Casual Space

Anna (Hanna Sav) Harutyunyan, is an Armenian engineer and robotics student who recently made history as Armenia’s first analog astronaut! 

In this episode, she joins host Beth Mund on the Casual Space Podcast to share her experiences in analog space missions, her academic journey, and her upcoming projects.  Anna’s on a mission to inspire people in Armenia, and around the world, to explore space.

As you listen in, you’ll hear how Anna first connected with the analog astronaut community through the Austrian Space Forum, where she supported ground operations before stepping into a mission role. Her journey is one of resilience, from overcoming visa challenges to working in a fully immersive habitat under challenging conditions without sunlight. Anna’s analog mission required her to step into tasks involving high-tech rovers, maintaining equipment, and simulating life on another planet.

Beyond her analog experiences, Anna is pursuing a degree in Robotics and Engineering, which fuels her passion for combining robotics, AI, and quantum computing to push the boundaries of space exploration. She recently announced plans to launch Rocket Space Academy, a training ground for future analog astronauts, focusing on creating accessible training opportunities for aspiring space enthusiasts from Armenia and other underrepresented regions.

About Anna (Hanna Sav) Harutyunyan: Anna’s journey began in Armenia, where she excelled in engineering and dreamed of participating in space missions. Her dedication led her to become the first Armenian analog astronaut, a trailblazer in combining STEM fields with hands-on analog mission experience. She is currently a robotics student advocating for STEM education and international cooperation in space exploration.

Resources Mentioned:

• Austrian Space Forum – Learn more about analog missions and ground operations.

• Rocket Space Academy (Coming Soon) – An academy dedicated to training future analog astronauts in Armenia.

• Check out Hanna’s photo from Vogue photographer https://www.vogue.com/photovogue/photographers/19692/gallery#4827241

Connect with Hannah:

• LinkedIn: @hannasavme

If you enjoyed this episode and would like to share, I’d love to hear it! 

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*Remember!!! You can send your story to space TODAY! The window for STORIES of Space Mission 03 is NOW OPEN! Send your story, for free, to www.storiesofspace.com Also, to help support sending stories about space to space.  Visit our 2025 GoFundMe Campaign at this link: https://gofund.me/0638ee0e

Samantha Christensen, a long-time team member at Lowell Observatory, shares the exciting news about the grand opening of the Marley Foundation Astronomy Discovery Center in Flagstaff, Arizona. As Northern Arizona’s first science center, the 40,000-square-foot facility offers a major upgrade with cutting-edge exhibits, interactive experiences, and an immersive space for astronomy enthusiasts of all ages. Samantha discusses the community’s excitement, especially among educators, and highlights how this new center will serve not only Flagstaff but also underserved communities, including the nearby Navajo and Hopi reservations.

About Samantha Christensen: Samantha Christensen leads Lowell Observatory’s outreach team and oversees its programs. She is a principal member of the group designing the experiences guests will enjoy in Lowell Observatory’s Astronomy Discovery Center, slated to open in 2024.

Christensen, who began participating in Lowell’s outreach programs at the age of four, officially joined the staff in 2009. Before stepping into her current role, she served as Educator, Supervisor, Education Coordinator, and Outreach Manager. She also spent several years working as a research assistant under the direction of Dr. David Schleicher. As Education Coordinator, Christensen designed and launched the Lowell Observatory Camps for Kids (LOCKs) – Preschool program and developed many of the lessons associated with the LOCKs – Elementary School camps.

Christensen graduated magna cum laude from the University of Arizona with a B.S. in applied mathematics.

Resources Mentioned:

• Marley Foundation Astronomy Discovery Center at Lowell Observatory

• Lowell Observatory’s website: Lowell.edu

Connect with Lowell Observatory:

• Website: Lowell.edu

If you enjoyed this episode and would like to share, I’d love to hear it! 

