Podcasts about Space exploration

1950Private Enterprise Advances Space ExplorationBob Zimmerman highlights major developments in commercial space flight and astronomy. SpaceX achieved orbit on its 14th Starship test flight, deploying 26 Starlink version 3 satellites before completing soft vertical ocean splashdowns. Boeing and NASA agreed on an unmanned cargo mission to test fixes for Starliner thruster and corrosion issues. Meanwhile, Blue Origin raised $10 billion to advance New Glenn development under CEO David Limp. NASA's Perseverance rover resumed updates after surveying Jezero Crater for drilling. Finally, the James Webb Space Telescope detected heavy elements in early galaxies, challenging current cosmological models. (8)

Did the CIA arrange—or help promote—the marriage of an American citizen as part of a Cold War intelligence operation?In The CIA's Secret Marriage: The Strange Case of Angela Boyer & Petros Moutsos, Dr. Tim Mounce of All Things Unexplained follows a remarkable trail buried in declassified CIA records, FBI files, JFK assassination records, and forgotten newspaper archives.At the center of the story is Angela Boyer, a young American woman drawn into the Communist underground, and Petros Moutsos, the Greek sailor she fell in love with and married. But Petros had a secret Angela may never have known: he was providing intelligence to the CIA while operating inside the communist-linked Greek maritime organization OENO.Then comes the line in the CIA's own records that changes everything: Petros's marriage to Boyer “was promoted in order to improve his position in OENO.”What exactly does promoted mean?Did the CIA simply exploit a real relationship after it began—or did American intelligence actually help engineer a marriage involving an unsuspecting U.S. citizen?What follows is a Cold War mystery involving secret intelligence operations, FBI surveillance, Communism, Cuba, deportation, clandestine meetings, JFK-era intrigue, and a paper trail that ultimately leads into the JFK assassination records.After President John F. Kennedy was assassinated, Angela appears again in the historical record. And then, almost as mysteriously as this story begins, the trail goes cold.Was Angela Boyer unknowingly living inside a CIA operation? And what ultimately happened to Angela and Petros Moutsos?This documentary examines what the surviving records actually say—and the disturbing questions they leave unanswered.

1872 JULES VERNE "AROUND THE MOON"Commercial Space Exploration Expanding RapidlyBob Zimmerman highlights major developments in commercial aerospace and global space exploration. He details SpaceX's upcoming Starship orbital flight and NASA's contract awards for Dragon crew missions, emphasizing the federal government's broader transition toward purchasing private commercial space services. Zimmerman also reviews private space station projects like Voyager's Starlab, European rocket launch updates, NOAA's purchase of commercial radar satellite data, and Albania officially becoming the 73rd sovereign nation to sign the international US-led Artemis Accords. (11)

This Minisode was originally uploaded with Episode 357: All Colours Sam, The Sandown Clown - some of the topics discussed might be outdated. Subscribe to our Patreon to listen and watch the Minisodes as they release every week! http://patreon.com/CHILLUMINATIPODMike Martin - http://www.youtube.com/@themoleculemindset Jesse Cox - http://www.youtube.com/jessecox Alex Faciane - https://www.youtube.com/@StarWarsOldCanonBookClub/Editor: DeanCutty Producer: Hilde @ https://bsky.app/profile/heksen.bsky.social Show Art: Studio Melectro @ http://www.instagram.com/studio_melectro Logo Design: Shawn JPB @ https://twitter.com/JetpackBragginLinks:My Life With the Shadow People - https://www.reddit.com/r/ChilluminatiPod/comments/1ul4zt1/listener_story_feel_free_to_use_on_the_pod_my/Where Will We Be in 2276 - https://www.space.com/space-exploration/america-at-500-where-will-we-be-in-space-in-2276 AI is Learning? - https://www.researchgate.net/publication/405808376_Unsupervised_sensory-motor_associative_learning_by_human_brain_explant_in-a-dish_enables_movement_imitation_by_robot

President Trump has declared a national emergency to secure the U.S. bulk-power system—warning that foreign actors are increasingly creating and exploiting vulnerabilities in America's electrical grid.But why now?We examine the new Executive Order alongside the still-unsolved 2022 Moore County substation attacks, Homeland Security warnings about drone threats, the Skyler Philippi plot targeting energy infrastructure with an explosive-laden drone, and my own FOIA effort seeking records connecting these incidents.Physical attacks. Cyber threats. Drones. Foreign technology. America's critical infrastructure is increasingly at the center of the national-security conversation.

(0:00) NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman lays out the state and future of NASA (17:59) Moon base, creating new space industries, NASA's next chapter (23:29) How to make Mars realistic (25:30) Recruiting, moonshots, the "Nuclear NASA," new vehicles and the importance of humans in space (32:43) Allocating capital toward scientific discovery and deep space research (35:46) Space Race 2.0: China and Russia Thanks to our partners for making this possible! IREN is a vertically integrated AI Cloud platform, delivering data centers, compute and software for AI training and inference.  https://iren.com Oracle connects the data, applications, and infrastructure that turn AI into business outcomes—with the flexibility, choice, and control to optimize as AI evolves. http://oracle.com/ai EY helps tech innovators scale from startup to exit to megacap. You build the future. We'll handle the rest. http://www.ey.com Meta believes the future is for everyone. We're focused on giving every person the tools to reach their full potential and making sure the benefits of technology are distributed to all. http://www.meta.com Keel Infrastructure owns the power, land, and connectivity that HPC and AI run on - backed by secured energy assets and established grid interconnections across North America. https://keelinfra.com/ Airwallex - Agentic Global Business Accounts. Open local accounts in 70+ countries to accept payments, earn yield, pay globally, and manage spend. http://airwallex.com PayPal has been revolutionizing commerce globally for more than 25 years. Creating innovative experiences that make moving money, selling, and shopping simple, personalized, and secure, PayPal empowers consumers and businesses in approximately 200 markets to join and thrive in the global economy. For more information, visit https://www.paypal.com Google for Startups connects founders with the right people, products, and best practices to help startups build faster and go further. https://startup.google.com/ Explore ideas, industries, and technologies worth understanding with Chamath every week on Learn with Me: https://research.socialcapital.com/allin Follow Jared Isaacman: https://x.com/rookisaacman https://x.com/NASAAdmin Follow the besties: https://x.com/chamath https://x.com/Jason https://x.com/DavidSacks https://x.com/friedberg Follow on X: https://x.com/theallinpod Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theallinpod Follow on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@allin Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/allinpod Intro Music Credit: https://rb.gy/tppkzl https://x.com/yung_spielburg

