In This Episode

Join us as David Goldsmith welcomes John Mankins, president of Mankins Space Technology and former chief technologist at NASA, to discuss the critical topic of powering space. In this enlightening conversation, John shares groundbreaking insights on energy sources for space exploration and settlement, emphasizing the importance of solar and nuclear energy. He illustrates the challenges of energy costs in space, revealing that power on Mars can be up to 10,000 times more expensive than on Earth. The discussion takes unexpected turns as John explores the potential of modular solar power systems and wireless energy transmission, painting a vivid picture of how these innovations could revolutionize our approach to living and working in space.

Episode Outlines

Biography of the Guest

John Mankins is the president of Mankins Space Technology and serves on the board of several prominent organizations, including the Moon Village Association and the National Space Society. With a background as a physicist and former chief technologist at NASA's Human Exploration Development of Space program, John has been at the forefront of space technology for decades. He is recognized for his significant contributions to energy solutions for space applications and is currently working on innovative projects aimed at making sustainable life in space a reality. His upcoming book, "Powering Space," promises to delve deeper into these themes, offering insights into the future of energy in our solar system.

In This Episode

Join David Goldsmith as he converses with Ryut Abramovich, a scientific adviser at the Davidson Institute of Science and Education and core lecturer at the International Space University. Ryut shares her insights on the intersection of new technologies and sustainable life on the moon, particularly focusing on astrobiology and biotech solutions.

Key insights include the potential of astrobiology to inform our understanding of life in extreme environments, both on Earth and beyond. Ryut discusses how ancient trade routes can inform modern space logistics, emphasizing the importance of efficient trade routes for establishing a lunar economy. The conversation takes unexpected turns as they explore how advancements in 3D printing, nanosatellites, and AI could revolutionize space travel and resource management.

Ultimately, this episode connects the dots between historical trade practices and future space exploration, highlighting the broader implications for humanity’s progress in establishing a sustainable presence beyond Earth.

Episode Outlines

Biography of the Guest

Ryut Abramovich is a scientific adviser at the Davidson Institute of Science and Education and a core lecturer at the International Space University. She holds a PhD in microbiology and immunology, with a focus on astrobiology.

Throughout her career, Ryut has contributed significantly to research on extremophiles and their applications in biotechnology. Her work includes exploring microbial life forms that can survive extreme conditions, which has implications for both Earth-based industries and extraterrestrial environments.

Ryut is also involved in various projects aimed at advancing our understanding of life beyond Earth, making her a key figure in discussions about sustainable practices for future lunar colonization. Her insights into ancient trade routes provide a unique perspective on how we might establish logistical frameworks for space exploration.

In This Episode

Join us as we explore the transformative potential of insurance in the space industry with Kirby Eiken, Chairman of the Board at the National Space Society. With over 30 years of experience in the space sector, Kirby shares groundbreaking insights on viewing insurance not merely as a safety net but as a powerful financial tool that can unlock opportunities for startups and established companies alike.

Throughout the conversation, Kirby emphasizes the importance of understanding risk exposure at various phases of space projects. He illustrates this with compelling examples, including how insurance can help secure contracts and attract investment by minimizing perceived risks. This approach not only aids in launching new ventures but also ensures their sustainability in an evolving market.

The discussion takes unexpected turns as Kirby reflects on his unique background in space advocacy and insurance underwriting, revealing how these experiences shaped his perspective on commercial space enterprises. The implications of this conversation extend beyond individual businesses, suggesting a paradigm shift that could accelerate the development of a thriving space economy.

Episode Outlines

Biography of the Guest

Kirby Eiken is the Chairman of the Board at the National Space Society, where he advocates for space exploration and commercial enterprise development. With over three decades in the space industry, Kirby has held various roles, including space insurance underwriter, where he gained unique insights into managing risks associated with space ventures.

He holds degrees in law and commerce, specializing in accounting and financial management. His career highlights include facilitating innovative insurance solutions for emerging space businesses and contributing to discussions on sustainable practices within the industry.

Kirby's recent initiatives focus on bridging gaps between technology development and market viability, emphasizing how well-structured insurance programs can enhance business prospects. His work aims to foster a robust ecosystem that supports both new and established players in the rapidly evolving landscape of commercial space.

In This Episode

Join us as David Goldsmith interviews Grant Anderson, co-founder of Paragon, a leader in life support systems for space exploration. With over 30 years of experience, Grant shares his insights on the often-overlooked importance of life support in human spaceflight.

Throughout the conversation, Grant emphasizes that life support is the "forgotten element of exploration," a critical component that is frequently overshadowed by more glamorous technologies like rockets and spacecraft design. He discusses how over $10 billion will be spent on spacecraft life support systems in the next two decades, highlighting the urgent need for innovation in this field.

Grant also shares compelling stories from his extensive career, illustrating how life support systems have evolved and their implications for future missions to Mars and beyond. The discussion takes unexpected turns as they explore how advancements in life support technology could address pressing issues on Earth, such as the global water crisis.

Episode Outlines

Biography of the Guest

Grant Anderson is the co-founder and CEO of Paragon Space Development Corporation, established in 1993. With a focus on advanced life support systems, Grant has played a pivotal role in numerous human spaceflight projects.

He holds a degree in Aerospace Engineering and has contributed to various publications on life support technologies. Under his leadership, Paragon has developed innovative solutions that not only enhance space exploration but also have real-world applications on Earth.

Grant’s recent initiatives include projects aimed at addressing global water scarcity through advanced purification technologies derived from space mission requirements. His work exemplifies the intersection between space exploration and sustainable living on Earth.

In This Episode

Join us as we explore the cosmos with Pete Warden, a retired brigadier general and former director of NASA Ames Research Center. With a background in astrophysics and public policy, Pete shares his insights on the dynamic nature of the universe and our place within it. Key moments from our conversation include:

As our discussion unfolds, we delve into unexpected topics such as the potential for interstellar travel and the philosophical questions surrounding communication with alien civilizations. This episode invites listeners to consider broader implications for human progress and the future of life in the universe.

Episode Outlines

Biography of the Guest

Pete Warden is a retired brigadier general with a distinguished career in both military service and space research. He served as the director of NASA Ames Research Center, where he led groundbreaking projects in astrophysics. Pete holds a degree from Syracuse University’s public policy school, which complements his scientific expertise with strategic thinking. His significant achievements include pioneering efforts in the search for extraterrestrial intelligence and promoting sustainable practices in space exploration. Currently, he is involved in initiatives aimed at expanding human presence in space, emphasizing both the protection of Earth and the exploration of new frontiers.