This Week in Space (Audio): Recent Episodes
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The new space age is upon us, and This Week in Space leaves no topic untouched. Every Friday, join Editor-in-Chief of Ad Astra magazine, Rod Pyle and Managing Editor of Space.com, Tariq Malik as they explore everything related to the cosmos.
New episodes posted every Friday.
We've all seen the movies... the aliens come to Earth, the aliens overcome the inferior humans, and the aliens fall prey to something dumb they overlooked, like microbes, Windows 95, or most absurdly, water. From the 1950s through yesterday, some of the best movies we've seen were about the invasion of our planet. They can be clever, scary, or even downright dumb, but they are all fun. Veteran space writer Rich Edwards joins us to give advice on how to repel the invaders!
Headlines:
- Department of Defense drops new batch of UFO/UAP files
- Blue Origin traces New Glenn rocket explosion to faulty oxygen valve
- SpaceX's first public earnings call reveals key financials and hints at Starship's future
- Total solar eclipse set to cross Europe; safety tips and gear recommendations
Main Topic: How to Invade Earth in Sci-Fi—22 Dos and Don'ts with Rich Edwards
- The enduring appeal and adaptability of War of the Worlds
- Why alien invaders always go for major landmarks (and why it's all for show)
- Critique of aliens with impractical invasion strategies—water allergies and cocky attitudes
- Pop culture's obsession with alien disguises, conspiracy plots, and gradual infiltration
- Deep dive into Invasion of the Body Snatchers, Day of the Triffids, and the power of slow, stealthy takeovers
- Starting small: Alien invasions in isolated towns and subtle conquests
- The strategic use of time travel in alien invasion movies, with Star Trek: First Contact
- Why James Cameron's Aliens remains a sci-fi invasion classic decades later
- What makes a satisfying alien invasion ending—and the pitfalls of lazy resolutions
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Richard Edwards
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Rod Pyle is out this week, so Rick Jenet of the National Space Society joins Tariq Malik this week to talk about SpaceX's Starship Flight 13, which deployed new Starlink V3 satellites and stunned viewers when the ship survived reentry intact enough to float in the ocean for days afterward. They also discuss NASA's Roman Space Telescope, now just a month from launch, and an in-progress emergency effort to save the ailing Swift Space Observatory using a servicing spacecraft that is itself now experiencing technical trouble. Finally, they look into Boeing's continued Starliner delays and India's first successful private orbital launch via Skyroot Aerospace's Vikram-1 rocket. Tune in!
Headlines:
- SpaceX Starship Flight 13 Splashdown and Recovery Efforts
- Starlink V3 Satellite Deployment Updates
- SpaceX Wins $1.6 Billion Space Force Contract
- NASA's Roman Space Telescope Countdown and Origin Story
- Urgent Swift Space Observatory Rescue Mission Faces Technical Setbacks
- Boeing Starliner Faces More Delays and Uncertainty
- India's First Commercial Rocket Launch Enters Global Market
- Artemis II Astronaut Questions South Pole as Lunar Landing Target
- Astronomers Detect Possible First-Ever Exomoon
- Upcoming SpaceX Falcon 9 Impact Experiment on the Moon
- Preview: August Almost Total Solar Eclipse and Night Sky Events
Host: Tariq Malik
Co-Host: Fredrick (Rick) Jenet
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This week, we cover how Starship Flight 13 finally prepares to launch amid a legal battle over SpaceX's proposed land swap at Starbase, plus a Chinese Long March 3B rocket gets struck by lightning during liftoff, yet still delivers its satellite safely. Then, guests Dr. Pascal Lee and astrobiologist Dr. Penny Boston join the show to mark the 50th anniversary of Viking 1's landing on Mars and revisit the mission's groundbreaking life-detection experiments and the decades-long controversy over what they actually found. The conversation traces Mars exploration from the earliest Mariner flybys through Viking's ambiguous, still-debated results—later explained by perchlorates in the Martian soil—and the fierce scientific rivalry the findings sparked. Join us!
Headlines:
- SpaceX Starship Flight 13 faces engine and weather delays ahead of launch
- SpaceX land swap proposal sparks conservation group lawsuit over Rio Grande Valley wildlife preserve
- Chinese Long March rocket survives dramatic lightning strike during launch
Main Topic: 50th Anniversary of Viking Mars Landers—Search for Life on Mars
- The evolution of Mars exploration from telescopes to Viking lander
- Early Mars missions: Mariner flybys, Soviet attempts, and breakthroughs in orbital imaging
- Viking 1 and 2: Ambitious design, life-detection experiments, and landing impact
- Mixed public and scientific reactions to Viking's first iconic Mars surface images
- Technical overview of the Viking biology experiments and their controversial results
- The unresolved debate: Did Viking detect life or chemical reactions on Mars?
- Personal accounts of key scientists, scientific disputes, and the "Wolf Trap" experiment that never flew
- Lessons from Viking: Limitations of technology, extremophile discoveries, and shifting strategies for detecting life
- The scientific case for seeking life in Martian caves and subsurface environments
- Critique of current and future Mars missions: Perseverance rover findings and value of Mars Sample Return
- Exploring planetary protection, contamination risks, and the challenges of certifying Martian samples=
- Key takeaways for future missions—bold searches, new technologies, and the ongoing quest for answers
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guests: Pascal Lee and Dr. Penelope Boston
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This week we're jumping into the space headlines for the past few weeks. It's been busy, and some exciting things are happening! A couple of companies are moving into the space solar power arena--something we've long advocated--and that's welcome progress. Starship is set to fly Starship test number 13, and a lot is riding on this--the system is overdue for some proof of concept to keep up with NASA's HLS contract. An exoplanet spotted a decade ago has shown signs of a potentially habitable atmosphere; there are landslides--big ones--on Pluto, and evidence of "space candy" sugars in an interstellar cloud are in the news. Finally, SpaceX is doubling down on their big defense contracts with a well-funded US Space Force. Join us for all the latest!
Headlines:
- SpaceX Starship Flight 13 Launch Aborted Due to Engine Issue
- Meteorite Crashes Into New Jersey, Preserved Sample Fuels Origins of Life Research
- Discovery of Atmosphere Around Habitable-Zone Exoplanet LHS 1140 b
- NASA Moon Tree Planted After Artemis 1 Mission
- Reflect Orbital to Launch Mirrors in Space, Sparking Astronomer Backlash
- Landslides Found on Pluto Could Bury Entire Cities
- Rare Sugar Found in Interstellar Cloud Hints at Building Blocks of Life
- SpaceX's Growing Military Launch Contracts and Pentagon Ties
- Space Development Agency's Expanding Satellite Constellation for Space Force
- Starship's Dual Focus: NASA Moon Landings vs. Mars and Satellite Deployment
- Artemis 3 Updates: New Renderings, Docking Plans, and Starlink HD Laser Payloads
- Defense Innovation Unit's Push for Space-Based Power Beaming Technology
- Pulse Space and Laser-Based Satellite Power and Communication
- New Satellite Concept to Detect Nuclear Devices in Orbit Amid Global Security Concerns
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
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We've been hearing a lot about NASA's new moonbase plans, and they are ambitious. Starting with Artemis V (so far), the US plans to begin preparations for a permanent base situated in the south polar regions of the moon. Details are somewhat fluid, but one thing stands out: the poles are likely to be the most challenging places to set up shop in an already hostile environment. Planetary scientist Dr. Pascal Lee joins us to discuss moonbase siting options and why the poles may not be the best choice at first.
Headlines:
- China Demonstrates Impressive Rocket Landing and Catch Mechanism
- New Horizons Probe Awakens to Transmit Deep Space Data
- Wally Funk, Last of the "Mercury 13," Passes Away
- West Coast Rocket Launch Alert: SpaceX Falcon 9 Visual Spectacle
Main Topic: Moon Base Strategy and Location Debate
- History and Evolution of U.S. Moon Base Plans
- NASA's New Multi-Phase Moon Base Timeline and Missions
- Strategic and Logistical Challenges of South Pole Moon Bases
- Arguments for a Centralized, Benign Location for Moon Infrastructure
- Commercial and International Partnership Models for Lunar Operations
- Role of Robotics and AI in Moon Exploration and Prospecting
- Lessons from Antarctic Base Logistics Applied to the Moon
- Potential for Tourism and Commercial Development on the Lunar Surface
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Pascal Lee
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Since 1958, the United States has been part of the spaceflight adventure, and since the mid-1960s has led in just about any category that counts. In this episode, we discuss the progression of American space efforts, review which flights launched or landed on July 4, and relive some of our very favorite US space missions of all time!
"Headlines:
• NASA's Swift Boost Mission Aims to Rescue Swift Space Telescope
• Astronomer Avi Loeb Tapped to Chair White House UAP Panel
• Celebrating 30 Years of the Film Independence Day
Main Topic: 250 Years of America in Space
• American Flags Across the Solar System
• Origins of the Space Age: Operation Paperclip and the V2 Legacy
• Explorer 1 and Early U.S. Satellite Achievements
• Mariner and Viking Missions: Mars Exploration Milestones
• Key American Firsts in Human Spaceflight
• Apollo Landings and Moonwalk Milestones
• Skylab and Its Legacy as America's First Space Station
• The Rise of Reusable Rockets: Space Shuttle, Blue Origin, and SpaceX
• Private Spaceflight and Tourism: From Dennis Tito to Jared Isaacman
• Curiosity, Pathfinder, and Other Mars Rovers as Iconic U.S. Achievements
• Reflections on Favorite Missions and the Future of U.S. Space Leadership"
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
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We've had endless conversations about aliens and first contact--but what if a conversation with other intelligences is beyond our scope? Dr. Daniel Whiteson, particle physicist at CERN's Large Hadron Collider and professor at UC Irvine, joins us to explore less conventional thoughts on first contact. We look at the challenges of communicating with extraterrestrial intelligences, potential difficulties of communicating via non-terrestrial mathematics and physics, and the possibility that extraterrestrials might actually be terrestrial... but existing as denizens of the dark energy universe. One might be sitting in your lap right now! Join us for the far-ranging discussion.
Headlines:
- Boeing's Troubled Starliner Spacecraft Faces Further Setbacks and Delays
- NASA Perseverance Rover Finds Promising Clues of Ancient Life on Mars
- NASA Space Telescope Faces Fiery Descent, Mission Planned to Save It
Main Topic: Dark Matter, Particle Physics, and the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence
- UC Irvine's Dr. Daniel Whiteson Discusses Path into Space Science and Particle Physics
- Exploring Nontraditional Signals for Alien Communication Beyond Radio Waves
- The Mystery of Ultra-High Energy Particles and Speculation on Artificial Cosmic Rays
- Challenges of Detecting, Interpreting, and Interacting with Alien Intelligence
- Implications of Dark Matter for Hidden Civilizations and Parallel Existence
- Complexities in Communicating with Truly Alien Life and Human-Centric Scientific Assumptions
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Daniel Whiteson
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If you've seen "Disclosure Day" or "Age of Disclosure," you're going to want to join us for this fascinating discussion with famed bestselling sci-fi/sci-fact author Dr. David Brin. Long known for his universe-spanning visions, storytelling skills, and occasionally contrarian viewpoints, this episode will not disappoint! Our discussion ranged from reactions to Spielberg's "Disclosure Day" to why people believe in AI and more. This week's guest co-host is ace science journalist Susan Karlin.
Headlines:
- Spielberg's "Disclosure Day" Premieres to Mixed Reviews
- Alien Lore and the Evolution of Sci-Fi Tropes
- Comparing Modern and Classic Alien Invasion Films
- NASA's NIAC Program and Cutting-Edge Space Concepts
- UFO Conspiracies and Cultural Obsessions
Main Topic: Spielberg's "Disclosure Day" and the Alien Narrative
- Film critiques: Plot, character arcs, and visual effects
- Overused tropes in government conspiracy stories
- Modern alien movies compared to classics like Independence Day and Close Encounters
- Recurring alien mythologies and sci-fi's role in cultural reflection
- Exploration of why UFO conspiracy theories persist
- Insights from David Brin on skepticism, evidence, and hidden truths
- Connections drawn between UFO lore and folklore about elves and fairies
- Examination of AI's parallels to alien encounters, danger, and self-accountability
Host: Rod Pyle
Co-Host: Susan Karlin
Guest: Dr. David Brin
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There are NASA Administrators, and then there are NASA Administrators—all are very accomplished individuals, but some stand out for their unique backgrounds and on-the-job successes, and Jim Bridenstine is one of the latter. Entering service as the new NASA Administrator in 2017 with a background as a Navy pilot, Congressman, and museum director, he was an unconventional choice, and faced some headwinds in the appointment—but Jim turned out to be exceptional in the job, especially given the state of NASA when he took it on. Join us to hear his experiences with our favorite space agency and what he's doing today.
Headlines:
- SpaceX Shatters Records with Largest IPO Ever
- NASA Faces Backlash Over Artemis 3 Diversity
- Scientists Propose Magnetosphere Shield Against Solar Storms
Main Topic: Jim Bridenstine & Quantum Space
- Jim Bridenstine's Unconventional Path to NASA Leadership
- Overcoming Political Challenges as NASA Administrator
- Launch and Evolution of the Artemis Moon Program
- Securing Bipartisan Support and Budget for Artemis
- Reflections on Artemis 2 Success and Artemis 3's Challenges
- The Need for a Robust Lunar Lander Solution
- NASA's Global Influence and Soft Power
- The Role of Private Investment in Space Exploration
- Bridenstine's Leadership at Quantum Space
- Quantum Space's Ranger Spacecraft and Military Space Tech
- National Security and Distributed Satellite Architectures
- Small Satellites and Future Space Warfare
- Quantum Space's Move to Go Public via SPAC
- Vision for Moon Bases and Lunar Resource Utilization
- Geopolitics of the New Moon Race and First Mover Advantage
- Quantum Space's Ambitions in Cislunar and Lunar Operations
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Jim Bridenstine
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Recorded live from the International Space Development Conference in McLean, Virginia, Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik are joined by Apollo legend and former Johnson Space Center director Gerry Griffin. Griffin takes us on a journey through his extraordinary career, from his appointment as a flight director in the wake of the Apollo 1 fire, through the audacious decision to send Apollo 8 around the moon, all the way to the nail-biting rescue of Apollo 13. We also venture behind the scenes of Ron Howard's Apollo 13 film, where Griffin reveals the real story behind some of Hollywood's most famous dramatic liberties. It's a rare, firsthand account of the golden age of human spaceflight — from one of the few people who was there for all of it.
Headlines:
- Space Station Faces Recurring Air Leak Crisis
Main Topic: Jerry Griffin's Legacy in Space Exploration
- Transition from Fighter Pilot to Mission Control
- Gemini and Apollo Era Engineering Breakthroughs
- The Apollo 1 Fire: Lessons and Safety Changes
- Fast-Tracking from Apollo 7 to Apollo 8 Lunar Orbit
- Insights From the Apollo 11 Moon Landing
- Apollo 13 Crisis Management Onscreen and in Reality
- The Evolution and Importance of Mission Control Teams
- Reflections on NASA's Culture and Training Through Decades
- Preparing Future Generations for Artemis and Beyond
(Note: Apologies for the video flickering that occurs in the podcast.)
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Gerry Griffin
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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? 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
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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
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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
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Kepler's Legacy With Dr. Jason Steffen
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Dr. Jason Steffen
For full show notes, visit https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space/episodes/137
At this point, can anyone compete with SpaceX? Love him or hate him, Elon Musk and his cadre of very talented employees and partners have built the most remarkable launch service in history, increasing the US launch rate from a handful to over 100 per year in less than a decade. Eric Berger--Senior Space Editor at Ars Technica and author of "Liftoff" and "Reentry," two books about Musk and SpaceX--joins us. We discuss the rise of SpaceX, Musk's future in US politics and the market, and what to expect from SpaceX in the next decade. We also look at the possible competitors to SpaceX's dominance in the market. Join us!
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Headlines:
- The 2024 US presidential election results are in, with Donald Trump set to become the 47th President. Trump has shown a keen interest in space, name-dropping Elon Musk, SpaceX, and Starlink during his victory speech.
- SpaceX conducted its first ISS reboost mission using a Dragon cargo ship, showcasing a new capability for the company.
- NASA issued a statement addressing tabloid rumors about astronaut Sunita Williams' health, affirming that all astronauts aboard the ISS are in good health and undergo routine medical evaluations.
Main Topic - SpaceX Ascendant:
- The Trump administration is expected to embrace SpaceX's Starship vision, potentially fast-tracking the company's progress by reducing regulatory hurdles.
- SpaceX has a significant lead in the space industry, with no other company having achieved reusable rocket technology. The closest competitors are Blue Origin and Chinese companies, which are still years behind.
- The US government has become increasingly reliant on SpaceX for launches, satellite internet, and the Artemis program, with no viable alternatives currently available.
- SpaceX's success can be attributed to Elon Musk's relentless drive and vision to make humanity a multi-planetary species, as well as the company's willingness to take risks and innovate.
- Starship is seen as the key to making widespread space access possible, with the potential to drastically reduce the cost of space travel and enable missions to Mars.
- The future of space exploration is uncertain, with the potential for significant changes under the new administration and Elon Musk's growing influence as an advisor to the President.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Eric Berger
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On this episode, we take a look at how the space workforce of the future will be educated and, perhaps more importantly, engaged with Dr. Rick Jenet of Expanding Frontiers. Located in Brownsville, Texas, just a stone's throw away from SpaceX's Starbase, expanding Frontiers works with underprivileged communities to bring them into 21st-century space-related trades and to encourage individual entrepreneurship. Dr. Jenet has a fascinating history as well, attending MIT as an undergraduate and earning his PhD in astrophysics from Caltech, then progressing through his work at various places, including NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, before founding Expanding Frontiers. Join us!
Headlines:
- Voyager 1 spacecraft uses backup radio system from 1977, and last utilized in 1981, to phone home after a recent glitch
- China aims to conduct a Mars sample return mission before NASA, potentially launching in 2028
- Boeing considers selling its space division, excluding SLS contracts, as part of a restructuring effort
Main Topic - The Spacer Pipeline with Dr. Fredrick Jenet:
- Dr. Jenet's journey from MIT and Caltech to founding Expanding Frontiers in South Texas
- The importance of giving back to the community and fostering a culture of innovation
- Stargate: The first building at SpaceX's Boca Chica facility, a collaboration with Dr. Jenet's team
- Expanding Frontiers' programs for students and aspiring entrepreneurs:
- Space Entrepreneur Summer Academy: Introducing high school students to space entrepreneurship
- Space Settlement Design Tournament: Industry simulation for students to design space settlements
- Space Coders: Internship program focused on coding for space industry projects
- Tech Trek: Developing programming for entrepreneurs working on space-related technology
- Expanding Frontier Space Tech Pitch Competition: Showcasing startups utilizing NASA technology
- The role of funding from local, state, and federal sources, as well as sponsorships, in sustaining non-profit organizations like Expanding Frontiers
- Future plans for Expanding Frontiers, including the development of a space innovation corridor from Brownsville to Houston
- The importance of continued support and funding for programs that promote STEM education and entrepreneurship in the space industry
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Fredrick (Rick) Jenet
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Many of us have visited the various displays of space shuttles around the US, and it's always a spectacular sight. The shuttle orbiter was huge, and seeing in any configuration is inspirational. Notably, the California Science Center is completing a display of the Endeavor in a launch configuration, which is unique among shuttle installations. But the very first shuttle mockup ever constructed will soon go on public display in its birthplace in Southern California, the city of Downey. This is where North American Rockwell, the builder of all the shuttles, was located until they were absorbed by Boeing decades ago. It was in the Rockwell facility that the first wood-and-aluminum mockup of the shuttle was built, and it's been stored until this day under the control of the Columbia Memorial Space Center. Of special interest: besides its uses as a technical simulator, this mockup was what closed the deal between NASA and Rockwell to build the shuttles and inspired many in Congress to support the program. The museum's Executive Director and President, Ben Dickow, joins us to talk about this magnificent, full-sized shuttle mockup, its history, and future plans.
Headlines:
• SpaceX's Crew-8 mission returned to Earth after a record-breaking 235 days in space, but one crew member remains in the hospital for additional medical checks
• Boeing's Intelsat satellite broke up in geosynchronous orbit, creating around 5,000 pieces of space debris, posing potential long-term threats to other satellites
• India announced plans for Chandrayaan-4, a lunar sample return mission targeting the Moon's south pole in 2027-2028
• Chinese company Deep Blue Aerospace aims to start offering space tourist flights by 2027 on a suborbital rocket and capsule that resembles a hybrid of SpaceX's Dragon and Blue Origin's New Shepard
Main Topic - Interview with Ben Dickow:
• The Columbia Memorial Space Center in Downey, California houses Inspiration, a full-scale wooden mock-up of the space shuttle built by Rockwell International in 1972
• Inspiration was used as an engineering tool and to help secure the shuttle contract for Rockwell, impressing both NASA and Congressional leaders who visited
• The mock-up features highly detailed interiors, including a crew cabin, flight deck, and cargo bay
• After being mothballed for years, Inspiration was recently moved to the Columbia Memorial Space Center for display in a new building
• Southern California will soon have the first and last space shuttles on display, with Inspiration in Downey and Endeavour in Los Angeles
• Ben emphasizes the importance of preserving the shuttle's history and using it as an educational tool to inspire future generations of engineers and scientists
• The emotional power of seeing a space shuttle up close and the human stories behind its creation are key to the exhibit's impact
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Ben Dickow
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This week, we're taking a broad look at the progress of America's Artemis lunar landing program, space science in general, and the challenges to Western space plans posed by a fast-rising Chinese space program. Joining us is the uniquely qualified Dr. Greg Autry--the Associate Provost for Space Commercialization and Strategy at the University of Central Florida, visiting Professor at Imperial College London, former NASA transition team member, and author of "Red Moon Rising." We'll also highlight the recent launch of SpaceX's Starship and the amazing catch of the booster by the Mechazilla Launch tower, Michael Bloomberg's recent article condemning the slow progress of the Artemis program, and this weekend's Orionids meteor shower!
Headlines:
- SpaceX's successful Starship flight test 5, featuring the Super Heavy booster's impressive catch by the "Mechazilla" tower
- Michael Bloomberg's critical op-ed on the SLS rocket and the Artemis program, highlighting delays and overspending
- The upcoming Orionids meteor shower, peaking on October 21st, 2024, and the Hunter's Moon, the biggest supermoon of the year
Main Topic - The State of the US Space Program with Greg Autry:
- Greg's lifelong passion for space was ignited by watching Apollo missions as a child; he later got involved in the commercial space industry and served on the NASA transition team in 2016
- US human spaceflight is in both the best and worst of times - there is bipartisan support for Artemis and returning to the Moon, but the program is behind schedule and over budget on almost every element
- Lack of top-level political leadership and sense of urgency compared to the Apollo era is hurting Artemis' progress; the US needs a leader willing to provide direction and funding, and hold people accountable
- Competition with China could help spur the US, but the public may not be as motivated as during the Cold War; still, it's important for the US to get back to the Moon first to initiate fair use of resources
- Artificial intelligence will play a critical role in future space operations, especially on Mars and the Moon; AI can enable more flexible and capable spacecraft
- The US needs to rebuild its aerospace manufacturing and production workforce to execute ambitious space goals; STEM education and hands-on skills are lacking
- In 10 years, Autry hopes to see a diverse on-orbit ecosystem with compatible, specialized vehicles; regular Moon missions laying the groundwork for resource extraction; and an influential space tourism industry
- He believes that a dual-track lunar architecture with both Starship and a more conventional system for redundancy would be wise; Starship is great but very complex with many potential failure points, especially in a lunar mission that requires multiple refueling flights and a crewed SLS launch in close timing
- Greg is the Associate Provost for Space Commercialization and Strategy at the University of Central Florida and is standing up new academic programs to train the next generation of commercial space workforce
- His book "Red Moon Rising" examines the history of the space industry, China's space ambitions, and the current state of play - an engaging read for anyone interested in space
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Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Dr. Greg Autry
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This week, we're diving deep into some really clever and cutting-edge tech for Martian habitats... made from fungus! Dr. Lynn Rothschild of the NASA Ames Research Center has been working for years on how mushroom mycelia might be utilized as a habitat-building resource. It's quite fascinating--the organic material can be used to make bricks, to create shaped structures, and even to create an "astropharmacy" to supply certain compounds needed by the crew of a Mars excursion! And it is sufficiently enticing that NASA's NIAC innovation program has given her no less than five grants (which are not easy to get!) to study the possibilities. Join us for this really engaging and blue-sky conversation!
Headlines:
• ISS has been experiencing a slow air leak, increasing from 0.2 pounds per day to 3.7 pounds per day, causing concern for NASA's Office of the Inspector General
• Jupiter's Great Red Spot has been shrinking and "pulsing" over time, as observed by the Hubble Space Telescope, with scientists predicting it will eventually stabilize as a smaller, circular storm
• A rare G4-class solar storm triggered widespread auroras visible at much lower latitudes than usual, with NOAA issuing warnings to protect power grids and communication systems
Main Topic - Living in Martian Mushrooms:
• Dr. Rothschild explains synthetic biology as creating something new with biology, either by altering existing organisms or creating new ones from scratch
• The concept of using fungal mycelium for off-world habitats originated from a student project to create a biodegradable drone body
• Mycotecture involves growing habitats and structures using mycelium, which can bind various materials like sand, regolith simulant, and wood chips
• The properties of mycelium-based materials can be tuned by adjusting the substrate and post-processing, ranging from styrofoam-like to hardwood-like consistencies
• Dr. Rothschild's vision for a stable off-world habitat includes using cyanobacteria to process atmospheric gases and minerals, which would then feed the fungi used in construction
• Cross-contamination concerns on Mars are addressed, with the lack of liquid water on the surface making it unlikely for introduced organisms to thrive
• Additional applications of mycelium-based technology include biomining, water filtration, and even food production
• Dr. Rothschild also discusses the Astro Pharmacy project, which aims to develop an on-demand drug production system for astronauts
• While these technologies have significant potential for Earth-based applications, developing them for space allows for more freedom to explore revolutionary ideas without existing infrastructure constraints
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Dr. Lynn Rothschild
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It's a question that rivals the meaning of life itself: which is better, Star Trek or Star Wars? Of course, they are very different, and that's really the core of it--one is a sweeping fantasy adventure incorporating the "Hero's Journey," while the other is a science fantasy wrapped around a morality play. In the end, we love them both. But there is a bit of cultural (and perhaps generation) divide here, and someone has to put Tariq in his place. Join us for this civilization-shattering conversation!
Headlines:
- NASA's Voyager 2 spacecraft, now 12.8 billion miles from Earth, had to shut down its plasma science instrument due to power constraints. The instrument was the last of its kind still functioning on either Voyager spacecraft.
- United Launch Alliance (ULA) successfully launched its second Vulcan Centaur rocket, despite an apparent nozzle failure on one of the solid rocket boosters. The rocket carried a mass simulator in place of the delayed Dream Chaser spaceplane.
- The Sun unleashed an X9.05 solar flare, the strongest directed at Earth since 2017. The resulting coronal mass ejection (CME) could potentially trigger intense auroras visible at lower latitudes this weekend.
Main Topic - Star Trek vs. Star Wars:
- Rod and Tariq share their personal experiences with both franchises, discussing their first encounters with Star Trek and Star Wars and how the franchises have evolved.
- They compare the intellectual aspects of both universes, with Star Trek often focusing on morality plays and Star Wars being more of a fun, fantasy-driven space opera.
- The hosts discuss the acting in both franchises, highlighting standout performances and the impact of certain characters and actors.
- They examine the iconic spaceships from each universe, noting that Star Trek ships like the Enterprise are more recognizable and have had a more significant cultural impact compared to Star Wars ships, with the exception of the Millennium Falcon.
- Rod and Tariq argue that Star Wars has had a more significant impact on popular culture, while Star Trek has been more influential in inspiring real-life space exploration and scientific careers.
- They conclude that both franchises have their merits and have played essential roles in getting people excited about space and science fiction.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
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NASA's planetary exploration program is in trouble. The Mars Sample Return program is verging on cancellation, and the VIPER mission to the moon already has been. Both are critical precursors to human exploration of these places, as Dr. Jim Bell of Arizona State University will tell us. We need to know more about the surface of Mars--with direct, in-the-lab studies of Mars rocks--and we certainly need to understand where the volatiles--another name for water and other resources of value--are on the moon. And, if you're the US government, you'd like to do both before China does--which is likely not far off. Does it matter who achieves these things first? And specific to the US, what role might private companies and individuals play in the drama?
Headlines:
- SpaceX's Crew-9 mission is set to launch two astronauts to the International Space Station on Saturday, September 28th, with the primary objective of bringing back the Starliner astronauts who have been on the station for an extended period.
- A Seattle-based company, Iradian Aerospace, has unveiled plans for a new reusable orbital spaceplane that will utilize a revolutionary two-mile-long sled launch system.
- Earth is set to temporarily capture a small asteroid, 2024 PT5, which will remain in close proximity to our planet from September 29th to November 25th, providing scientists with an opportunity to study a near-Earth asteroid up close as it performs a de-facto flyby.
Main Topic - Discussion with Dr. Jim Bell:
- Jim Bell discusses his early fascination with space exploration, inspired by the Apollo missions and Carl Sagan's acclaimed 1980s series "Cosmos," which led him to pursue a career in planetary science.
- The decadal survey process is explained, highlighting how it helps align the scientific community's priorities with NASA's mission planning and funding decisions.
- The challenges faced by the Mars Sample Return mission are discussed, with Jim expressing optimism that NASA will find a way to overcome the current budgetary hurdles and complete this groundbreaking mission.
- The cancellation of the VIPER lunar rover mission is addressed, with the hosts and guest emphasizing the importance of this mission for future human exploration of the Moon and the need for more transparency in NASA's decision-making process.
- Jim shares his perspective on the increasing involvement of commercial space companies in planetary exploration, stressing the importance of developing sustainable business models to ensure the long-term viability of these ventures.
- The conversation touches on the balance between NASA's priorities, such as the Artemis program, and the funding allocated to robotic scientific missions, with Jim highlighting the need for better communication and collaboration between the human spaceflight and robotic exploration divisions of NASA.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Jim Bell
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Devon Island, a polar desert in the High Arctic, is one of the most convincing Mars analogs on Earth. That's why Pascal Lee built his NASA-affiliated research base there. On this episode he returns to discuss his summer field work, Martian volcanoes, and to discuss possible alternatives to NASA's plans for the Artemis lunar base.There's a lot to know, and he brings deep passion—and some controversy—to the conversation!
Headlines:
- Polaris Dawn mission success: The crew completed the first-ever commercial spacewalk, with all four members exposed to the vacuum of space.
- SpaceX FAA dispute: The company faces potential fines of $630,000 for alleged launch violations, leading to a heated exchange between SpaceX and the FAA.
- Mars volcano discovery: Researchers found evidence of a 1000-mile wide magma plume under Olympus Mons, raising questions about potential volcanic activity on Mars.
Main Topic - Lunar Exploration and Artemis Program:
- Dr. Pascal Lee's summer research at the Houghton Mars Project Field Station: The team tested drilling equipment for future lunar missions and explored the use of drones for Mars helicopter simulations.
- Critique of current Artemis program strategy: Dr. Lee argues that focusing on sortie missions to the South Pole is premature and potentially counterproductive.
- Alternative base location proposal: Clavius Crater is suggested as a more suitable site for a lunar base, offering scientific value and better logistics.
- Water extraction challenges: Dr. Lee discusses the complexities and uncertainties surrounding water ice extraction at the lunar South Pole.
- Starship as a water delivery system: The potential for using SpaceX's Starship to deliver large quantities of clean water to the Moon is explored.
- Importance of establishing a fixed base: Dr. Lee emphasizes the need for a stable infrastructure to support long-term lunar exploration and science.
- Power concerns for lunar bases: The limitations of solar power are discussed, with nuclear power suggested as a more viable option for long-term operations.
- International competition considerations: The episode touches on how other countries' lunar ambitions might influence NASA's plans.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Pascal Lee
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Starliner is back and, by all accounts, could have returned with its crew had it been necessary. However, with NASA's "safety forward" approach prevailing, the spacecraft landed uncrewed on September 6, three months after it docked with the International Space Station. Now, the work begins to try to solve the problems- largely software changes, dealing with balky thrusters, and helium leaks- so that the Starliner Crew 1 can fly next year. But how did we get here? What's NASA's take on the latest Starliner mission? And, perhaps above all, how will Boeing approach the program moving ahead? We'll bring you the latest and greatest--and fear not, we have Tariq here to keep us fair--on what's going on with Boeing's Starliner CST-100 spacecraft.
Headlines
• For the first time, a commercial crew flew above low Earth orbit on SpaceX's Polaris Dawn mission, setting records for the highest spaceflight by female astronauts and the first commercial spacewalk by anyone.
• The FAA says it won't clear SpaceX's Starship Flight 5 from Boca Chica, Texas until November due to environmental concerns, frustrating SpaceX as they aim to conduct orbital refueling tests and prepare for lunar missions.
Starliner's Return and Future
• Boeing's Starliner spacecraft finally returned on September 6th, three months after it launched, facing challenges such as thruster overheating, and in some cases outright fgailure, and a GPS dropout during reentry.
• Rod and Tariq discuss the cultural differences between Boeing and SpaceX, with SpaceX embracing a more iterative, failure-tolerant approach that allowed them to innovate faster.
• They debate whether Boeing's traditional aerospace culture and cost-cutting measures contributed to Starliner's issues and examined the effects of the company's lack of transparency during the mission.
• Despite the challenges, Starliner demonstrated its ability to survive an extended mission and NASA remains confident that Boeing will fly out its Commercial Crew contract.
• The future of Starliner may involve private missions to upcoming commercial space stations, but standardizing spacesuits across different spacecraft will be crucial for crew safety.
• While Starliner faced setbacks, Rod and Tariq emphasize the importance of having multiple crew transportation systems to ensure continuous access to space.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
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We all know the ISS is living its last days and will be deorbited sometime around 2030... but what's coming up next? For episode 127, Max Haot of VAST joins us to discuss his company's first space station, called Haven-1, set to launch in 2025. For a company just just a few years old, VAST has made impressive progress toward what is likely to be the first private crewed space station in history. Subsequent plans include a larger orbital habitat with artificial gravity and much more. It's an exciting time in Space 2.0, and companies like VAST are leading the way! Join us for this fascinating hour.
Headlines:
- Boeing Starliner update: Undocking and landing plans, tension between Boeing and NASA over thruster issues, crew flight delayed to August 2025
- Blue Origin unveils landing ship Jaclyn (named after Jeff Bezos' mom) and moves New Glenn second stage to launch pad for testing, targeting October launch for NASA's Escapade Mars mission
- NASA's Advanced Composite Solar Sail System (ACS3) CubeSat deploys solar sail and begins navigation tests
Main Topic: VAST with CEO Max Haot
- Max shares his background in software development and his journey to becoming the CEO of VAST
- VAST aims to create a future where more humans live in space than on Earth by developing artificial gravity space stations
- The company's near-term goal is to win NASA's Commercial LEO Destination (CLD) program to become a commercial successor to the ISS
- VAST is developing Haven-1, its first space station module, to be launched by 2026 and visited by a crew of four for two weeks as a proof of concept
- Haven-1 will provide a larger volume and better amenities compared to free-flying SpaceX Dragon missions, allowing customers to enjoy a more comfortable two-week stay in orbit
- VAST is working closely with SpaceX and will use Starlink laser terminals for high-speed, low-latency connectivity on Haven-1
- The long-term vision is to build a large, rotating space station consisting of seven Starship modules to create artificial gravity, though many technical challenges remain
- Max emphasizes the importance of building a strong company culture and the ability to develop safe, human-rated systems at a low cost
- Upcoming milestones for VAST include revealing Haven-1's primary structure and interior design, launching a demo satellite, and selecting the crew for the first Haven-1 mission
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Max Haot
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As if election season wasn't scary enough, now we have rogue planets to worry about! Out in the vast darkness between star systems, these worlds wander through the interstellar void, sometimes in pairs, and when they encounter a solar system, havoc can result. Add to the fact that they are hard to see, and you have a recipe for worry. Fortunately, we have astrophysicists like Dr. Rosalba Perna on the job, learning more about these strange, errant planets daily! Add to that the ever-increasing stash of data we're getting from the James Webb Space Telescope, and we can all sleep a bit better at night. Join us for a fascinating hour with Dr. Perna as we learn about rogue planets!
Headlines:
- Boeing's Starliner spacecraft set to return to Earth robotically, without its crew, on September 6th, marking the end of its three-month mission.
- SpaceX experiences a rare booster landing failure on its 23rd flight, ending a streak of successful landings
- Astrobotic's Peregrine Lander failure attributed to a faulty valve and leaks
- SpaceX's Polaris Dawn mission delayed due to weather concerns
Main Topic - Rogue Planets:
- Dr. Perna explains rogue planets as worlds untethered to any star, floating freely in space
- Discussion of the likelihood and potential impact of a rogue planet entering our solar system
- Exploration of rogue planet formation theories, including ejection from solar systems and in-situ formation
- The James Webb Space Telescope's role in discovering potential rogue planet pairs in the Orion Nebula
- Challenges in confirming rogue planet candidates and distinguishing them from other celestial objects
- The possibility of life on rogue planets, particularly those with moons experiencing tidal heating
- Dr. Perna's computer simulations demonstrate how binary rogue planets could form and evolve
- The upcoming Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope's potential for discovering more rogue planets
- Discussion of Dr. Perna's other research interests, including gamma-ray bursts and compact objects
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Rosalba Perna
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It's the end of summer, and that means it's time to go back to school—in our case, space school! There's a lot going on, a lot coming up, and a whole lot to know about the next 9 months in space. What can we expect from SpaceX? How are the outer solar system missions proceeding? What about the new rocket engines for the Artemis program? What are we doing about orbital debris? Are we really in a new space race with China? And much more, including that most vexing of questions: what's up with Starliner? Join us for the fun.
Headlines:
- Polaris Dawn mission: Set to launch soon, this private SpaceX flight aims to conduct the first private spacewalk and raise funds for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
- JUICE spacecraft flyby: The Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer successfully completed its Earth flyby, capturing stunning images of Earth and the Moon.
- Fram 2 mission: A private SpaceX flight planning the first-ever crewed polar orbit mission, aiming to study aurora-like emissions called STEVE.
- Astroscale's space debris removal: The company secured an $82 million contract for its second test flight to remove an old Japanese H-2 rocket stage from orbit.
- RS-25 engine development: Discussion on the high costs of manufacturing new RS-25 engines for NASA's SLS rocket compared to SpaceX's more cost-effective Raptor engines.
- Upcoming celestial events: A partial lunar eclipse in September and an annular solar eclipse in October, with tips on how to safely view these events.
- World Space Week: Announcement of the upcoming event in October, focusing on space and climate change.
- Indian space program: Updates on India's plans to launch its first uncrewed test flight of the Gaganyaan space capsule by the end of the year.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
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Czarina Salido, a physics graduate of mixed Mexican and Native American heritage, founded Taking Up Space in 2014. This nonprofit aims to address the underrepresentation of women, particularly Native American girls, in STEM fields. Based near Tucson, the organization provides mentoring, instruction, and Space Camp scholarships to disadvantaged girls on a nearby reservation. Salido's initiative has gained recognition in the STEM community and inspired similar efforts nationwide. Join us as we discuss her work's challenges and successes in this episode of This Week in Space!
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Czarina Salido
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Each year, there are a handful of impressive meteor showers, and one of the largest and best this year will be the Perseids. The quarter moon will set just before midnight, when the shower activity peaks, and if you're in a dark spot expect to see maybe 50-60 shooting stars per hour. Steve Fentress, veteran astronomer and planetarium director, joins us to provide viewing tips, a meteor shower, and star lore over the ages, and more.
Headlines: Starliner
- Boeing's Starliner spacecraft continues to face issues, with some experts questioning whether the program will continue after the current mission
- NASA's recent press conferences regarding Starliner have been criticized for lack of clarity and transparency
- SpaceX's Crew Dragon may become the sole provider of crew transportation to the International Space Station if Starliner's problems persist
Main Topic: The Perseid Meteor Shower
- The Perseid meteor shower, peaking around August 12th, is expected to be especially impressive this year due to favorable moon conditions
- Observers can expect to see up to one or two meteors per minute under dark sky conditions
- The Perseids are created by debris left behind by comet 109P Swift-Tuttle, which orbits the sun every 133 years
- Italian astronomer Giovanni Schiaparelli first identified the connection between the Perseids and comet Swift-Tuttle in the 19th century
- The colors observed in meteors are caused by different chemical elements in the meteoroids and Earth's atmosphere
- Steve Fentress shares the fascinating history of meteor shower observations and their connection to comets
- Tips for observing the Perseids include finding a dark location, dressing warmly, and watching the sky between 3 AM and dawn
- The future of planetariums lies in becoming valuable community resources and embracing new technologies to create engaging experiences for visitors
- Steve Fentress discusses his book "Sky to Space" and his new podcast, "The Forgotten Bookshelf," which features interesting and obscure topics from old books
Host: Rod Pyle
Co-Host: Isaac Arthur
Guest: Steve Fentress
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It's been said that Mars ain't the kind of place to raise your kids, and that's certainly the assertion of the popular 2023 book, "A City on Mars" by Kelly and Zack Weinersmith. In fact, they question the future of settling humans off-Earth in its entirety. Certainly it will be challenging, but is it impossible? Are there reasons we should not go? We gathered together two of our favorite experts on the topic, Dale Skran, the COO and SVP of the National Space Society, and Mr. Youtube himself, Isaac Arthur—who has produced maybe 100 hours or more of well-regarded videos on the subject—to discuss the book and our prospects for rational, realistic space settlement plans. Join us!
- "A City on Mars" takes a skeptical and humorous look at space settlement, questioning our readiness for having children in space, building space farms, and creating independent space nations.
- Dale Skran wrote a comprehensive 40,000-word review of the book, acknowledging its depth while disagreeing with many of its conclusions. He believes the book represents the current stage of opposition to the increasingly realistic prospect of space settlement.
- The hosts discuss the potential benefits and resources available in space, with Dale and Isaac emphasizing the vast opportunities and the need for reasonable regulation to facilitate space development.
- The challenges of human reproduction in space are examined, with the hosts agreeing on the importance of further research and the need for artificial gravity experiments on space stations.
- The potential for conflict and war in space is explored, with Dale arguing that space settlements will likely be more resilient and less vulnerable than Earth-based cities due to their designed defenses against natural and artificial threats.
- The hosts critique the book's pessimistic view of space settlement and its suggestion to wait centuries until humanity has solved all its problems before venturing into space. They argue that space development and solving Earth's issues can and should happen concurrently.
- Dale Skran highlights an interesting idea from the book: the possibility of a dual life cycle for settlers, with reproduction occurring in 1G spin gravity settlements while adults spend much of their time working in low-gravity environments like the Moon or Mars.
Get "A City on Mars": https://amzn.to/3LWMhY1
Host: Rod Pyle
Co-Host: Isaac Arthur
Guest: Dale Skran
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A nova is a star that periodically sheds mass in a huge flare-up of light and energy. This week, astrophysicist Dr. Carlos Badenes from the University of Pittsburgh joins us to discuss a star that should be going nova in the next few weeks--and will be visible in the night sky for about 6-7 days! T Corona Borealis (TCrB) is a binary system comprising two stars in the constellation Corona Borealis that bursts into magnitude 2 (as seen from Earth) about every 80 years--and should do so again by mid-September! Join us.
Headlines:
- NASA's Perseverance rover discovers a rock on Mars that shows intriguing signs of potential ancient microbial life, sparking excitement among scientists
- Starliner Update: NASA and Boeing discuss the extended mission of the Starliner spacecraft, addressing concerns and highlighting the crew's safety and productivity
- Scientists uncover evidence suggesting Mercury's crust harbors a 10-mile thick diamond layer, formed by unique planetary processes
Main Topic - The Visible Nova in the Sky Near You:
- T Coronae Borealis, a recurring nova located in the constellation Corona Borealis, is expected to become visible to the naked eye between now and September 2024
- Novae are binary star systems where a white dwarf accumulates material from its companion star, leading to a thermonuclear runaway and a bright outburst
- Supernovae, in contrast, are the explosive deaths of stars, either through the complete disruption of a white dwarf or the collapse of a massive star's core
- Historical accounts of "new stars" include Tycho's Supernova (1572), Kepler's Supernova (1604), and the Crab Nebula progenitor (1054)
- Dr. Badenes discusses his research on novae in nearby galaxies and the use of the Hubble Space Telescope to study the progenitors of thermonuclear supernovae
- The crew explores the limits of recurring novae, the possibility of a white dwarf exploding as a Type Ia supernova, and the anticipated supernova of the star Betelgeuse in the constellation Orion
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Carlos Badenes
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In this episode of This Week in Space, Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik dive into the 55th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing, discussing the mission's highlights, challenges, and historical significance. They also cover recent space news, including Elon Musk's plans to move SpaceX's headquarters to Texas, the Falcon 9 upper stage failure, and the cancellation of NASA's VIPER rover mission. Looking ahead, the hosts speculate on the future of the Artemis program and the political landscape's influence on space exploration.
Headlines:
- Elon Musk announces plans to move SpaceX's headquarters from California to Texas, citing disagreements with a new state law and his political alignment with Texas.
- SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket experiences an upper stage failure during a recent launch, leading to the loss of payload and an investigation by the FAA and NASA.
- NASA cancels its VIPER rover mission, which aimed to search for water ice at the Moon's south pole, due to budget constraints and scheduling issues with the Astrobotic Griffin lander.
- Lou Dobbs, the co-founder of Space.com, passes away at the age of 78.
Apollo 11 55th Anniversary:
- Rod Pyle shares his memories of watching the Apollo 11 launch and moon landing as a teenager, highlighting the limited media coverage and resources available at the time.
- The hosts discuss the tense moments during the lunar module's descent, including computer alarms, low fuel warnings, and Neil Armstrong's quick thinking to avoid a boulder field.
- They recount the challenges faced by the astronauts, such as the difficulty in opening the lunar module's hatch and Buzz Aldrin's ingenious use of a felt-tip pen to reset a broken circuit breaker.
- The hosts emphasize the significance of the Apollo 11 mission and argue for July 20th to be recognized as a national holiday.
Artemis Program and the Future of Space Exploration:
- Rod and Tariq express frustration with the slow progress of the Artemis program compared to the rapid pace of the Apollo missions.
- They discuss the potential impact of the upcoming U.S. presidential election on NASA's funding and priorities, particularly in light of the growing competition with China in space.
- The hosts highlight the challenges facing SpaceX's Starship as the chosen vehicle for the Artemis program's human landing system, including the need for further testing and the development of a 120-foot elevator to transport astronauts to the lunar surface.
- Tariq makes a bold prediction that NASA astronauts will be walking on the Moon by July 20th, 2029, and offers to give Rod his "STar Trek" chair if the prediction doesn't come to pass.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
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If you saw the movie "Gravity," you have a sense of the dangers of orbital debris—and the risk is very real. More than 25,000 objects over four inches in diameter are tracked by the US Space Force, and millions of others are smaller or untracked—everything from derelict satellites to dead rocket stages to bits of shrapnel and even just chunks of frozen rocket fuel is there. And even something the size and mass of a paint chip, traveling at orbital speeds, can take out a window of a spacecraft. We're joined by Dr. John Crassidis from the University of Buffalo, an expert in orbital debris and its dangers. Look out below; this is going to be a hot one!
Headlines:
- SpaceX Falcon 9 launch failure investigation underway after engine explosion during upper stage relight
- James Webb Space Telescope celebrates 2nd anniversary with new "Cosmic Penguin" image
- Boeing Starliner return date still uncertain as NASA and Boeing review data
Mailbag:
- Zaheer Mohammed congratulates the National Space Society's Ad Astra magazine on winning the Marcom Awards in 2023
Main Topic: Orbital Debris Discussion with Dr. John Crassidis
- Orbital debris defined as anything in space that is no longer useful, ranging from paint flakes to rocket bodies
- Debris moves at extremely high speeds (17,500 mph), making collisions highly destructive
- Kessler Syndrome: cascading collisions could render low Earth orbit unusable within 50 years if debris growth is not slowed
- Approximately 47,000 tracked objects softball-size or larger, with millions more smaller pieces
- Challenges in tracking debris due to limited coverage, object tumbling, and modeling uncertainties
- Ownership and responsibility for debris removal complicated by lack of international agreements
- Current remediation techniques not feasible due to cost and technological limitations
- Urgent need for debris mitigation through international cooperation and improved satellite design
- Future threats extend beyond low Earth orbit, with debris already accumulating around the Moon
- Importance of investing in research to develop effective debris removal technologies
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Dr. John Crassidis
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For many of us, dark matter and dark energy are two of the least understood areas of cosmology and astrophysics. This week, we invited Alina Kiessling and Jason Rhodes, both Research Scientists at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, to explain these concepts and their broader implications for cosmology, exoplanet research, and more. Both of them are working on major space telescope projects to research "dark physics," as they will explain. Guest co-host Isaac Arthur asks compelling, comprehensive questions about physics and cosmology while Rod asks things like "is dark energy dangerous?" because, let's face it, someone has to ask the dumb questions. Join us for the fascinating deep dive into dark forces!
Headlines:
- Chinese rocket startup Space Pioneer accidentally launched a rocket during a static ground test, highlighting the unpredictable nature of rocketry.
- SpaceX and Jared Isaacman's Polaris Dawn mission, set for July 34th, 2024, aims to conduct the first private spacewalk and set a new orbital altitude record of 870 miles.
- NASA announced that Boeing's Starliner spacecraft is in good enough condition to stay at the International Space Station for at least 45 days despite ongoing investigations into malfunctioning thrusters and helium leaks.
Main Topic - Understanding the Darkness:
- Guests Jason Rhodes and Alina Kiessling, both Research Scientists and Astrophysicists at JPL, share their backgrounds and how they met through their shared passion for cosmology.
- The universe's composition, with dark matter and dark energy making up 95% of its content.
- Exploring the history of dark matter discovery, from Fritz Zwicky's observations in the 1930s to Vera Rubin's groundbreaking work in the 1960s and 70s.
- The differences between dark matter and dark energy, their effects on the universe's structure, and the challenges in studying them.
- The "cosmological crisis" or Hubble tension, which arises from discrepancies between early and late universe measurements.
- Upcoming space telescope missions, including Euclid, the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope, and the Vera Rubin Observatory, are highlighted as crucial tools for advancing our understanding of dark matter and dark energy.
- The potential need for new physics to explain current observations is explored, with the guests expressing excitement about the possibility of groundbreaking discoveries.
- Exoplanet research: discussing how the Roman Space Telescope will use microlensing and coronagraphy techniques to detect and study distant worlds.
- The potential for detecting biosignatures on exoplanets, with a focus on identifying signs of life through spectroscopic analysis.Jason and Alina's advice for aspiring astrophysicists, emphasizing the growing importance of machine learning and artificial intelligence in the field.
- Finally, a lighthearted discussion of the guests' personal lives and travel experiences, highlighting the balance between their professional and family commitments.
Host: Rod Pyle
Co-Host: Isaac Arthur
Guests: Jason Rhodes and Alina Kiessling
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For decades we've seen images of huge glass domes on the moon and Mars, but the reality of building settlements off-Earth is likely to look much different. This week we're joined by Evan Jensen of ICON Build, a company that, in just a few years, has created housing across Texas via 3D printing. Now, in association with NASA, they are also investing heavily in researching how to 3D print habitats on the moon and one day Mars. It isn't easy working in a vacuum--water freezes and evaporates instantly, and any other materials you need must be transported there. ICON has some unique processes they are testing in their large vacuum chambers, and the results are truly fascinating. Join us for a look into the future of living on other worlds!
Headlines:
- NASA has selected SpaceX for a $843 million contract to de-orbit the International Space Station (ISS) around 2030
- ISS astronauts took shelter after a Russian satellite exploded, creating over 100 pieces of shrapnel
- Boeing's Starliner capsule faces an indefinite delay in its return from the ISS due to technical issues
Feedback:
- Listener Tim Lazaroff suggests two space-themed songs by the group Lord of the Lost
- Rod Pyle addresses inquiries about the decision to de-orbit the ISS, explaining the aging technology and high maintenance costs
Main Topic: 3D Printing for Construction on Earth and Beyond with Evan Jensen
- ICON's founders started the company in 2018 to push the limits of 3D printing technology for construction
- ICON has completed several projects, including the House of Phoenix and a 3D-printed neighborhood in Texas
- Project Olympus aims to use 3D printing for construction on the Moon and Mars, utilizing in-situ resources
- On the Moon, ICON plans to use a laser-directed energy deposition system to melt and solidify lunar regolith
- Challenges of lunar construction include the unsuitability of water in the concrete mix, extreme temperatures, and the need for robotic systems
- ICON is developing lunar regolith simulants and testing robotic systems in their "Moon Box" facility
- Mars construction may involve more traditional materials, but thermal energy deposition could still be viable
- ICON's Vitruvius AI architecture model allows users to design homes based on their preferences and needs
- The company's ultimate goal is to use robotics, automation, and AI to help solve the global housing crisis on Earth while enabling a sci-fi future of extraterrestrial habitation
Host: Rod Pyle
Co-Host: Isaac Arthur
Guest: Evan Jensen
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In the world of space podcasts, the Space and Things podcast is a keeper (along with ours, of course). The brainchild of Emily Carney, founder of the Space Hipsters on Facebook, and singer/songwriter Dave Giles, Space and Things brings us some premiere guests in the space sector. Subjects are always compelling, and as we well know, that takes work. We'll dive into the intricacies of creating--and maintaining--a quality space podcast and the success of Emily's Facebook group, the Space Hipsters, now 62,000 members strong.
Headlines:
- Boeing's Starliner mission extended to June 26th for further testing of thrusters and leaks before undocking and landing at White Sands Space Harbor (no, the astronauts are not "stuck" in space)
- Rocket Lab achieves 50th launch of their Electron rocket, reaching the milestone faster than SpaceX's Falcon 9 and other major launch providers
- June 24th marks the first full moon of summer, also known as the Strawberry Moon
Main Topic: Interview with Emily Carney and Dave Giles from Space and Things Podcast:
- Space and Things podcast focuses on space and its intersection with art, popular culture, and other unique aspects, with over 200 episodes released
- Emily and Dave share their personal space experiences, including Emily's childhood memories of watching Space Shuttle launches and Dave's visit to the Kennedy Space Center
- The podcast features a diverse range of guests, including astronauts, their children, historians, and space enthusiasts, covering topics beyond the typical space discussions
- Emily discusses her Facebook group, Space Hipsters, which has grown to over 62,000 members and aims to create an inclusive community for space enthusiasts
- The importance of space fan clubs in providing a sense of belonging and a platform for space enthusiasts to connect and share their passion
- The guests discuss their dream podcast guests, with Emily choosing Gerard O'Neill and Dave selecting Tom Hanks and Jim Lovell
- Emily and Dave express their eagerness to participate in commercial spaceflight if given the opportunity
- The episode concludes with a discussion on the best space-themed songs, with the hosts and guests sharing their personal favorites
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guests: Emily Carney and Dave Giles
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We see the sun every day as it rises and sets... it's one of the few constants in life. But it's a very dynamic body, throwing minor temper tantrums regularly. As it happens, we're at the peak of its 11-year cycle of activity and there's a lot going on! Dr. Alex Young, the Associate Director for Science in the Heliophysics Science Division at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, joins us to talk about the sun, solar activity cycles, the recent solar storms that have given us auroras and some communications blackouts, the science from the Parker solar probe, and much more. Don't take the friendly Mr. Sun for granted--join us for this fascinating episode!
Headlines:
- NASA's accidental broadcast: A simulated medical emergency on the International Space Station was mistakenly aired for 8 minutes, causing brief panic before clarification.
- Spacewalk canceled: Just before a planned spacewalk, NASA canceled the event citing spacesuit discomfort, with few details provided.
- Voyager 1 update: The spacecraft is now sending back data from all four of its working instruments, a remarkable feat for the 47-year-old probe.
- Remembering Bill Anders: The Apollo 8 astronaut, known for the iconic Earthrise photo, passed away at 90 after a private plane crash.
Main Topic - Our Friendly Mr. Sun:
- Heliophysics defined: Dr. Young explains that heliophysics studies the sun's atmosphere and its interactions with Earth and the solar system.
- Solar activity cycle: Currently near solar maximum, the sun is exhibiting increased sunspots, solar flares, and coronal mass ejections.
- Space weather impacts: Solar activity can affect technology, causing communication disruptions, satellite damage, and even power grid outages.
- Solar observation: A variety of spacecraft monitor the sun, including NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory and NOAA's GOES satellites.
- Parker Solar Probe: This groundbreaking mission is providing unprecedented data about the sun's corona and solar wind.
- Solar magnetic field: The sun's magnetic field flips every ~11 years, which can lead to increased solar activity during the transition.
- Carrington Event: This 1859 solar storm remains the benchmark for extreme space weather, causing telegraph systems to catch fire.
- Sun in pop culture: Rod, Tariq, and Dr. Alex Young discuss depictions of the sun in science fiction, separating fact from fiction.
- Solar research: Dr. Young shares his current work on the statistics of large solar events and improving science communication.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: C. Alex Young
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Well, we waited, we waffled, and we joked... but Boeing's Starliner finally made good! Seven or so years after their projected crewed flight date, the second provider of crew delivery to the International Space Station finally succeeded in sending two astronauts, Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams, to the ISS. Despite a few problems with (sigh) valves, helium tanks, and thrusters, the mission appears to be going swimmingly. Then, just a day later, SpaceX launched a Starship on a fourth test flight with spectacular results--and may be ready for another test launch within a few weeks. All good news this week, and it feels like newspace just picked up a lot of steam. Join us!
Headlines:
- China's Chang'e-6 mission successfully collected up to 2,000 grams of lunar samples from the far side of the moon and launched them back to Earth.
- The Hubble Space Telescope faces gyroscope issues, prompting NASA to use only one gyroscope to extend its lifespan until around 2035.
- A lava tube discovered on Mars near the Arsia Mons extinct volcano could potentially shelter future human habitats or host microbial life.
- A new star, "Blaze Star" T Coronae Borealis, may appear in the night sky between now and September, becoming the first visible nova since 1946.
Main Topic - Starliner and Starship:
- Boeing's Starliner successfully launched, rendezvoused, and docked with the International Space Station, despite some thruster and cooling system issues.
- The mission marks the first time in decades that astronauts have launched from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on an Atlas V rocket.
- Starliner's reusability and cost per seat are compared to SpaceX's Crew Dragon and Russia's Soyuz spacecraft.
- SpaceX's Starship completed a successful test flight, with the Super Heavy booster and Starship vehicle performing well despite some heat shield damage during reentry.
- The hosts discuss the progress and challenges of Starship development, including the recent cancellation of Yusaku Maezawa's "dearMoon" mission.
- SpaceX's rapid launch cadence and plans for mass-producing Starship vehicles and engines are highlighted, along with the company's vision for catching Super Heavy boosters with the "Mechazilla" launch tower.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
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In this episode of This Week in Space, Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik discuss the latest updates on Boeing's Starliner spacecraft, the potential for aurora sightings due to increased solar activity, and China's ambitious lunar exploration program with returning guest Mike Wall, Spaceflight Editor at Space.com. The conversation focuses on China's upcoming Chang'e 6 mission, its capabilities, and the implications of China's growing presence on the Moon. The hosts also touch upon the nationalistic aspects of the new space race between the United States and China.
Headlines:
- Boeing's Starliner update: The spacecraft is ready for launch on June 1st, despite recent issues with parachutes, wiring, and helium leaks.
- Venus Exploration: Japan's Akatsuki probe, currently the only active mission at Venus, has lost contact with JAXA. However, NASA, ESA, and private companies like Rocket Lab are planning future missions to explore the planet.
- SpaceX Dragon capsule debris found in North Carolina: A piece of the trunk, about the size of a small coffee table, was discovered on a hiking trail.
- Increased solar activity may lead to Aurora sightings: A giant sunspot has returned, and its intense activity could trigger powerful Aurora displays.
Main Topic - China's Lunar Ambitions and the New Space Race:
- Chang'e 6 Mission: China is set to launch the Chang'e 6 mission to the far side of the moon's southern polar region, with the goal of returning samples. The mission is part of China's ambitious lunar exploration program.
- International Collaboration: Although US-China collaboration is limited, Chang'e 6 includes contributions from France, Italy, Sweden, and Pakistan.
- Future Chinese Lunar Missions: China plans to launch Chang'e 7 in 2026, featuring an orbiter, rover, and a hopping robot, and Chang'e 8 in 2028, which will attempt 3D printing using lunar regolith.
- Artemis Accords and the Outer Space Treaty: As China and the US both aim to establish a presence on the moon, questions arise about territorial claims and the enforcement of the Outer Space Treaty.
- Space Race Rhetoric: Both the US and China have engaged in nationalistic rhetoric regarding their lunar ambitions, with concerns about China's potential to claim exclusive rights to lunar resources.
- Scientific Significance: Despite the geopolitical tensions, Chang'e 6 and future missions from both nations have the potential to greatly advance our understanding of the moon and its environment.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Mike Wall
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This week we've invited JPL's Chief Engineer Emeritus, Rob Manning, back to discuss Mars exploration and, in particular, Mars Sample Return. As we discussed in episode 107, that project is in a bit of trouble. Rob was the Chief Engineer of every Mars rover up through Perseverance and the overall Chief Engineer on Perseverance, and he has some unique insights on how we have explored Mars, why it matters, and what the future holds... especially with regard to returning samples to Earth. Join us!
Headlines:
- NASA held a press conference to explain the latest delays with Boeing's Starliner spacecraft, which stem from issues with a helium leak and concerns about the reaction control thrusters that could lead to a loss of redundancy during reentry
- The European Space Agency's Euclid Space Telescope returned its first science images, providing stunning new views of galaxies never seen in such detail before to help unlock the mysteries of dark matter and dark energy
Main Topic - Mars Exploration and Sample Return:
- Rob Manning recounts his extensive experience with Mars exploration at JPL, from the Sojourner rover and Pathfinder lander in the 90s to the currently operating Curiosity and Perseverance rovers
- Curiosity confirmed the past presence of water on Mars, while Perseverance is collecting carefully selected rock samples to eventually be returned to Earth
- The Mars Sample Return mission would bring pristine samples back to Earth for in-depth study, but is an extremely complex and costly endeavor facing budget challenges and potential delays
- Rob explains why returning samples is so critical - context is key and current meteorite samples have been altered by their journey to Earth, whereas carefully selected samples could reveal much more about Mars' history and potential for life
- Challenges for Mars Sample Return include the large size of the lander, the need for new parachute and guidance technologies, and planetary protection requirements to prevent contaminating Earth
- NASA currently has no plans for additional Mars missions beyond sample return, and faces a potential loss of institutional knowledge as a "quiet period" approaches, highlighting the need to maintain momentum in Mars exploration
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Rob Manning
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Welcome to the Big Glass Wars! That's right, just when you thought you'd heard it all, turns out there's hot competition among a few countries to stay on the cutting edge of optical astronomy, and to do that, you need a great big hunk of glass to gather light from distant galaxies and stellar systems. Enter the Carnegie Observatories and their partners on the Thirty Meter Telescope and the Giant Magellan Telescope. Both are currently under construction, and both are threatened by budget parsimony from the U.S. Congress. Dr. John Mulchaey, Director of the Carnegie Observatories, joins us to discuss what's happening, why it matters, and what you can do to help maintain U.S. leadership in astronomy, cosmology, and other STEM-related fields.
Headlines:
- Boeing's Starliner launch to the ISS delayed again, this time due to a helium leak in the service module. The launch is now targeted for no earlier than May 21st.
- Blue Origin plans to conduct its first crewed suborbital flight since August 2022 on May 19th, carrying six passengers including the first Black astronaut candidate Ed Dwight.
- A massive sunspot caused spectacular auroras visible as far south as Alabama and turned skies purple and orange. More solar activity is expected as another large sunspot emerges.
Main Topic: The Big Glass Wars with Dr. John Mulchaey
- Dr. Mulchaey provides an overview of the Carnegie Observatories, founded in 1904, and their historic telescopes at Mount Wilson that helped launch modern astronomy.
- He discusses the need for extremely large next-generation ground-based telescopes, the Giant Magellan Telescope (GMT) and Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT), to study earth-like exoplanets and the early universe.
- These ambitious segmented mirror telescopes will be 5-10 times larger than today's biggest telescopes and cost billions of dollars to construct.
- While substantial private funding has been raised, the projects need investment from the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the U.S. government to be completed. However, the NSF has proposed only partial funding.
- Dr. Mulchaey emphasizes the importance of the U.S. having both telescope projects to provide full-sky coverage, double the observation time, and maintain the nation's leadership in astronomy research or risk losing top talent to competing projects in Europe and China.
- He notes that delaying a decision on full funding is causing the estimated costs to escalate as the projects are forced to wait.
- Dr. Mulchaey argues passionately that inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers by investing in these telescopes is critical for the country's future productivity and innovation.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Dr. John Mulchaey
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The Voyager probes have been transiting space since 1977, and they're still at it 46 years later. But late in 2023, Voyager 1, now 15 billion miles distant, started sending what the flight controllers called "gibberish" back to Earth---uncoordinated ones and zeros and a heartbeat tone. They knew it was still alive, but something had gone wrong. The small team of software wizards at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory got to work and came up with a workaround... but due to the age of the program, did not have an old enough computer on the ground to test it! They'd have to eyeball the sequence and send it to overwrite existing programming on the spacecraft. The round-trip radio signal from Earth takes 45 hours... and it was a nail-biter. Join us as we discuss this rescue beyond the solar system with Voyager Mission Scientist Dr. Linda Spilker.
Headlines:
- Boeing Starliner launch delayed again due to a "buzzing" valve on the Atlas V rocket, not related to the spacecraft itself
- James Webb Space Telescope detects weather patterns on an exoplanet 41 light-years away, revealing a regenerating atmosphere on a puffy, molten world
- Elon Musk shares his thoughts on the lack of evidence for alien visitation, citing SpaceX's 6,000 satellites that have never had to maneuver around a UFO
Feedback:
- A listener appreciates the discussion on how music relates to space exploration, but points out a missed opportunity to mention Ronald McNair's planned saxophone performance in space, which was tragically halted by the Challenger disaster.
Main Topic - Saving Voyager 1 with Dr. Linda Spilker:
- Dr. Spilker's career at JPL, starting in 1977 and working on the Voyager mission, Cassini, and returning to Voyager as Project Scientist
- Voyager's small flight team and science team, many of whom have been with the mission since its inception
- The spacecraft's journey beyond the heliopause and into interstellar space, making unprecedented measurements of the interstellar medium
- The ambitious Grand Tour of the outer solar system, visiting Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune, and the remarkable discoveries made at each planet and their moons
- The recent challenges faced by Voyager 1, including a failed chip and the efforts to restore its function from Earth
- The limited computing power and memory of the Voyagers compared to modern spacecraft and the ingenuity required to program and communicate with them
- Pressure Front 2, a mysterious feature in the interstellar medium that Voyager 1 was monitoring before its recent glitch
- The expected lifespan of the Voyager probes and the need to start shutting down instruments as power decreases in the coming years
- Dr. Spilker's personal highlights from the mission, including the beauty of Saturn's rings, the geysers on Neptune's moon Triton, and hints of Saturn's moon Enceladus feeding the planet's E-ring
- Wishes for future exploration of the outer solar system, focusing on the ice giants Uranus and Neptune, Pluto, and other small worlds with rings
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Dr. Linda Spilker
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While we may not think of it very often, music has a long history of influencing how we think about spaceflight. From the scores of early silent films to the modern classics we all know, like 2001: A Space Odyssey and the never-ending franchises of Star Trek and Star Wars, we often have a riff going through our minds when we see a space image—few can hear Strauss' Blue Danube without thinking of the space station in 2001, or see a tilted yellow title scroll without hearing that first orchestral crash of John Williams' immortal Star Wars score. And, in real life, we had the talented astronaut Chris Hadfield performing David Bowie's classic hit Major Tom, augmented by upbeat lyrics. Space music is big, and Chris Carberry, CEO of Explore Mars and author of the recently released book The Music of Space, is here to tell us why!
Headlines:
- China launches Chang'e-6 mission to the far side of the moon, aiming to collect and return the first-ever samples from this region
- Boeing completes final flight readiness review for the CFT crew flight test mission, set to launch on May 6th with a 95% chance of good weather
- James Webb Space Telescope successfully maps weather on exoplanet WASP-43 b, located 280 light years away, showcasing the telescope's potential for studying distant worlds
Main Topic: The Music of Space
- Chris Carberry discusses his new book "The Music of Space: Scoring the Cosmos in Film and Television" and his motivation for exploring the connection between space and music
- Early examples of space-related music in film include the scores for "Metropolis" (1927) and the space documentary "Our Heavenly Bodies" (1920)
- The pivotal role of Stanley Kubrick's "2001: A Space Odyssey" in using classical music to depict space, and how it influenced future filmmakers
- John Williams' iconic score for "Star Wars" (1977) marked a turning point in film scoring and revitalized orchestral music in cinema
- The concept of music as a universal language and its potential for communicating with alien civilizations
- Chris Hadfield's rendition of David Bowie's "Space Oddity" on the International Space Station and the challenges of playing music in microgravity
- The role of music in future space settlements, its impact on mental health, and how it may evolve in different environments like Mars
- Chris Carberry's previous book "Alcohol in Space" and the history of alcohol consumption in space missions
- The need for studying the effects of alcohol on human physiology in space as commercial spaceflight advances
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Chris Carberry
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We've been waiting... and waiting... and waiting for Boeing's Starliner to fly. First selected in 2010, along with SpaceX's Crew Dragon, Starliner has been behind schedule for years. SpaceX got $2.6 billion for its six dragon flights, and Boeing received more at $4.3 billion, so you'd expect Boeing to be first to fly, right? Well, as of today, SpaceX has delivered crews to the International Space Station eight times, to Boeing's... zero. Delayed development, turbulence problems with the capsule on the Atlas launcher, stuck valves, flammable materials, and faulty parachute lines have all contributed to the delays. Boeing has flown two uncrewed missions—the first one a partial failure, with the second, funded by Boeing itself, flown to NASA's satisfaction. Now it's time to put a crew aboard. Will Boeing overcome their issues and deliver the goods? Join us.
Headlines:
- Voyager's Return: NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory confirms reestablishment of contact with Voyager 1 after five months of silence, overcoming communication challenges over vast interstellar distances.
- China's Shenzhou 18 and Tiangong Space Station: China successfully launches Shenzhou 18 to the Tiangong Space Station, which was recently hit by space debris, prompting China to revamp its space debris management strategies.
- International Partnerships for Lunar Research: China announces new international partnerships for its International Lunar Research Station, contrasting its progress with NASA's Artemis Accords.
Main Topic: Boeing Starliner's Upcoming Mission
- Starliner's Crewed Test Flight: A detailed discussion on Boeing's upcoming Starliner mission, highlighting the spacecraft's capabilities, the crew's preparations, and the significance of this test flight.
- Spacecraft and Mission Overview: Insights into the Starliner's design, the choice of Atlas V rockets for the launch, and the planned landing procedures in the southwestern United States.
- Crew Profiles: Focus on the astronauts, Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams, discussing their backgrounds, roles in the mission, and expectations for the test flight.
- Closing Thoughts: Rod and Tariq wrap up with final thoughts on the importance of the Starliner mission for Boeing and NASA, discussing potential outcomes and what they signify for the future of commercial spaceflight.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
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Unless you've been living under a big red Martian rock, you've likely heard that NASA's Mars Sample Return mission is in trouble. The robotic program has its roots in the 1960s, when NASA started thinking about sending robots to fetch Mars soil even before Mariner 4's first flyby of the planet. The Russians pondered it as well, as the Chinese and Japanese are today. The problem? It's really hard, with multiple spacecraft, possibly on different launches, rendezvousing around the Red Planet to accomplish. And then there are the concerns about the safety of returning possible pathogens to Earth (that said, I could use an extra tentacle). But the showstopper, as usual, is cost—and NASA's not happy. We invited the original Space Ace reporter, Leonard David, to join the discussion.
Headlines:
- NASA gives green light to Dragonfly, a nuclear-powered helicopter mission to Saturn's moon Titan, set to launch in 2028 and arrive in 2034
- New images from the Perseverance rover reveal the crash site of the Ingenuity helicopter on Mars, showing scattered debris and broken rotor blades
- NASA continues to study the Orion spacecraft's heat shield, which experienced more erosion than expected during the Artemis 1 mission, raising concerns for future crewed missions
Main Topic: Mars Sample Return Mission
- Leonard David expresses frustration with NASA's recent announcement of significant cost increases and delays for the Mars Sample Return mission
- NASA Administrator Bill Nelson stated that the current estimated cost of $11 billion is too high and called for innovative ideas from industry and academia to reduce costs and accelerate the timeline
- They discuss the scientific importance of returning Martian samples to Earth but question whether the current approach is the most effective way to search for life on Mars
- Leonard suggests that advancements in miniaturized instruments could allow for more comprehensive life detection experiments directly on the Martian surface, reducing the need for sample return
- The conversation touches on the potential for international collaboration and competition in Mars exploration, with China, Japan, and Russia planning their own missions
- Rod highlights the critical role of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in Mars exploration and expresses concern about the potential loss of expertise if the MSR mission is scaled back or cancelled
- The TWiS crew concludes by emphasizing the need for a clear, sustainable strategy for Mars exploration that balances scientific objectives, technological capabilities, and budgetary realities
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Leonard David
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Eclipse Wrap-Up & More Favorite Space Places
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
For full show notes, visit https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space/episodes/106
Unless you've been living under a rock or in Barstow, you probably know all about the solar eclipse on Monday. Rod will be going to Austin, likely to be staring at ever-darkening clouds, and Tariq will be headed to the eclipse path in the Northeast. Where will you be? On today's episode, we're talking to astronomer and meteorologist Joe Rao about the solar eclipse of 2024--what is it, where the moon's shadow cross Earth, how can you maximize what you see (or don't see), and how to view partial phases safely. This last bit is important, and we're going to give you an earful about "solar safety"--the effects of improper viewing can be catastrophic. And, of course, Rod's bringing a terrible eclipse-oriented space joke! Join us.
Headlines:
- Chinese Space Debris Sighting: China's Shenzhou-15 crew capsule's orbital module made an uncontrolled reentry, lighting up the skies over California without prior warning.
- Space Junk Hits a Florida Home: A story of a mysterious cylinder, believed to be part of a NASA battery pallet jettisoned from the ISS, crashing through a Florida man's home, illustrating the unpredictable nature of space debris re-entry.
Main Topic: The Solar Eclipse of 2024
- Introduction to Joe Rao: Introduction of Joe Rao, his background, and his excitement for the upcoming eclipse, his 14th total solar eclipse viewing.
- Eclipse Overview: Joe provides an in-depth look at the upcoming solar eclipse, discussing its path across North America, from Mexico through the United States to Canada, and highlighting its significance compared to past eclipses.
- Viewing Tips: Discussion on safe viewing practices, including the importance of using certified eclipse glasses and other methods to safely observe the eclipse without damaging one's eyes.
- Weather Considerations: Joe offers advice on how to choose the best viewing locations based on weather patterns and suggests resources for last-minute location adjustments to avoid cloud cover.
- Personal Stories and Plans: Tariq shares his plans to view the eclipse with his family, emphasizing the personal significance and communal aspect of experiencing such a rare event.
- Final Thoughts and Advice: The episode wraps up with Joe stressing the unparalleled experience of witnessing a total solar eclipse firsthand, urging listeners not to miss the opportunity to be in the path of totality.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Joe Rao
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Ecuador's Space Ambitions With Robert Aillon
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Robert Aillon
For full show notes, visit https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space/episodes/104
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Last week's test flight of SpaceX's Starship--its third so far--was a mixed bag. The successful launch, ascent, staging, and testing of propellant transfer and the cargo bay door were all brilliant, yet both vehicles were destroyed before completing their planned trajectories, and the upper stage didn't make it into orbit (though it did reach "orbital velocity," according to Elon). So what's the real story on this test flight? When will the next one be? How close is SpaceX to routine launches of Starship, and when might it be ready to land NASA astronauts on the moon? And finally--an interstellar Starship, really Elon? Space.com ace reporter Mike Wall--that's Dr. Mike Wall to you--joins us with the details.
Headlines:
- Soyuz Rocket Pad Abort: A rare occurrence where a Soyuz rocket's launch to the ISS was aborted due to a power issue, highlighting the reliability and challenges of space launches.
- Boeing Starliner's Crew Test: An update on Boeing's Starliner, poised for its first crewed test flight, marking a significant milestone in commercial spaceflight.
- Chandra Space Telescope Funding Cuts: Discussion on budgetary decisions impacting the Chandra X-ray Observatory, reflecting on the challenges of sustaining long-term space science missions.
Main Topic - SpaceX's Starship Developments:
- Starship's Third Test Flight: Starship's third fully stacked test flight on March 14th was the most successful to date, achieving significant milestones but still facing challenges with stage separation and atmospheric reentry.
- Technical Challenges and Innovations: Discussions on Starship's design choices, such as its stainless steel construction and the choice of methane as fuel, showcasing the innovative approaches to overcoming space travel challenges.
- NASA's Artemis Program and Starship: NASA's reliance on Starship for future lunar landings underlines the spacecraft's importance in returning humans to the Moon and potentially beyond.
- The Business Case for Mars: Speculation on how SpaceX plans to finance its Mars colonization ambitions, including the role of commercial and military contracts, point-to-point Earth transportation, and the potential market for Mars travel.
- Potential for Interstellar Travel: Elon Musk's ambitious vision for Starship's future, including interstellar missions, underscores the long-term goals of SpaceX's space exploration efforts.
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Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Mike Wall
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Thought you knew all about Mars? Think again. Despite thousands of people poring through thousands of images from a flock of Mars orbiters over the decades, Dr. Pascal Lee and his associates found intriguing features in a region of complex terrain between Mars' Olympus Mons, the largest volcano in the solar system, and the western extent of Valles Marineris, the largest canyon. First, he spotted a relict glacier, covered with volcanic ash, and in a single day, realized he'd found a recently active volcano not previously identified--and how was this missed? Pascal will fill us in on the gritty details. This exciting discovery has wide-ranging implications, including the possibility of finding life nearby. Join us for this first-anywhere media reveal of the newest major feature on the Red Planet!
Headline: SpaceX's Starship Test Flight
- SpaceX conducted its third test flight of the Starship and Super Heavy launch system, successfully reaching orbital speed but losing both vehicles during re-entry
- The Starship reached orbital velocity and performed several test objectives, including a Starlink satellite dispenser demonstration and in-vehicle propellant transfer
- The test flight, while not perfect, represents a significant step forward for SpaceX's Mars ambitions, though there is still a long way to go before Starship is ready for crewed missions
Main Topic: Dr. Pascal Lee's Discovery of a Giant Volcano on Mars
- Dr. Lee and his team discovered a previously unknown volcano on Mars, measuring 450 km (280 miles) in diameter and rising 9,000 meters above the surrounding terrain
- The volcano, located in the Noctis Labyrinthus region near Valles Marineris, has been hiding in plain sight since the Mariner 9 mission in 1971
- The discovery was made while studying a nearby glacier, which is likely related to the volcanic activity in the area
- The volcano's heavily eroded state suggests a long history of activity, with evidence of recent eruptions and the potential for ongoing activity
- The presence of a glacier and potential for residual heat make this site a compelling target in the search for extant life on Mars
- Dr. Lee proposes this location as an ideal site for future human exploration, offering access to both ancient and potentially modern life on Mars
- The discovery highlights the importance of volcanic regions on Mars for understanding the planet's geological history and potential for harboring life
- Dr. Lee and his team have submitted the name "Noctis Mons" for the newly discovered volcano, pending approval from the International Astronomical Union (IAU)
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Pascal Lee
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Russia is building a secret nuclear-powered space weapon, but what does that mean for the rest of us? In this episode, Tariq Malik is joined by Space.com's Brett Tingley to discuss the recent reports and delve into the history of nuclear weapons and reactors in space, the existing international treaties governing weapons of mass destruction in orbit, and the growing militarization of space by Russia, China, and the United States. Malik and Tingley also cover the week's top headlines, including SpaceX's upcoming Starship orbital launch attempt and NASA's continuing struggles to revive the Voyager 1 spacecraft.
Headlines:
- SpaceX sets March 14th as tentative date for Starship's third test flight, pending final launch license approval from the FAA
- NASA's Voyager 1 probe, launched in 1977 and now in interstellar space, continues to experience significant computer glitches that mission controllers are struggling to diagnose
- The next Great North American Solar Eclipse is just one month away, with the path of totality crossing from Mexico through the central and northeastern US on April 8th
Main Topic: Potential Russian Nuclear Space Weapons
- Recent reports from US officials suggest Russia may be developing a new nuclear-powered anti-satellite weapon or electronic warfare platform
- The weapon likely wouldn't pose an immediate threat, but highlights the growing militarization of space and potential for a new arms race
- Nuclear power has long been used in space, from radioisotope thermoelectric generators on probes like Voyager to plans for nuclear propulsion
- The 1967 Outer Space Treaty bans placing WMDs in orbit, but has some gray areas and lacks robust enforcement mechanisms
- The US, Russia, and China have all demonstrated anti-satellite capabilities in recent years, from missiles to lasers to mini-satellites with robotic arms
- There are also growing concerns over military interest in cislunar space and the Moon as another "high ground" to be contested
- While there are more pressing threats than space-based nuclear weapons, the situation reflects deteriorating international relations and the need for updated treaties
Host: Tariq Malik
Guest: Brett Tingley
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It's safe to say we all would love a chance to fly to space, but there's wanting to reach space and then ACTUALLY launching into space. This week, as we hit Episode 100, we welcome back Dr. Alan Stern of the Southwest Research Institute to tell us exactly what it's like to fly on a private spaceplane. Alan, a planetary scientist and principal investigator of NASA's New Horizons mission to Pluto and beyond, launched on a suborbital spaceflight in November 2023 on Virgin Galactic's VSS Unity space plane. He'll dish on what that experience is like, what it promises for future space science, and more. We also discussed Intuitive Machines' private Odysseus moon lander's farewell, a new air leak on the International Space Station, and when SpaceX may launch its Crew-8 mission to the ISS.
Headlines:
- Odysseus Moon Lander Incident: Intuitive Machines' lander successfully touched down on the moon but tipped over and broke a leg upon landing. Despite this mishap, the mission achieved many firsts and exceeded expectations.
- International Space Station (ISS) Air Leak: An update on a minor but increasing air leak in the Russian segment of the ISS, detailing efforts to pinpoint and fix the leak to ensure crew safety.
- SpaceX Crew-8 Mission Delays: Overview of the delayed SpaceX Crew-8 mission to the ISS, due to weather concerns and scheduling conflicts with the Odysseus moon lander launch.
Main Topic: Dr. Alan Stern's Virgin Galactic Flight
- Dr. Alan Stern's Background: Stern recounts his lifelong passion for space exploration, his involvement in over 30 NASA and European Space Agency missions, and his recent suborbital spaceflight with Virgin Galactic.
- The Experience of Spaceflight: Stern describes the flight as the best workday ever, detailing the rocket's ascent, time in microgravity, and the camaraderie among the crew. He also mentions successfully completing all nine objectives of the flight.
- Future of Commercial Spaceflight: Discussion on the potential of commercial spaceflight to transform space science by making suborbital and orbital missions more accessible and affordable. Stern emphasizes the importance of human-led experiments in space and predicts a future where booking a spaceflight could be as common as booking an airline ticket.
- Risk and Reward of Space Travel: Stern shares his perspective on the risks associated with space travel, comparing it to the early days of aviation and expressing optimism for the future safety and normalization of space exploration.
- New Horizons Update: Alan talks on the New Horizons extended mission to study Kuiper Belt objects through 2028/2029. The Kuiper Belt structure itself continues to reveal its vast scale.
Host: Tariq Malik
Guest: Alan Stern
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What a year it's been so far! This week, Tariq and Rod look at some of the top headlines for 2024. So far, we've had a partially successful private lunar landing--the first for the United States since 1972--massive satellites hurtling out of orbit, more news on SpaceX's upcoming Starship activity, what's up with Blue Origin and New Glenn, the weirdest quasar story ever, and there's gold in them stars, says the James Webb Space Telescope. And we're just getting 2024 started! Join us for our deep dive into the headlines.
- The top story is the successful landing of the Odysseus lunar lander by Intuitive Machines on the moon's south pole, the first private spacecraft to do so. They discuss the mission's payloads, the last-minute fix using NASA's navigation system when their own failed, and the implications for future lunar operations.
- They cover the uncontrolled reentry of the defunct European ERS-2 satellite over the Pacific Ocean and how dealing with space junk has evolved.
- Varda Space Industries made history by successfully landing their private space capsule via parachute after seven months in orbit, a first and step towards autonomous in-space manufacturing.
- Exciting updates on SpaceX's Starship development - they may launch up to 9 missions in 2024 and are expanding infrastructure, targeting early to mid-March for the third launch of Starship.
- Blue Origin rolled out their New Glenn rocket to the pad for fit checks, inching towards a test flight this year.
- The farthest quasar yet has been discovered, called J0529-4351, with a brightness of 500 trillion Suns and a massive disk 7 light years wide. The discovery showcases the use of AI to analyze vast amounts of astronomical data.
- Using James Webb, astronomers directly observed heavy elements like gold being created for the first time in merging neutron stars. Proves long-standing theories on cosmic origins of heavy metals.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
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It's the end of summer, and what a summer it's been in spaceflight! We're overdue for a roundup of the latest and greatest of all the accomplishments in space this year. Join Tariq—surely one of the brightest space reporters out there (I mean, the guy runs Space.com)—and Rod, one of the grumpiest truthtellers in space news, for this grand look at where we've been and what's coming. Plus three—count 'em, three—space jokes. It's the most fun you can have on the launchpad!
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
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Our favorite Martian and Arctic explorer is back! Dr. Pascal Lee has returned from his 25th season at the Haughton-Mars Project Arctic base, and what a field season he had! New space suits were tested, Moon drills were tried, his analog pressurized Mars rover was fixed and tested, and Apollo the Space Dog patrolled for polar bears as he always does. Come and join us for this exciting update.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Pascal Lee
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Ever since the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter first confirmed the presence of water on the Moon, the rush has been on, as both Russia and India proved last week. Why is finding water there so important? How did the LRO probe first make the detection? What else has LRO been up to since reaching the Moon in 2019? Finally, what are the next steps? We'll find out from the source--Dr. Noah Petro, Project Scientist for the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter!
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Dr. Noah Petro
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We still love us some space conspiracies! This week, Tariq and I discuss more of our favorites--from the "the Earth is flat!" to the deadly Planet X (or "Planet 9," as self-avowed Pluto-Killer Mike Brown calls it--though he may end up with naming rights), we'll look at, discuss, and debunk more of the wackiest conspiracies ever... because, "the truth is out there--or maybe, just maybe, it's in our heads, after all. Be incredulous!
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Ant Pruitt
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For decades, all the planets of the solar system had been reconnoitered—except Pluto. That last planetary body had been seen, at best, as just a faint smudge by the Hubble Space Telescope. Then, in 2015, the New Horizons spacecraft sped by Pluto, sending back a swath of exciting images and science data, transforming our view of the planet. It subsequently visited the Kuiper Belt object Arrakoth and may rendezvous with another, more distant body—or not. NASA's new budget seems to spell the end of active science for New Horizons, something that does not sit well with the program's Principal Investigator, Dr. Alan Stern. Join Alan as he speaks with us about this very exciting project and what it may take to keep it alive.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Alan Stern
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Not all asteroids are created equal, and 16 Psyche, one of the largest, is extremely dense in metals, making it unique. Is the 140-mile giant the leftover core of a failed planet or a more recent gravitational accretion of metal-rich bodies? Will it help us to understand how metallic cores—that that of Earth—form and function? NASA's sending a spacecraft, also called Pysche, to find out. The mission is led by Dr. Lindy Elkins-Tanton, who joins Rod and bestselling author Daniel Suarez to explain what makes Psyche—both the asteroid and the mission—so fascinating.
Host: Rod Pyle
Guests: Daniel Suarez and Lindy Elkins-Tanton
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Some communities in the US are poised for exponential expansion into the newspace economy, and Brownsville, Texas, is one of the key spots. Rick Jenet's nonprofit, Expanding Frontiers, is working to see that Brownsville becomes a key hub for space development. As the southernmost spot in the continental U.S., it is ideally situated for commercial space activity, launch, and control. Expanding Frontiers' many programs service students, veterans, aspiring space entrepreneurs, and women. It's a fantastic model for cultivating the newspace economy!
Host: Rod Pyle
Co-Host: Geoffrey Notkin
Guest: Fredrick (Rick) Jenet
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Space is just packed with scary stuff, including huge Earth-impacting asteroids and a swarming cloud of dangerous debris orbiting our planet. Meet Jonathan Dagle, USAF veteran, policy expert, chief politico for the National Space Society, and all-around policy wonk. He's got the scoop on planetary defense and the threat presented by orbital debris, so stick around to learn about the latest on what is--and what isn't--being done to address these dangers.
Host: Rod Pyle
Co-Host: Geoffrey Notkin
Guest: Jonathan Dagle
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We all long to belong to something bigger than ourselves... for some, it's a large family; for others, a workplace. But for us, the "Space Enlightened," it's our space tribe! The tribe might embrace Star Wars or Star Trek lore, or might be interested in ETs... but for many of us—perhaps the more technically or scientifically minded — it's one of the pro-space citizen's organizations out there that allow us to be intimately involved in the Big Adventure. Join us as we talk to Dale Skran of the National Space Society about the organization and their amazing yearly gathering, the International Space Development Conference.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Dale Skran
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Geoffrey Notkin of Meteorite Men joins Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik on This Week in Space to discuss the latest space headlines including Asteroid Day, Ariane 5, and of course, Notkin's meteorite collection.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Geoffrey Notkin
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The solar system is a dangerous place, with asteroids barreling between the planets and frequently skimming past Earth. Just one 50-foot rock, like the one that exploded over Chelyabinsk, Russia in 2013, could kill up to a million people! Dr. Ed Lu, former NASA astronaut, co-founder of the B612 Foundation, and head of the Asteroid Institute joins us to talk about finding the millions of potentially dangerous asteroids that are still uncharted and how we might avoid catastrophic encounters.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Dr. Ed Lu
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We do love us some space conspiracies! This week, Tariq Malik and Rod Pyle discuss their favorites – from the classic "we never landed on the Moon" to the less-discussed hexagon on Saturn's north pole (we all know it's an alien greeting card, right?), they'll look at, discuss, and debunk the wackiest conspiracies ever... because, "the truth is out there!"
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
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Space Ace Leonard David joins the conversation on This Week in Space. NASA has released preliminary results of their Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena report, and they are nearly the opposite of the DoD's previous report. NASA found very few incidents to be truly "unidentified," though this report was notably based solely on unclassified material and was in essence, a study-of-how-to-study UFO data... so we are left continuing to look to the skies.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Leonard David
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Many of us would love an opportunity to fly into space, even if for just a few minutes. Dylan Taylor recognized this, and also the power of the Overview Effect to change people's perceptions about spaceflight and our world. He created the nonprofit Space For Humanity to select deserving people from around the world to fly aboard Blue Origin's New Shepard rocket, on which he has flown. The results have been impressive, and as these people return to their home states and countries, they become ambassadors for the final frontier. Join us as we speak to Rachel Lyons, Executive Director of Space For Humanity.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Rachel Lyons
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You may not have heard of Charles Miller, but you should have. He was an early proponent of commercial spaceflight and was instrumental in making it part of NASA's mandate in 1998. He was a senior advisor to NASA on the topic for three years and, both before and after, a powerful proponent as a private citizen, starting a number of space advocacy groups. He recently founded Lynk, a company that connects cell phones to satellites worldwide with their own proprietary satellites. In short, he's one of the original Space Buccaneers and one of the few non-billionaires instrumental in creating the new space age.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Charles Miller
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The sun brings light and heat to Earth, but it can also blast our planet with stormy weather, flares, and massive coronal mass ejections that can impact our power grids, satellites, and even endanger astronauts in space and, eventually, back on the moon. And it's heating up as the sun approaches Solar Maximum of its latest Solar Cycle 25. NASA solar astrophysicist Dr. C. Alex Young of the Helioscience Division of the Goddard Space Flight Center in Maryland joins us to dish on the latest from the sun and what it means for us on Earth.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: C. Alex Young
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Jupiter is the king of the solar system, yet it has only been visited by a handful of probes. Juno is the most recent, and has redefined how we understand the giant planet. Since 2016, Juno has explored Jupiter's intense and mysterious magnetic field, changed how we look at giant planet formation, made critical observations of the complex movements of Jupiter's atmosphere, flow through the planet's nearly invisible rings, and probed the intricacies of the Jovian core. Add to that the Junocam project, which allowed citizen scientists to request specific targets for imaging, and you have one heck of a successful mission, now in its 22nd year! Join us as we talk to Juno's chief scientist, Scott Bolton.
Image credit: NASA
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Scott Bolton
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Today we're talking to Robert Pearlman, the king of space collectors! Robert runs the CollectSpace website, the premiere go-to for collecting space hardware and paraphernalia. Need to know what that space helmet is worth? Robert has your back. Oh, you don't have a space helmet and want one? Robert's your man. You'll be amazed at what people will buy, and for how much.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Robert Pearlman
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This week, Jeff Greason, our favorite interstellar propulsion advocate and resident genius, talks about how humanity will eventually travel (and live) beyond our solar system, and why it is imperative that we one day do so. The technologies may be closer than you think!
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Jeff Greason
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There's no middle ground on SpaceX's Starship, it seems. You love it, or you hate it; you're an Elon fanboy or a grizzled OldSpace curmudgeon. The battle rages over the outcomes from the truncated Starship launch test last week, and we're going to jump right in, punch through the noise, unwind the arguments, and shine the light. Or not. You decide. If nothing else, we'll kick the bear called Starship!
Image credit: SpaceX
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
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We've been anxiously awaiting the first flight of SpaceX's fully stacked Starship and Super Heavy booster since 2016, and last Thursday, we finally saw it in action. While the flight did not go as planned, it exceeded SpaceX's expectations--and another should follow within a matter of weeks. Join Rod as he talks with Mike Wall of Space.com, who has been a keen observer of Starship since its earliest days.
Image credit: SpaceX
Host: Rod Pyle
Guest: Mike Wall
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Finding water on Mars could be a boon for human explorers there, as it provides drinking water, oxygen, and rocket fuel. Dr. Pascal Lee of the Mars Institute and SETI, with his colleagues, has spotted the remains of what appears to be an ancient glacier—which may still contain ice–close to the Martian equator, where it would be most accessible to future astronauts.
Image credit: NASA MRO HiRISE and CRISM false color composite. Lee et al. 2023
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Pascal Lee
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Students for the Exploration and Development of Space has been preparing young people for space careers since its founding in 1980. With chapters in 14 countries and countless universities, the organization has expanded exponentially since then. Join us as we talk to Sara Alvarado and Audrey Scott about this dynamic, youth-empowering group!
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guests: Sara Alvarado and Audrey Scott
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Col. Eileen Collins was the first woman to pilot the space shuttle and command a NASA mission, but the journey was not easy. She was the second woman to go through the Air Force's test pilot school and was selected as an astronaut in 1990. In 1995 she piloted the shuttle Discovery in a mission to rendezvous with the Russian space station Mir, and in 1999 she commanded the STS-93 mission--the first woman to do so--and STS 114 in 2005, the shuttle's return to flight after the Columbia accident; in all, she flew four shuttle missions. Eileen retired from NASA in 2006 and co-authored "Through the Glass Ceiling to the Stars" with Jonathan Ward. She continues to inspire young women worldwide.
Host: Tariq Malik
Guest: Eileen Collins
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This week is all about you, our wonderful listeners! You asked questions and we have answers. From secret Russian rockets to alien physiology to alien motherships lurking in our solar system, Rod and Tariq tackle the vexing questions of our time. We might even be right!
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
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Being in space has a profound effect on people, an occurrence that is now known as the Overview Effect thanks to this week's guest, author and space philosopher Frank White. From the first orbital flights of the Space Age to the view of Earth from the moon during the Apollo program to space tourists aboard the New Shepard and Virgin Galactic, people have experienced profound and dramatic shifts in perception once they've seen Earth from space--and this can lead to greater awareness of our interconnectedness and even political change.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Frank White
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When we think about science on TV, most of us think of Bill Nye. Host of "Bill Nye: The Science Guy" in the 1990s and multiple shows since then, Bill is the CEO of The Planetary Society and star of the new "The End is Nye" on Peacock. Join Rod and Tariq as they sit down with Bill to discuss his origins, talking science to the world, The Planetary Society's Lightsail 2 project, and much more.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Bill Nye
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Since at least the 1940s, UFOs and alien encounters have been a part of popular culture, and with tens of millions of true believers across the globe, these are powerful ideas with staying power. What makes these stories so appealing? Do alien visitations even make sense? If so, why are they so interested in us? Dale Skran, Chief Operating Officer of the National Space Society, joins us to apply Occam's Razor to these and other questions about what's out there.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Dale Skran
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When the 50th anniversary of Apollo 11 rolled around, we were awash in documentaries, books, and more. One of the best documentaries was National Geographic's "Apollo: Missions to the Moon," produced by Tom Jennings. Join Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik for a conversation with the Peabody and Emmy Award-winning producer about the challenges of finding truly unique, unseen materials to make a must-see documentary!
Image credit: NASA
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Tom Jennings
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Dr. Greg Autry, Clinical Professor and Director of the Thunderbird Initiative for Space Leadership, Policy, and Business at ASU's Thunderbird School of Global Management, joins Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik to explore the world of space entrepreneurs, and how YOU can become one!
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Dr. Greg Autry
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Randii Wessen's title at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory--A-Team Lead Study Architect--may not sound sexy, but he leads a team of engineers and scientists that get to dream up where we send the next generation of robots in space and what they will do there. It's a fascinating, blue-sky job, and more fun than a guy oughta have. Listen to learn how NASA plans the future of deep space exploration!
Host: Rod Pyle
Guest: Randii Wessen
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Daniel Suarez has been a fixture on the New York Times Bestseller's list for a reason, and his latest book, "Critical Mass," will be no exception. It's a fast-paced adventure set in cislunar space to build out a newspace economy and rescue astronauts stranded at a distant asteroid, filled with drama and intrigue. It's also one of the most plausible looks at the future of spaceflight, complete with entrepreneurial space billionaires and cantankerous, mistrustful governments. In short, Suarez has looked into a newspace crystal ball and unveiled a likely future for the development of space--and made it entertaining as hell.
Get "Critical Mass": https://amzn.to/3Yjb9xu
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Daniel Suarez
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Of course, you all know Tariq and Rod could rave about the best space books ever, but TWiT's own Jason Snell of SixColors.com just had to chime in, and what a group rant we had! The best of space nonfiction and fiction is coming your way.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Jason Snell
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Don't look now, but the possibly spookiest thing you've seen yet in the sky is hovering overhead, comet C/2022/E3 (ZTF), otherwise known as the creepy green comet. Planetarium Director, astronomer , and space author Steve Fentress joins us to discuss the comet, and other notable points of skywatching interest coming in 2023!
Image credit: Michael Jäger
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Steve Fentress
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When Walt Disney wanted to build a vision of the future for Disneyland's Tomorrowland in the 1950s, he turned to Wernher von Braun, former Nazi rocketeer turned US citizen and missile chief, to help design it. Along the way, the two men co-created a series of visionary shows about spaceflight for Disney's weekly TV show. Boeing engineer and space history expert John Rose joins us to discuss this unique and unlikely collaboration and how its effects resonate to this day.
Image credit: NASA
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: John Rose
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2022 was a record year for spaceflight, and 2023 will be even more amazing! We gained a new moon rocket, set spaceflight endurance records, set a record-breaking launch pace, and diverted an asteroid. We also lost a Mars lander and possibly a Soyuz capsule... but overall, the new space age is shaping up nicely. And 2023 will blow us out of the water! Join Rod and Tariq for a fast-paced look at 2022 and 2023 in space, and don't miss Tariq's "lightning round" for next year!
Image credit: NASA
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
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The holiday season is always special, but few were more special than Christmas Eve, 1968, when Apollo 8 orbited the moon, with the astronauts reading from the Book of Genesis. Apollo Flight Director Gerald D. "Gerry" Griffin joins us to recall that very special time, and we chat with retired Air Force Colonel Karlton Johnson about NORAD's tracking of Santa.
Image credit: NASA
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guests: Gerald D. Griffin and Karlton Johnson
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This week we talk to SETI senior astronomer Seth Shostak about Avatar 2, extraterrestrial life, his expectations about world reactions to first contact, and whether trying to talk to aliens might not be the best idea after all!
Image source: Disney
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Seth Shostak
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Senior space journalist Leonard David joins us to discuss new developments in the Chinese space program, its trajectory moving ahead, and what that might mean for a rejuvenated human spaceflight program in the United States. Are we in a new space race?
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Leonard David
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Former NASA astronaut Doug Hurley joins us to talk about the mission of Artemis I and his time as a NASA astronaut, flying multiple shuttle missions and the groundbreaking DEMO-2 mission in SpaceX's then-new Crew Dragon.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Doug Hurley
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Actor John de Lancie, the incomparable "Q" from "Star Trek," joins us to talk about who "Q" is, how he got the role, his love for science, his experiences on the show, and so much more... wee even asked him to comment on the human condition as an omnipotent alien uber-presence! Join us for this very special edition of "This Week in Space"... it's the most fun you can have on this or any other planet!
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: John de Lancie
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America is returning to the moon, but how can we best do this? NASA is pursuing the massive Space Launch System, or SLS, that uses repurposed space shuttle technology to build a one-use, throwaway rocket that is not yet powerful enough to stage a landing mission without a third-party landing stage. SpaceX's Starship, which is NASA's first choice of a lunar lander, is larger, more powerful, reusable, and will one day be capable of going from the Earth to the lunar surface in one shot - and for a fraction of the cost. Why build both? How do they stack up when compared? Rod and Tariq dive deep into the Rise of the Megarockets!
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
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Leonard David, the Godfather of space reporting, discusses how NASA has finally been charged with lending their considerable expertise in the quest to understand what exactly UFOs (now called UAPs) might be all about. Are they extraterrestrial visitors? Earthly foreign agents? Swamp gas (no, we don't buy that one either)? Join us as we dive deep into the possibility of extraterrestrial emissaries.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Leonard David
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In 1994, author Andy Chaikin published a groundbreaking book about the Apollo program called A Man on the Moon. It became an instant bestseller and continues to move briskly. What was so special? It was the first comprehensive look at the Apollo program as told by the astronauts to a writer who could weave a dynamic, compelling narrative. We talk to Andy about this amazing book, his other works, and what the future holds for space books.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Andy Chaikin
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23 years ago, Mars scientist Pascal Lee started building his Haughton-Mars Project outpost on Devon Island in the high Arctic to research Mars exploration and mobility systems. Working with NASA and the SETI Intsitute, he's been at it ever since, and in August, was joined by Rod on his first visit to the base since 2019. It was a dry, cold, and dusty time... and as much fun as a team of scientists should be allowed to have.
Image credit: NASA/Mars Institute/Haughton-Mars Project
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Pascal Lee
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The Coordination Lead for the DART mission, Nancy Chabot, joins us from the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Lab. With the DART asteroid impactor's recent success, we decided it was time to get the lowdown on what happened to Dimoprhos, whether it's a heap of rubble or a solid rock, and what's up next in the defense of Earth... with nary a space cowboy in sight.
Image credit: NASA/Johns Hopkins APL
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Nancy Chabot
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In the spirit of Chesley Bonestell and Robert McCall, James Vaughan went from being an A-list fashion photographer and advertising art director in Chicago to establishing himself as one of the premiere space and aerospace illustrators of our time. How do you make that kind of transition? How do you break into commercial space art? What special benefits does an advertising and marketing background bring to this kind of work? Join Rod and Tariq as they explore the history and practice of aerospace artwork on this episode of This Week in Space.
Image credit: James Vaughan
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: James Vaughan
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If ever there was a captain of newspace, it's Steve Jurvetson. From rescuing SpaceX in their darkest hour, to investing in many of the most successful space startups, Steve has been there—and seemingly, everywhere—since the beginning of the new space age. Graduating Stanford with a degree in electrical engineering in just over two years, he's perenially one of the smartest guys in the room, and is a true space visionary. Join us for this wide-ranging discussion on the state of newspace, how the new space age will be built on private enterprise and private investment, public-private partnerships in spaceflight, and the magnificent future of spaceflight.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Steve Jurvetson
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Engineer and visionary Jeff Greason joins us to discuss why humanity must continue to explore and develop space. We then segue to what kinds of outposts we may choose to build on other worlds, how we will get there, and how entrepreneurs and nations might benefit and even make a profit. Finally, we look at our future as an interplanetary species, expanding to other star systems. Join us for this very special conversation!
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Jeff Greason
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This week, Ralph Lorenz, the Mission Architect for the Dragonfly mission to explore Saturn's moon Titan, joins us to discuss this amazing mission to explore another world... from the air! To date, only one small probe has landed on Titan and only worked for a couple of hours. The Dragonfly quadcopter will explore the moon from the air, exploring its endless dunes and vast seas. Join us!
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Ralph Lorenz
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Mike Hecht is the main man behind the MOXIE oxygen-making experiment on the Perseverance rover. Mars won't be much fun to explore if we can't find a way to breathe there, and we'll need fuel to come home. MOXIE was designed to make oxygen from Martian air... and it works! We'll learn how on this episode of This Week in Space.
Image credit: NASA
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Michael Hecht
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The future is here! Regular citizens are starting to fly into space, and we caught up with Dylan Taylor, serial entrepreneur, president and CEO of space exploration firm Voyager Space, and most recently, private astronaut. Shortly after his flight on Blue Origin's New Shepard, he dove to the Titanic and the bottom of the Challenger Deep. Oh, and his company is building their own space station! Join us for the amazing armchair adventure with one of the newspace doers, Dylan Taylor.
Host: Rod Pyle
Co-Host: Geoffrey Notkin
Guest: Dylan Taylor
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Dale Skran of the National Space Society joins Rod Pyle and Geoff Notkin to discuss the NSS and commercial space efforts. What is the new space age and why is it important. It's a great conversation on This Week in Space.
Host: Rod Pyle
Co-Host: Geoffrey Notkin
Guest: Dale Skran
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Dr. Bill Tarver joins Rod Pyle and Geoff Notkin on This Week in Space to discuss loss of life. Whether during launch, an extended journey, or on the Moon, Mars, or in orbit, there will be human casualties. How will we deal with a death in space? What do you do with a body you might not be able to return to Earth? Do we set them adrift like a burial at sea or stuff them into a refrigerator for later? Great conversation with Tarver covering this topic and more.
Host: Rod Pyle
Co-Host: Geoffrey Notkin
Guest: Dr. Bill Tarver
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NASA is 64 years old and has sometimes acted like it. Back in 2010, when Lori Garver became the number two at the space agency, commercial space was just a glimmer on the horizon, and it was business as usual. The week we talk to Lori about her new book about her time at NASA, "Escaping Gravity," and how she helped to reinvent the world's favorite space agency for a new space age.
Get "Escaping Gravity: My Quest to Transform NASA and Launch a New Space Age" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3QsCZE8
Host: Rod Pyle
Co-Host: Geoffrey Notkin
Guest: Lori Garver
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We've seen grandiose visions of our future in space in science fiction since the early 20th century. The Golden Age of pulp sci-fi ramped this up, then came Star Trek and other, more realistic depictions. While fiction and reality don't often align, there's more here than meets the eye. Join us for this fascinating look into the future.
Host: Rod Pyle
Co-Host: Geoffrey Notkin
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America's supply of technically-educated workers is drying up, and the space industry scrambles to find qualified candidates. Engaging more kids, especially girls and diverse populations, in science and engineering is critical. Janet Ivey, creator and host of the hit PBS show "Janet's Planet," has some ideas on how!
Host: Rod Pyle
Co-Host: Geoffrey Notkin
Guest: Janet Ivey
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Isaac Arthur joins Rod Pyle to discuss alien megastructures in detail. If an alien civilization is sufficiently advanced, physicist and visionary futurist Freeman Dyson theorized they might build a livable structure that would be large enough to encompass their own star. Called a Dyson Sphere, the idea was popularized in episodes of Star Trek.
Credit: Adam Burn
https://www.artstation.com/adamburnart
Host: Rod Pyle
Guest: Isaac Arthur
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You've all seen the recent first images from the James Webb Space Telescope. Now join This Week in Space to learn more about these spectacular photos from former Chief Astronomical Observer at the Griffith Observatory, Tony Cook! We'll slice and dice each image as we dive deep into what made them special, and talk about what's coming in the summer night sky.
Host: Rod Pyle
Guest: Anthony Cook
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The space beat has never been hotter. With routine updates from NASA and JPL on their great missions, to international space news, to America's space race with China, to all the latest from SpaceX and the other newspace entrepreneurs, there's never been more to say--or wonder about--in spaceflight. It's a hot ticket, and there will be jobs... sorta.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
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Mark Clampin of NASA joins Rod Pyle and Geoffrey Notkin on This Week in Space to discuss the James Webb Space Telescope. Within a couple of weeks, the Webb telescope will be sending the first science images to NASA, probing the furthest reaches of the universe, peering further back in time than ever before. Join us for this great new adventure to the earliest look at the universe yet!
Image credit: NASA-GSFC, Adriana M. Gutierrez (CI Lab)
Host: Rod Pyle
Co-Host: Geoffrey Notkin
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On today's This Week in Space we'll be chatting you up about the massive flood of friendly emails we've received. We'll address questions, comments... and even some observations on what we can do to further please you, our valued listeners!
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
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Rod and Tariq are back to argue across the generational divide about the best and worst space sci-fi on TV ever. Tops on the list? "For All Mankind" and (of course) "Star Trek" ride high... but the worst? Anyone ever see "Starlost"? "Lost in Space"? "Rocky Jones--Space Ranger"? Before you poke a pencil in your eye to avoid seeing more, you'd better listen to this indispensable guide to everything space on TV...
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
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Geoffrey Notkin joins us to talk about meteorites... what they are, how you can find one, how to buy one if you don't want to tramp around a desolate wilderness for weeks, and the upcoming auction of his impressive collection. Stay with us!
Image credit: Leigh Anne DelRay
© Aerolite Meteorites www.aerolite.org
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Geoffrey Notkin
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Andrew Aldrin — yes, son of that Aldrin—is a newspace professional who has survived years in that rough-and-tumble industry and emerged as the Cosmic Curmudgeon. His primary question: where's the beef? Where is this promised newspace revolution, and will we even recognize it when it occurs? How do we measure it, and what's the tipping point?
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Andrew Aldrin
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The Artemis lunar landing program is moving ahead. While the SLS works toward its test flight, SpaceX makes progress on its Lunar Starship, and after a lawsuit-riddled two years, Blue Origin and partners will bid on a secondary landing system. Also, the Mars helicopter gets quiet, and nukes in space are back!
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
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Long before the shuttles were flying, NASA's prime contractor on the space shuttle program built one called Inspiration... out of wood. This full-sized lumber shuttle survives today in Downey, California, at the Columbia Memorial Space Center, and together we will get a peek into its future as Jared Head of TMRO joins the discussion.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
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On the night of May 15, the moon will slip into the Earth's shadow for a remarkable celestial event: a blood moon eclipse. It's not as sinister as it sounds but will be a great show late in the evening. We'll tell you all about it and how to watch it, as well as the Great Mars Quake, moon plants, and the black hole at the center of the galaxy!
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Joe Rao
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This week we look at some of the best--and worst--space movies of all time, and some you've probably never heard of. Then, OSIRIS-Rex rides again, Russia will stay with the ISS, and Boeing's Starliner tries for the skies... again.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
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Mars ain't the kind of place to raise your kids, and living on the moon and Mars won't be easy. This week we talk to Pascal Lee, planetary scientist, polar adventurer and chief of the Houghton Mars Project Arctic research facility to explore how living on other worlds might be accomplished. Also, it's busy at the Kennedy Space Center, the Mars Helicopter Ingenuity snaps images of Perseverance's landing gear, and a recent flyby of a massive asteroid, saying, "I'll be back!"
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
Guest: Pascal Lee
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On this episode, we look at NASA's plans to land humans on the Red Planet from the Apollo era through today, and SpaceX's parallel initiatives with the Starship mega-rocket. Which program will be the first to be Mars-capable? Also, a comet the size of Rhode Island heading our way, a cry for help to ET, and a meteor shower is happening.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
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When will humans reach Mars? We've talked about it since the 1940s; now it's time to get going. NASA, SpaceX, and China are all eyeing the Red Planet. Who will get there first? This is part one of our "Humans on Mars" discussion and a look at early efforts to reach the red planet with American boots. Also, more delays for the Space Launch System, should the James Webb Space Telescope be renamed, and sympathies for SpaceX. The U.S. Army thinks waterbirds are more important than you.
Image credit: Chesley Bonestell
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
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In this episode, Rod Pyle looks at some special space anniversaries, emphasizing Apollo 16, the penultimate lunar exploration mission. We also remember the launch of the Hubble Space Telescope, and Pioneer 11, one of two first explorations of the frigid realms of Jupiter and Saturn. In addition, Yuri's Night, the ultimate space celebration, is subject to a name change at the Space Symposium.
Host: Rod Pyle
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On this episode of "This Week in Space," we're seeing busy times at the Kennedy Space Center! Axiom Space is set for the first launch of an all-private crew to the International Space Station from Pad 39A, the Space Launch System is testing over on Pad 39B, and SpaceX's Crew 4 mission is set to depart Pad 39A soon thereafter. Axiom's all-private flight to the ISS comes just two years after the first SpaceX crew launch to the station—and Axiom is also working on modules for the first all-private space station. Also, Hubble spies the most distant star ever, the Mars Helicopter aces another record-setting flight, and Apollo astronaut Tom Stafford tutors NASA on cooperation in space with Russia.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
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NASA rolled its massive megarocket, the SLS, to the pad last week. It's the first moon rocket to emerge from the VAB in 50 years. What's next? Also, the Webb telescope beats expectations, another lunar lander is coming, and Blue Origin rides again!
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
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Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik take a look at space junk—what is it, where did it come from, and what can be done about it. The sheer amount of debris orbiting Earth is a serious threat to ongoing missions and must be addressed, or we may find ourselves permanently earthbound. Also, the SLS rolls out, astronauts and cosmonauts stay friends, and the Mars helicopter flies on. All on this episode of This Week in Space.
Image credit: ESA/ID&Sense/ONiRiXEL – CC BY-SA IGO 3.0
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
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On this episode of This Week in Space, we'll tell you everything you need to know to fly your own rockets (mostly responsibly)--it's fun, it's safe, and it's a great hobby for a family to do together. Also, Virgin Orbit to launch from Old Blighty, tugboats headed for orbit, and astronaut Scott Kelly, who has flown on the Russian Soyuz, returns his Russian-awarded spaceflight medal in protest. Join us!
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
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We talk atomic rockets and nuclear power sources (RTGs) in space. In "The Martian," Watney used a surplus Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generator to heat his rover but real spacecraft, like the Galileo and Cassini probes to Jupiter and Saturn, have used nuclear isotopes to power their vast arrays of instruments. And, the amazing Voyager spacecraft still talk to us from beyond the solar system powered by a small plutonium pellet.
Then we warp into the amazing world of atomic rocket engines or Nuclear Thermal Rockets. In old sci-fi movies, everything cool was atomic and rockets were no exception. But did you know that America and the Soviet Union experimented with fission-reactor rockets, with the US actually testing a fission-powered rocket in Nevada for over 90 minutes? And now, they are back, promising to cut travel times to Mars and beyond. Join Rod Pyle and Space.com's Tariq Malik for atomic rockets!
We also talk about the war in Ukraine and if Starlink can help connect a besieged country. Plus, that wayward rocket finally hit the moon.
Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik
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With NASA, SpaceX, Blue Origin, Virgin Galactic all players in an increasingly crowded race to learn more and explore beyond our planet. Every week, This Week in Space covers topics like the dash back to the moon, Space X's Starship and the missions to Mars, what Elon Musk is up to. Plus, we'll interview industry experts too, including scientists, engineers, and leaders from NASA, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, new space companies, and even the international sector. Join Rod Pyle the Editor-in-Chief of Ad Astra Magazine and Tariq Malik from Space.com as we dive deep into the new space age- humanity's greatest adventure.
Host: Rod Pyle
Download or subscribe to this show at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space.
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With NASA, SpaceX, Blue Origin, Virgin Galactic all players in an increasingly crowded race to learn more and explore beyond our planet. Every week, This Week in Space covers topics like the dash back to the moon, Space X's Starship and the missions to Mars, what Elon Musk is up to. Plus, we'll interview industry experts too, including scientists, engineers, and leaders from NASA, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, new space companies, and even the international sector. Join Rod Pyle the Editor-in-Chief of Ad Astra Magazine and Tariq Malik from Space.com as we dive deep into the new space age- humanity's greatest adventure.
Host: Rod Pyle
Download or subscribe to this show at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space.
Get episodes ad-free with Club TWiT at https://twit.tv/clubtwit