Weapons in Space: What the new Arms race means, and where the US, China, and Russia stand. ThePrint Consulting Editor (International & Strategic Affairs) Swasti Rao speaks to Dr. Malcolm Davis @Dr_M_Davis, Senior Analyst - Australian Strategic Policy Institute, to understand how countries are trying to dominate a new arena.   0:00 Ad and Intro 2:35 Significance of the US announcement of putting counter-Space weapons on Orbit 4:10 Outer Space Treaty 1967 and the Legality of Deploying Weapons in Space 6:16 The New Arms Race, US, China, Russia and Counter Space Weapons 9:12 Deterrence Dilemma in Space and Doctrinal Differences between big players 12:20 Growing Investment in Missile Architecture and its economics 15:09 Spending on militarization of space by countries and corporates? 18:01 How to read the opaque Chinese budget and the closing gap with the US 20:52 Private Companies and Commercialisation of Space. Who owns the space battlefield? 24:19 Democratisation of Space Exploration with New actors and India     To know more about Dr. Malcolm C Davis- https://www.aspi.org.au/bio/malcolm-davis/

This is part two of our Star Trek 60th anniversary series. Robert Picardo, the Emergency Medical Hologram on Star Trek: Voyager and a member of The Planetary Society's board of directors, reads a vintage letter from Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry asking fans to join a brand new organization called The Planetary Society. Tim Russ, who played Tuvok on Star Trek: Voyager, Deep Space Nine, Lower Decks, and Picard, joins us to talk about what the Vulcans can teach us about the discipline we'll need to survive in deep space, and shares his own experience as an amateur astronomer who contributed data to NASA's Lucy mission. Karim Diané, Jay-Den Kraag on Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, talks about playing a Klingon who defies everyone's expectations of what it means to be strong. And Bruce Betts, chief scientist of The Planetary Society, is here with What's Up, discussing Star Trek technologies. Discover more at: https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2026-star-trek-at-60-part-2See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Building Culture the NASA Way: 4 Leadership Lessons | Brady PyleHow do you build and sustain a high-performing culture when the stakes are literally life and death?In this episode of Leading with Curiosity, Nate Leslie sits down with Brady Pyle, author of "Building Culture the NASA Way," to explore what 30 years inside one of the world's most iconic agencies taught him about leadership, culture, and human potential.Brady is the former Chief HR and Inclusion Officer at NASA and current Chief HR & Inclusion Officer at Space Center Houston. He breaks down the exact principles that helped transform NASA's employee engagement from under 70% to an astounding 85%.The conversation explores how leaders can avoid the trap of the "hero leader" and instead build a genuine shared vision with their teams. Brady shares how NASA learned critical lessons from moments like the Challenger and Columbia accidents, shifted from organizational arrogance to continuous benchmarking, and navigated the transition from technical expert to coach-leader by asking powerful questions rather than simply providing answers.In this episode, you'll discover:• The NASA Leadership Framework: Navigate, Assess & Adapt, Strengthen Leadership, and Activate Inclusion & Innovation• How pivotal historical moments defined NASA's decision-making culture• The Mirror Principle: Understanding your personal core values vs. organizational values• Moving past the "Not Invented Here" mindset through intentional external benchmarking• Why technical leaders often stunt team growth and how asking questions empowers teams• The hidden safety and innovation risks of hybrid and remote work environments• Succession development: Growing the full talent pool rather than picking a select fewWhether you're leading a small team or managing an enterprise workforce, these aerospace-tested principles will help you build trust, accountability, and sustainable performance.What is the biggest challenge your organization faces when building team culture: creating a shared vision or transitioning managers into coaches? Share your perspective in the comments.

I'm updating my Roswell Missing Duffy Documents podcast with a connection to the UFO Files Release 5! How does this release of a mysterious flying disc drawing document from 1947 connect to Col. Marcellus Duffy, Project Mogul, and the Roswell Incident? Plus, I'll correct and clarify several points from the Missing Duffy Documents pod.

Hold onto your phasers, but it's been 60 years since Star Trek's debut, and the franchise is still going strong. For 40 of those years, Mike Okuda, working with a gifted team that included his wife Denise, has been central to the look, feel, and substance of the Star Trek universe. From the LCARS computer graphical system to alien languages to the designs and color schemes, and even the digital effects remastering of the original series, Mike has been the Cardinal of Canon when it comes to all things Trek. He has also been involved with many more space-related shows, books, and NASA projects. Join us for this very special episode. Headlines: China Announces 2028 Mars Sample Return Mission U.S. Space Command Conducts First Orbital Dogfighting Test Reflections on the 25th Anniversary of 9/11 from Space Main Topic: Star Trek at 60—Legacy, Design, and Influence with Mike Okuda Mike Okuda's Entry into Star Trek and Early Influences Defining Star Trek's Visual Identity Across Series Designing Control Panels and the Origin of LCARS Maintaining Continuity and Hidden Easter Eggs in Star Trek Sets Expanding the Design Language for Alien Cultures Collaboration on For All Mankind and Space/NASA Projects Challenges and Philosophy Behind Remastering The Original Series Favorite Episodes, Iconic Sets, and Preserving Star Trek Props The Enduring Core Message and Legacy of the Star Trek Franchise Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Michael Okuda Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

Hold onto your phasers, but it's been 60 years since Star Trek's debut, and the franchise is still going strong. For 40 of those years, Mike Okuda, working with a gifted team that included his wife Denise, has been central to the look, feel, and substance of the Star Trek universe. From the LCARS computer graphical system to alien languages to the designs and color schemes, and even the digital effects remastering of the original series, Mike has been the Cardinal of Canon when it comes to all things Trek. He has also been involved with many more space-related shows, books, and NASA projects. Join us for this very special episode. Headlines: China Announces 2028 Mars Sample Return Mission U.S. Space Command Conducts First Orbital Dogfighting Test Reflections on the 25th Anniversary of 9/11 from Space Main Topic: Star Trek at 60—Legacy, Design, and Influence with Mike Okuda Mike Okuda's Entry into Star Trek and Early Influences Defining Star Trek's Visual Identity Across Series Designing Control Panels and the Origin of LCARS Maintaining Continuity and Hidden Easter Eggs in Star Trek Sets Expanding the Design Language for Alien Cultures Collaboration on For All Mankind and Space/NASA Projects Challenges and Philosophy Behind Remastering The Original Series Favorite Episodes, Iconic Sets, and Preserving Star Trek Props The Enduring Core Message and Legacy of the Star Trek Franchise Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Michael Okuda Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

