The Space Madness Podcast Video

Space Madness Episode 31: The Great Observatories Past, Present, and Future

Today I talk with Program Scientist Dominic Benford from NASA HQ. We discuss the history of the great observatories program dating back to the immediate post-Apollo era, and go into some depth about the sensor and cooling technologies necessary for extremely distant observations. We also talk about how there are thousands of ways to tie a necktie. We explore Dominic's journey from undergraduate researcher to NASA HQ technology development leader, and his wish to pass that mantle on to the next generation. 

Space Madness Episode 30: Space Medicine

In this episode of the Space Madness podcast, host Jeff Nosanov speaks with Dr. Octav Cristea, an Emory University transplant surgeon and urologist with a research focus on space medicine. They discuss the complexities of human health in space, particularly focusing on kidney stones and urinary issues that arise in microgravity. Dr. Cristea shares insights from his journey into space medicine, the physiological challenges astronauts face, and the future of medical practices in space exploration.

Space Madness Podcast Episode 29: Telecom Law and You!

Telecom law is not something most people put much thought into, but after today's episode you will understand how it affects everyone's life, every day. I speak with Will Lewis, space and telecom lawyer, about how even the 1934 Telecommunications act still affects the technology we use today. We talk about space communications, cross-border radio signal lobes, and how ocean vessels have to manage their broadcasts near land. 

Space Madness Episode 28: Improving Institutions, The Power of the Pub

In this episode of the Space Madness podcast, host Jeff Nosanov speaks with Michael Rudolph, a former systems engineer at JPL and current board member at the Quicycle Society. They discuss Michael's journey from architecture to aerospace, the importance of effective communication in science, and the challenges faced by large and legacy institutions in the space industry. The conversation delves into historical examples of historically productive innovators such as Bell Labs and Silicon Valley - exploring both unique and potentially repeatable sets of incentives - and explores the need for new institutions that can foster collaboration and creativity in the face of funding gaps and structural issues. Michael emphasizes the importance of risk-taking in government funding and the potential role of AI in improving technology transfer processes.

Space Madness Episode 27: Interstellar Research Group

In this episode of the Space Madness podcast, host Jeff Nosanov speaks with Dr. Joe Meany, president of the Interstellar Research Group. They discuss the group's mission to enable interstellar human travel, the evolution of the organization from a gathering of science fiction fans, and the importance of interdisciplinary contributions to space exploration. Joe shares his personal journey in science, the role of volunteers in the organization, and the significance of ethics and philosophy in the context of interstellar exploration. The conversation also touches on future goals, including expanding scholarship opportunities and hosting international symposia.

Space Madness Podcast Episode 26: The Future of Science In Europe

In this episode of the Space Madness podcast, host Jeff interviews Matthias Girod, an independent science and diplomacy consultant based in France. The conversation explores the differences in educational experiences, the challenges faced by researchers in Europe, and the complexities of European science funding and collaboration. Matthias shares insights on the cultural differences between countries and the evolving landscape of scientific research in Europe, including the impact of Brexit and the role of Switzerland. The episode concludes with reflections on the future of the EU in global scientific collaboration.

Space Madness Podcast Episode 25: HK to Utah to Georgia

In this episode of the Space Madness podcast, host Jeff Nosanov speaks with Hugh Chen, a PhD student in aerospace engineering at Georgia Tech. Hugh shares his journey from Hong Kong to the US, his passion for space exploration, and his experiences in different educational systems. He discusses his research projects, including liquid mirror telescopes and CubeSat propulsion systems, and his aspirations to make a positive impact on the world through technology and conservation efforts.

Space Madness Podcast Episode 24: Residential Space to Space Habitats

In this episode of the Space Madness podcast, Jeff Nosanov interviews architect Anthony Longman, who discusses his innovative ideas for expandable rotating habitats in space. Anthony shares his journey from the UK to the US, traditional architecture to space architecture, and the importance of ecological design and the influence of nature on his work. He explains the concept of tensegrity structures and their potential applications in space, as well as the challenges of developing sustainable and maintainable structures for long-term use in extraterrestrial environments. The conversation also touches on the role of NASA's NIAC program in fostering innovative concepts and the future of space architecture.
 

Space Madness Podcast Episode 23: Apollo Microsats to Space Archaeology

In this episode of the Space Madness podcast, host Jeff Nosanov speaks with Matt Bille, a seasoned professional in the space industry. Matt shares his journey from witnessing the Apollo 11 launch as a child -from an airplane!- to his military career in the Air Force, and later his extensive work in the private sector, including collaborations with NASA. He discusses his passion for writing, particularly in science fiction and space-related topics, and reflects on the evolution of microsatellites and the importance of space archaeology. The conversation also touches on the formation of the Space Force, the Artemis program, and the future of space exploration.

Space Madness Podcast Episode 22: What's Space got to do with it?

Today we talk with Shelli Brunswick, who shares her unique journey through the space industry, from her early days in the Air Force to her current role as an entrepreneur and author. The conversation explores various themes including space acquisition, the importance of soft skills, the impact of space technology on everyday life, and the significance of mentorship and leadership in the industry. Shelli emphasizes the need for a growth mindset and the role of technology in fostering economic prosperity, while also discussing the geopolitical implications of space exploration.