty member at Baylor College of Medicine since 1999, he currently works as an academic hospitalist in Houston, Texas. His clinical and research expertise focuses heavily on infectious diseases, global health, and optimizing medical care for deep-space exploration. Deeply committed to volunteer medical service, he and his wife serve as medical leaders for the NGO Hepatitis B Free. He has delivered critical humanitarian and disaster relief across more than 50 countries, providing care in conflict zones like Ukraine and Iraq, and during severe disease outbreaks. Before his medical career, he served 20 years as a U.S. Marine Corps aviator and electrical engineer, retiring as a Colonel. He flew on four space shuttle missions and was inducted into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame in 2024. Episode Keywords military medicine, David Hilmers, NASA astronaut, Marine aviator, combat casualty care, prolonged field care, LSCO, large scale combat operations, knapsack problem, AI military medicine, artificial intelligence battlefield, wearable technology warfighter, digital twin soldier, just-in-time medical training, bench to battlefield, austere environment medicine, humanitarian medicine military, Ebola response, global health military, WarDocs podcast Hashtags #MilitaryMedicine, #WarDocs, #NASAAstronaut, #CombatCasualtycare, #ProlongedFieldCare, #BenchToBattlefield, #WearableTechnology, #ArtificialIntelligence Honoring the Legacy and Preserving the History of Military Medicine The WarDocs Mission is to honor the legacy, preserve the oral history, and showcase career opportunities, unique expeditionary experiences, and achievements of Military Medicine. We foster patriotism and pride in Who we are, What we do, and, most importantly, How we serve Our Patients, the DoD, and Our Nation. Find out more and join Team WarDocs at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/ Check our list of previous guest episodes at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/our-guests Subscribe and Like our Videos on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast Listen to the "What We Are For" Episode 47. https://bit.ly/3r87Afm WarDocs- The Military Medicine Podcast is a Non-Profit, Tax-exempt-501(c)(3) Veteran Run Organization run by volunteers. All donations are tax-deductible and go to honoring and preserving the history, experiences, successes, and lessons learned in Military Medicine. A tax receipt will be sent to you. WARDOCS documents the experiences, contributions, and innovations of all military medicine Services, ranks, and Corps who are affectionately called "Docs" as a sign of respect, trust, and confidence on and off the battlefield, demonstrating dedication to the medical care of fellow comrades in arms. Follow Us on Social Media Twitter: @wardocspodcast Facebook: WarDocs Podcast Instagram: @wardocspodcast LinkedIn: WarDocs-The Military Medicine Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast
What keeps a Mars rover running after 14 years on another planet? What fixed a juddering solar array on the International Space Station? And what tiny robot — small enough to hold in your hand — recently hitched a ride to the lunar South Pole? The answer to all three: Castrol. And this week, Beth sits down with Chris Lockett, Global Technology Director at Castrol, to pull back the curtain on one of space exploration's most quietly essential partners. Chris brings nearly 30 years of experience with BP and Castrol, working across the UK, China, Japan, South Africa, and beyond. His work spans Formula One racecars to Mars rovers — and now, the Moon. In this episode, he shares how Castrol's lubrication technology has been part of humanity's greatest space achievements since Apollo, and what it's taking to help us return to the lunar surface. From "outgassing" and extreme vacuum conditions to an actual in-space oil change performed by an astronaut on a spacewalk, this conversation is packed with jaw-dropping moments. Chris also gives us a live show-and-tell — showcasing a replica Perseverance Rover and a real, working AstroAnt — the tiny MIT-designed robot that rode along on the recent mission to the lunar South Pole inside its own little garage on top of the rover. Who thought lubrication engineering could be this fascinating?! This episode will change your mind. In this episode, you'll learn: How Castrol's space heritage dates back to Apollo — and has continued through the Space Shuttle, the ISS, Hubble, Mars rovers, and Artemis 2 What "outgassing" is, why it's a serious problem in the vacuum of space, and how it can blur a telescope lens How an astronaut performed an in-space oil change on the