Hold onto your phasers, but it's been 60 years since Star Trek's debut, and the franchise is still going strong. For 40 of those years, Mike Okuda, working with a gifted team that included his wife Denise, has been central to the look, feel, and substance of the Star Trek universe. From the LCARS computer graphical system to alien languages to the designs and color schemes, and even the digital effects remastering of the original series, Mike has been the Cardinal of Canon when it comes to all things Trek. He has also been involved with many more space-related shows, books, and NASA projects. Join us for this very special episode. Headlines: China Announces 2028 Mars Sample Return Mission U.S. Space Command Conducts First Orbital Dogfighting Test Reflections on the 25th Anniversary of 9/11 from Space Main Topic: Star Trek at 60—Legacy, Design, and Influence with Mike Okuda Mike Okuda's Entry into Star Trek and Early Influences Defining Star Trek's Visual Identity Across Series Designing Control Panels and the Origin of LCARS Maintaining Continuity and Hidden Easter Eggs in Star Trek Sets Expanding the Design Language for Alien Cultures Collaboration on For All Mankind and Space/NASA Projects Challenges and Philosophy Behind Remastering The Original Series Favorite Episodes, Iconic Sets, and Preserving Star Trek Props The Enduring Core Message and Legacy of the Star Trek Franchise Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Michael Okuda Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

Hold onto your phasers, but it's been 60 years since Star Trek's debut, and the franchise is still going strong. For 40 of those years, Mike Okuda, working with a gifted team that included his wife Denise, has been central to the look, feel, and substance of the Star Trek universe. From the LCARS computer graphical system to alien languages to the designs and color schemes, and even the digital effects remastering of the original series, Mike has been the Cardinal of Canon when it comes to all things Trek. He has also been involved with many more space-related shows, books, and NASA projects. Join us for this very special episode. Headlines: China Announces 2028 Mars Sample Return Mission U.S. Space Command Conducts First Orbital Dogfighting Test Reflections on the 25th Anniversary of 9/11 from Space Main Topic: Star Trek at 60—Legacy, Design, and Influence with Mike Okuda Mike Okuda's Entry into Star Trek and Early Influences Defining Star Trek's Visual Identity Across Series Designing Control Panels and the Origin of LCARS Maintaining Continuity and Hidden Easter Eggs in Star Trek Sets Expanding the Design Language for Alien Cultures Collaboration on For All Mankind and Space/NASA Projects Challenges and Philosophy Behind Remastering The Original Series Favorite Episodes, Iconic Sets, and Preserving Star Trek Props The Enduring Core Message and Legacy of the Star Trek Franchise Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Michael Okuda Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

Hold onto your phasers, but it's been 60 years since Star Trek's debut, and the franchise is still going strong. For 40 of those years, Mike Okuda, working with a gifted team that included his wife Denise, has been central to the look, feel, and substance of the Star Trek universe. From the LCARS computer graphical system to alien languages to the designs and color schemes, and even the digital effects remastering of the original series, Mike has been the Cardinal of Canon when it comes to all things Trek. He has also been involved with many more space-related shows, books, and NASA projects. Join us for this very special episode. Headlines: China Announces 2028 Mars Sample Return Mission U.S. Space Command Conducts First Orbital Dogfighting Test Reflections on the 25th Anniversary of 9/11 from Space Main Topic: Star Trek at 60—Legacy, Design, and Influence with Mike Okuda Mike Okuda's Entry into Star Trek and Early Influences Defining Star Trek's Visual Identity Across Series Designing Control Panels and the Origin of LCARS Maintaining Continuity and Hidden Easter Eggs in Star Trek Sets Expanding the Design Language for Alien Cultures Collaboration on For All Mankind and Space/NASA Projects Challenges and Philosophy Behind Remastering The Original Series Favorite Episodes, Iconic Sets, and Preserving Star Trek Props The Enduring Core Message and Legacy of the Star Trek Franchise Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Michael Okuda Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

Hold onto your phasers, but it's been 60 years since Star Trek's debut, and the franchise is still going strong. For 40 of those years, Mike Okuda, working with a gifted team that included his wife Denise, has been central to the look, feel, and substance of the Star Trek universe. From the LCARS computer graphical system to alien languages to the designs and color schemes, and even the digital effects remastering of the original series, Mike has been the Cardinal of Canon when it comes to all things Trek. He has also been involved with many more space-related shows, books, and NASA projects. Join us for this very special episode. Headlines: China Announces 2028 Mars Sample Return Mission U.S. Space Command Conducts First Orbital Dogfighting Test Reflections on the 25th Anniversary of 9/11 from Space Main Topic: Star Trek at 60—Legacy, Design, and Influence with Mike Okuda Mike Okuda's Entry into Star Trek and Early Influences Defining Star Trek's Visual Identity Across Series Designing Control Panels and the Origin of LCARS Maintaining Continuity and Hidden Easter Eggs in Star Trek Sets Expanding the Design Language for Alien Cultures Collaboration on For All Mankind and Space/NASA Projects Challenges and Philosophy Behind Remastering The Original Series Favorite Episodes, Iconic Sets, and Preserving Star Trek Props The Enduring Core Message and Legacy of the Star Trek Franchise Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Michael Okuda Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

What happened to Col. Marcellus H. Duffy's documents?While examining newly released National Archives audio and records from the U.S. Air Force's Roswell investigation, I uncovered a series of overlooked documents, omitted interview passages, and a mysterious 1994 FedEx package that raise new questions about one of the key figures behind the official Project Mogul explanation.In this historical documentary, we follow the paper trail from the 1947 Roswell incident through the Air Force's 1994–1997 investigations, including:• The Roswell Daily Record's famous "Flying Disc" headline• Project Mogul and Col. Marcellus H. Duffy's role• Newly released National Archives interview audio• Previously omitted portions of the Charles B. Moore interview• References to "Col. Duffy's letter"• Discussion of Duffy-related documents and FOIA• Emily Duffy's mysterious 1994 FedEx shipment to Lt. James McAndrew• The Roswell Report (1994)• The Roswell Report: Case Closed (1997)This documentary relies on primary-source documents, archival audio, and official U.S. Air Force records. Where the historical record establishes facts, they are presented as such. Where questions remain unanswered, they are identified as open historical questions.If you enjoy evidence-based investigations into Roswell, UFO history, UAP research, Project Mogul, government records, and newly discovered archival material, consider subscribing for more original investigations.

China has successfully demonstrated a two-way laser communication link across more than 400,000 kilometers between Earth and the Moon. How significant is this breakthrough? Why do we need it, and what could it mean for humanity as we begin to explore, work and perhaps one day live beyond Earth? Host Xu Yawen is joined by Zhang Fan, Associate Professor, Department of Astronomy, Beijing Normal University; Xu Yansong, the Director-General of the Asia Pacific Space Cooperation Organization; and Dr. Jon Clarke, President, the Mars Society of Australia, and an associate member of the Australian Centre for Astrobiology at the University of New South Wales, to explore how this technology could reshape the way we communicate in deep space.

