This week saw the Perseverance rover prepare to begin taking its first sample of Martian soil in the continued search for evidence of ancient life on Mars, as the FAA changed its definition of what it means to be an astronaut. In this episode of the Space Connect Podcast, co-hosts Adam Thorn, Liam Garman and Hannah Dowling discuss the latest update on the Mars rover’s movements and the ethical implications - and risks - of searching for life on other planets. Plus, the team discusses Jeff Bezos’ first spaceflight aboard Blue Origin’s New Shepard, and the FAA’s decision to alter the requirements for those seeking ‘astronaut wings’ in light of the growing trend of ‘space tourism’. Finally, the team reveals the latest news in Australia’s home-grown space industry, including the first grants offered under the UK-AU Space Bridge, and the establishment of the NSW Space Research Network.