ISS's solar array — using Castrol grease — to fix a dangerous juddering problem Why the lunar South Pole is so important as a future staging post for deeper space exploration (ice, hydrogen, lava tubes — yes, really!) What co-engineering means and how Castrol works in partnership with companies like Lunar Outpost to design solutions for environments no one has ever accessed before What the AstroAnt is, how it works, and why swarms of them could be the future of spacecraft maintenance What Chris looks for in the next generation of space innovators — hint: it starts with curiosity Watch the Documentary: Don't miss Drive Me to the Moon — the full documentary featuring Chris, Castrol, and Lunar Outpost's mission to the lunar South Pole. It's a beautiful, emotional, and inspiring behind-the-scenes look at what it truly takes to explore the Moon. Watch it at: castrol.com — search Drive Me to the Moon About Chris Lockett: Chris Lockett is the Global Technology Director at Castrol, part of the BP Group. With a background in chemical engineering from his university studies in the UK, Chris joined BP as a graduate and has spent nearly three decades working across engineering, strategy, and technology roles. He now leads Castrol's global team of hundreds of technologists who develop lubrication solutions for everything from Formula One to Formula E, electric vehicles, industrial applications, data centers — and space. If you enjoyed this episode and would like to share, I'd love to hear it! Follow Casual Space Podcast and share your favorite episode: LinkedIn — @casualspacepodcast Facebook — @casualspacepodcast Instagram — @casualspacepodcast YouTube — @casualspacepodcast Got a great guest suggestion or idea for the show? E-mail me at beth@casualspacepodcast.com
Steven Hirshorn reflects on the Space Shuttle Program, the Space Shuttle Columbia accident, and the lessons learned that continue to shape human spaceflight. Episode 418
In the 5 AM Hour: Larry O’Connor and Bethany Mandel discussed: Bethany’s Tonsil Talk: Bethany Mandel talks about her fifth child having tonsil surgery this week and the preparations leading up to it. Mark Kelly Attacks White Men: At a summit with Rev. Al Sharpton, Democratic Senator Mark Kelly says “The last thing I would want in a Space Shuttle crew would be seven white-guy U.S. navy test pilots like me.” More Fairfax Crime: Just one month after Stephanie Minter was stabbed to death at a bus stop, an illegal immigrant from Guatemala is charged with second-degree murder after fatally stabbing a man in Bailey's Crossroads. Youngkin on Virginia Referendum: Former Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin speaks out against the efforts by Democrats to redraw Virginia’s congressional districts. Where to find more about WMAL's morning show: Follow Podcasts on Apple Podcasts, Audible, and Spotify Follow WMAL's "O'Connor and Company" on X: @WMALDC, @LarryOConnor, @JGunlock, @PatricePinkfile, and @HeatherHunterDC Facebook: WMALDC and Larry O'Connor Instagram: WMALDC Website: WMAL.com/OConnor-Company Episode: Monday, April 13, 2026 / 5 AM HourSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What does it take to go from studying the universe… to flying through it? On this episode of Casual Space, Beth welcomes Dr. Steven A. Hawley—NASA astronaut, space shuttle veteran, and author of his new book, Eyes to the Stars, A Memoir for the Space Shuttle Generation. Listen to enjoy the remarkable journey of a young astronomer from Kansas who never expected to become an astronaut—and what happened when he said "yes" anyway. Steve shares the quiet but powerful decisions that shaped his career: staying open to opportunity, embracing uncertainty, and trusting preparation when timing finally aligned. From his early fascination with astronomy to deploying the Hubble Space Telescope, this conversation reveals what spaceflight is really like—both technically and personally. You'll hear behind-the-scenes insights from the Space Shuttle era, including the realities of astronaut selection, the discipline of mission training, and the teamwork required to operate in one of the most high-risk environments humans have ever entered. Resources & Links Eyes to the Stars by Steve Hawley on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Eyes-Stars-Memoir-Shuttle-Generation/dp/1960259571 Hubble Space Telescope https://science.nasa.gov/mission/hubble/ Artemis Program https://www.nasa.gov/humans-in-space/artemis/ Whether you're an aspiring astronaut, a space enthusiast, or someone navigating your own uncertain path—this episode is a reminder that the journey to the stars often begins with simply staying open to possibility.
