Casual Space (Beth Mund)
Explorez tous les épisodes de Casual Space
| Date | Titre | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 02 May 2019 | 23: A SpaceX Perspective with Engineer Nick Hansen | 00:52:46 | |
Nick and Beth talk space specifics in this episode, including:
Key Takeaways:
“We want to make a giant rocket that will get us to Mars, and become a multi-planet species.” SpaceX Engineer Nick Hansen
SHOW NOTES & Bonus Links! About SpaceX: https://www.spacex.com/ SpaceX Falcon Heavy Rocket: https://www.spacex. SpaceX Falcon 9 Rocket: https://www.spacex.com/ What’s inside the fearing of a SpaceX Rocket? THIS IS ONE OF BETH’s MOST FAVORITE VIDEOS. https://www.youtube.com/ The Case for Mars (according to SpaceX): https://www.youtube. | |||
| 14 Apr 2023 | 191: Shelli Brunswick | 00:47:24 | |
Shelli Brunswick is the COO of Space Foundation, overseeing Center for Innovation and Education, Symposium 365, and Global Alliance. This week on the Casual Space Podcast, we learn more about Shelli’s distinguished career as a space acquisition and program management leader and congressional liaison for the U.S. Air Force, her perspective of the global space ecosystem, and how Shelli works with government, commercial and educational sectors on initiatives for space commerce and why she’s actively advocating for space technology innovation and entrepreneurship. *Whew!* More about Shelli Brunswick: https://shelli-brunswick.com/ About Space Foundation: https://www.spacefoundation.org/ About the Space4Women Mentorship Program mentioned: https://space4women.unoosa.org/mentorship-program More about Sheli Brunswick: Shelli Brunswick, COO of Space Foundation, brings a broad perspective and deep vision of the global space ecosystem — from a distinguished career as a space acquisition and program management leader and congressional liaison for the U.S. Air Force to her current role overseeing Space Foundation's three primary divisions: Center for Innovation and Education, Symposium 365, and Global Alliance. | |||
| 23 Mar 2024 | 219: Dr. Maureen Gibbons | 00:39:56 | |
Maureen Gibbons, MD, (known on social media as Dr. Moe), is a practicing physician, sports nutritionist and life coach who also held athletic trainer and triathlon coach credentials for many years. Her board certification is in emergency medicine, obesity medicine and lifestyle medicine. Dr. Moe founded and runs a remote lifestyle medicine practice called Active Medical Solutions. As an author and speaker Maureen seeks to spread the word that we are all “Happy First” which is the title of her first book and relates that to finding gratitude in daily life. Her private consulting business integrates that knowledge with assisting healthcare providers in making successful career transitions. Maureen also enjoys triathlons, is a voracious reader and loves to spend time with her husband, son and pets.
You can find more about Dr. Moe on TikTok as AMSDoctorMoe or at: And catch her book at HappyFirstBook.com | |||
| 25 May 2024 | 227: Casual Space Podcast SUMMER Series: Summaries (Summer-ease): Staying Curious | 00:14:11 | |
Welcome to the first episode in our new series, “Summaries” (Summer-ease) where host Beth Mund provides a shortened, easy- going, “summary” for your listening enjoyment. Every week, you’ll find themes within space exploration of course, and related topics. Guests will occasionally stop by, and we’ll keep the conversation light and non-technical (we always do). Like a cool and refreshing iced tea, these mini masterclass conversations are deliciously served to include the perfect mix of entertainment and education with a splash of cosmic fun!
So, listen in & relax! Let us do all the heavy lifting and bring the universe to you- one casual space summary at a time.
This week’s Summer-ease theme: Staying Curious When it comes to space exploration, what does it mean to stay curious? Beth reflects on some of her previous guests ‘episodes and what it means to not only be curious, but how to stay curious by inviting others to join in.
Astronomer John Read invites us to look up and be curious about our night sky: https://www.bethmund.com/casual-space-podcast/20240129/211-john
Researchers/ writers/ comics Kelly and Zach Weinersmith are curious about how we might live on Mars https://www.bethmund.com/casual-space-podcast/20240229/217-kelly-zach-weinersmith
Curious about solar power? Physicist John Mankins explains it here: https://www.bethmund.com/casual-space-podcast/20240223/215-john-mankins
*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 | |||
| 20 Apr 2024 | 223: How to Live an Outer Space Lifestyle with Dr. Kirby Runyon | 00:50:31 | |
Dr. Kirby Runyon is completely qualified to be your outer space lifestyle guide and science consultant. What makes him qualified, you ask? He’s a Planetary Geologist at The Planetary Science Institute, a Creative Space Science Consultant, his research has flown on a recent Zero-G flight(s), he hosts tours of the Kennedy Space Center, offers astrogeology tours for educators, and, well, you can read all of his formal qualifications at https://planex.space.
In the meantime, we’re talking all about his space-themed zero-gravity flights (flinging colored chalk in microgravity), astrogeology adventure hikes (witnessing the most amazing colors within a sunset), seeing lava on the moon (!), and why kids make better Zero-G passengers than adults. It’s all this and more fun with our friend and guide, Kirby Runyon!
Follow Dr. Kirby Runyon on LinkedIn
Catch up on all the things Kirby is doing at planex.space
And don’t forget- Mission 03 is accepting your story about space RIGHT NOW at www.storiesofspace.com
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| 01 Nov 2018 | 02: Elon Musk Must Be Discussed with Beth & Chad | 01:14:36 | |
In this episode, Beth and Chad discuss the Joe Rogan interview with Elon Musk, including:
About Beth Mund: Beth’s love for space started as a Space Camp attendee at the Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, where she would return years later as an instructor. After grad school, Beth worked as a journalist, a technical writer for Motorola, and then went on to serve as a Public Affairs Officer for the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. In addition, Beth worked to support the International Space Station program as a communication specialist. In Chicago, Beth worked as a corporate communication advisor to Fortune 50 companies including Allstate and United Airlines. She’s worked as a college instructor, a political advisor, and public relations manager for her hometown city. Beth recently founded Stellar Communications, LLC and travels the country as a keynote speaker- inspiring audiences with her lessons learned from our nation’s space program. She’s the host of the Casual Space Podcast and a self-proclaimed space geek.
Connect with Beth Mund: Email: bethisbeth@me.com
Show notes by show producer/podcastologist: Laura Gray | |||
| 11 Sep 2020 | 88: Dr. Sian Proctor: Analog Astronaut, Author, Artist, and Explorer | 00:47:39 | |
Analog astronaut. Chef. Explorer. Pilot. Geologist. Artist. Professor. Author. STEM Communicator and…Cowgirl!? In short, Dr. Sian Proctor is just…. Incredible! You will want to get to know this impressive woman beyond the Casual Space conversation with Beth, so here are some links to Dr. Sian’s TedX Talks, videos, cookbooks, artwork and more! START HERE: https://www.drsianproctor.com/ TEDx Talks: https://www.drsianproctor.com/media/ Space2Inspire (Dr. Sian’s Artwork): https://www.drsianproctor.com/space2inspire/ Support Sian here: https://www.patreon.com/drsianproctor About Sian: Dr. Proctor is a geoscientist, explorer, space artist, and science communication specialist with a passion for space exploration. Her motto is called Space2inspire where she encourages people to use their unique, one-of-a-kind strengths, and passion to inspire those within their reach and beyond. She uses her AfronautSpace art to encourage conversations about women of color in the space industry. She’s an analog astronaut and has completed four analog missions including the all-female SENSORIA Mars 2020 mission at the Hawai’i Space Exploration Analog and Simulation (HI-SEAS) Habitat, the NASA funded 4-months Mars mission at HI-SEAS, a 2-weeks Mars mission at the Mars Desert Research Station (MDRS), and a 2-weeks Moon mission in the LunAres Habitat. She believes that when we solve for space, we also solve issues on Earth. She promotes sustainable food practices used in space exploration as a way to reduce food waste on Earth. She has a TEDx talk called Eat Like a Martian and published the Meals for Mars Cookbook. Dr. Proctor was a finalist for the 2009 NASA Astronaut Program and got down to the Yes/No phone call which came from Astronaut Sunita Williams. She is an international speaker who enjoys engaging in educational outreach. She is a continuing NASA Solar System Ambassador and serves on the Explore Mars Board of Directors, JustSpace Alliance Advisory Board, the Science in the Wild Advisory Board, the SEDS USA Advisory Board, and the National Science Teaching Association’s Aerospace Advisory Board. In 2019, she was the science communication outreach officer on the JOIDES Resolution Expedition 383 and spent 2-months at sea with researchers investigating the Dynamics of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current. She also participated in the 2-week faculty development seminar Exploring Urban Sustainability in India. She was a 2017 National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Teacher at Sea, a 2016 Astronomy in Chile Educator Ambassador (ACEAP), and a 2014 PolarTREC Teacher investigating climate change in Barrow, Alaska. She is a Major in the Civil Air Patrol and serves as a member of the Arizona Wing Aerospace Education Officer.
Dr. Proctor spent 21 years as a professor teaching geology, sustainability, and planetary science at South Mountain Community College, Phoenix, Arizona. She is currently the Open Educations Resource Coordinator for the Maricopa Community College District. She has a B.S. in Environmental Science, an M.S. in Geology, and a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction: Science Education. She recently finished a sabbatical at Arizona State University’s Center for Education Through Exploration creating virtual field trips. She did her 2012-13 sabbatical at the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Emergency Management Institute developing their science of disasters curriculum. She has appeared in multiple international science shows and is currently on A World Without NASA and Strange Evidence. You can follow her on social media @DrSianProctor. | |||
| 25 Feb 2021 | 110: Brian Palermo on Overcoming the Challenges of Science Communication | 00:58:49 | |
Science communication can often be challenging… and at times, make even the most talented scientists, reporters, and educators reluctant to take on the task of communicating scientific findings and new discoveries. In this episode, Brian Palermo infuses his expertise from his experience with improvisation and acting to help us better communicate science! By implementing strategies from improv (think of the “yes, AND” approach to conversations), Brian shows how all of us can easily communicate information successfully through story. Brian Palermo is a professional actor and communications expert who works with executives, business leaders, and audiences teaching the art of improv to present powerful (and funny) stories. In this Casual conversation Brian Palermo will help us: - implement improv in your daily conversations to better connect with peers, colleagues, even family members (even your kids)!! - enjoy excerpts from Brian’s book; Connection, Hollywood Storytelling Meets Critical Thinking- where a former scientist, a story consultant, and an improv actor come together to give you the critical thinking of science combined with a century of Hollywood knowledge in the creation and shaping of stories! -laugh! Stories about science and space can be fun and inspirational, and Brian reminds us that storytelling should be . I really enjoyed this conversation with Brian and plan on continuing to follow him on TV, in the movies- and if you are in the LA area, you can find Brian perform as an improv stand up actor every Wednesday in the Groundlings in Hollywood.
From the Show: Beth: Can we bridge our science-illiterate nation via story?? Brian: “We can, and I think that’s one great tool to do it, but you know, having the concept of, “We need to use story” is great, but having the ability to execute that is very hard. It’s not easy to construct a story – to take science data and construct it into narrative form is very difficult, AND, to deliver it, to present it to other humans is another challenge. It’s doable, but it takes work to get there.” -Brian Palermo from Casual Space Podcast
To learn more about Brian Palermo, go to: https://www.palermoimprovtraining.com/about We mentioned Randy Olsen’s book: https://www.amazon.com/Houston-We-Have-Narrative-Science/dp/022627084X And of course, check out Brian’s book with Randy Olsen, and Dorie Barton, “Connection. Hollywood Storytelling Meets Critical Thinking.” https://www.amazon.com/Connection-Hollywood-Storytelling-Critical-Thinking/dp/0615872387/ref=asc_df_0615872387/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=265958393932&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=16145716171067840377&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9021552&hvtargid=pla-538612589161&psc=1 | |||
| 21 Nov 2024 | 253: Dr. Eiman Jahangir’s Journey to Space with Blue Origin | 00:38:28 | |
Dr. Eiman Jahangir, a physician, analog astronaut, and lifelong space enthusiast, shares his remarkable journey to becoming an astronaut with Blue Origin’s New Shepard. With two previous NASA astronaut candidacies and years of dedication, Dr. Jahangir’s story is resilient. He is driven by a love for science and space and his unwavering commitment to the dream of exploring beyond Earth. Catch Dr. Jahangir as he shares stories from his recent Blue Origin flight and launches into his experiences with the analog astronaut community, where he honed skills vital for long space missions. He’s got heartwarming tales, like attending family space camp with his son and how volunteering at a science museum as a teen sparked his lifelong passion for inspiring others to reach for the stars. Dr. Jahangir’s journey shows that even the biggest dreams are possible when you break them down into small, achievable steps! About Dr. Eiman Jahangir Eiman was the first Iranian American man to go to space, the first physician on a commercial launch, and only the third cardiologist ever to go to space. He was selected from more than 2,200 applicants to be MoonDAO’s second citizen astronaut and, on Thursday, August 29, 2024, made history as a member of the Blue Origin New Shephard rocket launch. Eiman is an associate professor and practicing cardio-oncology physician at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. A proud Martin Luther King, Jr. Magnet High School graduate in Nashville, he is also the first Metro Nashville Public School alumnus to go to space. Resources Mentioned
Connect with Dr. Eiman Jahangir If you enjoyed this episode and would like to share, I’d love to hear it! YOU CAN HELP US SEND STORIES TO SPACE! Please visit our GoFundMe campaign, and help send more stories to space! https://gofund.me/62f1ff87 You can follow and share in the socials,
or email me at beth@casualspacepodcast.com. *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
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| 06 Dec 2018 | 09: Mark J. Lindquist brings the JOY | 00:31:06 | |
In this episode, Beth and Mark discuss:
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| 25 Jul 2019 | 33: Iconic Space Innovations with author Charles Pappas | 01:00:46 | |
Charles Pappas shares with Beth details from the stories within his new book, including;
About Charles Pappas: Charles Pappas is a senior writer at Exhibitor magazine, where for the last 15 years he has researched and written the Archive column, which explores the unique history of exhibiting. His new book, "Flying Cars, Zombie Dogs, and Robot Overlords," shows how, when the world wants to see what the future will bring, it looks to world's fairs and trade shows. Pappas is also the author of "It's a Bitter Little World," a collection of the most go-for-the-jugular quotes from film noir. If you want to know the meaning of life, don't study Shakespeare, don't peruse Plato. Everything you need to know in life you can learn from film noir.
About One Giant Leap: On July 20, 1969, Americans had their eyes and ears glued to their TVs and radios. This moment inspired inventors and engineers across the nation. To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the 1969 moon landing, we share with you 20 patents that were inspired by the space race and how they reshaped the world. Featuring the original patent schematics from the US Patent and Trademark Office, blast off with inventions inspired by the moon landing including: Memory foam, freeze-dried food, firefighting equipment, cordless tools, protective paint, cochlear implants, image sensors, carbon nanotubes, pocket calculators and more!
Where to find Charles Pappas: Where to find One Giant Leap: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/one-giant-leap-charles-pappas/1130879993#/ | |||
| 07 Oct 2021 | 139: Space Marketing with Izzy House | 01:05:35 | |
“How can you change the world if no one knows you exist?” – Izzy House
When it comes to marketing, Izzy knows a thing or two. And when it comes to marketing for space, Izzy House wrote the book on it- literally! Her new book, Space Marketing aims to empower companies within the space industry promote space, generate excitement, and implement marketing strategies and tactics to help companies thrive. The space business model is changing, and the companies that are successful right now do ONE THING CONSISTENTLY. On this week’s episode, Izzy shares with Beth one of the simplest marketing strategies that works, yet so many companies just don’t do…
Here’s more about the book Space Marketing: https://izzy.house/space-marketing-book/ From Izzy’s website: Since the 2015 SPACE Act opened the doors for commercial companies, the space sector has exploded with activity. There are thousands of new players. As of 2018 data, over 72 countries have launched new governmental space agencies. As a result, unprecedented competition levels grow as countries ramp up their programs and the cost for entry into the industry reduces. Subsequently, Many of the space industry professionals have not had to maneuver in these waters before now. NASA’s not the only game in town anymore. ESA, India, Israel, China, United Arab Emirates, and many other countries are going into space. Therefore, it is going to get even more competitive as these counties pour funds into their space programs and their country’s businesses as they reach for a piece of this powerful industry. Marketing will become a necessity if you want to run in the space race.
About Izzy: Izzy House utilizes creativity and her extensive marketing experience to help her business partners grow. The marketing strategies that she creates are attractive, produce results, and create income streams that have benefited 600+companies for over 20 years. From websites to print to video, her award-winning campaigns connect companies to their audience. With an extensive marketing background, she turns the lens of marketing onto the space industry. Armed with experience in public affairs, outreach, and marketing, she aims to empower space companies and further their dreams of space exploration. | |||
| 18 Mar 2021 | 113: Handprints on Hubble with NASA Astronaut Dr. Kathy Sullivan | 00:44:24 | |
Dr. Kathryn Sullivan, the first American woman to walk in space and a veteran of three shuttle missions, talks with Beth about her experience as part of the team that launched, rescued, repaired, and maintained the Hubble Space Telescope on this week’s episode of the Casual Space Podcast.
The Hubble Space Telescope has revolutionized our understanding of the universe. It has, among many other achievements, revealed thousands of galaxies in what seemed to be empty patches of sky; transformed our knowledge of black holes; found dwarf planets with moons orbiting other stars; and measured precisely how fast the universe is expanding. In Handprints on Hubble, retired NASA astronaut Kathryn Sullivan describes her work on the NASA team that made all of this possible. This week, Dr. Sullivan joins Beth to describe how she and other astronauts, engineers, and scientists launched, rescued, repaired, and maintained Hubble, the most productive observatory ever built!
A moment from the show:
Beth: What invited you to write your book, “Handprints on Hubble” and share your story?
Dr. Sullivan: I, like countless engineers on the ground and at mission control, am really proud of everything Hubble has done, and I feel like I have a fingerprint, I have a contribution on everything Hubble has done. The idea of (sharing this) percolated for a long time until a friend at the Smithsonian was trying to get me to consider writing a memoir, and that’s when the penny dropped- If my story could be the vehicle for telling an overlooked chapter of the Hubble history, and bringing the people who really are the hidden figures of the Hubble story into the foreground so the important work they did got its due. All of the creativity, the engineering, the design work, the imagining in the mid-60’s a school-bus size telescope and that the astronauts would take care of it! It was astonishing! People don’t often think of engineers of being imaginative, but Hubble is a really brilliant example of the kind of vision and imagination that describes most of engineering, so if I could use my story to help people understand the importance of this early history of Hubble, that would be worth writing. -Kathy Sullivan from the Casual Space Podcast
Learn more about Dr. Sullivan at http://kathysullivanastronaut.com/ Get your copy of Handprints on Hubble at: https://mitpress.mit.edu/books/handprints-hubble | |||
| 07 Jan 2021 | 103: Mund on Mars | 00:45:07 | |
Beth recently returned from Mars, and Chad has a few questions. In November, 2020- Beth Mund and 5 other crew members lived, worked and survived a simulated “Mars” mission at the HI-SEAS research facility on the big island of Hawaii. In this episode, Beth “unpacks” the questions Chad has, like, What is an analog astronaut? Why Mars? Why do a mission like this, and what’s been learned so far, and what’s next?” Here are some answers to Chad’s questions beyond the conversation on the podcast, in Beth’s own words: What is an Analog astronaut? Why are they important to our future missions to explore beyond Earth and our wonders in the universe?
Why “Mars,” or “why Hawaii?”
So why do this? What has been learned so far? Living off earth is HARD. Exploring takes guts and lots of being uncomfortable. I did this for my own personal reasons and for professional reasons, too. I’ll be sharing the personal and professional in more detail in my blog, be sure to read it. What we’ve learned is that humans are difficult, and fragile and it’s beyond challenging to live in space and off-planet. But IT CAN BE DONE. It can even be fun at times. We have learned SO much from the ISS. Analog missions help us learn in detail (and in person!) about:
(More details to read about these on the blog)
Here is some information about why we explore space, from my favorite science guy (and yours): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YnDt_DOZeLY
What’s next? (NASA is returning humans to the moon in 2024 with Artemis program. We’re going to the moon to STAY. We can learn what works well for living and surviving on the Moon close to Earth before were years away on Mars!
Here is some detailed information about the HI-SEAS facility: http://www.HI-SEAS.org Here is some interesting information about an analog astronaut: http://www.analogastronaut.com/2018/08/what-is-analog-astronaut.html, and https://www.nasa.gov/analogs/what-are-analog-missions
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| 19 Sep 2019 | 41: Soonish with Kelly and Zach Weinersmith | 01:05:06 | |
Beth, Kelly and Zach have way too much fun geeking out about:
About Kelly: Dr. Kelly Weinersmith From www.weeklyweinersmith.com: “I’m a parasitologist, podcaster, mom, and sci writer (not necessarily in that order). I study parasites that manipulate the behavior of their hosts, making the host behave in ways that benefit the parasite. My favorite parasite is the crypt-keeper wasp, which you can read more about here. I am an adjunct assistant professor at Rice University in the BioSciences Department. You can find out more about my research here. Follow me on twitter, where I occasionally post photos of the cool parasites I study.” -Kelly
Read and learn more about Kelly’s work at: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/news/2017/01/crypt-keeper-wasps-parasites-new-species/
About Zach: Zach Weinersmith is the creator of the popular webcomic SMBC, the creator of the nerd comedy show BAHFest, and the co-author of the New York Times-bestselling popular science book, Soonish. Read and learn more about Zach’s work at: Zach's graphic novel on immigration (Open Borders, with Bryan Caplan) http://openborderscomic.com/ And http://theweinerworks.com/
Watch great videos with BOTH Zach and Kelly: https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=about+kelly+and+zach+weinersmith&&view=detail&mid=8EB541CDAE82452444AC8EB541CDAE82452444AC&rvsmid=CB7EFDB51B7A10837EF1CB7EFDB51B7A10837EF1&FORM=VDMCNR | |||
| 20 Sep 2024 | 245: Marc Hartzman | 01:00:41 | |
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:
If you enjoyed this episode and would like to share, we’d love to hear it! You can follow and share on our socials:
Or email Beth directly at beth@casualspacepodcast.com.
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.
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| 23 Jun 2022 | 165: Space Camp 40th Anniversary Celebration Part 1 | 01:01:39 | |
This weekend, Beth’s heading down to Huntsville, Alabama to help celebrate the 40th anniversary of Space Camp! Space Camp has been inspiring trainees since 1982, and has been a gateway for the future's astronauts, scientists, and engineers. On this episode, Beth shares her personal story of her very first time attending Space Camp (there would be several more throughout the years) and shares a chapter from her new book highlighting the experience that would forever change her path towards her work and success in the space exploration industry...with just one small obstacle that almost kept her from going… So, like, totally chill and let’s go back to the late 80’s and enjoy this episode to the max!! About Space Camp: Space Camp opened on June 13, 1982, launching what is now an internationally recognized STEM camp with more than one million alumni from all 50 states and 150 international locations. While in Huntsville, Beth and hundreds of alumni and Space Camp supporters will gather to celebrate AND witness the induction of the next class of Space Camp Hall of Fame members. These alumni have made significant contributions in their fields and we look forward to honoring them, featuring outstanding alumni and a fireside chat with members of the Inspiration4 team, the first all-civilian space flight, led by Jared Isaacman, a 1995 Aviation Challenge graduate. Jeffrey Kluger, Editor at Large for TIME magazine, moderating the discussion. Learn more at: https://rocketcenterfoundation.org/about/ About the 2022 Space Camp Hall of Fame Inductees: Camp programs continue to be a gateway for explorers on the frontiers of STEM, and as part of the anniversary celebration, a Space Camp Hall of Fame ceremony will feature these outstanding alumni, former camp staff and friends of Space Camp: Brian Dudas - Boeing 767-400 First Officer, Delta Airlines (Aviation Challenge counselor, 1992) Derek Hodgins - Strategy & Business Development, Lunar Exploration, Lockheed Martin Space (Space Academy Level I, 1994; Space Academy Level II, 1995; Space Academy Level II, 1996) Peter Marquez - Head of Space Policy at Amazon Web Services (Space Camp 1990) Mandy Vaughn - CEO & Founder at GXO, Inc. - (Space Academy Level I,1990; Space Academy Level II, 1991 and 1992) Inspiration4 Team: https://inspiration4.com/crew Jared Isaacman (Aviation Challenge Mach I, 1995) Chris Sembroski (Space Camp counselor 2001) Hayley Arceneaux (Friend of Space Camp) Dr. Sian Proctor (Friend of Space Camp) About the Auston Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer: https://www.hatcherfoundation.org/ About the Cosmic Odyssey Scholarship: https://www.hatcherfoundation.org/spacecamp Stay tuned for another Space Camp story next week, as we continue to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of Space Camp on the Casual Space Podcast! | |||
| 26 Aug 2021 | 134: Frank White on Space Exploration and Human Evolution, 4th Edition of the Overview Effect | 00:43:02 | |
Frank White returns to Casual Space: Author, space philosopher and consultant joins Beth to share a lot of news! A new edition of the Overview Effect is out- and Frank announces a new project coming to you in November! We discuss non-professional space explorers (astronauts?), the need to migrate off Earth, and examine the many interpretations of the Overview Effect.
What is the Overview Effect? From Frank’s book, The Overview Effect, page 2, edition 3 (I’ve ordered my NEW addition, and so should you): The Overview Effect is a cognitive shift in awareness reported by some astronauts and cosmonauts during spaceflight, often while viewing the Earth from orbit, in transit between the Earth and the moon, or from the lunar surface. It refers to the experience of seeing firsthand the reality that Earth is in space, a tine, fragile ball of life, “hanging in the void,” shielded and nourished by a paper-thin atmosphere. The experience often transforms astronaut’s perspective on the planet and humanity’s place in the universe. Some common aspects of it are a feeling of awe for the planet, a profound understanding of the interconnection of all life, and a renewed sense of responsibility of taking care of the environment.
About Frank White Frank has authored or coauthored numerous books on topics ranging from space exploration to climate change to artificial intelligence. His best-known work, The Overview Effect: Space Exploration and Human Evolution, is considered by many to be a seminal work in the field of space exploration. A film called "Overview," based largely on his work, has had nearly 8 million plays on Vimeo.
Since the first edition of his book on the subject was published in 1987, "the Overview Effect" has become a standard term for describing the spaceflight experience. The fourth edition of The Overview Effect, including original interviews with 31 astronauts, is scheduled for publication in 2019.
White considers himself to be a "space philosopher," and has long advocated developing a new philosophy of space exploration. His book on this topic, The Cosma Hypothesis: Implications of the Overview Effect, has just been published. In it, he asks the fundamental question, "What is the purpose of human space exploration? Why has the evolutionary process brought humanity to the brink of becoming a spacefaring species?"
In the book, he shares the idea of "the Human Space Program" as a "central project" that will engage all of us in the process of becoming "Citizens of the Universe."
To Learn More about Frank and his work: frankwhiteauthor.com ORDER YOUR COPY OF THE Overview Effect HERE: https://frankwhiteauthor.com/books And check out the Overview Effect Film Festival… premiering in November 2021~ https://filmfreeway.com/OverviewEffectFilmFestival | |||
| 01 Sep 2023 | 200: NASA’s Sew Sister Jean Wright | 01:10:46 | |
Did you know that the white material on the outside of space shuttles was not metal or glass but actually fabric? Specialized quilts, two inches thick, covered the space shuttles and protected the astronauts from deadly heat and radiation. Jean Wright was one of the eighteen “Sew Sisters” who crafted these thermal blankets, mostly by hand, with incredible precision and skill. From sending letters to Johnson Space Center as a child with crayon-drawn patch ideas, Jean had always aimed to work for NASA, patiently applying and eagerly awaiting for the job she was meant to have, one that would help secure – in a literal sense- the materials that would protect the vehicles carrying the astronauts to space, and secure her place in NASA history… this is the conversation that you must not miss. On this very special 200th EPISODE of the Casual Space Podcast, Beth enjoys speaking with Jean Wright, sharing her inspiring stories from her time at NASA as a “Sew Sister.” Together, Beth and Jean discuss stories from Jean’s newly-released book, Sew Sister: The Untold Story of Jean Wright and NASA's Seamstresses. The book, just like this conversation, unveils both the grandeur of space flight and the intimacy of a needle and thread, and the story of Jean’s childhood passion for space and sewing, and her fascinating work for NASA’s shuttle program. Listen as Beth learns the definition of what schnibbles* are. Note: It's a variant of schnibbles, a far more common term for “scraps,” or “small pieces,” which is heard in parts of the United States that were settled largely by German immigrants. The term comes from German Schnippel, meaning “scraps.” Imagine having the task of cutting the fabric from the 1903 Wright Flyer that went to the Moon with Neil Armstrong, and several shuttle flight- so it could be displayed at the University of Cincinnati . And guess what kind of fabric the Wright Brother’s used for the first flight? A kind of high-end, expensive fabric women would use for their undergarments! “I’m all about fabric!” – Jean Wright, Casual Space Podcast Jean Wright is a former NASA Aerospace Composite Technician- a NASA seamstress. Jean worked with the United Space Alliance at the Thermal Protection System Facility at Kennedy Space Center in Florida. One of 18 seamstresses in this critical role, Jean and her co-workers dubbed their group, “The Sew Sisters”, using machines and hand stitching to build, create and repair thermal protection flight hardware and parachutes. Wright worked on the Endeavor, Atlantis and Discovery space shuttle missions. She also worked on test parachutes and aft-skirt blankets for the Orion spacecraft. When she’s not sewing, Jean is a photographer for SpaceUpClose; www.spaceupclose.com Beth’s Note: I especially loved “Big Mo,” “Sweet Sue”, and “Lurch” - the names of the sewing machines used by Jean and her team at NASA (some from 1914)! More about Jean: Jean says she’s retired, but she’s ever the most incredible NASA advocate, photographer, speaker and representative. Jean remains involved with NASA as a Docent for the Shuttle Atlantis exhibit at the Kennedy Space Center. She is a member of NASA’s Speakers Bureau, representing the organization at civic, professional, educational and public events. She has been a keynote speaker at the MQX Quilt Festival in 2018, Women’s History Month at KSCVC in 2018, Family Day at the Udvar-Hazy National Air & Space Museum in 2016, the International Quilt Festival with Astronaut Karen Nyberg and the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. One of her life’s biggest thrills was being asked by Mark Armstrong to cut and prepare for auction, pieces of historic muslin fabric from the Wright Brothers 1903 Flyer that his father, Neil Armstrong, carried to the moon aboard the Apollo 11 Lunar Module. Pre-order Jean’s book here: https://www.amazon.com/Sew-Sister-Untold-Wright-Seamstresses/dp/0884489825/ref=sr_1_1?crid=35842DQC0D3T2&keywords=sew+sister+the+untold+story+of+jean+wright&qid=1693428497&sprefix=sew+sister%2Caps%2C103&sr=8-1 Apply for a NASA Moon tree here: https://www.nasa.gov/press-release/nasa-forest-service-to-share-moon-tree-seedlings-promote-stem And don’t forget to send your story to space at www.storiesofspace.com | |||
| 28 Feb 2020 | 63: Taylor Winkleman: Space Advocate | 01:06:06 | |
There’s no title big enough to hold the accomplishments and aspirations for Taylor Winkelman. What has this woman NOT done? Just read her bio. Professor at Georgetown University School of Medicine. Legislative Assistant. Veterinarian. Army Sergeant. Advocate for space policy in Washington D.C. In general, Taylor works to make our world a better place for all of us. And, in typical Taylor fashion, why stop with the world? Let’s bring the benefits of the UNIVERSE- the many benefits that space exploration brings us - available to all. Taylor will lead the way.
About Taylor, in her own words:I am currently working as a consultant for health security and humanitarian outreach issues in the Washington, DC area. I previously served as a Legislative Assistant in the office of Senator Edward J. Markey, primarily working on foreign relations, military and veterans issues, science and space issues, and global health issues. I also contributed to agriculture, animal rights, and veterinary issues within the context of our office's work. I paid particular attention to humanitarian crises, international development, human rights, the outer space treaty, and global health issues such as cholera, malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS. | |||
| 22 Apr 2022 | 160: Satellites & Earth Day with Exo-Space co-founder Mark Lorden | 01:09:16 | |
Happy Earth Day! Satellites improve our life on Earth by providing valuable data about our incredible planet. How exactly do satellites work? What kind of data do we need to improve, save, and protect our Earth? Here’s your 1-0-1 on satellites! From how they work, how they acquire power, how they navigate in orbit, and how they help us all benefit from the data they provide back to us on Earth! Mark Lorden is our expert guide as the co-founder and Chief Business Development Officer of Exo-Space, where he and his team are working to leverage their expertise in A.I., machine vision, and satellite design to offer software and hardware packages that can withstand the harsh environment of space. Together, Beth and Mark discuss roller coasters, satellite hardware, CubeSats, how satellites can help us fight fires, space startups and how the public can actively participate in space innovation! "To us, space presents the opportunity for the betterment of human society -- both on the Earth's surface, by gaining holistic awareness of activities and conditions to better inform policy and action, and in the depths of the universe, by expanding the frontiers of humankind. The development of the commercial space industry that's happening right now represents massive steps toward a better tomorrow." Learn More about Mark Lorden: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-lorden-799a9967/ Learn more about Exo-Space at: https://www.exo-space.com/ Support/ Invest in Exo-Space at Spaced Ventures here: https://www.spacedventures.com/ | |||
| 09 Aug 2024 | 235: Through These Doors - Ed Van Cise | 00:54:09 | |
Have you ever wondered what it takes to guide astronauts through the challenges of space exploration, ensuring their safety and mission success? Our special guest today is none other than Ed Van Cise, NASA's 78th Flight Director, known by his call sign "Carbon Flight." Ed's passion for space began at an early age, fueled by his visit to Space Camp® and inspired by Apollo 16 Moonwalker Charlie Duke. He shares his remarkable journey from a curious young camper to a respected leader at NASA's Johnson Space Center, where he has worked as the Lead Flight Director for several aspects of the International Space Station (ISS). In this episode, Ed discusses the challenges and triumphs of working in mission control, the importance of teamwork and leadership in space operations, and the future of human space exploration. He also offers valuable advice for aspiring space professionals and reflects on the impact of Space Camp on his career path. Join us as we delve into Ed's fascinating experiences, from his first memories of Space Camp to his current role in shaping the future of space exploration. This episode is filled with inspiring stories, insightful discussions, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to be a modern-day flight director at NASA. Follow Us on Social Media: Instagram: @casualspacepodcast Facebook: Casual Space Podcast YouTube: Casual Space Podcast
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| 20 Apr 2023 | 192: Humans to Mars Summit Preview and Yuri’s Night Space Coast Wrap-Up | 00:39:49 | |
Do you want to see humans on the surface of Mars by the mid-2030s? Explore Mars, Inc.’s annual conference, the 2023 Humans to Mars Summit (H2M) takes place on May 16-18, 2023 at the National Academy of Sciences Building in Washington, D.C. This event is already shaping up to be the largest H2M yet, featuring leaders from NASA, innovators, policy experts and elected officials, STEM professionals, artists and musicians, members of the entertainment community, and more presentations from throughout the industry. ONLY on the Casual Space Podcast, Beth Mund and returning guest Chris Carberry, Explore Mars CEO, provide a insider preview as to what’s to be expected at this year’s event! CASUAL SPACE LISTENERS can receive 10% OFF your ticket to the H2M Summit with the code: CASUALMARS https://www.exploremars.org/summit/ “It is time for the space community to inject a sense of urgency into our common goal of sending humans to Mars,” notes Explore Mars CEO Chris Carberry. “H2M 2023 will not only highlight the steps that need to be taken to assure that NASA, industry, Congress and the Administration, and international partners will do what is necessary in order to achieve this goal by the mid-2030s, but also how we can inspire and harness non-traditional business and other players to become our partners in this effort.” The Artemis Accords. Returning to the Moon and on to Mars. Innovations that benefit the Earth now. Ensuring a diverse and inclusive future in space. Architecture and policy on the Moon and Mars. These are just a few of the themes being presented at H2M (Humans to Mars Summit). So join us! You’ll be sure to learn and enjoy the resources presented at this influential conference. More about Explore Mars and the Humans to Mars Summit:: https://www.exploremars.org/summit/ About Chris Carberry Chris Carberry is CEO and co-founder of Explore Mars, Inc. a nonprofit which was created to advance the goal of sending humans to Mars within the next two decades. The organization also encourages the use of STEM curriculum in the classroom to instill a desire to pursue space exploration for future generations. Carberry is a well-respected expert and influential director of strategic alliances in the space community and has been responsible for growing many partnerships, grants and sponsorships for leading industry organizations. His innovative ideas and vast knowledge regarding space have given him a political presence when it comes to policymaking concerning the space related matters. Currently, as Explore Mars Executive Director, he acts as the main liaison for efforts and project ventures. He has been an international spokesperson on behalf of various space related entities on numerous occasions. Prior to joining Explore Mars, Carberry served as Executive Director to The Mars Society. In his early career, he acted as a member of the Steering Committee where he organized congressional outreach efforts around the country. He also played a part in congressional lobbying events such as the 2007-2010 Space Budget Blitz, the 2007 Moon-Mars Blitz, the 2006 Space Blitz, and the Great 2006 Mars Blitz as chairman and co-coordinator. In more recent years, he has led successful international conferences including the ISS and Mars Conference in Washington, D.C. and Strasbourg, France, and the Women and Mars Conference in Washington, D.C. In 2012, he represented Explore Mars as a delegate to the Mars500 Symposium in Moscow, Russia, and is spearheading the Humans to Mars Summit in Washington, DC in May 2013.He currently serves as Chairman of the Steering Committee for the Space Exploration Alliance, which is an umbrella group representing 13 space advocacy organizations with total membership of over 700,000 people.
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| 20 Jun 2019 | 30: Telescopes Q & A with Dean | 00:44:47 | |
Introducing our RSE; Resident Space Expert Dean! Beth and Dean enjoy;
“I want to teach the art of seeing an object. Any one can look, but when you’re interested, you’re seeing (an object) for what it is.” “Once you see Saturn, you’ll be hooked. It’s just majestic. The crazy thing for us astronomers, is that it IS that exciting every time you look. And the more you look, the more you learn.”
About Dean: BS Technical Photography MS Astrophysics NASA MER Mars program NASA Public Relations Astronomy instructor & lecturer
Where to find Dean: | |||
| 29 Oct 2020 | 95: Marshall McKellar, Space Attorney | 00:56:37 | |
Marshall McKellar is an attorney in the aerospace industry, currently serving as an Attorney-Advisor in The Office of the General Counsel at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Marshall is also the co-founder of This Side, LLC, a marketing/web development agency in the bio-materials industry. He received a J.D. from the University of Mississippi and a B.A. in history and religion from William Carey University. On the side, Marshall enjoys surfing, flying, and making records with his band, The Devil Music Co.
Where to find Marshall: www.thisside.co
Instagram: @marshallmckellar // @thedevilmusicco | |||
| 23 Oct 2022 | 180: Artemis Official Flight Kit, Sharing the First STORY from the STORIES of Space Project and more | 00:36:57 | |
This is the story of Andromeda Wright. Planet PA-99-N2. The war between the planet of fire and the planet of snow, and the only heroine who would be able to stop the war and change the way people think of stars.,, it’s all part of the VERY FIRST story that’s been selected from the submitted STORIES of Space Project! I’m reading it on the podcast this week, as I will each and every week from now until the end of the year… in addition, I’ll be sharing with you some of the very interesting items that will be sent to the moon as part of NASA’s official flight kit- including patches, pins, stickers and (wait for it…) STORIES!!!! It’s a lovely run through this week you’ll be inspired to look into more, so here are the links for you to follow along, and then learn how to send your story to me to read on the podcast, and then send it to space: The STORIES of Space Project: www.storiesofspace.com NASA Artemis Official Flight Kit https://www.nasa.gov/feature/artemis-i-becomes-cultural-educational-time-capsule-for-trip-around-moon More About the STORIES of Space Project, and how to get YOUR story read on the podcast: https://www.storiesofspace.com/about Stories of Space™ (The STORIES Project) is an open-source project available to a global community of storytellers who wish to connect people to space. Driven by a team of scientists, researchers, communicators, and writers, The Stories of Space Project™ believes that a story-YOUR story-can change the way we explore space. Helping to create a JEDI space – a Just, Equity, Diverse, and Inclusive space – Stories of Space™ is a worldwide project. Everyone – from space enthusiasts to space professionals – can launch a piece of their on-Earth experience into a true outer-space adventure. Selected Stories of Space™ submissions will be cataloged on SD cards (secure digital cards or a tiny flash memory card designed for high-capacity memory and various portable devices) scheduled to fly in 2023. The SD cards are part of a payload test project flown by NASA on a MISSE satellite carrier, provided by Aegis Aerospace, a major small satellite carrier and approved NASA contractor. MISSE is a highly flexible, commercial facility owned and operated by Aegis Aerospace that is permanently installed on the external ISS truss near the solar arrays. After the return flight, stories will be shared on the Casual Space Podcast, hosted by Space Communicator, Beth Mund. | |||
| 15 Oct 2020 | 93: Michal Ziso, Space Architect and Activist | 01:04:49 | |
Michal Ziso is the founder of Ziso, a studio working at the intersection of architecture, innovation, space and human equality. She is also a Space Architect focused on human experience a trailblazer by dealing with social and psychological diversity aspects, and an active member of WiSpace- Israeli Professional Women in Space Association. A visionary architect practicing for almost a decade in Israel and NYC, she has extensive experience in designing skyscrapers and large-scale urban projects. A graduate of the Technion – Israeli Institute of Technology, she also served in the elite intelligence unit 8200 of the Israeli Defense Force. Taken together is a rare combination of creative skills, intelligence data analysis and technical abilities which she manifests as a Space Architect and thought leader. She is a two time TEDx speaker (TEDxISU International Space University, Strasborg, France + TEDxJaffaWomen, Tel Aviv Israel), frequent lecturer and mentor at academic institutions, organizations and creative tech companies such as ISA- Israeli Space Agency, Ramon Foundation, UNOOSA, Explore Mars, Parsons School of Design, Wix and more. With a mission to create a built environment in space and on earth that fits the needs of its diverse users to ensure not only a surviving but thriving human society, Michal is actively raising awareness for gender and human equality through work with international organizations such as Global Citizen, UN Women, UN SDG global and SDG Israel. ZISO was chosen to be part of the 10 top global initiatives fighting for gender equality by the UN SDG Action Campaign of 2019. As a mentor to young individuals, especially young women, at various forums such as UNOOSA, Space4Women, ProWoman organization and ISE (Israel Startup Experience), Michal promotes courageous creative thinking, innovation through extreme conditions and encourages all to become passionate change agents. A proud activist and avid traveler, Michal is inspired by cultures, diversity, and the various ways people use space on earth and beyond.
Where to find Michal: https://www.theziso.com/ Watch Michal’s TEDx Talks:
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| 15 Jan 2021 | 104: Mund on Mars #2 Featuring: Amanda Knutson and Chelsea Gohd | 01:07:41 | |
Amanda Knutson Chief Engineering Officer, Mission Specialist: Extravehicular Activity Amanda Knutson is an Active Duty US Air Force member, currently working as a Weapons Armament Specialist at Luke AFB. While working full time at Luke AFB, she is studying part-time at Estrella Mountain Community College with plans to complete her Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering at Embry-Riddle. As a high school student enamored of engineering, Amanda was part of the FIRST Robotics Tech Challenge and Lego League programs. In 2017, she earned a place at the World Competition of FIRST Robotics securing the Engineering Inspiration award supported by NASA.
During the SENSORIA mission, Amanda brought and built an entirely new space capsule aquaponics system of her own design that can be used in micro- and fractional gravity conditions with an eye toward long-duration space missions. Additionally, she is developing her own “propellant depots” for deep space missions to Jupiter and Saturn. As a strong STEM advocate, she looks to inspire children and adults alike to strive for to achieve their own ambitions.
Chelsea Gohd Chief Science Officer, Mission Specialist: Documentary Filmmaker Chelsea Gohd is a Senior Writer at Space.com, where she writes articles and creates and hosts videos about everything from climate change to exoplanet exploration and human spaceflight. Prior to her work at Space.com, Chelsea worked as a freelancer, with bylines in publications including Scientific American, Astronomy Magazine and Discover Magazine. She also recently wrote an installation for the American Museum of Natural History's Hall of Meteorites, which included touchscreen exhibit placards and design and text for interactive, in-exhibit games.
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| 23 Feb 2024 | 215: Space Solar Power with Author and Physicist John Mankins | 00:39:36 | |
Our future in space is going to be radically different with the implementation of space solar power. According to John Mankins, space solar power is an energy application that’s going to happen in the coming decade(s); the only question is, who will build it? John Mankins has made his case. It’s a case for space solar power. John’s more than qualified to make this case, too. He’s a leading international expert in the field of space solar power, the author of the book, "The Case for Space Solar Power,” and John worked at NASA for 25 years. While at NASA, he led NASA’s studies of space solar power, and conducted advanced concepts studies, and managed R&D projects for exploration and development. On this episode of Casual Space, John explains how space solar power is not only doable, it’s affordable, and it can be a part of our not-so-distant future. The Case for Space Solar Power book available here: https://www.amazon.com/John-Mankins-Space-Solar-Power/dp/B00N4IXV06/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr= More about John Mankins John C. Mankins, President of Artemis Innovation Management Solutions LLC is an internationally recognized leader in space systems and technology innovation, and as a highly effective manager of large-scale technology R&D programs. Mr. Mankins’ 25-year career at NASA and CalTech’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) ranged from flight projects and space mission operations, to systems level innovation and advanced technology research & development management. He is also well known as an innovator in R&D management. For example, building on the original NASA ‘technology readiness level’ (TRL) scale for technology assessment (defined first with 6 or 7 levels in the 1970s), he extended the scale to flight systems and operations in the late 1980s (TRLs 8 and 9), published the first detailed definitions of the TRLs in 1995, and promoted the use of the scale by the US Department of Defense in the late 1990s. Before leaving NASA, Mr. Mankins was the manager of Exploration Systems Research and Technology within the Exploration Systems Mission Directorate with responsibility for an $800M annual budget, involving more than 100 individual projects and over 3,000 personnel. For 10 years, he was the manager of Advanced Concepts Studies at NASA, and the lead for critical studies of space solar power, highly reusable space transportation, affordable human exploration approaches, and other topics. He was the creator or co-creator of numerous novel concepts, including the ‘MagLifter’ electromagnetic launch assist system, the Internet-based NASA ‘Virtual Research Center’ the ‘Solar Clipper’ interplanetary transport vehicle, the ‘SunTower’ space solar power system, the ‘Hybrid Propellant Module’ for in-space refueling, the ‘HabBot’ mobile planetary outpost architecture, the Advanced Technology Life cycle Analysis System (ATLAS), and others. In recognition of his accomplishments, he has received numerous awards and honors, including the prestigious NASA Exceptional Technology Achievement Medal (of which he was the first recipient). He holds undergraduate (Harvey Mudd College) and graduate (UCLA) degrees in Physics and an MBA in Public Policy Analysis (The Drucker School at Claremont Graduate University). Mr. Mankins is a member of the International Academy of Astronautics (IAA) and Chair of the Academy Commission III (Space Systems and Technology Development); and a member of the International Astronautical Federation (IAF), the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA), and the Sigma Xi Research Society. Mr. Mankins is an accomplished communicator, including political, programmatic, technical and lay audiences. He has authored or co-authored more than 80 published papers, reports and other technical documents, and has testified before Congress on several occasions, and has been consulted on R&D management and space issues with organizations in the U.S. and internationally.
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| 05 Aug 2021 | 131: Mund on the Moon: Featuring JJ Hastings, Commander, LunAresX Team | 00:28:29 | |
Did you know that the people and environment around you that you interact with can impact and even change the inside of your gut flora?
Dr. JJ Hastings has found that in many of the past analog astronaut studies, there’s been a convergence- an evolution- between crew members and their environment, one that’s been seen on the International Space Station as well. These studies have shown how the immune system of a particular astronaut is responding to a specific environment, and JJ is working to showcase how this strong connection between the microbiome and the microflora will impact us in while in space!
JJ’s work at LunAres (and in most analog missions) is to model the method of collecting and monitoring biological samples from the crew in order predict what we think will happen to us humans on long-duration space flights (like Mars).
Biology + Genomics + Machine learning = Interrogating what it means for a machine to be creative with your own (biological) data- it’s all in a day’s work for Dr. J.J. Hastings, our LunAresX Mission Commander! On this episode, we’re together INSIDE the LunAres habitat discussing what it means to gather biological data while in an isolation study- what the data has potential to be used for, and I discover what secret rations our mission commander has been keeping from us….
“When we participate in an analog, we are intrinsically in a more controlled environment. And as an analog astronaut, we represent a diverse and self-selecting crew that is looking for astronaut like or expeditionary like experiences, and while we may not necessarily represent the general public, we are contributing the science that will greatly IMPACT the general public.” -JJ Hastings from the Casual Space Podcast
About JJ Hastings Dr. Jaden Hastings is an extremophile in every regard. Her field research takes her to every corner of the globe from pole to pole, into caves, and across the ocean. As a Research Fellow at Cornell, JJ studies microbial flora from extreme environments- both in space and on Earth. She is also an expert in machine learning and biodesign, with roles in multiple startups that aim to make living on and off Earth more sustainable. JJ is a professional artist, with formal training in Fine Art, and has exhibited her work across the US, Europe, India, Asia and Australia. JJ served as Commander of SNESORIA M1 and as the Program Director for the SENSORIA Program. | |||
| 30 Jan 2020 | 59: NASA Successes from Failures Part 2; Manned Missions | 00:47:20 | |
Our nation’s space agency has experienced many incredible human feats (landing a human on the moon, walking in space, assembling an International Space Station, etc.) as well as three very public manned missions that resulted in heroes’ lives lost. In this episode, Beth and Dean continue the second part of this discussion about NASA’s Successes from Failures to include the manned missions; Apollo 1, the Challenger space shuttle, and Columbia STS-107. Beth worked at NASA Johnson Space Center during the Columbia tragedy, and Dean worked at NASA during the loss of Challenger, and share both their unique perspectives from these events, and the changes they watched NASA implement after the extensive accident investigations. At the end of this (at times difficult) conversation, Dean and Beth look at the “planned anomalies” that NASA and commercial space flight companies will experience, working towards future missions’ safety and success.
About Apollo 1: https://history.nasa.gov/Apollo204/ About Challenger: https://history.nasa.gov/sts51l.html About Columbia STS-107: https://www.nasa.gov/subject/3308/sts107 | |||
| 28 Jan 2021 | 106: Mund on Mars Part 4 Featuring: Artist Richelle Gribble | 00:47:43 | |
RICHELLE GRIBBLE is a multidisciplinary artist exploring planetary connectivity. Her work explores networks and systems-based investigations to reflect the ways human impact, technology, and environment collide. She has had solo shows in Los Angeles, New York, Japan, and international orbit around Earth etched on satellites and aboard rockets. She has exhibited at renowned art fairs including Art Market San Francisco, Texas Contemporary, and Miami Project and had her artwork illuminated on a LED screen in Times Square NYC. Gribble has completed 17 art residencies as part of her project The Nomadic Artist, where she travels the world to reflect social and environmental changes across the globe and off-planet. Awarded residencies include Planet Labs, Biosphere 2, The Arctic Circle Residency, Awagami Factory and many more. Work presented in a TEDxTrousdale talk “What is our Role within a Networked Society?” and published in The Creator’s Project, The Atlantic, Artillery, Hyperallergic and VICE. She is the Founding Director of SUPERCOLLIDER, an art + sci + tech exhibition platform and satellite initiative and co-founder of Beyond Earth, an artist collective exploring frontiers of art and space. She is a Scholar for the Kepler Space Institute examining the arts and humanities in space and is a Planet Ambassador at Planet Labs, an Earth-imaging satellite company devoted to use space to help life on Earth. Find Richelle on Twitter at @richellegribble View her artwork at richellegribble.com
“With every stage in my life, I’ve been shifting my perspective.” -Richelle Gribble on Casual Space Podcast About what Richelle is looking to achieve while on her “Mars” simulation: “I’m really prioritizing creative research while I am on this mission…I’m here at the habitat because of this interested in exploring art at it’s intersection with space. I have this desire to (eventually) become an art astronaut. I know that at some point, there will be an artist in space, so getting that proper training, doing that analog experience, and preparing mentally and physically to be able to make that adventure and be able to reflect that experience of spaceflight, or even just that process of getting there as reflected in the artwork is going to be an important part of our story as humans.”
“Having artists go to space, having artists go to Mars… we’re inherently extremely resourceful! I think that’s one of artist’s biggest strengths. When you give us restrictions, we get really creative.” “We’re here in a small enclosure. But if you are making art, experiencing art, you travel everywhere, you can go anywhere. When you’re stuck inside a white dome, you turn on a song and you can go beyond. I think that’s going to be so important for these longer duration space flights.” | |||
| 03 Oct 2019 | 43: Making Contact with author Sarah Scoles | 00:41:24 | |
The movie Contact was inspired by scientist, Jill Tarter! Sarah and Beth discuss:
About Sarah Scoles: http://www.sarahscoles.com/ “I'm a Denver-based freelance science writer, a contributing writer at WIRED Science, a contributing editor at Popular Science, and the author of the book Making Contact: Jill Tarter and the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence. A writing portfolio lives here. In previous lives, I was an associate editor at Astronomy and a public education person at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory in Green Bank, West Virginia. When I'm not making sentences or recording our conversations, I enjoy reading short story collections, running weirdly long distances in the wilderness, teaching my dog English, and trying to become a better navigator.” Learn more about SETI: https://seti.org/ Watch Jill Tarter’s TED talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/jill_tarter_s_call_to_join_the_seti_search | |||
| 22 May 2020 | 74: Jennifer Inman Helps Spacecraft Reenter Earth with SCIFLI | 01:06:35 | |
Jennifer Inman helps spacecraft enter the atmospheres of other worlds. She and the Scientifically Calibrated In-FLight Imagery (SCIFLI) team use a bunch of instruments on board a plane while it’s flying, follow a space vehicle’s reentry that’s traveling thousands of miles an hour (think Mach 25) from space back to Earth and find it through a field of view as small as a straw. Then, the SCIFLY team has to observe and keep the spacecraft in the middle of the field of view to gather the data necessary to study. Together on the podcast, Beth and Jennifer talk heat shields, re-entry, Orion, Artemis, Hollywood film makers, and heat imaging and the surprising fact that parachutes on reentry vehicles can be quite challenging, and where she’ll be watching the historic spaceflight mission scheduled for May 27, 2020! About NASA’s Forward to the Moon 20204 Mission: “As we talk about going back to the moon, it occurs to me WE haven’t been to the Moon… our generation has not been to the Moon..it’s important for US to figure out how we’re going to go to the Moon.” -Jennifer Inman on the Casual Space Podcast Did you always know you would work for NASA one day? “When I was 6 years old, I knew I wanted to be an astronaut, a Mom, a teacher, and a waitress on roller skates. If it can’t be MY boots on the Moon, I’m going to daydream and work towards getting others there.” About studying space and science in school: “I took physics on a whim and fell in love with it. It was all the beauty of calculus with answers that had connections to the real world. Once I got to quantum mechanics and relativity, I was hooked! I just loved the way I could look at the universe around me and have my understanding expanded, and just be in awe of the understanding of the universe we find ourselves in.”