George Noory and author Brooks Agnew explore past and future efforts to explore the Moon and space, how America lost its big advantage in space exploration over other countries like China and Russia, and the importance in finding resources like water and helium to help build bases on the Moon.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When humans finally land on Mars, what should they do? A report from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine lays out the science objectives for a crewed Mars mission. In January, planetary scientist Lindy Elkins-Tanton, who co-chaired the report committee, joined Host Flora Lichtman to talk about the plans to send people to Mars. We also get an update on the mission to survey the asteroid Psyche. Elkins-Tanton tells us how she managed the team that made the Psyche mission possible, and what she learned from her mistakes. Guest: Dr. Lindy Elkins-Tanton is a planetary scientist. She's the head of NASA's Psyche mission and director of UC Berkeley's Space Sciences Laboratory. Transcript will be available after the show airs on sciencefriday.com. Subscribe to this podcast. Follow our show on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and Bluesky @scifri and sign up for our newsletters. Got a science question that's keeping you up at night? Call us: 877-472-4374 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A year after the mysterious death of former NASA scientist Joshua LeBlanc, questions remain about the circumstances surrounding his final hours. In this episode, I recap the LeBlanc case from the beginning—and reveal a surprising new response to my public records request from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA). Does it identify the lead investigative agency? And what does its reference to “law enforcement investigative material” tell us about the status of the case? The Joshua LeBlanc mystery may be far from settled.

On This Rebroadcasting Episode of the Dr. Sky Experience, Dr. Sky Talked With His Guest Hosts Dr. Karl Hricko and Dr. David Tholen, Who Discovered Asteroid 99942 Apophis, for an In-Depth Discussion About the Asteroid's Highly Anticipated Close Approach to Earth in 2029. Dr. Tholen Provides a Fascinating Technical Look at Apophis's Initial Discovery, Physical Characteristics, and the Mathematical Calculations Used to Determine That It Poses No Threat of Impacting Earth for at Least the Next Century. The Conversation Also Explores Interstellar Objects, Galactic Physics, Space Exploration, and the Deeper Philosophical Questions Surrounding Human Consciousness and Our Place in the Universe.

Today's episode — S05E179, Friday August 28, 2026:   Feature story: US startup Reflect Orbital has FCC approval for Eärendil-1, a demonstration satellite carrying a 60-foot mirror, the first step toward a planned constellation of 50,000-plus orbital mirrors beaming reflected sunlight to Earth on demand. A new peer-reviewed study (Kocifaj, Bakos and Kundracik, accepted at The Astrophysical Journal Letters) finds a full-scale, 174-foot operational mirror would appear about 40 times brighter than the full Moon to anyone standing in its roughly 3.4-mile beam, with measurable sky-glow extending 20-34 km further — astronomer Gáspár Bakos says it would be "worse than big cities like London," warning "you would not see any stars if you were in the beam."   The rest of the news:   Starship update: Ship 40 — the Flight 13 upper stage that survived an intact splashdown on July 24 — has been loaded onto a heavy-lift transport vessel off Christmas Island and is now heading home to Starbase, Texas, a journey expected to take several months. Meanwhile Flight 14 has quietly slipped to no-earlier-than September 15, per internal SpaceX/FAA planning documents, with Booster 21's static fire testing now the pacing item.   A hot, watery world on borrowed time: astronomers led by Sylvain Breton (INAF) have characterised HD 176071 b, an exoplanet 335 light-years away that's roughly 50% water by mass, orbiting so close to its star (a 14-hour year) that it's expected to eventually be consumed by tidal forces. Found via a reflected-light technique applied to archival Kepler data.   Roman Space Telescope: two days from its Sunday, August 30 launch (7:26am ET, Falcon Heavy), with today's Launch Readiness Review still underway as we record. We trace the mission's near-cancellation in leaked 2025 budget documents proposing a 24% NASA funding cut — and how Roman's team responded to Congress restoring funding by pulling the launch forward eight months, finishing under budget.   Tonight's Sky: the G2 geomagnetic storm NOAA forecast for today is playing out now — aurora chances improve at northern latitudes, unlikely to reach much past Tasmania locally. Venus and Saturn remain the reliable local targets, under a near-full Moon.   Links & sources: Space.com — Massive space mirrors could be 40 times brighter than the full moon, astronomers warn arXiv — Atmospheric Light Pollution by Proposed Reflect Orbital Space Mirrors (Kocifaj, Bakos & Kundracik) Space.com — The FCC just gave Reflect Orbital permission to launch its 1st space mirror to orbit Space.com — Starship is coming home: SpaceX loads floating spacecraft onto huge ship in the Indian Ocean Space.com — Astronomers discover hot watery exoplanet destined to be swallowed by its star Space.com — Trump tried to scrap NASA's Roman Space Telescope last year. Now it's ready to launch Watchers.news — M6.9 solar flare produces Earth-directed CME, G2 geomagnetic storm watch issued for August 28   Follow us: @AstronomyDailyPodBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-latest-space-news--5648921/support.Sponsor Details:Ensure your online privacy by using NordVPN. To get our special listener deal and save a lot of money, visit www.astronomydaily.io/nordvpn. You'll be glad you did!Get the best secure and private email on the planet. Stop your Government, google and who knows who else spying on every email you write. Do what we did and use ProtonMail. They beleive in privacy and there are no ads in their business model...yet they still provide a free forever service. Check them out and get out special deal at www.astronomydaily.io/protonmailBecome a supporter of Astronomy Daily by joining our Supporters Club. Commercial free episodes daily are only a click way... Click HereThis episode includes AI-generated content.

Today I'm reviewing We Are Legion (We Are Bob) by Dennis E. Taylor, the first book in the Bobiverse series—a sci-fi adventure that combines artificial intelligence, space exploration, existential questions, and a wonderfully nerdy sense of humor.After Bob Johansson dies and wakes up more than a century later as a computerized consciousness, he discovers he's now the property of a government preparing to send him into space as a self-replicating probe. What follows is a wildly imaginative journey as Bob creates more versions of himself, explores the galaxy, encounters new worlds, and grapples with what it actually means to still be Bob when there are suddenly a whole lot of Bobs running around.Between the science, pop-culture references, humor, and surprisingly thoughtful questions about identity, humanity, religion, technology, and consciousness, there's a lot more happening here than the book's playful premise initially suggests.

Emily Calandrelli (more widely known as Space Gal) grew up in Morgantown, West Virginia, with no scientists or engineers in her orbit. She chose engineering for the paycheck, discovered a love of science communication along the way, and eventually became the first woman in the country to solo-host a national science show. On this episode of She Pivots, Emily talks about pitching adult science shows for a decade only to hear that networks didn't think their male-dominated audiences would relate to a female host; pivoting to create Emily's Wonder Lab (the Netflix show that made her a household name to millions of parents and kids); and turning the show's cancellation into two bestselling books and a thriving YouTube channel. She also opens up about announcing her second pregnancy via a weather balloon at the edge of space, fighting for a federal law after being humiliated by TSA over breast milk ice packs, and why she's finally letting herself scale back with baby number three. Chapters: 00:00 Welcome to She Pivots 01:44 Emily Calandrelli: The Space Gal 03:16 Navigating Academic Challenges 05:16 The Power of Progress Over Perfection 18:18 The Unexpected Path to TV Hosting 25:11 Breaking Barriers in Science TV 32:21 Balancing Career and Motherhood 33:55 The Cancellation of Emily's Wonder Lab 35:52 Balancing The Work 40:33 Parenting as a Scientific Experiment 45:28 Low Point to Launch 48:35 Closing Thoughts 49:37 Podcast Credits Keep up with Emily on Instagram @thespacegal, on YouTube @EmilysScienceLab, and on her website at www.thespacegal.com Be sure to subscribe so you never miss a pivot story, leave us a rating (it really helps!), and share this episode with a woman in your life who you think needs a little inspiration. She Pivots is a podcast created by host Emily Tisch Sussman to highlight influential women voices, share stories of bold career moves, and inspire women with interviews about career reinvention and how personal pivots can redefine professional success. Join our Substack community! Subscribe here for exclusive content and to connect with other pivoters: shepivots.substack.com Learn more about the inspiring women in our pivoter community by following us on instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast, and check out our website shepivotspod.com for resources and updates. She Pivots is proud to be an iHeart podcast.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For more than four decades, Kevin Randle has investigated some of the world's most famous UFO cases—from Roswell and Kingman to Rendlesham Forest, Pascagoula, and beyond. In his newest book, UFO Sightings and Alien Visitations: Facts and Falsehoods, Randle takes a careful, evidence-based look at the strongest—and weakest—claims surrounding UFOs, alien encounters, government investigations, and alleged cover-ups.In this All Things Unexplained exclusive interview, we discuss the research behind the book, how Randle evaluates evidence, where skeptics and believers often go wrong, and which historical cases continue to withstand scrutiny decades later. We also explore the modern UAP era, recent congressional hearings, and whether today's disclosure movement is truly different from those of the past.Whether you're a longtime UFO researcher, a skeptic, or simply curious about the phenomenon, this conversation offers a thoughtful examination of one of the most enduring mysteries of our time.Topics include:Roswell and crash retrieval claimsThe Kingman investigationPascagoula and alien encountersRendlesham ForestAlien abductionsGovernment secrecy and disclosureEvaluating evidence vs. misinformationWhat Kevin Randle believes still remains unexplained

For more than four decades, Kevin Randle has investigated some of the world's most famous UFO cases—from Roswell and Kingman to Rendlesham Forest, Pascagoula, and beyond. In his newest book, UFO Sightings and Alien Visitations: Facts and Falsehoods, Randle takes a careful, evidence-based look at the strongest—and weakest—claims surrounding UFOs, alien encounters, government investigations, and alleged cover-ups.In this All Things Unexplained exclusive interview, we discuss the research behind the book, how Randle evaluates evidence, where skeptics and believers often go wrong, and which historical cases continue to withstand scrutiny decades later. We also explore the modern UAP era, recent congressional hearings, and whether today's disclosure movement is truly different from those of the past.Whether you're a longtime UFO researcher, a skeptic, or simply curious about the phenomenon, this conversation offers a thoughtful examination of one of the most enduring mysteries of our time.Topics include:Roswell and crash retrieval claimsThe Kingman investigationPascagoula and alien encountersRendlesham ForestAlien abductionsGovernment secrecy and disclosureEvaluating evidence vs. misinformationWhat Kevin Randle believes still remains unexplained

Scientists and engineers are celebrating Curiosity's 14th landing anniversary on Mars. Plus, we'll look at the ethics behind human space exploration and how NASA, space agencies and the public view morals and ethics when it comes to human missions to space.

Newly released autopsy findings in the Melissa Casias case provide important new information about her death—and raise troubling questions about how the investigation was handled.In this update, we examine the released autopsy findings, compare them with what has previously been reported about Melissa's disappearance and discovery, and identify apparent gaps, inconsistencies, and investigative decisions that deserve a closer look.What was documented? What may have been overlooked? And do the autopsy findings change what we thought we knew about the Melissa Casias case?⚠️ CONTENT WARNING: This episode discusses autopsy findings, death, and other details that some viewers may find disturbing. Viewer discretion is advised.Our goal is not to sensationalize Melissa's death, but to carefully examine the available records, distinguish documented facts from unanswered questions, and continue seeking transparency about what happened to her.If you have information relevant to the Melissa Casias case, please contact the appropriate investigating authorities.

Water systems across the United States have become increasingly attractive targets for cyberattacks and more, raising serious questions about the security and resilience of our nation's critical infrastructure.In this episode of Infrastructure Files, we examine recent cyber incidents affecting water utilities, what officials know so far, who may be responsible, and what these attacks could mean for the future of critical infrastructure protection.This investigation is also part of a broader series exploring attacks on critical infrastructure, including power grids, communications networks, transportation systems, industrial control systems, airspace incursions, drone activity near sensitive facilities, and the evolving national security questions surrounding Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP). While many of these events have conventional explanations, others remain unresolved and warrant careful, evidence-based investigation.

Did a user on X discover the secret X account of missing Major Gen. Neil McCasland?Monica Reza and Major Gen. Neil McCasland are among many missing scientists and officials tied to sensitive sites and advanced technologies.Dallis Ann Hardwick passed away January 5, 2014.Michael David Hicks passed away July 30, 2023.Monica Reza disappeared June 22, 2025.Melissa Casias disappeared June 26, 2025.Steven Garcia disappeared August 28, 2025.General Neil McCasland disappeared February 27, 2026.Casias worked for Los Alamos. Hicks studied planet threatening asteroids. Garcia worked with nuclear secrets at the  Kansas City National Security Campus - New Mexico facility.Monica Reza and Dallis Ann Hardwich helped develop materials for the AFRL designed to survive one of the harshest environments in engineering: rocket engines.Neil McCasland oversaw the U.S. Air Force's top research laboratory, the AFRL.Now, people are noticing possible connections to other missing or deceased scientists and military personnel.Subscribe (free) to ATU on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@allthingsunexplained _______________________Hosted by Dr. Tim Mounce—best-selling author, Audible narrator, professor, and coffee addict. Watch Dr. Mounce in the ⁨@MrBeast⁩ epic YouTube video '2,000 People Fight For $5,000,000' — https://youtu.be/gs8qfL9PNac?si=whD290YawP8WBSTH. Then, follow Dr. Mounce as contestant #718 in 'Beast Games Season 1' by Mr. Beast on Amazon Prime.Watch ATU's intro man Larry as #76 on the ⁨@MrBeast⁩ smash hit 'Ages 1 - 100 Race For $250,000': https://youtu.be/9WEQts7b8Pw?si=yVDRYlUcirHi-Pmx _______________________Featured in Patricia Cornwell's New York Times Bestselling Novel Identity Unknown:“Earth was plan B. It's where the Martians escaped thousands of years ago when their own planet was about to be destroyed,” Marino replies as if it's commonly known.No doubt he learned this and more from All Things Unexplained, Ancient Aliens or one of his other favorite podcasts and TV shows. He and my sister both tune in religiously, and it makes for lively dinner conversations when all of us are together.— Identity Unknown, p. 164_______________________Ranked #9 Alien Podcast, #8 Bigfoot Podcast, and top 40 UFO Podcast by MillionPodcasts.Top 15 Science & Society Podcast.People's Choice Podcast Award Nominee._______________________Episode Links: Watch this full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/CflZpC_RjS4The Grider video (be sure to give him a follow) https://x.com/HighEarthOrbit_/status/2047767815180943399/video/1?s=42Grider's X account (be sure to give him a follow) https://x.com/HighEarthOrbit_Physicist Jenny Nielsen on X (be sure to give her a follow) https://x.com/QualiaQuantaSpaced Drummer on X (be sure to give him a follow) https://x.com/Mike_ColettaMonica Reza California DOJ Missing Persons page: https://oag.ca.gov/missing/person/monica-jacinto-rezaHelp Find Monica Reza Instagram https://www.instagram.com/helpfindmonicareza/      Dragonflynda on X https://x.com/DragonflyndaMissing scientist and general playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUBNCmjIGgJj34s02zqwIvv_hCASUdo9_Shop: https://all-things-unexplained-shop.fourthwall.com Website/support: https://allthingsunexplained.com Guest list: https://allthingsunexplained.transistor.fm/people _______________________Follow All Things Unexplained:   YouTube https://youtube.com/@allthingsunexplained     X https://x.com/@ATUnexplained    IG https://instagram.com/allthingsunexplainedpodcast    TikTok https://tiktok.com/@allthingsunexplained     FB https://facebook.com/allthingsunexplainedpodcast    Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/all-things-unexplained/id1518410497 Email us: allthingsunexplained@yahoo.com Music Credits sourced via YouTube Audio Library.Almost in F - Tranquillity by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100394Artist: http://incompetech.com/ ★ Support this podcast ★

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Is settling Mars a biblical idea? Does God want us building colonies on other planets? Kevin, Josh, and Danny investigate the secular and humanistic motives behind space exploration, and what exactly Scripture says we are given dominion over. Then they switch to uncovering the truth about UFOs – and the scriptural, historical, and current evidence that they are spiritual, not physical.

Is settling Mars a biblical idea? Does God want us building colonies on other planets? Kevin, Josh, and Danny investigate the secular and humanistic motives behind space exploration, and what exactly Scripture says we are given dominion over. Then they switch to uncovering the truth about UFOs – and the scriptural, historical, and current evidence that they are spiritual, not physical.

Is settling Mars a biblical idea? Does God want us building colonies on other planets? Kevin, Josh, and Danny investigate the secular and humanistic motives behind space exploration, and what exactly Scripture says we are given dominion over. Then they switch to uncovering the truth about UFOs – and the scriptural, historical, and current evidence that they are spiritual, not physical.

Monica Reza and Gen. Neil McCasland are among many missing scientists and officials tied to sensitive sites and advanced technologies. Dallis Ann Hardwick passed away January 5, 2014.Michael David Hicks passed away July 30, 2023.Monica Reza disappeared June 22, 2025.Melissa Casias disappeared June 26, 2025.Steven Garcia disappeared August 28, 2025.General Neil McCasland disappeared February 27, 2026.Casias worked for Los Alamos. Hicks studied planet threatening asteroids. Garcia worked with nuclear secrets at the  Kansas City National Security Campus - New Mexico facility.Monica Reza and Dallis Ann Hardwich helped develop materials for the AFRL designed to survive one of the harshest environments in engineering: rocket engines.Neil McCasland oversaw the U.S. Air Force's top research laboratory, the AFRL.Now, people are noticing possible connections to other missing or deceased scientists and military personnel.Subscribe (free) to ATU on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@allthingsunexplained _______________________Hosted by Dr. Tim Mounce—best-selling author, Audible narrator, professor, and coffee addict. Watch Dr. Mounce in the ⁨@MrBeast⁩ epic YouTube video '2,000 People Fight For $5,000,000' — https://youtu.be/gs8qfL9PNac?si=whD290YawP8WBSTH. Then, follow Dr. Mounce as contestant #718 in 'Beast Games Season 1' by Mr. Beast on Amazon Prime.Watch ATU's intro man Larry as #76 on the ⁨@MrBeast⁩ smash hit 'Ages 1 - 100 Race For $250,000': https://youtu.be/9WEQts7b8Pw?si=yVDRYlUcirHi-Pmx _______________________Featured in Patricia Cornwell's New York Times Bestselling Novel Identity Unknown:“Earth was plan B. It's where the Martians escaped thousands of years ago when their own planet was about to be destroyed,” Marino replies as if it's commonly known.No doubt he learned this and more from All Things Unexplained, Ancient Aliens or one of his other favorite podcasts and TV shows. He and my sister both tune in religiously, and it makes for lively dinner conversations when all of us are together.— Identity Unknown, p. 164_______________________Ranked #9 Alien Podcast, #8 Bigfoot Podcast, and top 40 UFO Podcast by MillionPodcasts.Top 15 Science & Society Podcast.People's Choice Podcast Award Nominee._______________________Episode Links: Watch this full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/TmeyRpRkMhoMonica Reza California DOJ Missing Persons page: https://oag.ca.gov/missing/person/monica-jacinto-rezaHelp Find Monica Reza Instagram https://www.instagram.com/helpfindmonicareza/      Dragonflynda on X https://x.com/DragonflyndaMissing scientist and general playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUBNCmjIGgJj34s02zqwIvv_hCASUdo9_Shop: https://all-things-unexplained-shop.fourthwall.com Website/support: https://allthingsunexplained.com Guest list: https://allthingsunexplained.transistor.fm/people _______________________Follow All Things Unexplained:   YouTube https://youtube.com/@allthingsunexplained     X https://x.com/@ATUnexplained    IG https://instagram.com/allthingsunexplainedpodcast    TikTok https://tiktok.com/@allthingsunexplained     FB https://facebook.com/allthingsunexplainedpodcast    Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/all-things-unexplained/id1518410497 Email us: allthingsunexplained@yahoo.com Music Credits sourced via YouTube Audio Library.Almost in F - Tranquillity by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100394Artist: http://incompetech.com/ ★ Support this podcast ★

A discussion on space exploration, Christians in science, and how faith reacts to discovery, featuring David DeFelice, former Deputy Communications Director at NASA Glenn.