Pam Melroy, Former NASA Deputy Administrator, Space Shuttle Commander, and three-time Shuttle astronaut, joins me to talk about space policy past, present, and future. We talk about the most critical decisions and moments during her time as Deputy Administrator under Administrator Bill Nelson, and her thoughts on the Isaacman-era space policy from Ignition to Commercial LEO, and what to do about Mars Sample Return. This episode of Main Engine Cut Off is brought to you by 32 executive producers—Steve, Lee, Russell, Stealth Julian, Warren, Miles O'Brien, Josh from Impulse, Joel, David, Natasha Tsakos, Joakim, Will and Lars from Agile, Frank, Better Every Day Studios, Tim Dodd (the Everyday Astronaut!), Donald, The Astrogators at SEE, Jan, Joonas, Pat, Matt, Kris, Fred, Theo and Violet, Ryan, and four anonymous—and hundreds of supporters. Topics Pamela Melroy (@Astro_Pam) / X NASA Statement on Nomination of Pam Melroy for Agency Deputy Administrator - NASA Pam Melroy Sworn in as NASA Deputy Administrator - NASA As Artemis Moves Forward, NASA Picks SpaceX to Land Next Americans on Moon - NASA NASA Selects Blue Origin as Second Artemis Lunar Lander Provider - NASA NASA Selects Companies to Develop Commercial Destinations in Space - NASA Op-ed: NASA's New CLD Strategy Will Lose Mars, LEO to China NASA Sets Path to Return Mars Samples, Seeks Innovative Designs - NASA NASA to Explore Two Landing Options for Returning Samples from Mars - NASA The Show Like the show? Support the show on Patreon or Substack! Email your thoughts, comments, and questions to anthony@mainenginecutoff.com Follow @WeHaveMECO Follow @meco@spacey.space on Mastodon Listen to MECO Headlines Listen to Off-Nominal Join the Off-Nominal Discord Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Overcast, Pocket Casts, Spotify, Google Play, Stitcher, TuneIn or elsewhere Subscribe to the Main Engine Cut Off Newsletter Artwork photo by NASA/Bill Ingalls Work with me and my design and development agency: Pine Works
The Smithsonian Institution National Air & Space Museum's Jennifer Levasseur discusses the history of the 135-mission Space Shuttle program (1981-2011), its accomplishments, and two tragic failures that led to the deaths of 14 shuttle astronauts. Ms. Levasseur, the curator in charge of the Space Shuttle Discovery at the Air & Space Museum's Udvar-Hazy Center in Virginia, where this interview took place, also takes us on a tour of the shuttle orbiter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
3. Dragon's High-Stakes Arrival at the Space Station Facing the retirement of the Space Shuttle, NASA turned to SpaceX to deliver cargo to the International Space Station. To accelerate progress, Musk combined two test missions into the critical C2C3 flight in 2012. During the mission, a sensor failure nearly forced a scrub, but a brave NASA flight director allowed SpaceX to rewrite flight software in real-time, enabling a successful docking. This segment highlights the Dragon spacecraft's unique design, which integrated propulsion into the capsule to facilitate recovery and full reusability, a core requirement for Musk's broader Mars ambitions. (3)1897 WAR OF THE WORLDS