You can follow and share in the socials, 

• LinkedIn - @casualspacepodcast

• Facebook - @casualspacepodcast

• Instagram - @casualspacepodcast

• YouTube - @casualspacepodcast83

or email me at [email protected].

*Remember!!! You can send your story to space TODAY! The window for STORIES of Space Mission 03 is NOW OPEN! Send your story, for free, to www.storiesofspace.com 

Corbett Hoenninger, General Manager of Argotec Inc., has quite the space career.  From training astronauts at NASA to helping lead the Dream Chaser’s drop tests (including a memorable crash landing), Corbett shares what it’s really like behind the scenes of space exploration.

Corbett talks about the recent NASA DART mission, (giving an asteroid a nudge), and how small satellites are changing the game in space. Corbett started working in the field of psychology, then shifted to aerospace engineering… and combining both to present this great philosophy of being “fearless, but not reckless,” Corbett proves that you don’t have to be a scientist or an engineer to make your mark in the space industry. Sometimes, you just need a spark of curiosity and the courage to explore.

About Corbett Hoenninger: Corbett Hoenninger is the General Manager of Argotec Inc., where he leads exciting projects in small satellite technology and space exploration. His extensive career includes years at NASA Mission Control, where he trained astronauts and worked on mission preparation. Corbett played a pivotal role in the Dream Chaser atmospheric drop tests and was part of the NASA DART mission, where they successfully redirected an asteroid. His journey to aerospace engineering started after serving in the Navy and earning degrees in aerospace and physics. Passionate about mentoring and sharing his experiences, Corbett continues to inspire future space enthusiasts.

Where to Find Corbett:

• LinkedIn: Corbett Hoenninger

• Website: Argotec Group

• Email: [email protected]

If you enjoyed this episode and would like to share, I’d love to hear it! 

You can follow and share in the socials, 

• LinkedIn - @casualspacepodcast

• Facebook - @casualspacepodcast

• Instagram - @casualspacepodcast

• YouTube - @casualspacepodcast83

or email me at [email protected].

*Remember!!! You can send your story to space TODAY! The window for STORIES of Space Mission 03 is NOW OPEN! Send your story, for free, to www.storiesofspace.com 

Chris Quigg, the celebrated theoretical physicist and co-author of Grace in All Simplicity, whisks us away on a journey through the wonders of particle physics—served with a dash of poetry and a sprinkle of grace! With a talent for turning complex ideas into accessible stories, Chris shares insights from his new book and reveals the inspiration behind its intriguing title. Listen for unforgettable moments in the history of science and get a sneak peek into life at iconic research centers like CERN and Fermilab.

Thank you, Chris, for showing us how curiosity and a love for learning can transform our understanding of science and our approach to life.

About Chris Quigg: Chris Quigg has spent his career making particle physics approachable and fascinating for everyone. Having worked at world-renowned institutions like CERN and Fermilab, he’s explored fundamental questions about the universe. In Grace in All Simplicity, co-authored with Bob Kahn, Chris combines science with storytelling, inviting readers to discover the personal journeys of scientists behind remarkable breakthroughs. His warm and engaging style draws in curious minds of all ages to experience the wonder of physics.

Resources Mentioned:

• Grace in All Simplicity by Chris Quigg and Bob Kahn

• CERN Science Gateway – A new visitor center bringing science to life for the public

• Fermilab’s Lederman Science Center – An educational space for kids and families to explore the wonders of science

Connect with Chris: Twitter/X: @chrisquiggbsky.social: @chrisquigg

Check out the reviews of the book: Nature: https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-023-03424-5 Science https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adl2396.

If you enjoyed this episode and would like to share, I’d love to hear it! 

Beth welcomes movie star and educator, Scott Holcomb! Scott shares his remarkable story from his surprise audition to his role in the industry CLASSIC film, Space Camp,  and how it led him to a meaningful career in education. Through humorous anecdotes and heartfelt reflections, Scott discusses the impact Space Camp (the movie AND the experience) has had on his life and how he’s inspiring the next generation to dream big. Tune in for behind-the-scenes tales from Space Camp, the joy of rekindling childhood wonder, and insights into fostering curiosity in today's students.

Scott shares his hilarious story about how he got a role in Space Camp and talks about his fantastic six years at the Space and Rocket Center, how his love for Space Camp inspired him to become an educator and encourage the new generation to stay curious and dream big. His passion shines through for expanding the Space Camp alumni network, especially among teachers, to keep that spark alive for future campers. About Scott Holcomb:

Scott Holcomb is a lifelong educator, former Space Camp cast member, and self-proclaimed “nerd extraordinaire.” His journey began with a surprise role in the Space Camp movie, a serendipitous experience that ignited his passion for inspiring young minds. After working for several years at the Space and Rocket Center, Scott found his true calling in education. Today, he’s an elementary school teacher who brings his love for space, science, and tech to the classroom, encouraging his students to embrace curiosity and explore their potential. Scott is also dedicated to fostering a sense of community among Space Camp alumni and actively works to connect educators with the program.

Connect with Scott:

• Twitter/X: @HideoTakamini

• Instagram: @hideotakamini

• Space Camp Alumni Chapter: Learn more about Scott’s work with the Space Camp alumni network at SpaceCamp.com.

• If you want to join a budding new Memphis, TN area Space Camp Alumni Chapter, email Scott at: [email protected]

Speaking of Movies… watch Scott in Space Camp the movie https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VH-WKqWsibs and see Beth in the trailer, and the movie, Alcohol in Space  https://vimeo.com/792808522 

Award-winning science fiction author and friend of the show Stuart Hardwick returns to share the story behind his latest work, Tales of the United States Space Force and his passion for space defense and storytelling. 

Happy WORLD SPACE WEEK! https://www.worldspaceweek.org/ 

We’re celebrating World Space Week with our partners, Cosmic Girls and their INCREDIBLE Space Competition announcement you DO NOT want to miss:  https://www.cosmicgirls.org/ 

In this episode, Stuart & Beth discuss the critical importance of space defense and how science fiction plays a role in educating the public about the future of space exploration. Can fictional stories dispel misconceptions about America’s newest military service branch, the United States Space Force? Listen to hear the answer to this question, the challenges of space militarization, the role of satellites in our economy, and why protecting our presence in space is more critical now than ever.

About Stuart Hardwick: Stuart Hardwick is an award-winning science fiction author and editor passionate about blending fiction and fact to bring important topics to light. Having grown up in an Air Force family during the Apollo era, Stuart has always been fascinated by space and its role in shaping our world. His latest project, Tales of the United States Space Force, is a groundbreaking anthology that combines science fiction stories with factual articles to illustrate the need for space defense while dispelling myths about the Space Force. His work reminds listeners and readers alike that space is vital to our economy and everyday life—and must be defended. 

Learn more and get a free ebook sampler at: 

www.cStuartHardwick.com

If you enjoyed this episode and would like to share, I’d love to hear it! 

You can follow and share in the socials, 

LinkedIn - @casualspacepodcast

Facebook - @casualspacepodcast

Instagram - @casualspacepodcast

YouTube - @casualspacepodcast83

or email me at [email protected].

*Remember!!! You can send your story to space TODAY! The window for STORIES of Space Mission 03 is NOW OPEN! Send your story, for free, to www.storiesofspace.com 

Welcome our first ever US Space Force guest Col. Heather Bogstie!

Col. Heather Bogstie shares her journey from attending Space Camp as a young girl to becoming a key leader in the newly established United States Space Force. Together, Beth and Heather walk through Heather’s inspiring career path, her experiences as a missile operator, and her transition into the Space Force. Heather shares personal stories from her time at Space Camp, the critical role of the Space Force in national security, the evolving landscape of space operations, and the importance of encouraging the next generation of women in STEM.

Col. Bogstie’s Message to Listeners:

"There are lots of careers in space; the defense industrial base for space is strong and evolving, offering many opportunities to be a part of this space renaissance. Consider joining the Space Force! Service began for a reason, and I’m so glad I could complement my passion for space with serving my country and protecting our freedom."

About Col. Heather Bogstie:

Col. Heather Bogstie serves as a leader in the United States Space Force, where she works on protecting the nation's interests in space. With a background in electrical engineering and a career that spans from missile operations to space acquisitions, Heather’s expertise and dedication have made her a pivotal figure in the Space Force. Her passion for space began at Space Camp, and she has since dedicated her life to advancing space operations and inspiring others. Follow Heather’s journey and learn more about her impactful work at Space Force.

Learn more and connect with Col. Heather Bogstie:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-bogstie-12818b96/

• SSC: https://www.facebook.com/SpaceSystemsCommand?mibextid=LQQJ4d

• USSF: https://www.facebook.com/SpaceForceDoD?mibextid=LQQJ4d

If you enjoyed this episode and would like to share, I’d love to hear it! 

You can follow and share in the socials, 

LinkedIn - @casualspacepodcast

Facebook - @casualspacepodcast

Instagram - @casualspacepodcast

YouTube - @casualspacepodcast83

or email me at [email protected].

*Remember!!! You can send your story to space TODAY! The window for STORIES of Space Mission 03 is NOW OPEN! Send your story, for free, to www.storiesofspace.com 

Marc Hartzman, friend of the show and author of We Are Not Alone: The Extraordinary History of UFOs, Aliens, and Our Hopes, Fears, and Fantasies, returns to the Casual Space Podcast to dive into the intriguing world of UFOs! 

Marc’s new book goes way beyond the familiar stories of iconic UFO sightings, (Roswell and the Phoenix Lights).  Marc discusses how these events have shaped both public perception and government disclosure over the decades. Children’s encounters with UFO’s? The government acknowledgement of UAPs (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena)? We Are Not Alone is not afraid to tackle these topics. Marc’s research and thoughtful storytelling make this episode an intriguing journey through history, pop culture, and the enduring question—are we truly alone?

“The nature of UFOs is that it remains a mystery. But that’s what makes the search for answers so fascinating.” – Marc Hartzman

About Marc Hartzman:

Marc Hartzman is an author and historian deeply interested in the unusual and unexplained. His latest book, We Are Not Alone, examines UFOs and aliens' history and cultural impact. He is also the author of The Big Book of Mars, which explores our fascination with the red planet.

Learn more and connect with Marc:

• Website: MarcHartzmanBooks.com

• Instagram: @weirdhistorian

• Twitter: @weirdhistorian1

• Facebook: @weirdhistorian

If you enjoyed this episode and would like to share, we’d love to hear it!

You can follow and share on our socials:

• LinkedIn - @casualspacepodcast

• Facebook - @casualspacepodcast

• Instagram - @casualspacepodcast

• YouTube - @casualspacepodcast83

Or email Beth directly at [email protected].

Don’t forget!!! You can send your story to space TODAY! The window for STORIES of Space Mission 03 is NOW OPEN! Send your story, for free, to www.storiesofspace.com.

Nathalie Cabrol is an astrobiologist and author of, “The Secret Life of the Universe.” She’s also the Director of the Carl Sagan Center at the SETI Institute and holds the women’s WORLD record for free and scuba diving (at altitude)!  Nathalie has spent decades studying the cosmos and searching for life in unexpected places—whether hidden in rocks here on Earth or waiting to be discovered on distant planets.

Nathalie shares her career path as a trailblazer in planetary science, the sacrifices she’s made along the way, and why she believes we’re on the verge of groundbreaking discoveries. In this conversation, Beth and Natalie explore key questions like: Is life an inevitable result of the universe’s laws? And what can Earth teach us about finding life beyond our planet?

“The nature of life on Earth and the search for life elsewhere are two sides of the same question – the search for who we are.” - Carl Sagan

About Nathalie Cabrol:

Nathalie Cabrol is an astrobiologist and Director of the Carl Sagan Center at the SETI Institute. She has led groundbreaking research on planetary habitability and the search for life in extreme environments. Learn more about her work at SETI Institute. https://youtu.be/oIIw9q5jVqU?si=BYjkTrvG6eDhqa0s

Learn more and connect with Nathalie:

FB Planetary Landscapes: https://www.facebook.com/PlanetaryLandscapes

X (former Twitter): https://x.com/shasta721

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathalie-cabrol-1791a114/

SETI Institute: https://www.seti.org/senior-staff and https://www.seti.org/our-scientists/nathalie-cabrol

If you enjoyed this episode and would like to share, I’d love to hear it! 

You can follow and share in the socials, 

LinkedIn - @casualspacepodcast

Facebook - @casualspacepodcast

Instagram - @casualspacepodcast

YouTube - @casualspacepodcast83

or email me at [email protected].

*Remember!!! You can send your story to space TODAY! The window for STORIES of Space Mission 03 is NOW OPEN! Send your story, for free, to www.storiesofspace.com 

Are you passionate about making a positive impact and contributing to a cause that empowers and uplifts? Cosmic Girls Foundation is seeking a dynamic and dedicated individual to join us as the Cosmic Forum Community Manager. If you are excited about fostering a vibrant and safe online community for girls and contributing to a cause that makes a global impact, we would love to hear from you! Please send your resume and a brief cover letter to [email protected]/

Ever wonder how a passion for space exploration can ignite a global movement? In this episode of Through These Doors, Chris Key, Josh Whitfield, and Beth Mund sit down with Abigail Harrison, better known as Astronaut Abby, the inspiring force behind The Mars Generation.

Abby’s journey is one of vision and connection. From her first awe-inspiring visit to Space Camp at age 12 to founding a nonprofit that empowers young people to pursue their space dreams, Abby’s story is a testament to the power of dedication, community, and the digital age. Throughout the conversation, Abby emphasizes the importance of leveraging social media and digital tools to create opportunities and connect with others in the space industry. She also shares her advice on embracing failure as a necessary step toward success.

During the discussion, Abby reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped her path, including the influential role of her mother and the impact of early mentors. She also discusses her current work at Harvard Medical School and her future ambitions, including obtaining a Ph.D. and continuing her journey toward becoming an astronaut.

Whether you’re a budding space enthusiast, a seasoned professional, or simply fascinated by stories of perseverance and innovation, this episode will inspire you to reach for the stars and make the most of the tools and opportunities available today.

Follow Us on Social Media:

Instagram: @casualspacepodcast

Facebook: Casual Space Podcast

YouTube: Casual Space Podcast

About:

Abigail Harrison (Astronaut Abby)

Abigail Harrison, known globally as Astronaut Abby, began her journey in space exploration at 12 when she attended Space Camp. Growing up in Minnesota, Abby’s fascination with space was fueled by a community that supported her dreams, including a pivotal encounter with astronaut Luca Parmitano. Abby’s early experiences at Space Camp and her growing presence on social media led her to found The Mars Generation, a nonprofit dedicated to inspiring and empowering young people to pursue their space dreams.

Abby has reached millions through The Mars Generation, advocating for STEM education and space exploration. Her work has been recognized globally, and she is a leading voice in the space community. Currently working at Harvard Medical School in immunology, Abby is also pursuing her pilot’s license and preparing to apply for a Ph.D. program, all while continuing her mission to become an astronaut.

Have you attended Space Camp or been inspired by similar stories? We’d love to hear about it! Share your story with us on social media using: #CasualSpace and #ThroughTheseDoors. Interested in Space Camp? Visit: https://www.rocketcenter.com/SpaceCamp