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By Ben Gamble
5
4747 ratings
The podcast currently has 108 episodes available.
In this weeks episode, Nicolina Elrick takes us behind the scenes of her extraordinary journey to space with Blue Origin. Nicolina is a multi-faceted leader in both philanthropy and entrepreneurship, and on this weeks episode shares what it’s like to break through the Kármán line and experience the profound awe of space. We explore the pivotal moments of her flight, her reflections on seeing Earth from afar, and her proposal for a future SpaceX philanthropic mission!
This weeks episode is sponsored by AIDAA.
Check them out: https://www.aidaa.it/
OUTLINE:
Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode.
00:00 Intro to Episode - Nicolina Elrick & shout out to this weeks episode sponsor AIDAA https://www.aidaa.it/
01:26 Met at the IAC (the worlds largest space event)
03:00 Nicolina’s trip to space!
07:52 Nicolina’s successful mission:
08:08 Space relatable
11:25 Renewed sense of purpose
13:03 Nicolina’s bio and unique journey to Space: https://nicolinae.com/
17:30 Grit Diamonds Stars
21:00 The families during launches
23:03 Psychology of preparation for space
24:20 Learnings from crewmates
25:45 Advice to young people
29:25 Whats next on Nicolina’s horizon? SpaceX mission concept
32:25 Wrap up and socials
Connect with Nikolina Elrick:
Website: www.nicolinaE.com
X: https://twitter.com/nicolinaElrick
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealnicolinae/
Other socials/links: https://linktr.ee/astronautnicolina
Stay connected with us!
Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us!
Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast
Website: www.astroben.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/
X: https://x.com/Gambleonit
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@astrobenpodcast
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astrobenpodcast/
This episode explores Yanni Barghouty’s work with Cosmic Shielding Corporation (CSC) and their mission to create next-generation radiation shielding solutions for the space industry. Yanni shares his journey from biomedical engineering to space entrepreneurship, discusses the challenges of developing advanced materials for radiation protection, and provides insights into the future of space safety and human spaceflight.
OUTLINE:
Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode.
01:00 What/Why is Cosmic Shielding Corporation/CSC?
07:09 Starting up/Business partner
11:20 Launching/testing
13:25 The ordering process
20:42 Challenges of new technologies and protecting humans
25:00 AI in shielding?
37:33 Challenges of space entrepreneurship
43:10 Open for business
45:35 Wrap up and socials
Connect with Cosmic Shielding Corporation:
Website: https://cosmicshielding.com/
X: https://x.com/cosmicshielding
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cosmic-shielding-corporation/
Stay connected with us!
Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us!
Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast
Website: www.astroben.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/
X: https://x.com/Gambleonit
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@astrobenpodcast
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astrobenpodcast/
Episode 106 covers Giuseppe Reibaldi’s work with the Moon Village Association, a pioneering non-governmental organisation that unites both spacefaring and non-spacefaring nations to collaborate on lunar exploration. Ben and Giuseppe discuss how MVA partners with industry, academia, and the public to create a shared vision for humanity’s future on the Moon. The MVA’s unique platform fosters cooperation, builds networks, and promotes global awareness of the potential benefits of lunar settlement.
OUTLINE:
Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode.
00:00 Introduction to Episode
00:58 Introduction to Giuseppe - what is the Moon Village Association!
06:12 Whose involved?
08:46 Big agencies involved
13:08 International Moon Day (IMD), Global Expert Group and live events
22:59 Sustainable Lunar Environment
23:52 Commercial companies
27:00 Giuseppe’s prediction of humanity on the Moon (in 20 years)
32:18 Public perception of lunar presence
39:12 Why the Moon should be for everyone
42:49 Wrap Up and socials
Connect with the Moon Village Association
https://moonvillageassociation.org/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/moonvillageassociation/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCB1dDR4JMIq370NfLV-qOg
https://www.facebook.com/moonvillageassn/
https://twitter.com/MoonVillageAssn
https://www.instagram.com/moonvillageassociation/
Stay connected with us!
Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us!
Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast
Website: www.astroben.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/
X: https://x.com/Gambleonit
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@astrobenpodcast
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astrobenpodcast/
In episode 105, Ben welcomes Adriano V. Autino, the visionary behind Space Renaissance International, an organisation dedicated to advancing civilian space development and the space economy. Adriano shares his insights on how humanity can expand beyond Earth, the importance of developing low-cost access to space, and the role of space in the U.N.'s Sustainable Development Goals and why "Space" should be the 18th SDG! They also explore the Space Renaissance Manifesto and discuss the exciting possibilities of space tourism, geo-lunar industrialisation, and more.
OUTLINE:
Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode.
00:00 Intro to episode
01:00 bringing on Adriano Autino. What is the Space Renaissance International? (SRI)
07:00 Mission of the SRI manifesto
13:40 SDG’s - why a new “Space” one?
20:22 Not going to space isn’t an option
21:35 Why 2025 is an important year for the Space/UN agenda
27:05 Responsibility for space faring civilisations to advance space for the world
32:12 Supporting
33:53 Wrap Up and Socials
Connect with Adriano V. Autino:
Websites: Space Renaissance International Space Renaissance Academy Personal website: Adriano V. Autino
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AVAutinoSpaceRenaissancePhilosophyLinkedin: LinkedIn profile
>> Sign the #Space18SDG pledge to add an 18th SDG to the UN 2030 Agenda (on Change.org)>> Add your organization to the #Space18SDG proposers
Stay connected with us!
Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us!
Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast
Website: www.astroben.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/
X: https://x.com/Gambleonit
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@astrobenpodcast
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astrobenpodcast/
In this episode, Ben sits down with John Conafay, a US Air Force Veteran and the CEO & Co-Founder of Integrate, a company that’s revolutionising space mission management through cutting-edge software solutions. With a wealth of experience from his time at Spire, Astranis, SpaceFlight, and ABL Space Systems, John shares insights into the challenges and opportunities of the new space economy. They delve into the innovations driving the industry forward, including transforming space mission planning from 2D to 3D logistics, and how software can solve critical issues like launch capacity management. They also discuss the broader implications of these advancements for the future of space exploration and the ethical considerations involved. Tune in for a deep dive into the world of space tech and the exciting future it holds.
OUTLINE:
Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode.
00:00 Intro to episode
01:18 Integrate
06:51 Optimising systems
08:57 2D to 3D - what does it mean?
10:12 Previous pain points at previous companies
13:26 Growth into other sectors
15:45 Spaceforce & Firefly
17:45 “Nice to have” digital tools
20:40 Adoption of software
22:34 Other tech in space industry
22:52 Future of Integrate
25:30 Pain of entrepreneurship
28:00 Advice to aspiring space being a space tech entrepreneur
30:13 What sparked your interest in space?
32:04 Wrap up and socials
Connect with John Conafay:
Website: https://integrate.space/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/conafay/
X: https://twitter.com/jconafay
Stay connected with us!
Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us!
Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast
Website: www.astroben.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/
X: https://x.com/Gambleonit
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@astrobenpodcast
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astrobenpodcast/
In this episode, Ben sits down (again) with Eric Berger, Senior Space Editor at Ars Technica and author of the upcoming book 'Reentry: SpaceX, Elon Musk, and the Reusable Rockets that Launched a Second Space Age'
They discuss the Polaris Dawn mission, the state of the space industry, NASA's Crew-9 launch delay, and the latest breaking stories in the space industry. Eric shares his thoughts on Elon Musk's current focus and vision at SpaceX, as well as the critical role billionaires are playing in space exploration.
OUTLINE:
Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode.
00:00 Intro to Episode 103
00:40 Eric back for more!
01:20 Interviewing NASA administrator
02:08 Starliner date pushed back
03:51 Polaris Dawn
05:22 Why is it significant?
07:20 Billionaires in Space
08:50 NEW BOOK: “Reentry: SpaceX, Elon Musk, and the Reusable Rockets that Launched a Second Space Age”
12:10 The Technical Challenges of SpaceX 2008-2020
15:10 Importance of Gwynne Shotwell
17:00 Significance of Falcon Heavy
19:00 The emotion of launches
21:10 Artemis
24:02 China
24:50 New Glenn
26:06 First mover advantage for reusable rocket companies?
28:15 Stoke Space
28:30 SpaceX
29:32 Vision of SpaceX
31:40 Elon and politics
33:55 Elon’s Musks Plans too ambitious?
36:20 Wrap Up and socials
Pre-order Eric’s new book Reentry: SpaceX, Elon Musk, and the Reusable Rockets that Launched a Second Space Age
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Reentry-SpaceX-Reusable-Rockets-Launched/dp/1637745273
Penguin: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/759707/reentry-by-eric-berger/
X: https://twitter.com/SciGuySpace
Stay connected with us!
Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us!
Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast
Website: www.astroben.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/
X: https://x.com/Gambleonit
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@astrobenpodcast
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astrobenpodcast/
In episode 102, chats to Roman Chiporukha, founder of SpaceVIP and co-founder of the luxury lifestyle management firm Roman & Erica. They dive deep into the burgeoning world of private space exploration, discussing the fascinating journey of introducing the final passenger to Axiom’s Ax-1 mission—a $50 million ticket to the first all-private space mission to the International Space Station.
Roman shares his insights on making space exploration more accessible to the private sector, the exciting future of Michelin-starred meals in space, and how celebrities and billionaires are shaping the next frontier.
OUTLINE:
Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode.
00:14 Introduction to Episode
00:50 Origin story or not!
03:00 Axiom1 and selling a $50m ticket!
05:58 Space VIP https://www.spacevip.com/
07:24 Experience in luxury lifestyle management
09:05 Michelin-starred meals in Space
13:44 Space Perspective https://spaceperspective.com/
16:30 The Space Prize Foundation https://www.spaceprize.org/
21:10 SpaceVIP Products/Experiences in the pipeline
26:30 Risks with these experiences
32:40 Celebs in Space
40:00 Final thought - WHY SPACE
41:50 Wrap Up and socials
Connect with Roman Chiporukha
Website: https://www.spacevip.com/
X: https://twitter.com/getmaxspace
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/spacevip/
Stay connected with us!
Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us!
Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast
Website: www.astroben.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/
X: https://x.com/Gambleonit
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@astrobenpodcast
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astrobenpodcast/
In episode 101, Ben chats to Kirsten Whittingham, President of Max Space. Kirsten shares insights into her diverse and impressive career in the aerospace industry, from generating significant revenue at Axiom Space to overseeing the development of innovative expandable habitats at Max Space. The conversation delves into the unique technology behind Max Space's scalable habitats, the challenges and milestones ahead, and the future of space habitation. Kirsten also discusses her work with the Cosmic Girls Foundation, aiming to address gender inequality in the space industry and inspire more young girls to pursue STEM careers.
OUTLINE:
Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode.
00:14 Intro to
00:48 Introduction to Kirsten Whittingham
01:28 What is Max Space?
04:57 Inflatable
06:21 Mission in 2026
09:00 What is a soft goods?
10:22 Psychology of inflatable structures
12:20 How big could they be?
13:50 Experience from Axiom
17:35 Raising money for space startups
20:50 Sustainability
23:08 Private/public partnerships
25:55 Uses of Max Space habitat from research, manufacturing, space debris and sport?!
27:50 Cosmic Girls Foundation https://www.cosmicgirls.org/donate
30:45 CGF Initiatives
32:02 Advice to young people
35:10 Vision for the future of the space industry
37:53 Wrap Up and socials
Connect with Max Space:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/getmaxspace
Website: https://getmaxspace.com/
X: https://twitter.com/getmaxspace
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/getmaxspace/about/
Stay connected with us!
Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us!
Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast
Website: www.astroben.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/
X: https://x.com/Gambleonit
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@astrobenpodcast
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astrobenpodcast/
In this milestone episode, we had the honour of speaking with Nicole Stott, a retired NASA astronaut, artist, and author. Nicole shared her inspiring journey, including her space missions on ISS Expedition 20 and 21, and STS-128 and STS-133. We explored her unique experiences, such as participating in the first live tweet-up from space and painting with watercolour in microgravity. Nicole also discussed her post-NASA work, including her book "Back To Earth" and her co-founding of the Space for Art Foundation. Her story is a testament to the power of persistence and the importance of inspiring the next generation of space enthusiasts.
OUTLINE:
Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode.
00:14 Intro to Nicole Stott
01:00 Episode 100/how Ben and Nicole met
02:35 Impact of astronauts
05:27 Females in space
10:00 Favourite mission?
13:32 Painting in space
16:50 Role of art and creativity in space
19:40 Polaris Dawn & SpaceX/Public Private Partnerships
24:00 Artemis
27:20 Bringing benefits of space
28:05 “Back to Earth” https://www.npsdiscovery.com/book-back-to-earth
31:44 Seeing Earth from space
35:40 Sharing Experiences
37:10 Blue Origin’s vision for the future
38:48 Cosmic perspective
41:37 Final thought from Nicole - “Stay curious!”
44:54 Wrap up and socials
Connect with Nicole Stott:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astro_nicole & https://www.instagram.com/spaceforartfoundation/
Website: https://www.npsdiscovery.com/
X: https://x.com/Astro_Nicole
Stay connected with us!
Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us!
Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast
Website: www.astroben.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/
X: https://x.com/Gambleonit
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@astrobenpodcast
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astrobenpodcast/
In episode 99, we had the privilege of hearing the remarkable journey of Dr. Eiman Jahangir, Associate Professor at Vanderbilt University and aspiring astronaut. From being a finalist for NASA's Astronaut Candidate program to winning a ticket to space through a raffle with MoonDAO, Dr. Jahangir's story is a testament to the power of persistence and the limitless possibilities of space exploration. Winning a ticket to space from over 2,200 participants, his journey serves as an inspiring reminder that dreams can indeed take flight. Tune in to hear more about his extraordinary adventures and the exciting future that lies ahead.
OUTLINE:
Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode.
00:00 Introduction to
00:49 Lucky Numbers!
01:40 MoonDao and how it will get Eiman to Space
06:50 How Eiman entered the raffle
08:40 Navigating Crypto
11:10 Applying for NASA
15:24 Space Tourism - health barriers
18:33 Phycological impact on Space Tourism
22:10 Analogue astronaut experiences
23:44 Blue Origin timeline and launch prep
25:50 Personal aspirations for the experience
29:52 Wrap Up and Socials
Connect with Dr Eiman Jahangir:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/DrEJahangir
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drejahangir
X: https://twitter.com/DrEJahangir
Stay connected with us!
Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us!
Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast
Website: www.astroben.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/
X: https://twitter.com/Gambleonit
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@astrobenpodcast
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astrobenpodcast/
The podcast currently has 108 episodes available.
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