We're capping off a month at looking at different films directed by women with Hannah Berryman's documentary, Spacewoman. Kevin Smokler, author of Breaking the Frame: Conversations with Women Filmmakers joins us to talk about this close look at the stellar career of astronaut Eileen Collins, the first woman to pilot, and later command, a Space Shuttle mission. What's Good Alonso - Calm for naps Drea - getting a doctor's appointment Kevin S. - Memorizing Oscar winners as a sleep aid Kevin A. - 3 hour Celebrity game ITIDIC AI-Generated Val Kilmer Will Appear in Movie Kilmer Was to Shoot Before His Passing April Wolfe/Chloe Okuno Project Bad Hand Lands at Searchlight Staff Picks Alonso - Late Shift Drea - Mike & Nick & Nick & Alice Kevin S. - Say Amen Somebody Kevin A. - A Teacher Directors Mentioned in C-Block: Patricia Cardoso Debra Granik Amy Heckerling Anna Boden Rose Troche Donna Deitch Cheryl Dunye Joan Micklin Silver Lizzie Borden Wanuri Kihiyu Melanie Laurent Maggie Gyllenhaal Allison Anders Gillian Armstrong Celine Sciamma Lynn Shelton The Wachowskis Penny Marshall Martha Coolidge Vera Drew Jane Schoenbrun Alice Maio Mackay Mira Nair Věra Chytilová Ida Lupino Dorothy Arzner Alice Guy-Blaché Caitlin Adams Susan Seidelman Nia DaCosta Kathryn Bigelow Julia Hart Dee Rees Catherine Breillat Mary Harron Regina King Dyan Cannon Follow us on BlueSky, Facebook, Instagram, or LetterboxdWithKevin AveryDrea ClarkAlonso DuraldeProduced by Marissa FlaxbartSr. Producer Laura Swisher
Barry E. “Butch” Wilmore was raised in Tennessee, where an early fascination with aviation, engineering, and disciplined teamwork set the course for his career. He earned undergraduate and graduate degrees in electrical engineering from Tennessee Technological University, along with a master's degree in aviation systems from the University of Tennessee. Before NASA, Wilmore served as a U.S. Navy aviator, test pilot, and squadron officer, accumulating more than 8,000 flight hours and 663 carrier landings in tactical jet aircraft. Wilmore flew A-7E and F/A-18 aircraft during four operational deployments aboard the USS Forrestal, Kennedy, Enterprise, and Eisenhower. He completed 21 combat missions during Operation Desert Storm and also flew in support of Desert Shield, Southern Watch, and NATO operations over Bosnia. A graduate of the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School, he contributed to the early development and carrier certification of the T-45 jet trainer, experience that proved critical to his later astronaut duties. Selected as a NASA astronaut in 2000, Wilmore flew three space missions totaling 464 days in space. He piloted STS-129 aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis in 2009, delivering critical hardware to the ISS. In 2014–2015, he launched aboard a Russian Soyuz as part of Expedition 41, later assuming command of Expedition 42, spending 167 days in orbit and conducting four spacewalks. Most recently, he commanded Boeing Starliner's first crewed flight in 2024; following an uncrewed return decision, he completed a long-duration ISS mission and returned to Earth in March 2025 aboard SpaceX Crew-9. Wilmore retired from NASA in July 2025 after 25 years with the agency, one of the few astronauts to fly aboard the Space Shuttle, Soyuz, Starliner, and Crew Dragon. He is married to Deanna, with whom he has two daughters, and is known for steady leadership, deep technical skill, faith, and continued commitment to mentorship and STEM outreach. Shawn Ryan Show Sponsors: Live better longer with BUBS Naturals. Get 20% OFF on collagen, MCT creamers, and more with code SHAWN at https://bubsnaturals.com/srs Ready to upgrade your eyewear? Check them out at https://roka.com and use code SRS for 20% off sitewide. If you're serious about selling to the Department of War, go to https://SBIRAdvisors.com and mention Shawn Ryan for your first month free. Get 30% off your first subscription order at https://armra.com/srs with code SRS. Butch Wilmore Links: Website - www.butchwilmore.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices