Podcasts about twis

What is in the This Week in Science Podcast? This Week: Whale Poop, Midnight Songbats, Vole Teeth, Multi-Species Walking Paths, Rats that hunt Bats, And Much More TWISoween! Become a Patron! Check out the full unedited episode of our science podcast on YouTube or Twitch. And, remember that you can find TWIS in all the […] The post 29 October, 2025 – Episode 1035 – TWISoween 2025 appeared first on This Week in Science - The Kickass Science Podcast.

In unserer mehrteiligen Reihe "25 Jahre Final Fantasy IX" besprechen wir das legendäre Squaresoft-RPG in seiner Gänze und geben euch dabei Einblicke in die Entwicklung, sowie jede Menge Anekdoten und Wissenswertes rund um das Game. Wir haben die CD gewechselt und setzen unsere Reise nach den dramatischen Ereignissen in Burmecia fort. Viel Vergnügen mit dieser dritten Episode!✨ Folgt und supportet uns! Als Dankeschön für euren finanziellen Support auf Spotify oder als Youtube-Kanalmitglied, erhaltet ihr alle unsere Folgen im Vorabzugriff früher! Als komplett werbefreier Podcast sind wir bereits seit 2019 unterwegs. Wir freuen uns deshalb über euer Feedback und auch jeden Support in Form von Kommentaren, Follows und 5* Bewertungen, für mehr Sichtbarkeit! :)○ Twitter/TikTok / @poweroncast ○ Webseite / www.Poweroncast.de ○ Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6AnWLW8...►

Lander, lander, who's got the lander? Last week, acting NASA Administrator Sean Duffy announced that the agency would be re-opening the contract for the Artemis III lunar lander, which had previously been let to SpaceX to be fulfilled by their Starship Human Landing System. Unfortunately, that effort is well behind schedule, and the Trump administration has made landing astronauts on the moon, before China does, a national priority. With multiple refuelings and landing tests required, there is concern that SpaceX may not be able to fulfil their commitment before China's announced landing date of 2030. Elon Musk responded to the announcement with characteristic tack, with phrasing like "Sean Dummy" and him having a two-digit IQ. Mike Wall of Space.com joins us to dive into this rapidly evolving story. Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Mike Wall Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free shows, a members-only Discord, and behind-the-scenes access. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

Lander, lander, who's got the lander? Last week, acting NASA Administrator Sean Duffy announced that the agency would be re-opening the contract for the Artemis III lunar lander, which had previously been let to SpaceX to be fulfilled by their Starship Human Landing System. Unfortunately, that effort is well behind schedule, and the Trump administration has made landing astronauts on the moon, before China does, a national priority. With multiple refuelings and landing tests required, there is concern that SpaceX may not be able to fulfil their commitment before China's announced landing date of 2030. Elon Musk responded to the announcement with characteristic tack, with phrasing like "Sean Dummy" and him having a two-digit IQ. Mike Wall of Space.com joins us to dive into this rapidly evolving story. Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Mike Wall Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free shows, a members-only Discord, and behind-the-scenes access. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

If you ever saw the IMAX spectacular, "The Dream is Alive," you've seen astronaut Terry Hart in action, capturing the Solar Max satellite with the shuttle's robotic arm. But even if you missed that film, Terry has had a fascinating career as an Air Force pilot, NASA astronaut, senior leadership at Bell Labs (more than once!), and as an academic and creator of a new aerospace engineering program at Lehigh University. Join us for an enjoyable hour with one of our favorite guys. Also, is Jared Isaacman back as the new NASA Administrator? Will the Orion capsule soon be used for non-NASA missions? And what's going on with the layoffs at the Jet Propulsion Lab? All this and more on This Week in Space. Headlines: Jared Isaacman Back in the Running for NASA Administrator Lockheed Martin Considers Launching Orion on Rockets Other Than SLS JPL Hit Hard by Layoffs and Uncertainty Amid NASA Budget Woes Main Topic: Astronaut Terry Hart's Career, Space Shuttle Missions, and NASA's Evolution Terry Hart Recaps a Multifaceted Aerospace Career from Bell Labs to NASA Behind the Scenes of the IMAX Film "The Dream is Alive" and Shooting in Space In-Depth Look at STS-41C: First Shuttle Rendezvous, Satellite Repair, and Pioneering On-Orbit Servicing Long Duration Space Experiments and the Legacy of LDEF Reflections on Challenger, Shuttle Risks, and Safety Culture in Human Spaceflight The Ongoing Shift from NASA-Led Programs to Private Spaceflight Industry Preparing the Next Generation: Aerospace Education and Lehigh University's New Graduate Program Insights on Space Bees, Life Aboard the Shuttle, and Visions for the Future of Space Manufacturing Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Terry Hart 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 shows, a members-only Discord, and behind-the-scenes access. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

If you ever saw the IMAX spectacular, "The Dream is Alive," you've seen astronaut Terry Hart in action, capturing the Solar Max satellite with the shuttle's robotic arm. But even if you missed that film, Terry has had a fascinating career as an Air Force pilot, NASA astronaut, senior leadership at Bell Labs (more than once!), and as an academic and creator of a new aerospace engineering program at Lehigh University. Join us for an enjoyable hour with one of our favorite guys. Also, is Jared Isaacman back as the new NASA Administrator? Will the Orion capsule soon be used for non-NASA missions? And what's going on with the layoffs at the Jet Propulsion Lab? All this and more on This Week in Space. Headlines: Jared Isaacman Back in the Running for NASA Administrator Lockheed Martin Considers Launching Orion on Rockets Other Than SLS JPL Hit Hard by Layoffs and Uncertainty Amid NASA Budget Woes Main Topic: Astronaut Terry Hart's Career, Space Shuttle Missions, and NASA's Evolution Terry Hart Recaps a Multifaceted Aerospace Career from Bell Labs to NASA Behind the Scenes of the IMAX Film "The Dream is Alive" and Shooting in Space In-Depth Look at STS-41C: First Shuttle Rendezvous, Satellite Repair, and Pioneering On-Orbit Servicing Long Duration Space Experiments and the Legacy of LDEF Reflections on Challenger, Shuttle Risks, and Safety Culture in Human Spaceflight The Ongoing Shift from NASA-Led Programs to Private Spaceflight Industry Preparing the Next Generation: Aerospace Education and Lehigh University's New Graduate Program Insights on Space Bees, Life Aboard the Shuttle, and Visions for the Future of Space Manufacturing Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Terry Hart 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 shows, a members-only Discord, and behind-the-scenes access. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

World Space Week is a global celebration of all things space, bringing together thousands of participants from all over the planet to celebrate our future in space. Chartered by the United Nations in 1999, this year's theme is "Living in Space." The many associated events from across the world are a reminder to all of the importance of space in our lives and our future, and a clarion call to international youth of the value of their future involvement. We spoke with the WSW Association's executive director, Alma Okpalefe, who explained their origins, activities, and plans for the future. It's one of the premier space-related events of the year, and when you're done with the episode, you'll want to know more! Headlines: SpaceX Starship Flight 11 Set for Launch 6,000 Alien Planets Discovered—Where's Earth 2.0? Mars Crew Study Reveals Diverse Teams Outperform "Alpha Males" Main Topic: World Space Week 2025 Alma Okpalefe Shares Her Path from Legal Counsel to Space Leadership Global Scope and Organization: 95+ Countries, Thousands of Events Types of World Space Week Activities: School Outreach, Museum Events, Art Competitions 2025 Theme: "Living in Space"—Why It Was Chosen, What It Means Globally Building Space Interest in Regions Without Established Programs Outcomes and Impact: Inspiring Space Agencies, Universities, and Advocacy Accessibility and Inclusion as Future Focus for Space Exploration Advice for Young Space Enthusiasts: Get Involved and Dream Big International Collaboration: Why Working Together Matters for Space Progress Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Alma Okpalefe 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 shows, a members-only Discord, and behind-the-scenes access. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

World Space Week is a global celebration of all things space, bringing together thousands of participants from all over the planet to celebrate our future in space. Chartered by the United Nations in 1999, this year's theme is "Living in Space." The many associated events from across the world are a reminder to all of the importance of space in our lives and our future, and a clarion call to international youth of the value of their future involvement. We spoke with the WSW Association's executive director, Alma Okpalefe, who explained their origins, activities, and plans for the future. It's one of the premier space-related events of the year, and when you're done with the episode, you'll want to know more! Headlines: SpaceX Starship Flight 11 Set for Launch 6,000 Alien Planets Discovered—Where's Earth 2.0? Mars Crew Study Reveals Diverse Teams Outperform "Alpha Males" Main Topic: World Space Week 2025 Alma Okpalefe Shares Her Path from Legal Counsel to Space Leadership Global Scope and Organization: 95+ Countries, Thousands of Events Types of World Space Week Activities: School Outreach, Museum Events, Art Competitions 2025 Theme: "Living in Space"—Why It Was Chosen, What It Means Globally Building Space Interest in Regions Without Established Programs Outcomes and Impact: Inspiring Space Agencies, Universities, and Advocacy Accessibility and Inclusion as Future Focus for Space Exploration Advice for Young Space Enthusiasts: Get Involved and Dream Big International Collaboration: Why Working Together Matters for Space Progress Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Alma Okpalefe 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 shows, a members-only Discord, and behind-the-scenes access. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

This week we cover the headlines, from the shutdown of NASA, to the risky dismantling of the space shuttle Discovery (because Texas insists), to a rogue exoplanet's weird weather, and much more. Should we be worried about China investing in SpaceX? How about those close-up shots of the interstellar visitor 3I/Atlas? And are asteroids hiding out near Venus a threat to Earth? All this and more on episode 180 of This Week in Space. Headlines: NASA Suffers Major Disruption Amid Government Shutdown Shuttle Discovery Faces Potential Forced Dismantling for Texas Move China Might be Eying Perseverance Mars Samples in Race to Retrieve Martian Rocks Near-Venus Asteroids Pose Hidden Threats to Earth Interstellar Comet 3I/ATLAS Gets Close-Up for Mars Orbiters Concerns Over Chinese Investments in SpaceX China Fast-Tracks Lunar Landing Systems and Rocket Tests James Webb Telescope Delivers First Rogue Exoplanet Weather Report Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free shows, a members-only Discord, and behind-the-scenes access. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

This week we cover the headlines, from the shutdown of NASA, to the risky dismantling of the space shuttle Discovery (because Texas insists), to a rogue exoplanet's weird weather, and much more. Should we be worried about China investing in SpaceX? How about those close-up shots of the interstellar visitor 3I/Atlas? And are asteroids hiding out near Venus a threat to Earth? All this and more on episode 180 of This Week in Space. Headlines: NASA Suffers Major Disruption Amid Government Shutdown Shuttle Discovery Faces Potential Forced Dismantling for Texas Move China Might be Eying Perseverance Mars Samples in Race to Retrieve Martian Rocks Near-Venus Asteroids Pose Hidden Threats to Earth Interstellar Comet 3I/ATLAS Gets Close-Up for Mars Orbiters Concerns Over Chinese Investments in SpaceX China Fast-Tracks Lunar Landing Systems and Rocket Tests James Webb Telescope Delivers First Rogue Exoplanet Weather Report Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free shows, a members-only Discord, and behind-the-scenes access. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

What is in the This Week in Science Podcast? This Week: It's Ig Nobel Season!, Cats!, Fish, Extinct Herbivores, Magic Mushrooms, Plastic Brains, Astrocyte Conductors, Social Spiders, and Much More Science to Pronounce! Become a Patron! Check out the full unedited episode of our podcast on YouTube or Twitch. Remember that you can find TWIS […] The post 24 September, 2025 – Episode 1031 – How to Pronounce Acetaminophen appeared first on This Week in Science - The Kickass Science Podcast.

It's almost time for Artemis II to fly to the moon! We got together with Space.com writer Josh Dinner, who joined our own Tariq to attend the "astro unveiling" of NASA's newest class of astronauts and a major press event surrounding the crew of Artemis II. The mission is currently scheduled to loop the moon in early 2026. Join us for the newest details! Headlines: • NASA's Escapade Mission Gears Up for Mars Launch • Rocket Lab Prepares for First Interplanetary Mission • Dream Chaser Space Plane's ISS Debut Delayed, Contract Adjustments Announced • Simulated Universe Creates 3.4 Billion Digital Galaxies • Reflections on the Evolution of Space Missions—From Apollo to Artemis Main Topic: Artemis II Updates and NASA's Next Generation Astronauts • Our Reporters Go Behind the Scenes at Johnson Space Center • Artemis II Launch Windows Announced for Feb-April 2026 • Overview of Artemis II Crew and Their Spaceflight Experience • Mission Profile: Free Return Trajectory, Timeline, and Unique Features • Naming of Orion Capsule as "Integrity" • NASA Preps for Extensive, Real-time Media Coverage During Artemis II • Discussion of Public Enthusiasm and Challenges for Engaging a Modern Audience • Artemis II Crew Details, Training, and Scientific Goals • Addressing Orion Heat Shield Issues and Design Updates • Training for Artemis III: Simulating Lunar Gravity and EVA Preparation • NASA Unveils New Astronaut Class with Diverse Backgrounds • Discussion of Astronaut Demographics, Public Messaging, and International Partners Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Josh Dinner 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 shows, a members-only Discord, and behind-the-scenes access. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

It's almost time for Artemis II to fly to the moon! We got together with Space.com writer Josh Dinner, who joined our own Tariq to attend the "astro unveiling" of NASA's newest class of astronauts and a major press event surrounding the crew of Artemis II. The mission is currently scheduled to loop the moon in early 2026. Join us for the newest details! Headlines: • NASA's Escapade Mission Gears Up for Mars Launch • Rocket Lab Prepares for First Interplanetary Mission • Dream Chaser Space Plane's ISS Debut Delayed, Contract Adjustments Announced • Simulated Universe Creates 3.4 Billion Digital Galaxies • Reflections on the Evolution of Space Missions—From Apollo to Artemis Main Topic: Artemis II Updates and NASA's Next Generation Astronauts • Our Reporters Go Behind the Scenes at Johnson Space Center • Artemis II Launch Windows Announced for Feb-April 2026 • Overview of Artemis II Crew and Their Spaceflight Experience • Mission Profile: Free Return Trajectory, Timeline, and Unique Features • Naming of Orion Capsule as "Integrity" • NASA Preps for Extensive, Real-time Media Coverage During Artemis II • Discussion of Public Enthusiasm and Challenges for Engaging a Modern Audience • Artemis II Crew Details, Training, and Scientific Goals • Addressing Orion Heat Shield Issues and Design Updates • Training for Artemis III: Simulating Lunar Gravity and EVA Preparation • NASA Unveils New Astronaut Class with Diverse Backgrounds • Discussion of Astronaut Demographics, Public Messaging, and International Partners Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Josh Dinner 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 shows, a members-only Discord, and behind-the-scenes access. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

What is in the This Week in Science Podcast? This Week: Interview with Dr. Michael E. Mann and Peter J. Hotez, M.D., Ph.D., about Science Under Siege. Become a Patron! Check out the full unedited episode of our podcast on YouTube or Twitch. And remember that you can find TWIS in all the podcast directories. […] The post 19 September, 2025 – Interview 1030 – Science Under Siege appeared first on This Week in Science - The Kickass Science Podcast.

There's a very elite club in astronaut circles, one in which former astronauts go on to political careers. The most elite are senators, and so far, John Glenn, Harrison Schmitt, and Mark Kelly have been members, and may soon be joined by Terry Virts, a former shuttle and ISS astronaut. He's got a lot to say about today's NASA, the budget, the Artemis program (he was the astronaut embedded with the SLS rocket program back in 2011), and much more. Col. Virts is also an author and filmmaker, among his other pursuits. Join us for the enlightening episode. Headlines: • Ukraine Destroys Russian Military-Used Radio Telescope in Crimea • China's Surge in Spaceflight Triggers New Warnings About U.S. Competitiveness • Stunning New Black Hole Images Revealed by Event Horizon Telescope • Partial Solar Eclipse Coming, Visible Most Spectacularly to Penguins Main Topic: Interview with Colonel Terry Virts—Astronaut and Senate Candidate • Highlights of Terry Virts' Career: Air Force, Shuttle & Soyuz Missions, Space Station Command • Motivation Behind Virts' Run for U.S. Senate in Texas • Threats to American Democracy, Middle-Class Issues, and Human Rights Priorities • How Astronaut and Military Experience Prepares Him for Political Office • Views on the U.S. Space Program: Budget Cuts, Program Delays, and China's Lunar Ambitions • Specific Critiques of Artemis, SLS, and Lunar Lander Strategies • Advice for Aspiring Astronauts and Reflections on NASA's Challenges • The ISS at 25: Collaboration, Science Achievements, and Personal Lessons Learned • Space, Star Trek, and Geek Culture Moments from Virts' NASA Years Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Terry Virts 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 shows, a members-only Discord, and behind-the-scenes access. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

There's a very elite club in astronaut circles, one in which former astronauts go on to political careers. The most elite are senators, and so far, John Glenn, Harrison Schmitt, and Mark Kelly have been members, and may soon be joined by Terry Virts, a former shuttle and ISS astronaut. He's got a lot to say about today's NASA, the budget, the Artemis program (he was the astronaut embedded with the SLS rocket program back in 2011), and much more. Col. Virts is also an author and filmmaker, among his other pursuits. Join us for the enlightening episode. Headlines: • Ukraine Destroys Russian Military-Used Radio Telescope in Crimea • China's Surge in Spaceflight Triggers New Warnings About U.S. Competitiveness • Stunning New Black Hole Images Revealed by Event Horizon Telescope • Partial Solar Eclipse Coming, Visible Most Spectacularly to Penguins Main Topic: Interview with Colonel Terry Virts—Astronaut and Senate Candidate • Highlights of Terry Virts' Career: Air Force, Shuttle & Soyuz Missions, Space Station Command • Motivation Behind Virts' Run for U.S. Senate in Texas • Threats to American Democracy, Middle-Class Issues, and Human Rights Priorities • How Astronaut and Military Experience Prepares Him for Political Office • Views on the U.S. Space Program: Budget Cuts, Program Delays, and China's Lunar Ambitions • Specific Critiques of Artemis, SLS, and Lunar Lander Strategies • Advice for Aspiring Astronauts and Reflections on NASA's Challenges • The ISS at 25: Collaboration, Science Achievements, and Personal Lessons Learned • Space, Star Trek, and Geek Culture Moments from Virts' NASA Years Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Terry Virts 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 shows, a members-only Discord, and behind-the-scenes access. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

In unserer mehrteiligen Reihe "25 Jahre Final Fantasy IX" besprechen wir das legendäre Squaresoft-RPG in seiner Gänze und geben euch dabei Einblicke in die Entwicklung, sowie jede Menge Anekdoten und Wissenswertes rund um das Game. Wir setzen unsere Reise in der größten Stadt des Spiels fort und bahnen uns einen Weg zum dramatischen Höhepunkt von CD1. Viel Vergnügen mit dieser zweiten Episode!✨ Folgt und supportet uns! Als Dankeschön für euren finanziellen Support auf Spotify oder als Youtube-Kanalmitglied, erhaltet ihr alle unsere Folgen im Vorabzugriff früher! Als komplett werbefreier Podcast sind wir bereits seit 2019 unterwegs. Wir freuen uns deshalb über euer Feedback und auch jeden Support in Form von Kommentaren, Follows und 5* Bewertungen, für mehr Sichtbarkeit! :)○ Twitter/TikTok / @poweroncast ○ Webseite / www.Poweroncast.de ○ Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6AnWLW8...►

You've heard the news about a possible detection of ancient life on Mars... now get the inside scoop from one of the paper's key authors. Dr. Michael Tice is a research scientist and planetary geologist at Texas A&M, and has a lot to say about how the research was pulled from the year-old drill sampling, the incredible rigor that was applied to their findings, and what's next in this amazing story. It's the one we've all been waiting for--a possible indication of life beyond our own planet! Headlines: NASA's Interim Chief Declares Mission to Beat China Back to the Moon Starlink Satellite Photobombs Maxar Image of Secret Chinese Airbase James Webb Telescope Captures Stunning Interstellar Jet "Flatulence" Main Topic: Signs of Ancient Life Discovered on Mars by Perseverance Dr. Michael Tice Explains Potential Biosignatures in Jezero Crater Discovery of Unusual "Leopard Spots" Linked to Possible Microbial Activity Redox Reactions and Organics Suggest Favorable Conditions for Life Debate Between Biological and Abiotic Explanations for Findings Cutting-Edge Rover Instruments Push Detection Limits Challenges of Confirming Life Without Sample Return to Earth Future Work Needed: Sample Return Missions and Analogs on Earth Broader Reflections on Mars Science, Search for Life, and Technology Choices Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Dr. Michael Tice 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 shows, a members-only Discord, and behind-the-scenes access. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

You've heard the news about a possible detection of ancient life on Mars... now get the inside scoop from one of the paper's key authors. Dr. Michael Tice is a research scientist and planetary geologist at Texas A&M, and has a lot to say about how the research was pulled from the year-old drill sampling, the incredible rigor that was applied to their findings, and what's next in this amazing story. It's the one we've all been waiting for--a possible indication of life beyond our own planet! Headlines: NASA's Interim Chief Declares Mission to Beat China Back to the Moon Starlink Satellite Photobombs Maxar Image of Secret Chinese Airbase James Webb Telescope Captures Stunning Interstellar Jet "Flatulence" Main Topic: Signs of Ancient Life Discovered on Mars by Perseverance Dr. Michael Tice Explains Potential Biosignatures in Jezero Crater Discovery of Unusual "Leopard Spots" Linked to Possible Microbial Activity Redox Reactions and Organics Suggest Favorable Conditions for Life Debate Between Biological and Abiotic Explanations for Findings Cutting-Edge Rover Instruments Push Detection Limits Challenges of Confirming Life Without Sample Return to Earth Future Work Needed: Sample Return Missions and Analogs on Earth Broader Reflections on Mars Science, Search for Life, and Technology Choices Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Dr. Michael Tice 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 shows, a members-only Discord, and behind-the-scenes access. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

What's next in deep space exploration? Dr. Alan Stern, planetary scientist and the Principal Investigator for the New Horizons mission to Pluto, joins us to discuss what we learned about Pluto, the prospects for a future Pluto orbiter, the news from the Kuiper Belt, and to talk about his experiences as a commercial suborbital astronaut. Oh, and he might just mention that he was short-listed to fly on the space shuttle! Alan is one of those people that just has one adventure after another... did I mention that he dove on the Titanic? Yeah, that kind of guy. Join us for an hour of deep space adventure. Headlines: U.S. Faces Warnings of Losing Lunar Race to China NASA Selects a New Associate Administrator Third Interstellar Comet Spotted With Unusual CO2 Cloud Main Topic: Pluto, the New Horizons Mission, and the Future of Planetary Exploration Why Pluto Was Chosen as a Prime Target for Exploration Building and Launching New Horizons: Team Effort and Challenges Emotional Moments as Pluto Data Arrived on Earth Precise Navigation: Getting New Horizons Safely to Pluto Pluto's Surprising Geological Activity and Complexity Major Discoveries at Pluto's Moon Charon Exploring Arrokoth: Insights into Planetary Formation The Search for a Possible Third Flyby Target in the Kuiper Belt The Importance of Long-Term Funding for New Horizons NASA Budget Threats Could End Multiple Key Space Missions The Possible Role of Kuiper Belt Objects in Delivering Organics to Earth How Flybys at Pluto and Arrokoth Reshaped Theories of Planetary Systems Prospects for Future Pluto Orbiters and Human Spaceflight Advocacy for Continued U.S. Leadership in Deep Space Exploration Host: Rod Pyle Co-Host: Fredrick (Rick) Jenet Guest: Alan Stern 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 shows, a members-only Discord, and behind-the-scenes access. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

What's next in deep space exploration? Dr. Alan Stern, planetary scientist and the Principal Investigator for the New Horizons mission to Pluto, joins us to discuss what we learned about Pluto, the prospects for a future Pluto orbiter, the news from the Kuiper Belt, and to talk about his experiences as a commercial suborbital astronaut. Oh, and he might just mention that he was short-listed to fly on the space shuttle! Alan is one of those people that just has one adventure after another... did I mention that he dove on the Titanic? Yeah, that kind of guy. Join us for an hour of deep space adventure. Headlines: U.S. Faces Warnings of Losing Lunar Race to China NASA Selects a New Associate Administrator Third Interstellar Comet Spotted With Unusual CO2 Cloud Main Topic: Pluto, the New Horizons Mission, and the Future of Planetary Exploration Why Pluto Was Chosen as a Prime Target for Exploration Building and Launching New Horizons: Team Effort and Challenges Emotional Moments as Pluto Data Arrived on Earth Precise Navigation: Getting New Horizons Safely to Pluto Pluto's Surprising Geological Activity and Complexity Major Discoveries at Pluto's Moon Charon Exploring Arrokoth: Insights into Planetary Formation The Search for a Possible Third Flyby Target in the Kuiper Belt The Importance of Long-Term Funding for New Horizons NASA Budget Threats Could End Multiple Key Space Missions The Possible Role of Kuiper Belt Objects in Delivering Organics to Earth How Flybys at Pluto and Arrokoth Reshaped Theories of Planetary Systems Prospects for Future Pluto Orbiters and Human Spaceflight Advocacy for Continued U.S. Leadership in Deep Space Exploration Host: Rod Pyle Co-Host: Fredrick (Rick) Jenet Guest: Alan Stern 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 shows, a members-only Discord, and behind-the-scenes access. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

So you're on a months-long flight to Mars... seven months with five people and one computer as crewmates. You've been told to put any fears of a HAL-9000 computer takeover of your mission out of your mind, but can you, really? In this episode, Dr. Daniel Selva of Texas A&M joins us to talk about his recent study of crew interactions and trust with AI using, well, computers, and the HERA habitat simulator at NASA's Johnson Space Center. The results were not entirely as expected! Join us for this fascinating look at crew-AI interaction in spaceflight procedures and emergencies. Headlines: SpaceX Starship Flight 10 Nails Test Milestones, Despite Some Reentry Damage Simulated Satellite Deployments and Heat Shield Experiments Show Progress for Starship SETI's 1977 "Wow Signal" Mystery Gets Closer to Natural Explanation China Prepares for 2030 Moon Landing with New Hardware Tests, Spurs US Lunar Competition Main Topic: AI Helpers for Diagnosing Space Emergencies (Interview with Dr. Daniel Selva) Dr. Selva's Background and Journey from Europe to Texas A&M and Space AI Research Using AI Agents to Assist Astronauts During Long-Duration, Deep Space Missions Details of the DAPHNE Virtual Assistant Study: Lab and NASA Analog Experiments Surprising Results: AI Shows Big Benefits in Lab, Mixed Results with Experienced Crews Individual Differences: Experience, Trust, and Task Complexity Influence AI Effectiveness Real-World Limitations: Emergency Charts vs. AI, Training, and Interface Design Challenges Broader Implications: Evolving AI to Assist Mission Control, Crew Autonomy, and Future Tech Fun Sci-Fi Comparisons: Favorite AI Assistants in Movies and the Reality of Human-AI Collaboration Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Dr. Daniel Selva 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 shows, a members-only Discord, and behind-the-scenes access. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

So you're on a months-long flight to Mars... seven months with five people and one computer as crewmates. You've been told to put any fears of a HAL-9000 computer takeover of your mission out of your mind, but can you, really? In this episode, Dr. Daniel Selva of Texas A&M joins us to talk about his recent study of crew interactions and trust with AI using, well, computers, and the HERA habitat simulator at NASA's Johnson Space Center. The results were not entirely as expected! Join us for this fascinating look at crew-AI interaction in spaceflight procedures and emergencies. Headlines: SpaceX Starship Flight 10 Nails Test Milestones, Despite Some Reentry Damage Simulated Satellite Deployments and Heat Shield Experiments Show Progress for Starship SETI's 1977 "Wow Signal" Mystery Gets Closer to Natural Explanation China Prepares for 2030 Moon Landing with New Hardware Tests, Spurs US Lunar Competition Main Topic: AI Helpers for Diagnosing Space Emergencies (Interview with Dr. Daniel Selva) Dr. Selva's Background and Journey from Europe to Texas A&M and Space AI Research Using AI Agents to Assist Astronauts During Long-Duration, Deep Space Missions Details of the DAPHNE Virtual Assistant Study: Lab and NASA Analog Experiments Surprising Results: AI Shows Big Benefits in Lab, Mixed Results with Experienced Crews Individual Differences: Experience, Trust, and Task Complexity Influence AI Effectiveness Real-World Limitations: Emergency Charts vs. AI, Training, and Interface Design Challenges Broader Implications: Evolving AI to Assist Mission Control, Crew Autonomy, and Future Tech Fun Sci-Fi Comparisons: Favorite AI Assistants in Movies and the Reality of Human-AI Collaboration Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Dr. Daniel Selva 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 shows, a members-only Discord, and behind-the-scenes access. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

The International Space Station has been serving as a major research center in space for over 25 years, but its time is coming to an end with a planned deorbit in 2030. Should we end this expensive experiment in space, or are we squandering a $150 billion resource? Dr. Lynn Harper, the Lead for Integrative Studies at the NASA Ames Space Portal, joins us to discuss some of the amazing research taking place aboard the ISS. We've all heard about crystal growth and so forth, but how about the promising work done on cancer treatments? Or the growing of replacement retinas? Perhaps the potential breakthroughs for treating Alzheimer's disease might interest you? These and many more will be the focus of our conversation. Headlines: NASA Earth Science Faces Massive Cuts Under Interim Administrator Sean Duffy James Webb Telescope Discovers New Moon Orbiting Uranus SpaceX Gears Up for Starship Flight 10, Hopes for First Success of the Year Main Topic: International Space Station Spinoffs & NASA's INSPA Breakthroughs NASA's INSPA Program Pushes Space-Based Research for Terrestrial Benefits Microgravity Research Triggers Life-Changing Advances in Medicine and Technology Space-Grown Protein Crystals Revolutionize Cancer Treatments, Save Lives and Billions ISS Tissue Engineering Enables Next-Generation Organ and Cell Therapies Accelerated Disease Modeling in Space Fast-Tracks Drug Discovery for Alzheimer's, ALS, and Cancer Space-Based Manufacturing Dramatically Improves Semiconductor and Fiber Optic Quality The Case for Extending ISS Operations to Maintain Biomedical & Industrial Progress Future Visions: Overlapping Space Stations and Expansion into Commercial Free-Flyers and Industrial Complexes Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Lynn Harper 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 shows, a members-only Discord, and behind-the-scenes access. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

The International Space Station has been serving as a major research center in space for over 25 years, but its time is coming to an end with a planned deorbit in 2030. Should we end this expensive experiment in space, or are we squandering a $150 billion resource? Dr. Lynn Harper, the Lead for Integrative Studies at the NASA Ames Space Portal, joins us to discuss some of the amazing research taking place aboard the ISS. We've all heard about crystal growth and so forth, but how about the promising work done on cancer treatments? Or the growing of replacement retinas? Perhaps the potential breakthroughs for treating Alzheimer's disease might interest you? These and many more will be the focus of our conversation. Headlines: NASA Earth Science Faces Massive Cuts Under Interim Administrator Sean Duffy James Webb Telescope Discovers New Moon Orbiting Uranus SpaceX Gears Up for Starship Flight 10, Hopes for First Success of the Year Main Topic: International Space Station Spinoffs & NASA's INSPA Breakthroughs NASA's INSPA Program Pushes Space-Based Research for Terrestrial Benefits Microgravity Research Triggers Life-Changing Advances in Medicine and Technology Space-Grown Protein Crystals Revolutionize Cancer Treatments, Save Lives and Billions ISS Tissue Engineering Enables Next-Generation Organ and Cell Therapies Accelerated Disease Modeling in Space Fast-Tracks Drug Discovery for Alzheimer's, ALS, and Cancer Space-Based Manufacturing Dramatically Improves Semiconductor and Fiber Optic Quality The Case for Extending ISS Operations to Maintain Biomedical & Industrial Progress Future Visions: Overlapping Space Stations and Expansion into Commercial Free-Flyers and Industrial Complexes Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Lynn Harper 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 shows, a members-only Discord, and behind-the-scenes access. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

Tariq is back from the Far East and bursting with space news! This week we'll look at the passing of Apollo 13 astronaut Jim Lovell, potential re-tasking of NASA's Juno probe from Jupiter to the interstellar interloper, 3I/Atlas--Avi Loeb wants it, of course--the third launch of ULA's Vulcan rocket, Artemis 2 lunar flyby updates, Virgin Galactic's new spaceplane (can they ever make a profit?), a proposed Pluto orbiter--with a planned mission of 50 years--and much more, on This Week in Space! Headlines: Remembering Apollo 13's Jim Lovell ULA's Vulcan Rocket Hits New Milestone With Powerful Launch Could Juno Chase an Interstellar Visitor? NASA Eyes Pluto Orbiter Mission Persephone Virgin Galactic Preps Next-Gen Delta Spaceplane Strange "Helmet" Rock Spotted on Mars Artemis II Orion Capsule Fuels Up for 2026 Launch Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free shows, a members-only Discord, and behind-the-scenes access. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

Tariq is back from the Far East and bursting with space news! This week we'll look at the passing of Apollo 13 astronaut Jim Lovell, potential re-tasking of NASA's Juno probe from Jupiter to the interstellar interloper, 3I/Atlas--Avi Loeb wants it, of course--the third launch of ULA's Vulcan rocket, Artemis 2 lunar flyby updates, Virgin Galactic's new spaceplane (can they ever make a profit?), a proposed Pluto orbiter--with a planned mission of 50 years--and much more, on This Week in Space! Headlines: Remembering Apollo 13's Jim Lovell ULA's Vulcan Rocket Hits New Milestone With Powerful Launch Could Juno Chase an Interstellar Visitor? NASA Eyes Pluto Orbiter Mission Persephone Virgin Galactic Preps Next-Gen Delta Spaceplane Strange "Helmet" Rock Spotted on Mars Artemis II Orion Capsule Fuels Up for 2026 Launch Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free shows, a members-only Discord, and behind-the-scenes access. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

