In This Episode

Join us as David Goldsmith welcomes David Johnston, the managing director of Yeomans Capital and a seasoned investor in over 40 startups, to explore the future of space governance. In this thought-provoking conversation, they delve into the implications of establishing governance structures beyond Earth, particularly in the context of Project Moon Hut—a visionary initiative aimed at creating a sustainable human presence on the Moon.

Key insights include the importance of historical precedents in shaping governance models, the potential for blockchain technology to facilitate transparent and equitable systems, and the necessity of learning from Earth's past to avoid repeating mistakes in space. Johnston emphasizes that the governance established on the Moon could set a precedent for humanity's future in space, with profound implications for liberty and prosperity.

The discussion evolves from historical examples of colonization to modern-day governance challenges, highlighting how the choices made by early settlers on celestial bodies will resonate for generations. The conversation takes unexpected turns as they consider how diverse cultural backgrounds will influence governance on the Moon and how open-source principles can foster collaboration and innovation.

Episode Outlines

Biography of the Guest

David Johnston is the managing director of Yeomans Capital, a family office specializing in innovative investments across various sectors, including blockchain and space exploration. With a track record of investing in over 40 startups, Johnston brings extensive expertise in identifying transformative technologies and business models.

A passionate advocate for space exploration, he is actively involved with Project Moon Hut, where he collaborates with thought leaders to establish a sustainable human presence on the Moon. Johnston's insights into governance, history, and technology make him a key voice in discussions about humanity's future beyond Earth.

He holds degrees from prestigious institutions and has contributed to various publications on investment strategies and technological advancements. His recent initiatives focus on leveraging blockchain for transparent governance structures that promote collaboration and innovation in emerging frontiers.

In This Episode

Join us for a thought-provoking conversation with Narayan Prasad, cofounder of Statsearch and curator of NewSpace India. Narayan shares his insights on the inclusive commercialization of space and its potential to transform lives on Earth. He discusses the historical context of traditional space exploration, drawing parallels to the aviation industry and highlighting the lessons we can learn from it.

Throughout the episode, Narayan emphasizes the importance of integrating space technology into everyday life, particularly for underserved communities. He illustrates this with compelling examples, such as using satellite imagery to enhance agricultural productivity and improve credit access for farmers. The discussion takes unexpected turns as they explore the geopolitical implications of space exploration and the necessity for collaboration across nations.

This episode ultimately challenges listeners to rethink their perceptions of space exploration, advocating for a future where space serves as a tool for societal improvement rather than merely a realm for tourism or military endeavors.

Episode Outlines

Biography of the Guest

Narayan Prasad is the cofounder of Statsearch and curator of NewSpace India. With a strong background in aerospace engineering, he has dedicated his career to advancing the commercialization of space technologies. Narayan has been instrumental in promoting inclusive approaches to space exploration, emphasizing the need for technology that benefits all sectors of society.

He holds a PhD focused on utilizing satellite imagery to improve agricultural practices in India, showcasing his commitment to leveraging technology for social good. Narayan's insights have been featured in various publications, and he actively participates in discussions around sustainable practices in both agriculture and space.

Through his work, Narayan aims to bridge the gap between traditional industries and new technological advancements, fostering an environment where innovation can thrive and contribute positively to global challenges.

In This Episode

Join David Goldsmith as he welcomes Moriba Jha, an expert in aerospace engineering and engineering mechanics at the University of Austin, Texas. In this enlightening conversation, Moriba shares groundbreaking insights into the pressing issue of space debris and the concept of space environmentalism.

Key insights from the discussion include:

Moriba shares compelling examples from his research, including the historical context of space debris incidents and the challenges posed by non-compliance with existing guidelines. The conversation takes unexpected turns as they explore how traditional ecological knowledge can inform sustainable practices in outer space.

This episode connects to broader implications for humanity's future in space, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to ensure a sustainable orbital environment for generations to come.

Episode Outlines

Biography of the Guest

Moriba Jha is a leading expert in aerospace engineering at the University of Austin, Texas. He has made significant contributions to the field through his research on space debris and environmental sustainability in outer space.

He holds a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering and has worked extensively on developing frameworks for safe satellite operations. His notable achievements include pioneering studies on the implications of increasing satellite populations on orbital sustainability.

Moriba is also recognized for his innovative approach to integrating traditional ecological knowledge into modern aerospace practices. His recent projects focus on enhancing transparency and accountability in the management of near-Earth space.

Through his work, Moriba aims to foster a collaborative environment that prioritizes sustainable practices in outer space exploration, aligning with the episode's main themes of safety and environmental stewardship.

In This Episode

Join us as David Goldsmith welcomes Chris Carberry, CEO and cofounder of Explore Mars, to discuss the profound impacts of space exploration on Earth. Chris shares insights from his recent book, "Alcohol and Space," and expands on how innovations developed for space can benefit humanity back home. Key insights include the importance of Earth-based markets in supporting space settlements, the critical role of non-space companies in advancing space exploration, and how global coordination is essential for future missions to the moon and Mars.

Throughout the conversation, Chris provides compelling examples, such as Budweiser's experiments with barley in space and the potential of AI in telemedicine. Their dialogue explores unexpected directions, including the societal taboos that must be addressed for human civilization to thrive beyond Earth. Ultimately, this episode connects the dots between space exploration and its broader implications for human progress.

Episode Outlines

Biography of the Guest

Chris Carberry is the CEO and cofounder of Explore Mars, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the human exploration of Mars. With a background in international relations and policy, Chris has been a key advocate for advancing space exploration initiatives. He has authored several publications, including his recent book "Alcohol and Space," which examines the implications of alcohol consumption in extraterrestrial environments.

Chris's significant career achievements include leading various outreach programs aimed at engaging the public in discussions about Mars exploration. He has also been involved in numerous initiatives that bridge science, technology, and society. Through his work with Explore Mars, Chris continues to contribute to discussions on how advancements in space can lead to improvements on Earth.

His insights during this episode highlight the interconnectedness of space exploration and its potential to foster innovation across industries.

In This Episode

Join us as David Goldsmith welcomes Peter Gerritsen, a former Air Force strategist and current thought leader in space policy, to discuss the transformative potential of the Space Force for humanity. Peter shares groundbreaking insights on how the Space Force can act as an accelerant for prosperity and long-term security, emphasizing its role in harnessing space resources to tackle Earth's pressing challenges. He illustrates this with compelling examples, including the potential for space-based solar power to revolutionize energy access and combat climate change. The conversation takes unexpected turns as they explore the philosophical implications of space exploration and the necessity of safeguarding liberty in this new frontier.

Episode Outlines

Biography of the Guest

Peter Gerritsen is a former officer in the United States Air Force, where he led strategic initiatives at Air University’s Space Horizons Task Force. With a focus on integrating military capabilities with commercial space endeavors, Peter has been a vocal advocate for the establishment of the Space Force as an independent service branch. His extensive experience includes contributions to national security policy and innovative approaches to harnessing space for global benefit. Peter is committed to promoting sustainable practices in space exploration and has worked on various projects aimed at mitigating climate change through advanced technologies like space solar power. His insights are vital for understanding the evolving landscape of military and civilian roles in outer space.

In This Episode

Join us as we dive into a fascinating discussion with Bianca Cefalo, a Space Systems Thermal Product Manager at Airbus Defense and Space in the UK. Bianca shares her expertise on thermal control, a critical aspect for sustaining life both on Earth and in space. Key insights include the mechanisms of heat exchange—conduction, convection, and radiation—and how these principles are applied to spacecraft design to ensure optimal functioning over extended missions.

Bianca recounts her journey from relatable human experiences, like sweating during intense physical activity, to complex engineering challenges faced in space. She highlights innovative projects such as MASC (Moon Energy Storage Generation), which aims to utilize lunar regolith for thermal energy storage and conversion into electricity. This conversation not only explores the technical aspects but also emphasizes the broader implications for sustainable living beyond our planet.

Episode Outlines

Biography of the Guest

Bianca Cefalo is a Space Systems Thermal Product Manager at Airbus Defense and Space in the UK. With a strong background in aerothermodynamics and thermal control systems, she has contributed significantly to projects focused on sustainable life in space. Bianca holds a degree in organic chemistry and has extensive experience working on innovative solutions for spacecraft thermal management.

Her notable achievements include leading projects that explore the use of lunar regolith for energy generation and developing advanced thermal solutions for telecommunications satellites. Bianca is passionate about making space exploration more sustainable and is actively involved in initiatives that bridge technology with environmental consciousness.

You can connect with Bianca on LinkedIn to learn more about her work and insights into the future of space exploration.

In This Episode

Join us as we welcome Frank White, a renowned space philosopher and author, best known for his concept of the "Overview Effect." In this enlightening conversation, Frank shares groundbreaking insights about our relationship with space and the urgent need for a new philosophy of exploration. He recounts a memorable story about his young son, who reminded him that "we are already in space," sparking a deeper discussion on how our perception of Earth influences our actions. Frank emphasizes the importance of viewing Earth as a spaceship and discusses the implications of this mindset for sustainability and human progress. The conversation takes unexpected turns as they explore the roles of commercial spaceflight and virtual reality in shaping future generations' understanding of our planet and beyond.

Episode Outlines

Biography of the Guest

Frank White is a prominent space philosopher and author, recognized for his influential work on the Overview Effect, which describes the cognitive shift experienced by astronauts when they view Earth from space. He holds degrees from Harvard University and Oxford University, focusing on social sciences. Frank has published several editions of his seminal book, "The Overview Effect," which has inspired discussions on humanity's role in space exploration. He is actively involved in initiatives like Space For Humanity, aiming to democratize access to space experiences. Through his work, Frank advocates for a new philosophy that balances exploration with responsibility towards our planet and its ecosystems.

In This Episode

Join us as we explore the vast potential of space with Hoyt Davidson, founder and managing partner of Near Earth. With extensive experience in investment banking and a groundbreaking role in commercial satellite financing, Hoyt shares transformative insights on the economic opportunities that lie beyond our planet.

Hoyt introduces the concept of "quadrillions," emphasizing the immense resources available in space that could redefine our understanding of sustainability and growth. He discusses the shift from a growth-centric economy to one focused on sustainability, highlighting how space exploration can offer solutions to Earth's pressing challenges.

The conversation takes unexpected turns as Hoyt elaborates on the importance of patient capital in the space industry, the necessity for public-private partnerships, and how investing in space can ultimately benefit life on Earth. With compelling anecdotes and data points, he illustrates why we must look beyond our planet to secure a prosperous future.

Episode Outlines

Biography of the Guest

Hoyt Davidson is the founder and managing partner of Near Earth, where he leverages his extensive background in investment banking to drive innovation in the commercial space sector. He co-founded Wall Street's first dedicated coverage group for the commercial satellite industry, facilitating over $15 billion in financing for various space activities.

A seasoned expert, Hoyt has been instrumental in shaping investment strategies that align with emerging opportunities in space. His insights into patient capital and market dynamics are invaluable as he advocates for sustainable practices that benefit both Earth and beyond.

Hoyt holds significant achievements in establishing frameworks for public-private partnerships and is actively involved in initiatives aimed at expanding humanity's reach into space. His vision aligns with Project Moon Hut's mission to create an Earth-based ecosystem that supports sustainable life on the moon.

In This Episode

Join David Goldsmith as he welcomes John Strickland, a board member of the National Space Society and a long-time advocate for space exploration. In this enlightening episode, John shares his insights on the potential of lunar power satellites to combat climate change. Key moments include a discussion on the geological perspective of global warming, the challenges of ground-based alternative energy, and the revolutionary promise of space-based solar power. John illustrates his points with compelling examples, including the inefficiencies of solar and wind energy on Earth compared to the advantages of harnessing solar energy from geosynchronous orbit. The conversation takes unexpected turns as they explore how lunar resources could support sustainable energy solutions, emphasizing the broader implications for humanity's future in space.

Episode Outlines

Biography of the Guest

John Strickland is a prominent advocate for space exploration and serves on the board of directors for the National Space Society. With over 66 years of experience in the field, his passion for space began at a young age. John has been instrumental in various initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable life beyond Earth. He has contributed significantly to discussions around lunar mining and the development of space solar power technologies. His extensive knowledge includes insights into geological time scales and their relevance to current climate challenges. John's vision aligns with the episode's themes, emphasizing how advancements in space technology can lead to practical solutions for Earth's pressing environmental issues.

In This Episode

Join us as we dive into the fascinating world of space exploration with Rick Tumlinson, a pioneer in the space industry and co-founder of the Space Frontier Foundation. With over three decades of experience, Rick shares key insights into what he terms the "Space Revolution," discussing how commercial and new space initiatives are reshaping our approach to living beyond Earth. He highlights the significance of Gerard K. O'Neill's work and the impact of visionary entrepreneurs like Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos on this transformative era.

Throughout the conversation, Rick recounts personal stories from his career, including his time testifying before Congress and his involvement in groundbreaking projects like the Mir space station. He emphasizes the importance of creating sustainable human habitats in space, linking these efforts to broader societal implications such as climate change and resource utilization. The discussion takes unexpected turns as Rick explores the ethical considerations surrounding space colonization and the need for a declaration of rights for humanity in the universe.

This episode not only sheds light on the current state of space exploration but also inspires listeners to think critically about our future as a multi-planetary species.

Episode Outlines

Biography of the Guest

Rick Tumlinson is a prominent figure in the space industry, known for his innovative ideas and advocacy for commercial space exploration. He is a co-founder of the Space Frontier Foundation, which aims to promote human settlement beyond Earth. With a career spanning over 30 years, Rick has been involved in numerous initiatives, including testifying before Congress on behalf of private sector interests in space.

He has played a pivotal role in various organizations focused on expanding humanity's presence in outer space, including Deep Space Industries and the Earthlight Foundation. Rick's educational background includes extensive study in physics and engineering, which has informed his work on projects like asteroid mining and sustainable habitats.

Currently, he is working on a book titled "The Space Manifesto," which outlines rights for humanity in outer space and promotes ethical guidelines for future exploration. His contributions have significantly shaped contemporary discussions about commercial space travel and its potential impact on society.