Monica Reza and General Neil McCasland are among many missing scientists and officials tied to sensitive sites and advanced technologies. Dallis Ann Hardwick passed away January 5, 2014.Michael David Hicks passed away July 30, 2023.Monica Reza disappeared June 22, 2025.Melissa Casias disappeared June 26, 2025.Steven Garcia disappeared August 28, 2025.General Neil McCasland disappeared February 27, 2026.Casias worked for Los Alamos. Hicks studied planet threatening asteroids. Garcia worked with nuclear secrets at the  Kansas City National Security Campus - New Mexico facility.Monica Reza and Dallis Ann Hardwich helped develop materials for the AFRL designed to survive one of the harshest environments in engineering: rocket engines.Neil McCasland oversaw the U.S. Air Force's top research laboratory, the AFRL.Now, people are noticing possible connections to other missing or deceased scientists and military personnel.Subscribe (free) to ATU on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@allthingsunexplained _______________________Hosted by Dr. Tim Mounce—best-selling author, Audible narrator, professor, and coffee addict. Watch Dr. Mounce in the ⁨@MrBeast⁩ epic YouTube video '2,000 People Fight For $5,000,000' — https://youtu.be/gs8qfL9PNac?si=whD290YawP8WBSTH. Then, follow Dr. Mounce as contestant #718 in 'Beast Games Season 1' by Mr. Beast on Amazon Prime.Watch ATU's intro man Larry as #76 on the ⁨@MrBeast⁩ smash hit 'Ages 1 - 100 Race For $250,000': https://youtu.be/9WEQts7b8Pw?si=yVDRYlUcirHi-Pmx _______________________Featured in Patricia Cornwell's New York Times Bestselling Novel Identity Unknown:“Earth was plan B. It's where the Martians escaped thousands of years ago when their own planet was about to be destroyed,” Marino replies as if it's commonly known.No doubt he learned this and more from All Things Unexplained, Ancient Aliens or one of his other favorite podcasts and TV shows. He and my sister both tune in religiously, and it makes for lively dinner conversations when all of us are together.— Identity Unknown, p. 164_______________________Ranked #9 Alien Podcast, #8 Bigfoot Podcast, and top 40 UFO Podcast by MillionPodcasts.Top 15 Science & Society Podcast.People's Choice Podcast Award Nominee._______________________Episode Links: Watch this full video on YouTube: https://youtube.com/shorts/I-x4xLFCAcwLauren Conlin tweet https://x.com/conlin_lauren/status/2071725654073020605LA Mag article https://lamag.com/crimeinla/new-evidence-recovered-from-scene-where-melissa-casias-remains-were-found/SETI Protocols https://www.seti.org/research/seti-101/protocols-for-an-eti-signal-detection/Missing scientist and general playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUBNCmjIGgJj34s02zqwIvv_hCASUdo9_Shop: https://all-things-unexplained-shop.fourthwall.com Website/support: https://allthingsunexplained.com Guest list: https://allthingsunexplained.transistor.fm/people _______________________Follow All Things Unexplained:   YouTube https://youtube.com/@allthingsunexplained     X https://x.com/@ATUnexplained    IG https://instagram.com/allthingsunexplainedpodcast    TikTok https://tiktok.com/@allthingsunexplained     FB https://facebook.com/allthingsunexplainedpodcast    Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/all-things-unexplained/id1518410497 Email us: allthingsunexplained@yahoo.com Music Credits sourced via YouTube Audio Library.Almost in F - Tranquillity by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100394Artist: http://incompetech.com/ ★ Support this podcast ★

This week on AwesomeCast 788, Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar explore the growing appeal of retro technology, screen-free devices, customizable gadgets, and digital tools that give users more control. Katie begins with Mama's Night Off, a browser game inspired by Dungeon Crawler Carl and the Maeve Chocolate Dirty Shirley bar. Dave introduces Garmin's new screenless fitness tracker, an alternative to smartwatches and subscription-heavy wearables. Sorg shares his experience setting up RetroArch on Apple TV, including its wide range of supported systems, open-source games, ROM management, controllers, and the tinkering required to make everything work. The conversation expands into the tension between digital convenience and physical ownership. The hosts discuss GameStop's response to Sony's physical-media decisions, the rapid progress of PlayStation 5 emulation, and why consumers are returning to CDs, vinyl, cassettes, retro games, and other physical formats. They also have an extended discussion about generative AI, creative production, AI-assisted image editing, automation tools, corporate responsibility, electrical-grid pressures, and the rapid construction of data centers. The hosts examine the difference between rejecting AI entirely and learning how to use it responsibly while still demanding accountability from businesses and government. Later, the show looks at NASA's Psyche spacecraft capturing a Mars flyby, Pittsburgh movie history through the Pastfinders app, a minimalist flip phone for people who want fewer distractions, a development board that turns old Nintendo Wii Remotes into customizable controllers, and Google Photos restoring a traditional search option alongside Ask Photos. Stories and Gadgets Discussed Awesome Things of the Week Mama's Night Off and the Maeve Chocolate Dirty Shirley Bar Katie shares a browser-based game connected to Dungeon Crawler Carl. Players fire magical projectiles at cherries to help create Mama's Dirty Shirley. The hosts discuss the game's intentionally retro presentation and voice work by Jeff Hays. Play the game and view the chocolate bar: https://maevechocolate.com/products/virgin-dirty-shirley/?game Garmin's Screenless Fitness Tracker Dave introduces Garmin's wearable fitness tracker designed without a screen. The device offers health and activity tracking without requiring users to wear a full smartwatch. The hosts discuss its approximately ten-day battery life, Garmin Connect compatibility, optional Garmin Connect+ subscription, and Garmin's reputation for durable hardware and direct fitness feedback. Engadget: https://www.engadget.com/2219713/garmin-finally-made-a-screenless-fitness-tracker/ Garmin product information: https://www.garmin.com/en-US/p/1989182/#specs RetroArch on Apple TV Sorg explains how RetroArch can turn an Apple TV into a multi-system retro-gaming device. The software supports numerous systems, including Nintendo, Sega, arcade, PlayStation-era platforms, and older computer games. The hosts discuss Bluetooth controllers, open-source games, shareware versions of Doom and Wolfenstein, storage limitations, organizing ROM libraries, and troubleshooting incompatible files. Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/retroarch/id6499539433 Supported platforms: https://www.retroarch.com/?page=platforms Awesome Person of the Week Ralph Teetor and the Invention of Cruise Control Dave highlights engineer Ralph Teetor, who became blind as a child and later earned engineering degrees. Frustrated by the repeated acceleration and deceleration of drivers, Teetor developed an early version of cruise control. The hosts discuss the evolution from basic speed control to adaptive cruise control and its relationship to modern driver-assistance systems. Teetor later served as president of the Society of Automotive Engineers, and an SAE award for educators bears his name. Automotive Hall of Fame: https://automotivehalloffame.org/honoree/ralph-r-teetor/ Chachi Says Video Game Minute Playing GTA III and Vice City Inside GTA: San Andreas A PC mod allows players controlling CJ in Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas to walk up to an in-game television and launch GTA III or Vice City. The hosts compare the concept to a video-game version of Inception. https://www.tomshardware.com/video-games/pc-gaming/gta-3-and-vice-city-are-now-playable-inside-san-andreas-a-mod-lets-you-revisit-liberty-city-and-vice-city-without-leaving-san-andreas GameStop's CEO Responds to the Decline of Physical Games GameStop CEO Ryan Cohen argues that Sony reducing physical-disc support will not significantly hurt the company because new video-game sales represent a relatively small portion of its business. The discussion includes GameStop's continued interest in eBay and the changing economics of physical game retail. https://www.ign.com/articles/gamestop-ceo-ryan-cohen-insists-sony-killing-physical-discs-doesnt-matter-at-all-because-video-game-sales-make-up-so-little-of-his-business PlayStation 5 Emulation Progress Developers are making progress booting PlayStation 5 titles through multiple emulation projects. Two-dimensional games are advancing more quickly, while fully rendering complex three-dimensional games remains a significant challenge. The story sparks a broader conversation about game preservation, physical ownership, digital licensing, and consumer distrust. https://www.tomshardware.com/video-games/playstation/ps5-emulation-ramps-up-in-wake-of-sonys-end-to-physical-media-ps5-titles-now-booting-across-different-emulators-with-rapid-community-development-for-both-2d-and-3d-games AI, Creative Work and Data Centers The hosts discuss the growing use of AI-assisted tools in image editing, video production, business documents, email, captions, background extension, and design mockups. Sorg explains how AI can help reformat posters for different social-media dimensions without replacing the original creative work. The discussion distinguishes generative AI from other machine-learning tools, such as automated transcription, rotoscoping, search, and image organization. Dave raises concerns about social-media challenges potentially being used to gather free voice-training data. The group discusses how Google, Adobe, Canva, and other platforms increasingly build AI functions directly into existing software. The hosts argue that professionals cannot simply ignore the technology, but they should evaluate where it is appropriate and disclose its use when needed. The discussion also addresses the electrical demands of new data centers, corporate incentives, local government decisions, environmental protections, grid capacity, and the disproportionate placement of industrial infrastructure near lower-income communities. Their central argument is that rapid technological growth must be accompanied by accountability, regulation, public representation, and responsible development. NASA Psyche Mars Flyby NASA's Psyche spacecraft used a Mars flyby as a gravitational assist while traveling deeper into the solar system. The mission captured detailed images and a time-lapse view of Mars during the maneuver. Dave highlights the value of scientific exploration driven by curiosity and the desire to understand more about the universe. https://science.nasa.gov/blogs/psyche/2026/07/17/nasas-psyche-mission-delivers-mars-flyby-data-time-lapse-video/ Pittsburgh Bridges on Film and Pastfinders Sorg highlights a collaboration between Pastfinders and the Pittsburgh Film Office focused on Pittsburgh bridges featured in movies and television. Examples discussed include locations connected to Mayor of Kingstown, Sweet Girl, Jack Reacher, The Perks of Being a Wallflower, The Dark Knight Rises, Dogma, The Silence of the Lambs, and Mindhunter. The hosts discuss how the Pastfinders app sends location-based notifications about historical sites, movie locations, landmarks, and unusual local stories. Pastfinders: https://www.pastfinders.app/ Pittsburgh Film Office bridge-tour post: https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1458603939638716&set=pcb.1458603999638710 The Light Flip Minimalist Phone The hosts examine a modern minimalist flip phone inspired by classic designs. It uses physical buttons, T9-style typing, a small screen, and a dedicated operating system rather than standard Android. The group discusses the appeal for people who want calls, messages, navigation, and limited apps without carrying a high-powered smartphone. They also consider whether younger users might adopt simpler phones to reduce social-media use and screen time. https://9to5google.com/2026/07/21/light-flip-minimalist-phone-announcement/ OpenMote: Repurposing the Nintendo Wii Remote Sorg introduces OpenMote, a drop-in development board that turns a Nintendo Wii Remote into a customizable controller. Demonstrations include pointing the remote at lamps to control them. The hosts brainstorm uses for smart-home controls, games, production equipment, lighting effects, custom 3D-printed controllers, and event technology. OpenMote: https://openmote.io/?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio Instagram demonstration: https://www.instagram.com/reels/Da8p5B7PNKP/ OpenMote Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/openmote.io/ Google Photos Restores Classic Search Google Photos is adding an option that lets users choose between the newer Gemini-powered Ask Photos experience and a more traditional search interface. The hosts discuss why some users prefer entering straightforward terms rather than asking an AI-generated question. The change becomes an example of why providing a choice can reduce frustration when companies add AI to familiar products. https://9to5google.com/2026/07/20/google-photos-classic-search-toggle/ Also Discussed The return of CDs, vinyl records, cassettes, retro games, and physical media. The difference between owning digital media and licensing access to it. Consumer distrust of large technology companies. The space required to store large physical-media collections. Using Gemini to interpret business acronyms and generate a first draft of a statement of work. Severe-weather alerts and Katie briefly leaving the podcast during a tornado warning. Dave's upcoming races, including the Two-Face Race and Trick or Trot 5K. The next AwesomeCast interview with Spotter Global and its technology for detecting drones and identifying operators. Support the show at: https://www.patreon.com/awesomecast Discover more from the Sorgatron Media Podcast Network: https://sorgatronmedia.com