If we're ever to make Mars a second home, we have some serious housekeeping to do... as in a total renovation. The Red Planet has little atmosphere, no radiation shielding, and some seriously toxic soil. How can we make it more Earthlike... and should we? Dr. Erika Alden DeBenedictis joins us to discuss how terraforming might work, how it could be done in decades instead of millennia, and the questions surrounding the ethics of changing another planet to suit humanity's needs. We say it's a trailer park of a planet, but the best bet for human expansion. Dr. Rick Jenet is this week's co-host. Join us for the conversation! Headlines: NASA aims to place a nuclear reactor on the moon by 2030, competing with China's similar plans for the Moon. NASA's planned commercial space stations are facing delays. As ISS retirement nears, the U.S. risks losing its foothold in low-Earth orbit within the coming years. SpaceX hits 100 launches in 2025, dominating global orbital launch activity and enabling rapid rocket reuse. Main Topic: High-Speed Terraforming of Mars Guest Dr. Erika Alden DeBenedictis shares new, biotech-driven concepts for terraforming Mars much faster than traditional proposals. Dr. DeBenedictis shares a modern understanding of Mars' past and present environment, including radiation, toxic perchlorate-laced soil, and thin atmosphere. Discussion on the importance and challenges of Mars Sample Return for accurate soil and resource analysis. Modern synthetic biology as a tool for creating microbes tailored for Martian soil and future terraforming. A step-by-step outline by Dr. DeBenedictis on building a breathable Mars atmosphere via engineered photosynthetic microbes, engineered atmospheric warming, and greenhouse construction. Exploration of the ethical considerations and philosophical implications of turning Mars into a habitable "garden," weighing preservation versus transformation. Dr. DeBenedictis makes a case for Martian settlement, terraforming technology, and legal and resource challenges for commercial space expansion. And Dr. DeBenedictis' vision for Mars' future as a unique, partially Earth-like biosphere with new opportunities in planetary stewardship and human adaptation of the planet. Host: Rod Pyle Co-Host: Fredrick (Rick) Jenet Guest: Dr. Erika Alden DeBenedictis 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 shows, a members-only Discord, and behind-the-scenes access. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

If we're ever to make Mars a second home, we have some serious housekeeping to do... as in a total renovation. The Red Planet has little atmosphere, no radiation shielding, and some seriously toxic soil. How can we make it more Earthlike... and should we? Dr. Erika Alden DeBenedictis joins us to discuss how terraforming might work, how it could be done in decades instead of millennia, and the questions surrounding the ethics of changing another planet to suit humanity's needs. We say it's a trailer park of a planet, but the best bet for human expansion. Dr. Rick Jenet is this week's co-host. Join us for the conversation! Headlines: NASA aims to place a nuclear reactor on the moon by 2030, competing with China's similar plans for the Moon. NASA's planned commercial space stations are facing delays. As ISS retirement nears, the U.S. risks losing its foothold in low-Earth orbit within the coming years. SpaceX hits 100 launches in 2025, dominating global orbital launch activity and enabling rapid rocket reuse. Main Topic: High-Speed Terraforming of Mars Guest Dr. Erika Alden DeBenedictis shares new, biotech-driven concepts for terraforming Mars much faster than traditional proposals. Dr. DeBenedictis shares a modern understanding of Mars' past and present environment, including radiation, toxic perchlorate-laced soil, and thin atmosphere. Discussion on the importance and challenges of Mars Sample Return for accurate soil and resource analysis. Modern synthetic biology as a tool for creating microbes tailored for Martian soil and future terraforming. A step-by-step outline by Dr. DeBenedictis on building a breathable Mars atmosphere via engineered photosynthetic microbes, engineered atmospheric warming, and greenhouse construction. Exploration of the ethical considerations and philosophical implications of turning Mars into a habitable "garden," weighing preservation versus transformation. Dr. DeBenedictis makes a case for Martian settlement, terraforming technology, and legal and resource challenges for commercial space expansion. And Dr. DeBenedictis' vision for Mars' future as a unique, partially Earth-like biosphere with new opportunities in planetary stewardship and human adaptation of the planet. Host: Rod Pyle Co-Host: Fredrick (Rick) Jenet Guest: Dr. Erika Alden DeBenedictis 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 shows, a members-only Discord, and behind-the-scenes access. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

The United Nations has mediated conflicts since its founding in 1945. That domain of involvement extended into space in 1967 with the Outer Space Treaty. Today, their role is increasingly active with more and more nations entering space and the private sector getting into the game. The US's space-related branches, UNOOSA (the UN Office of Outer Space Affairs) and COPUOUS (UN Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space), are busy. Many years ago, the National Space Society gained permanent UN observer status, which is much less passive than the name sounds. The organization has addressed the committees on more than one occasion and is working to influence the policy for space flight positively. Dr. Rick Jenet has been instrumental in these efforts and joins us in explaining the landscape of newspace, international space efforts, and the organization's future initiatives.Headline Space Shuttle Discovery Controversy: Rod and Isaac discuss the proposed $85 million move of the Space Shuttle Discovery from the Smithsonian to Houston, plan that faces obstacles from the Smithsonian, which holds the rights to the shuttle. Main Topic: UNOOSA & Dr. Rick Jenet The National Space Society's UN Observer Status: Dr. Jenet explains that the NSS gained permanent observer status at the UN in 2001. The NSS uses this privilege to inform delegates by providing research and presentations. UNOOSA and COPUOS Explained: Dr. Jenet clarifies that UNOOSA organizes the Committee on Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS). While UNOOSA maintains a registry of space objects, COPUOS is the body of 104 member states that develops legal frameworks. Outer Space Treaty of 1967: Dr. Jenet talks about the Outer Space Treaty, a global treaty dating back to the Cold War era that governs how state actors behave in space. He that the treaty's language on property ownership is being re-examined due to the rise of commercial space activities. Space Traffic Management and Orbital Debris: Dr. Jenet highlights that discussions on space traffic management and orbital debris are in their early stages. These discussions focus on basic tenets like coordination and information sharing. Lunar Activities and Resource Utilization: The development of policies for lunar exploration and resource extraction is also an area of new activity. UNOOSA's "Action Team for Lunar Activities Consultation," with co-chairs from Romania and Pakistan, coordinates the future of humanity's return to the moon by aligning different national initiatives. The "Regulation Sandbox" Concept: Dr. Jenet discusses the "regulation sandbox" concept, where existing regulations for an area with commercial potential, for example a lunar ice deposit, are set aside for a limited time to allow a new set of rules to be tested. This concept could be applied more boradly to space launch or ISRU. Why the Public Should Care: Dr. Jenet emphasizes that the public should care about these efforts because these high-level discussions will lead to international laws governing the behavior of all actors in space, including private companies and entrepreneurs. Early awareness of these frameworks will be less painful for startups later on. These show notes have been truncated due to length. For the full show notes, visit https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space/episodes/171 Host: Rod Pyle Co-Host: Isaac Arthur Guest: Fredrick (Rick) Jenet

The United Nations has mediated conflicts since its founding in 1945. That domain of involvement extended into space in 1967 with the Outer Space Treaty. Today, their role is increasingly active with more and more nations entering space and the private sector getting into the game. The US's space-related branches, UNOOSA (the UN Office of Outer Space Affairs) and COPUOUS (UN Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space), are busy. Many years ago, the National Space Society gained permanent UN observer status, which is much less passive than the name sounds. The organization has addressed the committees on more than one occasion and is working to influence the policy for space flight positively. Dr. Rick Jenet has been instrumental in these efforts and joins us in explaining the landscape of newspace, international space efforts, and the organization's future initiatives.Headline Space Shuttle Discovery Controversy: Rod and Isaac discuss the proposed $85 million move of the Space Shuttle Discovery from the Smithsonian to Houston, plan that faces obstacles from the Smithsonian, which holds the rights to the shuttle. Main Topic: UNOOSA & Dr. Rick Jenet The National Space Society's UN Observer Status: Dr. Jenet explains that the NSS gained permanent observer status at the UN in 2001. The NSS uses this privilege to inform delegates by providing research and presentations. UNOOSA and COPUOS Explained: Dr. Jenet clarifies that UNOOSA organizes the Committee on Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS). While UNOOSA maintains a registry of space objects, COPUOS is the body of 104 member states that develops legal frameworks. Outer Space Treaty of 1967: Dr. Jenet talks about the Outer Space Treaty, a global treaty dating back to the Cold War era that governs how state actors behave in space. He that the treaty's language on property ownership is being re-examined due to the rise of commercial space activities. Space Traffic Management and Orbital Debris: Dr. Jenet highlights that discussions on space traffic management and orbital debris are in their early stages. These discussions focus on basic tenets like coordination and information sharing. Lunar Activities and Resource Utilization: The development of policies for lunar exploration and resource extraction is also an area of new activity. UNOOSA's "Action Team for Lunar Activities Consultation," with co-chairs from Romania and Pakistan, coordinates the future of humanity's return to the moon by aligning different national initiatives. The "Regulation Sandbox" Concept: Dr. Jenet discusses the "regulation sandbox" concept, where existing regulations for an area with commercial potential, for example a lunar ice deposit, are set aside for a limited time to allow a new set of rules to be tested. This concept could be applied more boradly to space launch or ISRU. Why the Public Should Care: Dr. Jenet emphasizes that the public should care about these efforts because these high-level discussions will lead to international laws governing the behavior of all actors in space, including private companies and entrepreneurs. Early awareness of these frameworks will be less painful for startups later on. These show notes have been truncated due to length. For the full show notes, visit https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space/episodes/171 Host: Rod Pyle Co-Host: Isaac Arthur Guest: Fredrick (Rick) Jenet

Powering spacecraft, especially out in the dark, cold outer solar system, is a huge challenge. There are limits to how large solar panels can be, and they are not very efficient in the weak sunlight beyond Mars. For decades, choice flagship NASA missions have used RTGs--radioisotope thermoelectric generators--to fill this need. From the experiments on the Apollo missions to the Viking Mars landers, Galileo to Jupiter, Cassini to Saturn, and the twin Voyagers, RTGs have provided decades of power for space exploration. From Plutonium to Americium, nuclear elements provide years and years of heat that can be converted into electricity. Dr. Rob O'Brien is the Director of the Center for Space Nuclear Research for the Universities Space Research Association and has specialized in RTGs for decades. It's a fascinating dive into atomic space batteries! Headlines The End of the Universe is Nigh (in 33 Billion Years): New dark matter discoveries suggest an earlier end to the universe, leading to a humorous discussion about bucket list items. August 2nd "Solar Eclipse": Rumors of an August 2nd, 2025, total solar eclipse are false; the next one on that date is in 2027 that won't darken the entire world, but will be the longest one of the century. Mother Earth 2.0 (L98-59f): Discussion of exoplanet L98-59f, 35 light-years away, and its potential habitability despite orbiting a red dwarf with a 23-day year. NASA Budget Concerns: Senate and House pushback against proposed cuts to NASA's 2026 science mission budget is discussed, with calls to preserve vital research. Mass Exodus at NASA: Senior NASA staff, including scientists and engineers, are reportedly leaving due to budget cuts, raising concerns about future capabilities. Main Topic - Dr. Robert O'Brien & RTGs (Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators) Understanding RTGs: Dr. O'Brien explains RTGs convert heat from radioactive decay into electricity using the Seebeck effect. Early Use of RTGs in Space: The first US public RTG demonstration was on President Eisenhower's desk, and the first space use was the US Navy's Transit 4A satellite in 1961. RTGs on Mars and Deep Space Missions: RTGs power Mars landers and rovers (Viking, Curiosity, Perseverance), and deep space missions like Voyager, Galileo, and Cassini, providing long-term power in harsh environments. Fission Reactors vs. RTGs: RTGs suit small systems and backup power, while fission reactors are better for high-power needs of human expeditions. Plutonium-238 Production Challenges: The scarcity of plutonium-238 is due to its production requiring nuclear reactors and past moratoriums on reprocessing. Americium-241 as an Alternative: Americium-241, abundant in spent fuel and now accessible due to lifted moratoriums on reprocessing, is a viable alternative for powering missions despite lower energy density. Americium in Smoke Detectors and Safety: Americium's safe use in smoke detectors is highlighted, while acknowledging the hazards of working with nuclear materials. Public Perception and RTG Safety: Discussion covers historical atomic energy perceptions, from early toys to environmental concerns, emphasizing rigorous engineering and safety measures like ablative and impact-resistant casings for RTGs. Recovery of These show notes have been truncated due to length. For the full show notes, visit https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space/episodes/170 Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Dr. Robert O'Brien

Powering spacecraft, especially out in the dark, cold outer solar system, is a huge challenge. There are limits to how large solar panels can be, and they are not very efficient in the weak sunlight beyond Mars. For decades, choice flagship NASA missions have used RTGs--radioisotope thermoelectric generators--to fill this need. From the experiments on the Apollo missions to the Viking Mars landers, Galileo to Jupiter, Cassini to Saturn, and the twin Voyagers, RTGs have provided decades of power for space exploration. From Plutonium to Americium, nuclear elements provide years and years of heat that can be converted into electricity. Dr. Rob O'Brien is the Director of the Center for Space Nuclear Research for the Universities Space Research Association and has specialized in RTGs for decades. It's a fascinating dive into atomic space batteries! Headlines The End of the Universe is Nigh (in 33 Billion Years): New dark matter discoveries suggest an earlier end to the universe, leading to a humorous discussion about bucket list items. August 2nd "Solar Eclipse": Rumors of an August 2nd, 2025, total solar eclipse are false; the next one on that date is in 2027 that won't darken the entire world, but will be the longest one of the century. Mother Earth 2.0 (L98-59f): Discussion of exoplanet L98-59f, 35 light-years away, and its potential habitability despite orbiting a red dwarf with a 23-day year. NASA Budget Concerns: Senate and House pushback against proposed cuts to NASA's 2026 science mission budget is discussed, with calls to preserve vital research. Mass Exodus at NASA: Senior NASA staff, including scientists and engineers, are reportedly leaving due to budget cuts, raising concerns about future capabilities. Main Topic - Dr. Robert O'Brien & RTGs (Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators) Understanding RTGs: Dr. O'Brien explains RTGs convert heat from radioactive decay into electricity using the Seebeck effect. Early Use of RTGs in Space: The first US public RTG demonstration was on President Eisenhower's desk, and the first space use was the US Navy's Transit 4A satellite in 1961. RTGs on Mars and Deep Space Missions: RTGs power Mars landers and rovers (Viking, Curiosity, Perseverance), and deep space missions like Voyager, Galileo, and Cassini, providing long-term power in harsh environments. Fission Reactors vs. RTGs: RTGs suit small systems and backup power, while fission reactors are better for high-power needs of human expeditions. Plutonium-238 Production Challenges: The scarcity of plutonium-238 is due to its production requiring nuclear reactors and past moratoriums on reprocessing. Americium-241 as an Alternative: Americium-241, abundant in spent fuel and now accessible due to lifted moratoriums on reprocessing, is a viable alternative for powering missions despite lower energy density. Americium in Smoke Detectors and Safety: Americium's safe use in smoke detectors is highlighted, while acknowledging the hazards of working with nuclear materials. Public Perception and RTG Safety: Discussion covers historical atomic energy perceptions, from early toys to environmental concerns, emphasizing rigorous engineering and safety measures like ablative and impact-resistant casings for RTGs. Recovery of These show notes have been truncated due to length. For the full show notes, visit https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space/episodes/170 Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Dr. Robert O'Brien

Welcome back to Beyond the Thesis! This week, host David Mendes sits down with Dr. Kirsten “Kiki” Sanford, a science communicator with an unconventional path from bird neuroscience to the front lines of science storytelling. In this episode, Dr. Kiki shares behind-the-scenes stories of launching “This Week in Science,” collaborating with mentors like Leo Laporte, and mastering new technologies – much of it self-taught. She reflects on the real-world skills her PhD provided, the power of embracing change, and gives practical advice for anyone looking to turn obstacles into launching pads for new opportunities. Whether you're at a crossroads in your career or searching for inspiration to forge your own path, this conversation is packed with actionable insights and fresh perspectives. Tune in and get ready to rethink what's possible after a PhD!   Kirsten Sanford is a passionate science communicator whose journey began in graduate school, where she studied bird brains and discovered her love for sharing science with others. Today, she juggles multiple roles: producing her own podcasts and telling engaging science stories, running a production company that creates videos and scripts for scientists, and helping to unite fellow science communicators through her work with Science Talk. Through these varied projects, Kirsten is dedicated to making science accessible and exciting for everyone. Key take-home messages: Embrace Lifelong Learning: Dr. Kiki taught herself audio/video editing, production tech, and business management. Being open to learning new skills—even outside your academic training—can open new doors in unexpected fields. Leverage Your Research Skills: Project management, adaptability, and perseverance aren't just academic buzzwords. These are vital, transferable skills that help you thrive in entrepreneurship and content production. Build and Nurture Your Network: Attending conferences and connecting with mentors (even outside your original field) led Dr. Sanford to collaborations and opportunities that fueled her passion projects. If you're ready to transform setbacks into stepping stones and chart your own unique path, Dr. Kiki Sanford's journey is a must-listen! Check out her work at This Week in Science (TWIS) and be inspired by a career that truly goes beyond the thesis. Connect with Us: Have you thought about pivoting from the bench to broader impact? Would love to hear your stories below! This episode's links: Dr. Kiki Sanford | Instagram This Week In Science | Podcast Association of Science Communicators | Website Episode Transcript David Mendes: Are you struggling to find your path to pivot from academia to entrepreneurship? On this new episode of Papa Ph.D. gold, Dr. Kiki Sanford shares the details of her journey from neurophysiology research to science communication. She opens up about the twists, challenges, and breakthroughs of building a fulfilling career on her own terms. So if you're ready to transform setbacks into stepping stones and to craft your own unique path, listen now to get inspired and take action. Welcome to beyond the thesis with Papa PhD. Your weekly inspiration for post PhD career development with me, David Mendez. What steps brought you from your PhD to TWIS, to This Week in Science? Kirsten Sanford: After my PhD, I finished and I was like, okay, this is what I'm doing now. I'm going to be a science communicator. I'm going to try and re. And this is before science communicator was really even a term or a word. It was like this nascent idea. People were starting to use it, but it wasn't really adopted yet. I remember going, what am I? Who am I? How do I describe myself to people? And yeah, thank goodness Science Communicator has grabbed a hold. But what I started doing is I started going to conferences and networking and trying to meet a larger community of people doing a similar thing. So podcasting. I no longer going to the science conferences, the research conferences so much. I started going to the podcasting conferences and doing the podcasting conferences. I started meeting a whole bunch of people in that field. And again, with mentors being so important, I met a guy named Alex Lindsey, and he worked on a podcast called this Week in Tech. And so I was at this podcasting conference and I saw his name tag with his podcast name, and I went up to him and I said, hey, you're this Week in Tech. I'm this Week in Science. And he said, hey. And we started talking. And that led to a collaboration, doing a video program. And this is right at the beginning of itunes starting to offer video podcasts. It wasn't even YouTube, wasn't even a huge deal yet. And we did a series called Food Science. And I, we created 14 videos related to various aspects of food science. It was super fun. And along that way, I. That was again, getting to use my, you know, my video production skills. I was writing scripts, I was doing the hosting. So I learned how to do more on camera work through that. David Mendes: Okay. Kirsten Sanford: And in that effort, he introduced me to the host of and the founder of this Week in Tech, Leo Laporte. And Leo Laporte. Then this is kind of step by step, Leo laporte said, hey, do you want to come do some stuff with Twit? And said, hey, that'd be great. And so I started doing some work with this Week in tech, commentating on certain things, doing a little bit more tech reporting instead of specifically Science. So TWIS was a podcast. We were still at KBBS doing the radio show. That's it. So, but I, because I had finished, I moved back to San Francisco. I was no longer. So I kind of bounced back and forth between Davis and San Francisco. And I was like, okay, we got to keep TWIS going. The podcast format is amazing. I love live radio. I love live. How can we keep that happening? And so, because I had met Leo, he was doing live streaming on his TWIT video network. And I asked him if we could use his network to broadcast this week in Science.And so that's. We made the move from live on KDBS Davis to live on twit. And we became a video stream, a live video program. And I'd take the audio and then I would send the audio to KDBS and I would put the audio up as a podcast. And so we started distributing in these different ways. You know, I kept working on different video shows and then expanded my work on the TWIT network. And I started doing an interview program called Dr. Kiki Science Hour, which I did about a hundred episodes, just over a hundred episodes, I believe. And TWIS was going the whole time. And then at a certain point, TWIT was expanding, but then they decided they really needed to. They needed to pare themselves down. And so they got rid of all third party produced programs, which meant TWIS had to find a new home, we had to find a new platform. Google Hangouts was just becoming a thing. We took advantage of Google Hangouts and started broadcasting TWIS to YouTube live. David Mendes: Live to YouTube. Kirsten Sanford: And then this summer, Google Hangouts went away and we found a new platform. And now we are using a platform called Streamyard to broadcast to YouTube. But we have visions now of expanding to Twitch. And I'm. Yeah, we, we. I'm trying to develop the funding model to be able to expand the number of programs that we offer. And that's where I am right now, because I want to go back to doing more interview shows. So now I'm looking outward at doing more. More production myself and expanding TWIS. But TWIS  just did our 740th estimated podcast episode. I mean, yeah, in terms, that's estimating that we started officially podcasting on iTunes in 2005, basing it on about 50 episodes a year, our estimate of about where we are, we can hit 800 next year. Yeah, and we're super excited about that. But I mean, in reality we've been like, you know, pretty much nonstop since 99, 2000, so it's huge. David Mendes: And like now you've, you know, you've, you're telling me your story and I'm just, you know, starting to get this, this picture of how much you've had to learn in this because you know, in this domain of producing content, of dealing with distribution platforms, how did you go about, did you, are you self taught in all of this? Were there like apart from the AAS program that you fellowship? Yeah, yeah, the mass media fellowship. Apart from that, was there other training that you felt was necessary that you get to be able to step it up in terms of, you know, taking grasp of these technologies or how did you go about getting this? Kirsten Sanford: Yeah, so all of it. I am self taught. I have paid attention to people. So all of the editors I've ever worked with, I watched them as they were editing. I paid attention to what they were doing and asked questions as we were setting up cameras and lights to do the shoot. Even though I wasn't the camera person or the lighting person or the sound person, I paid attention and I asked questions. Every time I've done something, I try to be involved and engaged in what I'm doing and not just. I've really tried to not just be focused on my one little part of a project, to pay attention to how it fits in with the other aspects of the project as a whole. And so in doing that, now, you know, I've self taught. I'm not the best editor, but I have been editing my own audio for years. I edit video now. I can work as the production tech, I can set up the sound and I can make a recording. I can be a single individual going out, recording an interview, come back, edit it and put out a final product. I taught myself how to do that. The things that I have also taught myself how to do, which I think I gained more experience in as a graduate student, are the business management aspects. Because you, I mean, I'm still terrible at time management. I am a scatterbrain and I always, I've always been one of those people who work great under pressure and it would be better if I could organize myself better because then I wouldn't like a little ball of nerves all the time error. But I do think that a lot of how I've been able to organize What I do organize is the skills that I learned while I was in graduate school in starting a project, finishing a project, writing it up, you know, all the project management skills that go so unacknowledged. David Mendes: Yeah, that's one of the big things that I like to try and dispel. One of the myths or the popular beliefs about doing a PhD is that if you don't fall into academia, then you don't have skills. You will have lost that time because you didn't develop real world skills, let's say. And it's totally not true. And I'm super happy that you're mentioning that because it's not everyone that can hop onto a three year, five year, seven year project without sweating it and taking it to the last stage and defending and concluding it and presenting it. So definitely, I agree 200%. Kirsten Sanford: And I think I, you know, the other really unacknowledged skill is, you know, like I'm like I was able to pick things up and still try to pick new things up even though I have this like, oh my God, this is another thing I have to learn. This technology is, you know, because technology is always moving forward. Oh, I have to learn this new skill. I have to do this new thing that is grad school. Every time you want to add a new technique to your studies to be able to ask a certain question, you learn something new. I mean, it is this mindset you learn while a student that you can always learn something. David Mendes: Thank you for listening to this new episode of season six of beyond the Theses with Papa PhD. Have a question about this interview? Want to leave a comment on the podcast comment? Have someone you want to recommend to be interviewed? Go to speakpipe.com/papaphd and leave me a voice note. Just hit the big record button and leave me an up to 90 second message. I listen to all my messages and I consider all of them for feature on future episodes. So it's speakpipe.com papaphd Hope to hear from you soon. Thank you, Dr. Kiki! If you enjoyed this conversation with Kirsten Sanford, let her know by clicking the link below and leaving her a message on Linkedin: Send Dr. Kiki a thank you message on Linkedin! Click here to share your key take-away from this interview with David! Leave a review on Podchaser ! Support the show !   You might also like the following episodes: Papa PhD Gold – The Benefits of Science Communication With Elodie Chabrol Papa PhD Gold – Four Practices You Must Learn From Gig Workers With Sue Ashford Jessica Schleider  – Dealing With Mental Unrest in Graduate School Melissa Gismondi – The Power of Graduate Internships

Sixty years ago this week, the Mariner 4 probe sped past Mars, the first to succeed in this then-brash undertaking. The technology was unbelievably primitive, yet effective, sending back 22 low-resolution video frames of the Red Planet. On that day, the wee hours of July 15 at JPL in Pasadena, the Mars of the romantics died. What had long been viewed as a slightly colder, somewhat drier, near-twin of Earth ended up having just a trace of an atmosphere and looked more like the moon--bone dry and pummelled by craters. Rob Manning, JPL's Chief Engineer Emeritus, joins us for this look back at that mission and the first images returned of another planet from space. Headlines Apollo-Soyuz 50th Anniversary: Rod and Tariq marked 50 years since the historic Apollo-Soyuz docking, a significant event for international cooperation in space. Starliner: Boeing's Starliner won't fly again until early 2026, with good odds that it will be an unmanned flight. Mars Meteorite on Earth: Tariq shared his awe-inspiring experience viewing the largest piece of Mars on Earth, a 54-pound meteorite discovered in 2023 that recently sold for $5.3 million. Main Topic - The 60th Anniversary of Mariner 4 Rob Manning, JPL Chief Engineer Emeritus: Rob Manning joins the host to discuss his extensive career working on various Mars missions Mariner 4's 60th Anniversary: The show's discussion highlighted the 60th anniversary of Mariner 4, which was America's first successful spacecraft to Mars. The "Death" of Mars: Mariner 4's images shattered romantic Mars notions, revealing a cratered, arid planet with a thin atmosphere. Mariner 4's Camera Technology: Rob Manning detailed the technical challenges involved in adding a Vidicon tube TV camera to Mariner 4, emphasizing the difficulties in managing data size and ensuring functionality in space. Hand-Colored Mars Image: Scientists famously hand-colored Mariner 4's first black and white digital image. Mariner 4 Scientific Discoveries: Key scientific findings from Mariner 4 included the discovery of Mars' extremely thin atmosphere, roughly 1% the density of Earth's, and the absence of a strong global magnetic field. Challenges of Martian Landings: Rob underscores the extreme difficulty of landing on Mars due to its thin atmosphere, which rendered early concepts like glider landings impractical and dangerous. Legacy of John Cassani: Rob praises John Cassani, Mariner 4's manager, for his pivotal role in advocating for the camera's inclusion and inspiring innovation at JPL. "Properly Paranoid" Approach: Rob discussed the concept of being "properly paranoid" in space engineering, stressing the importance of meticulous testing and proactive risk mitigation for high-stakes missions. Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Rob Manning 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 shows, a members-only Discord, and behind-the-scenes access. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

Sixty years ago this week, the Mariner 4 probe sped past Mars, the first to succeed in this then-brash undertaking. The technology was unbelievably primitive, yet effective, sending back 22 low-resolution video frames of the Red Planet. On that day, the wee hours of July 15 at JPL in Pasadena, the Mars of the romantics died. What had long been viewed as a slightly colder, somewhat drier, near-twin of Earth ended up having just a trace of an atmosphere and looked more like the moon--bone dry and pummelled by craters. Rob Manning, JPL's Chief Engineer Emeritus, joins us for this look back at that mission and the first images returned of another planet from space. Headlines Apollo-Soyuz 50th Anniversary: Rod and Tariq marked 50 years since the historic Apollo-Soyuz docking, a significant event for international cooperation in space. Starliner: Boeing's Starliner won't fly again until early 2026, with good odds that it will be an unmanned flight. Mars Meteorite on Earth: Tariq shared his awe-inspiring experience viewing the largest piece of Mars on Earth, a 54-pound meteorite discovered in 2023 that recently sold for $5.3 million. Main Topic - The 60th Anniversary of Mariner 4 Rob Manning, JPL Chief Engineer Emeritus: Rob Manning joins the host to discuss his extensive career working on various Mars missions Mariner 4's 60th Anniversary: The show's discussion highlighted the 60th anniversary of Mariner 4, which was America's first successful spacecraft to Mars. The "Death" of Mars: Mariner 4's images shattered romantic Mars notions, revealing a cratered, arid planet with a thin atmosphere. Mariner 4's Camera Technology: Rob Manning detailed the technical challenges involved in adding a Vidicon tube TV camera to Mariner 4, emphasizing the difficulties in managing data size and ensuring functionality in space. Hand-Colored Mars Image: Scientists famously hand-colored Mariner 4's first black and white digital image. Mariner 4 Scientific Discoveries: Key scientific findings from Mariner 4 included the discovery of Mars' extremely thin atmosphere, roughly 1% the density of Earth's, and the absence of a strong global magnetic field. Challenges of Martian Landings: Rob underscores the extreme difficulty of landing on Mars due to its thin atmosphere, which rendered early concepts like glider landings impractical and dangerous. Legacy of John Cassani: Rob praises John Cassani, Mariner 4's manager, for his pivotal role in advocating for the camera's inclusion and inspiring innovation at JPL. "Properly Paranoid" Approach: Rob discussed the concept of being "properly paranoid" in space engineering, stressing the importance of meticulous testing and proactive risk mitigation for high-stakes missions. Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Rob Manning 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 shows, a members-only Discord, and behind-the-scenes access. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

What is in the This Week in Science Podcast? This Week:  A Different Science Fair, Cucumbers, Zoonotic Time Travel, Tortoises, Crabs, Chimps, New Brain Cells, Dance Brains, and Much More Science to Know! Become a Patron! Check out the full unedited episode of our podcast on YouTube or Twitch. Remember that you can find TWIS […] The post 09 July, 2025 – Episode 1022 – What WILL We Never Know? appeared first on This Week in Science - The Kickass Science Podcast.

Welcome to the "Survivor: NASA" edition! This week, Tariq and Rod jump into the headlines, and boy are there a lot of them! NASA has a new interim administrator: former Congress member, reality TV star, and Fox News commentator Sean Duffy. NASA's budget may still be cut by 25%, or it might be increased to more than they have seen since the 1960s in adjusted dollars. At the same time, NASA is under orders to cut as many as 2000 mostly senior-level positions, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory could be headed for new management, and will Houston be able to grab the Smithsonian's space shuttle as specified in the Big Beautiful Bill? Join us and find out! Headlines NASA Budget Battles: Rod and Tariq delved into the ongoing debate on Capitol Hill regarding NASA's budget, with the Senate seeking more funding than the Trump administration's proposed cuts. Trump Administration's NASA Policies: They discussed the perplexing approach of the Trump White House, which initiated the Artemis lunar program but simultaneously proposed significant budget reductions. New Interim NASA Administrator: The surprising appointment of Sean Duffy, the Secretary of the Department of Transportation, as the new interim NASA Administrator was a key topic, prompting questions about his background and suitability, as well as the ability to run two departments at once--each of which requires great attention. Mass Exodus of NASA Senior Staff: A Politico report highlighted that over 2,000 senior-level employees are leaving NASA due to job cuts and early retirements, raising concerns about a brain drain. JPL Management Review: Concern over a review of JPL's management by Caltech, which has historically operated the center, potentially impacting its unique culture. Controversial Space Shuttle Discovery Move: The "Big Beautiful Bill" included an $85 million allocation to move space shuttle Discovery from the Smithsonian to Houston, a plan met with skepticism regarding logistics and cost. Interstellar Comet 3I/Atlas: The discovery of 3I/Atlas, the third interstellar object identified in our solar system, was discussed, with early data suggesting it's an ancient, water-ice-rich comet, possibly much older than the solar system. Vera Rubin Telescope and Interstellar Object Research: The new Vera Rubin Telescope is already making significant discoveries, including 2,000 new asteroids in just three weeks, and is investigating 3I/Atlas. No Pacific Rocket Landing Pads: The Air Force has decided to cancel plans for experimental rocket landing pads on Johnston Atoll in the Central Pacific, citing environmental concerns. Supreme Court Decision on Government Firings: A recent Supreme Court decision has broadened the Trump administration's ability to conduct mass firings of government contractors and federal employees. Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) Update: The private Axiom-4 mission, commanded by Peggy Whitson and carrying India's first astronaut to the ISS, is scheduled to undock soon. Starliner 1 to be Cargo-Only Flight: Reports from Space News indicate that Boeing's Starliner 1 flight, now slated for early 2026, might be configured as a cargo-only mission. James Webb Space Telescope's Third Anniversary: The James Webb Space Telescope is celebrating its third year These show notes have been truncated due to length. For the full show notes, visit https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space/episodes/168 Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik

Welcome to the "Survivor: NASA" edition! This week, Tariq and Rod jump into the headlines, and boy are there a lot of them! NASA has a new interim administrator: former Congress member, reality TV star, and Fox News commentator Sean Duffy. NASA's budget may still be cut by 25%, or it might be increased to more than they have seen since the 1960s in adjusted dollars. At the same time, NASA is under orders to cut as many as 2000 mostly senior-level positions, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory could be headed for new management, and will Houston be able to grab the Smithsonian's space shuttle as specified in the Big Beautiful Bill? Join us and find out! Headlines NASA Budget Battles: Rod and Tariq delved into the ongoing debate on Capitol Hill regarding NASA's budget, with the Senate seeking more funding than the Trump administration's proposed cuts. Trump Administration's NASA Policies: They discussed the perplexing approach of the Trump White House, which initiated the Artemis lunar program but simultaneously proposed significant budget reductions. New Interim NASA Administrator: The surprising appointment of Sean Duffy, the Secretary of the Department of Transportation, as the new interim NASA Administrator was a key topic, prompting questions about his background and suitability, as well as the ability to run two departments at once--each of which requires great attention. Mass Exodus of NASA Senior Staff: A Politico report highlighted that over 2,000 senior-level employees are leaving NASA due to job cuts and early retirements, raising concerns about a brain drain. JPL Management Review: Concern over a review of JPL's management by Caltech, which has historically operated the center, potentially impacting its unique culture. Controversial Space Shuttle Discovery Move: The "Big Beautiful Bill" included an $85 million allocation to move space shuttle Discovery from the Smithsonian to Houston, a plan met with skepticism regarding logistics and cost. Interstellar Comet 3I/Atlas: The discovery of 3I/Atlas, the third interstellar object identified in our solar system, was discussed, with early data suggesting it's an ancient, water-ice-rich comet, possibly much older than the solar system. Vera Rubin Telescope and Interstellar Object Research: The new Vera Rubin Telescope is already making significant discoveries, including 2,000 new asteroids in just three weeks, and is investigating 3I/Atlas. No Pacific Rocket Landing Pads: The Air Force has decided to cancel plans for experimental rocket landing pads on Johnston Atoll in the Central Pacific, citing environmental concerns. Supreme Court Decision on Government Firings: A recent Supreme Court decision has broadened the Trump administration's ability to conduct mass firings of government contractors and federal employees. Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) Update: The private Axiom-4 mission, commanded by Peggy Whitson and carrying India's first astronaut to the ISS, is scheduled to undock soon. Starliner 1 to be Cargo-Only Flight: Reports from Space News indicate that Boeing's Starliner 1 flight, now slated for early 2026, might be configured as a cargo-only mission. James Webb Space Telescope's Third Anniversary: The James Webb Space Telescope is celebrating its third year These show notes have been truncated due to length. For the full show notes, visit https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space/episodes/168 Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik

This week, we're joined by AJ Gemer of Lunar Outpost, a fast-moving company innovating in cislunar technology. This includes mini-rovers, crewed lunar rovers, and all kinds of instrumentation that will enable lunar exploration, development, and in-situ resource development. AJ talked about the company, their many projects, their relationship with NASA, and the future of lunar exploration and the role of commercial companies moving ahead. Join us!Headlines: Space Burial Goes Awry - A prototype capsule carrying cremated human remains successfully reached orbit but crashed into the Pacific Ocean when its parachute failed to deploy, resulting in an unintended burial at sea for the Celestis payload aboard The Exploration Company's test mission Daytime Fireball Strikes Georgia - A rare bright meteor visible during daylight hours punched through a house roof in Georgia, with meteorite fragments found in the living room; the fireball was tracked at 30,000 mph and may be linked to the Daylight Beta Taurid meteor shower Axiom-4 Mission Success - After multiple delays totaling 28 hours due to ISS issues, the Axiom-4 crew successfully docked with the space station, bringing the first astronauts from India, Poland, and Hungary to the ISS, led by veteran commander Peggy Whitson Main Topic: Lunar Outpost's Moon Mobility Solutions Company Overview - Lunar Outpost is pioneering commercial lunar mobility services with rovers of various sizes, positioning itself as the leader in planetary surface mobility from their Colorado headquarters MAPP Rover on Lunar Voyage 1 - Despite the Intuitive Machines lander tipping over, Lunar Outpost's MAPP rover survived the landing and operated for 2.7 hours, validating all key subsystems and achieving TRL 9 status while carrying Nokia's 4G LTE communication system Testing Philosophy - The company emphasizes rapid iteration with multiple rover launches per year rather than traditional single high-value missions every 6-8 years, using Earth analogs, including a 1,000-acre Colorado test facility with statistically representative lunar terrain Eagle LTV Design - Unveiled at Space Symposium, the lunar terrain vehicle features a sci-fi-inspired aesthetic that's both beautiful and functional, developed with partners including General Motors, Goodyear, MDA Space, and Leidos Commercial Applications - The LTV will operate autonomously between Artemis missions, serving commercial customers for payload delivery, sample collection, and infrastructure development, with plans for tens to hundreds of vehicles creating a "work truck for the moon" fleet Upcoming Missions - Lunar Voyage 2 (launching early 2025) will carry NASA-funded science instruments to the lunar equator, followed by additional commercial missions and Australia's first moon rover nicknamed "Roo-ver" HIPPO Rover - A 1,000+ kg mobile ISRU (in-situ resource utilization) processing plant capable of extracting, refining, and compressing lunar resources for storage and transport Mars Aspirations - While focused on the moon, Lunar Outpost sees pathways to Mars operations, noting that the Martian environment is somewhat less challenging than the harsh lunar day-night cycles Team Heritage - AJ Gemer brings experience from multiple planetary These show notes have been truncated due to length. For the full show notes, visit https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space/episodes/167 Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Andrew (AJ) Gemer

This week, we're joined by AJ Gemer of Lunar Outpost, a fast-moving company innovating in cislunar technology. This includes mini-rovers, crewed lunar rovers, and all kinds of instrumentation that will enable lunar exploration, development, and in-situ resource development. AJ talked about the company, their many projects, their relationship with NASA, and the future of lunar exploration and the role of commercial companies moving ahead. Join us!Headlines: Space Burial Goes Awry - A prototype capsule carrying cremated human remains successfully reached orbit but crashed into the Pacific Ocean when its parachute failed to deploy, resulting in an unintended burial at sea for the Celestis payload aboard The Exploration Company's test mission Daytime Fireball Strikes Georgia - A rare bright meteor visible during daylight hours punched through a house roof in Georgia, with meteorite fragments found in the living room; the fireball was tracked at 30,000 mph and may be linked to the Daylight Beta Taurid meteor shower Axiom-4 Mission Success - After multiple delays totaling 28 hours due to ISS issues, the Axiom-4 crew successfully docked with the space station, bringing the first astronauts from India, Poland, and Hungary to the ISS, led by veteran commander Peggy Whitson Main Topic: Lunar Outpost's Moon Mobility Solutions Company Overview - Lunar Outpost is pioneering commercial lunar mobility services with rovers of various sizes, positioning itself as the leader in planetary surface mobility from their Colorado headquarters MAPP Rover on Lunar Voyage 1 - Despite the Intuitive Machines lander tipping over, Lunar Outpost's MAPP rover survived the landing and operated for 2.7 hours, validating all key subsystems and achieving TRL 9 status while carrying Nokia's 4G LTE communication system Testing Philosophy - The company emphasizes rapid iteration with multiple rover launches per year rather than traditional single high-value missions every 6-8 years, using Earth analogs, including a 1,000-acre Colorado test facility with statistically representative lunar terrain Eagle LTV Design - Unveiled at Space Symposium, the lunar terrain vehicle features a sci-fi-inspired aesthetic that's both beautiful and functional, developed with partners including General Motors, Goodyear, MDA Space, and Leidos Commercial Applications - The LTV will operate autonomously between Artemis missions, serving commercial customers for payload delivery, sample collection, and infrastructure development, with plans for tens to hundreds of vehicles creating a "work truck for the moon" fleet Upcoming Missions - Lunar Voyage 2 (launching early 2025) will carry NASA-funded science instruments to the lunar equator, followed by additional commercial missions and Australia's first moon rover nicknamed "Roo-ver" HIPPO Rover - A 1,000+ kg mobile ISRU (in-situ resource utilization) processing plant capable of extracting, refining, and compressing lunar resources for storage and transport Mars Aspirations - While focused on the moon, Lunar Outpost sees pathways to Mars operations, noting that the Martian environment is somewhat less challenging than the harsh lunar day-night cycles Team Heritage - AJ Gemer brings experience from multiple planetary These show notes have been truncated due to length. For the full show notes, visit https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space/episodes/167 Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Andrew (AJ) Gemer

Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik broadcast live from the National Space Society's International Space Development Conference in Orlando, discussing the latest Starship explosion, missing universe matter discoveries, and answering listener questions about space camp experiences, astronaut communications, and the future of space exploration. Headlines Starship Explosion Investigation - SpaceX's 10th Starship prototype exploded during a static fire test, likely due to a composite overwrapped pressure vessel (COPV) failure, causing extensive damage to the test stand and potentially delaying future launches Missing Universe Matter Found - Scientists discovered that about a third of the universe's baryonic matter (regular matter we can touch) exists in gossamer tendrils connecting galaxy clusters, solving a long-standing cosmic mystery Black Hole AI Controversy - Nobel laureate Reinhard Genzel questions whether AI-generated black hole models are accurate, as the AI processes noisy data that human scientists would typically filter out Blue Origin NS-33 Launch - Six private citizens prepare for Blue Origin's next New Shepard flight, including a married couple, a philanthropist beekeeper, and other entrepreneurs Summer Solstice Reminder - The official start of summer arrives June 21st, bringing longer days in the Northern Hemisphere and opportunities for stargazing despite shorter nights Main Topic: Listener Q&A Space Camp on a Budget - Advice for experiencing space camp affordably, including shorter adult programs, visiting during off-peak seasons, and exploring local affiliated programs Astronaut Family Communications - ISS crew members stay connected with their families through internet protocol phones for video calls, scheduled contact times, email access, and social media posting capabilities Starship Development Concerns - Discussion of SpaceX's timeline challenges, with multiple recent failures potentially impacting NASA's 2027 moon landing goals and opening opportunities for competitors like Blue Origin International Space Cooperation - Analysis of whether ESA, India, or China might step up to fill gaps left by NASA budget cuts, particularly for missions like the cancelled VIPER lunar rover Finding Real Spacesuits - Options for trying on authentic spacesuits include Space Camp, NASA touring events with glove boxes, and specialized companies offering suit experiences The NASA Budget Crisis - Conversation about the proposed NASA budget cuts and their potential impact on American space leadership, with China potentially landing humans on the moon before the U.S. returns Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free shows, a members-only Discord, and behind-the-scenes access. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik broadcast live from the National Space Society's International Space Development Conference in Orlando, discussing the latest Starship explosion, missing universe matter discoveries, and answering listener questions about space camp experiences, astronaut communications, and the future of space exploration. Headlines Starship Explosion Investigation - SpaceX's 10th Starship prototype exploded during a static fire test, likely due to a composite overwrapped pressure vessel (COPV) failure, causing extensive damage to the test stand and potentially delaying future launches Missing Universe Matter Found - Scientists discovered that about a third of the universe's baryonic matter (regular matter we can touch) exists in gossamer tendrils connecting galaxy clusters, solving a long-standing cosmic mystery Black Hole AI Controversy - Nobel laureate Reinhard Genzel questions whether AI-generated black hole models are accurate, as the AI processes noisy data that human scientists would typically filter out Blue Origin NS-33 Launch - Six private citizens prepare for Blue Origin's next New Shepard flight, including a married couple, a philanthropist beekeeper, and other entrepreneurs Summer Solstice Reminder - The official start of summer arrives June 21st, bringing longer days in the Northern Hemisphere and opportunities for stargazing despite shorter nights Main Topic: Listener Q&A Space Camp on a Budget - Advice for experiencing space camp affordably, including shorter adult programs, visiting during off-peak seasons, and exploring local affiliated programs Astronaut Family Communications - ISS crew members stay connected with their families through internet protocol phones for video calls, scheduled contact times, email access, and social media posting capabilities Starship Development Concerns - Discussion of SpaceX's timeline challenges, with multiple recent failures potentially impacting NASA's 2027 moon landing goals and opening opportunities for competitors like Blue Origin International Space Cooperation - Analysis of whether ESA, India, or China might step up to fill gaps left by NASA budget cuts, particularly for missions like the cancelled VIPER lunar rover Finding Real Spacesuits - Options for trying on authentic spacesuits include Space Camp, NASA touring events with glove boxes, and specialized companies offering suit experiences The NASA Budget Crisis - Conversation about the proposed NASA budget cuts and their potential impact on American space leadership, with China potentially landing humans on the moon before the U.S. returns Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free shows, a members-only Discord, and behind-the-scenes access. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit

What is in the This Week in Science Podcast? This Week: Sham Panel, Strategic Hawks, Chimps, Cucumbers, and Bats Fight Cancer, Napping Bees, and Much More Science! Become a Patron! Check out the full unedited episode of our podcast on YouTube or Twitch. Remember that you can find TWIS in all the podcast directories. If […] The post 11 June, 2025 – Episode 1018 – Panel? More like Shamel! appeared first on This Week in Science - The Kickass Science Podcast.

This week, Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik discuss the alarming impact of budget cuts on international space missions and crucial solar observatories, share exciting new solar discoveries, and welcome special guest Colonel Nick Hague, the first Space Force Guardian to launch a full mission, for an in-depth conversation about his experiences as an astronaut, the Space Force's vital role, and what it takes to join their elite ranks. Headlines European Space Agency Programs Threatened by NASA Budget Cuts: The European Space Agency (ESA) reveals three key missions are significantly threatened by proposed NASA budget reductions, requiring "dramatic recovery actions." Rosalind Franklin Mars Rover in Jeopardy: The ESA's Rosalind Franklin Mars rover faces its second major setback as its U.S. launch partner is no longer included in the current budget, leaving the rover without a ride. U.S. as an "Unreliable Partner": Rod and Tariq discuss concerns about the U.S. being perceived as an unreliable partner due to repeated withdrawals from international space partnerships. National Solar Observatory Funding Cuts: The Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope, the most powerful solar observatory, faces drastic funding cuts that could prevent effective science operations. First Look at the Sun's Poles by Solar Orbiter: Scientists using the ESA's Solar Orbiter have obtained the first direct images of the sun's poles to study its cycle, weather, and magnetic field. Geomagnetic Storm & Auroras: Tariq notes a coronal mass ejection is expected to buffet Earth on Saturday, potentially causing visible auroras during the podcast recording. Who Will Lead NASA? Potential Administrator Candidates: Politico Space's newsletter highlights potential candidates for the next NASA administrator, sparking discussion on the agency's future leadership. Main Topic Colonel Nick Hague: Colonel Nick Hague, Space Force Guardian and NASA astronaut, joins the show to discuss his background, path to NASA, and recent ISS experiences. Nick Hague's Path to Space & Service: Colonel Hague shares his journey from stargazing in Kansas to his interwoven military and space exploration career, starting with the Air Force, joining NASA in 2013, and transferring to the Space Force in 2021. Test Pilot Training School & Astronaut Capabilities: Colonel Hague explains how test pilot school develops critical skills highly applicable to astronaut duties and space operations despite not being a direct requirement. Readaptation After Space Flight: Colonel Hague describes adapting to Earth's gravity after six months in space, noting challenges in regaining balance and strengthening muscles, requiring months of physical therapy. Subconscious Mind & Gravity: He shares that after prolonged zero gravity, the subconscious mind still expects that objects will float, making everyday actions on Earth feel strange. First Space Force Guardian to Launch Full Mission: Colonel Hague discusses the personal honor of being the first Space Force Guardian to launch and complete an entire mission. Space Force's Critical Roles: Colonel Hague details vital Space Force functions, including maintaining GPS for financial systems and tracking over 50,000 objects in space to prevent collisions. Congestion in Low These show notes have been truncated due to length. For the full show notes, visit https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space/episodes/165 Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Nick Hague

What a wild week it's been for NASA. With drastic budget cuts looming—pending any action by Congress—then comes the sudden and unexpected pulling of Jared Isaacman for the role of NASA Administrator, with no replacement named. Then came the very public split between President Trump and Elon Musk, and a flurry of furious Twitter/X and Truth Social postings, aimed at each other with razor-sharp edges. And finally, the proposed and drastic cuts to NASA outreach and education budgets, slimming them to nearly nothing. These are strange and concerning times for America's space agency, a premier global brand and icon of peaceful American prowess. We turned to Casey Dreier, the Chief of Space Policy for The Planetary Society, who has been quite vocal in his concern, for context. These are critical times for spaceflight, so you won't want to miss this episode!Headlines Trump and Musk "Bromance" Ends: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik discuss the public falling out between Donald Trump and Elon Musk, which included Trump's threats to cancel SpaceX contracts and Musk's counter-accusations regarding the Jeffrey Epstein files. Commercial Crew Program and Boeing's Starliner: Tariq Malik highlights the critical role of SpaceX's Dragon in NASA's commercial crew program, especially given Boeing's Starliner delays, making NASA dependent on SpaceX for U.S. independent access to space. Japanese ispace Lunar Lander Failure: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik discuss the second failed attempt by the Japanese company ispace to land its Hakuto-R lunar lander on the moon, losing the European Space Agency's mini-rover, called Tenacious, in the process. Speculation on SpaceX Nationalization: The hosts discuss online speculation, including from Steve Bannon, about the possibility of the U.S. government nationalizing SpaceX, and Elon Musk's subsequent de-escalation. LAUNCH Act: Rod Pyle introduces the bipartisan LAUNCH Act, aimed at streamlining licensing for commercial space companies to encourage more rocket launches with faster approvals. Senate Reconciliation Bill: Tariq Malik and Rod Pyle discuss Senator Ted Cruz's Senate reconciliation bill, which proposes to restore funding for the Space Launch System (SLS), increase NASA's budget by $10 billion, and fund Artemis 4 and 5, missions previously targeted for alternate architectures. 60th Anniversary of First U.S. Spacewalk: The hosts commemorate Ed White's historic spacewalk during the Gemini 4 mission in 1965 and discuss anecdotes and lingering questions surrounding the event. Definition of an Astronaut/Spacewalker Debate: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik briefly touch on the ongoing debate about what defines an "astronaut" or "spacewalker," given varying definitions and commercial spaceflight. Tribute to Marc Garneau: The hosts pay tribute to Marc Garneau, Canada's first astronaut, who passed away at 76, highlighting his career with the Canadian Space Agency and his later political career. The Dark Age of NASA Science The Planetary Society's Mission: Space policy expert Casey Dreier provides an overview of the Planetary Society, its founding by Carl Sagan, its independence from government and corporate funding, and its projects like the Lightsail 2. Catastrophic NASA Budget Proposal: Casey Dreier These show notes have been truncated due to length. For the full show notes, visit https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space/episodes/164 Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Casey Dreier

This week we speak with Dr. Mike Wall, ace space reporter from Space.com, about Starship's recent test flight. What went right, what went wrong, and what are the prospects for Elon's mammoth rocket meeting NASA's goals for a moon landing in 2027? Also, Musk's recent video outlining future plans for Starship and a Martian metropolis, Chinese company Sepoch's recent (and very Starship-like) vertical launch and landing test, Japan's robotic lander, Resilience, about to attempt a lunar touchdown, and roadside assistance for the Psyche asteroid mission. See this and more on This Week in Space! Headlines New Dwarf Planet Discovery: Scientists at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton have identified a new dwarf planet with an orbit over 16 times the size of Earth's. Its closest approach to the Sun is 44.5 times Earth's orbit, similar to Pluto's orbit, placing it far out in the Oort cloud. While exciting, this object, named 2017 OF, is not Planet Nine because its mass doesn't align with the perturbations observed in other objects. NASA's Psyche Mission Update: NASA's Psyche spacecraft experienced a fuel pressure glitch requiring a switch to a backup propellant line for its Hall effect thruster. Engineers successfully restored pressure, and the mission is still on track to arrive at the metallic asteroid Psyche in 2029. This mission is crucial as Psyche is believed to be the stripped-away core of an ancient proto-planet, offering insights into planet formation. China's Reusable Rocket Advancements: Chinese rocket manufacturer Space Epoch successfully performed a vertical ascent and controlled vertical descent test of a booster stage, similar to SpaceX's Falcon 9 landings. The stainless steel rocket successfully soft-landed in the waters off Hainan Island, demonstrating advanced gimballing for stable landing. Main Topic - Starship Flight 9 Test Recap: SpaceX's Starship Test Flight 9 was deemed a partial success. The Super Heavy booster was reflown for the first time, demonstrating reusability and performing well despite an experimental hard ocean splashdown that resulted in an explosion six minutes into flight. The Ship upper stage reached space and the desired trajectory, an improvement over previous flights, but failed to deploy dummy Starlink satellites or perform an in-space relight due to an attitude control anomaly, possibly a fuel leak. SpaceX's Ambitious Starship Plans: Elon Musk outlined plans for Starship Version 3, envisioned as the first fully mature version capable of Mars missions, rapid reuse, and in-orbit refueling. The long-term goal includes sending thousands of Starships and hundreds of people to Mars to establish a self-sustaining city. Lunar Starship for Artemis Missions: There's ongoing discussion about the number of tanker flights required for a lunar mission, with estimates ranging from 8 to 12, even 16 flights. The timeline for Artemis III in 2027 is a concern, given the need for numerous refueling missions and the development of life support systems for crewed flights, which are currently absent in the Starship test vehicles. Competition in Lunar Landers: While SpaceX is developing Lunar Starship, Blue Origin is also a strong contender with its Blue Moon lander, which is China These show notes have been truncated due to length. For the full show notes, visit https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space/episodes/163 Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Guest: Mike Wall

What is in the This Week in Science Podcast? This Week: CRISPR, Government-Sanctioned Mass Extinction, Bugs in Space, Shrinking Clownfish, Bees Sleep, Dolphins Talk, Blocking Cell Death, Toothy Origins, and Much More Science! Become a Patron! Check out the full unedited episode of our podcast on YouTube or Twitch. Remember that you can find TWIS […] The post 21 May, 2025 – Episode 1016 – Do Dolphins Discuss Science? appeared first on This Week in Science - The Kickass Science Podcast.

What is in the This Week in Science Podcast? This Week: Science, Knowledge, & Power, Forever Chemicals, AI Exaggeration, Internal Inference, Prey Trapping, Labile Language, Librarians Saving Democracy, and Much More Science! Become a Patron! Check out the full unedited episode of our podcast on YouTube or Twitch. Remember that you can find TWIS in […] The post 14 May, 2025 – Episode 1015 – Librarians Will Save Democracy appeared first on This Week in Science - The Kickass Science Podcast.

It's time for Rod and Tariq to catch up on headlines... and space dad jokes! We're going to update you on the ever-slimming NASA budget, the latest news on the Voyager spacecraft, what's up with the SLS, Orion capsule, and Artemis programs? SpaceX's 9th Starship test flight, AliBaba in orbit, and the end of the universe. And more space jokes than ever for you to choke on. Gilmore Space Launch Attempt: Gilmore Space's Ares rocket experienced a payload fairing separation on the pad before launch. NASA Budget Cuts & Artemis Program: Proposed budget cuts threaten NASA's Space Launch System (SLS), Orion capsule, and Lunar Gateway, sparking debate about the future of the Artemis program and a potential shift towards commercial solutions. Voyager 1 Thrusters: After 21 years of inactivity, Voyager 1 successfully fired its backup thrusters, ensuring continued communication from interstellar space. NASA Advisory Groups React: NASA advisory groups, including the Mars Exploration Program Advisory Group, expressed concern over budget cuts and their potential to hinder U.S. leadership in space exploration. Texas MARS Act: Texas Senator John Cornyn proposed allocating $1 billion for modernizing the Johnson Space Center. Intuitive Machines Update: Intuitive Machines plans to return to the moon in Q1 2026 with Intuitive Machines 3, having identified and addressed the causes of previous landing failures. SpaceX Starship Update: Elon Musk will provide an update on SpaceX's Mars plans before the next Starship test flight, frlight 9, addressing challenges like refueling the vehicle in space. The End of the Universe: Astrophysicists predict the universe's end, or "heat death", will occur sooner than previously thought, approximately 10 to the power of 78 years from now. China's Orbital Computing Sats: China launched its first 12 orbital computing satellites, part of a planned 2,800-satellite constellation designed to shift power-hungry computing and AI capabilities off-planet. Starlink Profitability: SpaceX's Starlink satellite internet business has generated $11.8 billion in revenue in 2024, surpassing its space transportation business. VIPER Lunar Rover: NASA may be working to save the VIPER lunar prospecting rover mission, which was previously canceled due to lander delays. Solar Flare Activity: The sun has unleashed a strong solar flare, an X2.7 magnitude, with the potential for increased auroras on Earth. Auroras on Mars: Perseverance rover images reveal the first visible light auroras on Mars from the planet's surface. Virgin Galactic Update: Virgin Galactic plans to launch its new Spaceship Delta fleet in early 2026 and resume ticket sales, with prices increases to come. Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik Download or subscribe to This Week in Space at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free shows, a members-only Discord, and behind-the-scenes access. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit