STARS Launch Pod

Dr. Danny Hawkins, founder of Danny’s Rocket Ranch and Space Camp Hall of Fame inductee, shares how his love for teaching, salsa, and space exploration sparked a mission to inspire the next generation. From classroom lessons to launching a salsa brand that funds scholarships, his journey proves that creativity and persistence can fuel both dreams and discovery.

Join host Susan Wise as she sits down with Dr. Thomas F. Lang, Professor Emeritus at UCSF, whose groundbreaking research with NASA has transformed our understanding of how space travel affects bone health. From the first studies aboard the International Space Station to cutting-edge AI imaging today, Dr. Lang shares fascinating insights on osteoporosis, astronaut fitness, and the “aha” moments that changed space medicine. Discover how his work in orbit is reshaping health here on Earth—and why preventing bone loss may be the ultimate key to human space exploration.

Join host Susan Wise as she talks with Dr. Gordon Roesler, former DARPA leader and president of Robots in Space, about the groundbreaking technology that allows satellites to repair, refuel, and even upgrade themselves in orbit. Discover how robotic servicing is transforming the future of space and why persistence is key to innovation among the stars.

Join host Susan Wise on Stars Launch Pod as she sits down with NASA’s Brian Campbell, Senior Earth Science Specialist, to explore groundbreaking satellite missions, student-driven discoveries, and what it takes to turn failure into success. From tracking melting ice sheets to mapping billions of trees, discover how NASA data—and curious young minds—are shaping our understanding of Earth.

Join host Susan Wise and Lori McAlister, Director of Membership at Star Sciences, as they dive into the exciting new tools, resources, and innovations helping researchers across the globe connect and accelerate their work. From AI research navigation to the Collaborate Café and inspiring stories from the SmallSat Education Conference at Kennedy Space Center, this episode celebrates innovation, STEM, and the bright future of space exploration.

Discover how StarSciences.org is becoming the ultimate hub for collaboration in space technology and research!

Join host Susan Wise as she talks with Dr. Gary Stutte—‘space farmer,’ scientist, and CEO of SyNRGE—about growing food beyond Earth, recycling human waste into life support, and how space farming innovations are transforming agriculture here on Earth.

Join Nobel Prize–winning astrophysicist John Mather as he shares the groundbreaking science behind the James Webb Space Telescope, the mysteries of cosmic origins, and bold new ideas for discovering Earth-like planets beyond our solar system.

“Bringing Space Science Back to Earth”

Join host Susan Wise as she talks with Dr. David Pollock, founder of Star Sciences, about how innovations from space research are transforming life on Earth. From zero-gravity stem cell breakthroughs to the future of skincare and collaboration in space technology, this inspiring conversation explores how we can connect, collaborate, and accelerate the next frontier—both in orbit and at home.

From middle school CubeSats to international conferences, Kevin Simmons is empowering the next generation of aerospace innovators. Hear how students as young as 11 are designing satellites, presenting papers worldwide, and proving that passion beats age every time.

NASA Earth scientist Compton Tucker to shares how cutting-edge satellite technology is transforming our understanding of forests, climate, and the future of our planet. From mapping 10 billion trees to uncovering the secrets of photosynthesis from space, this conversation will inspire you to look at Earth—and trees—in a whole new way.