Where to find Jennifer and her work at NASA: https://www.innovationnow.us/index.php/2019/03/25/meet-jennifer-inman/ You’ve GOT to learn about SCIFLI: https://www.nasa.gov/feature/langley/how-the-perfect-picture-advances-spaceflight https://scifli.larc.nasa.gov/team-members-organizations/ The SCIFLI team is based at the NASA Langley Research Center in Hampton, VA. In 2007 the HYTHIRM team was formed at the NASA Langley Research Center through the support of the NASA Engineering and Safety Center in order to determine the feasibility of obtaining high quality thermal imagery data of the Space Shuttle during hypersonic atmospheric reentry flight. The outcome of that study convinced the Space Shuttle Program Office to fund the HYTHIRM team to attempt to accomplish the goal of acquiring a single thermal image of the Space Shuttle during reentry. After returning with hundreds of thousands of frames of imagery acquired over an eight minute period of reentry, and after processing that thermal imagery to show that high quality measurements were not only possible but could provide unique and unexpected results, the HYTHIRM team conducted imaging operations on six more Shuttle reentries, the SpaceX C1 Dragon capsule reentry, and more. Every mission has been successful in meeting or exceeding the acquisition and processing of the desired data. SCIFLI for Scientifically Calibrated In-Flight Imagery. The goal is to pursue the development and deployment of state of the art remote thermal, visual and spectral imaging capabilities from land, sea and airborne platforms over a multi-band spectrum.
How the Perfect Picture Advances Spaceflight The researchers working on the Scientifically Calibrated In-FLight Imagery (SCIFLI) team acquire engineering quality data images of spacecraft launches, reentries, flight tests, and parachute tests from aircraft- and ground-based imaging systems. The SCIFLI team comprises members from multiple NASA centers, industry, academia, Department of Defense, and international and commercial partners, and together they support human spaceflight, improve aerodynamic models, and ultimately reduce mission risk. “Our job is to get engineering data using telescopes on the ground or in the air,” said Dr. Jennifer Inman, SCIFLI project manager. “The imagery acquired during a test, launch, or re-entry yields flight-truth data.” The team's core capability is quantitative thermal and hyperspectral imaging using state-of-the-art imaging systems with high spatial, spectral, and/or temporal resolution. “We close the gap between ground testing in wind tunnels, computational fluid dynamics, and flight truth,” Inman said. “Even with the best ground testing, we can’t match every parameter of flight. A flight test allows us to interpret our ground testing data and improve our computational models.” The team has been continuously improving their techniques since starting work in 2007 and has made more than 28 observations in 2019 alone, including parachute drop tests, spacecraft reentries, and rocket launches. “Not just anyone with a high-resolution camera can do this work. We’re sometimes trying to acquire a target at horizon break, when the vehicle is hundreds of kilometers away; you have to get it right the first time because there are no do-overs,” Inman said. Part of mission planning involves determining the best possible optics and lenses specific to the mission; in addition, radiance modelling is sometimes required to predict optimal sensor settings. To help sensor operators make these kinds of informed decisions, researcher Richard Schwartz created a virtual environment tool that takes into account parameters like focal length, relative angles between imaging target and imaging platform, exposure time, and aperture setting, to enable pre-configuration of the sensors which provides the sensor operators with a baseline plan for acquisition and tracking. He then incorporates mission-specific information like aircraft and/or test vehicle geometry, velocity, latitude, longitude, and altitude to generate synthetic imagery to allow the team to get the data every time. The needs of the customer dictate the type of datasets the researchers pursue. The team has imaged seven Space Shuttle reentries, the return of JAXA's HAYABUSA spacecraft, the launch of several SpaceX rockets, the return of SpaceX Demonstration Mission 1, the return of three Commercial Resupply Services capsules, and dozens of tests of SpaceX Crew Dragon parachute systems required for crewed operation certification. Over the last two years, the team has been conducting observations for Orion and both of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program partners -- SpaceX and Boeing. Many of these tests have occurred in the Mojave and Great Basin deserts, and have involved testing to qualify parachutes for returning crewed vehicles to Earth. During these tests, darts, weigh sleds, Parachute Test Vehicles (PTV, a lower fidelity version of the Crew Dragon capsule), or boilerplate capsule models, are dropped from helicopters, balloons, or out the back of a cargo aircraft. The SCIFLI team is charged with capturing imagery that reveals intricate details of how the parachutes behave. “Parachute performance is incredibly reliable under the loads and speeds involved in something like skydiving, but spaceflight occurs at higher speed and is much more challenging. The dynamic pressures are higher, so you need parachutes that can withstand higher impulse forces, and the air is thinner, which makes parachute inflation a less predictable process,” Inman said. “In addition, this higher performance requires parachute systems that are far more complex, with multiple parachutes deploying in several stages.” The SCIFLI team is slated to do more work in 2020 with the Commercial Crew Program as it prepares to once again launch astronauts from US soil, with JAXA on the return of Hayabusa II from asteroid Ryugu, and with the Space Launch System and Orion Programs in preparation for Artemis and NASA’s return to the Moon in 2024 and journey to Mars. Kristyn Damadeo
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| 27 May 2022 | 163: NASA Astronaut, Author and Artist: Nicole Stott | 00:34:41 | |
Nicole is an astronaut, aquanaut, artist, mom, and now author of her first book Back to Earth ~ What Life In Space Taught Me About Our Home Planet - And Our Mission To Protect It. She creatively combines the awe and wonder of her spaceflight experience with her artwork to inspire everyone's appreciation of our role as crewmates here on Spaceship Earth. Today on the Casual Space Podcast is Beth’s conversation with Nicole recorded earlier this month, in preparation for the Analog Astronaut Conference in Tucson, Arizona, where Nicole shares a variety of thoughts about analogs, what it was like to live under the sea, and seeing our beautiful Earth from Space. More about Nicole Stott: She is a veteran NASA Astronaut with two spaceflights and 104 days as a crewmember on both the International Space Station (ISS) and the Space Shuttle. Personal highlights of her time in space include performing a spacewalk (10th woman to do so), flying the robotic arm to capture the first free-flying HTV, painting a watercolor (now on display at the Smithsonian Air & Space Museum), working with her international crew on science that is all about improving life on Earth, and of course the life changing view of our home planet. She is also a NASA Aquanaut. In preparation for spaceflight she was a crew member on an 18-day saturation dive mission at the Aquarius undersea laboratory. Nicole believes that the international model of peaceful and successful cooperation we have experienced in the extreme environments of space and sea holds the key to the same kind of peaceful and successful cooperation for all of humanity here on Earth. On her post-NASA mission, Nicole is a co-founder of the Space for Art Foundation --- uniting a planetary community of children through the awe and wonder of space exploration and the healing power of art. Follow Nicole and her art here: https://www.npsdiscovery.com Back to Earth: What Life in Space Taught Me About Our Home Planet―And Our Mission to Protect It In her book, Back to Earth, Stott imparts essential lessons in problem-solving, survival, and crisis response that each of us can practice to make change. She knows we can overcome differences to address global issues, because she saw this every day on the International Space Station. Stott shares stories from her spaceflight and insights from scientists, activists, and changemakers working to solve our greatest environmental challenges. She learns about the complexities of Earth’s biodiversity from NASA engineers working to enable life in space and from scientists protecting life on Earth for future generations. Ultimately, Stott reveals how we each have the power to respect our planetary home and one another by living our lives like crewmates, not passengers, on an inspiring shared mission GET THE BOOK: Get your copy of Back to Earth here: Back to Earth: https://www.amazon.com/Back-Earth-Planet_And-Mission-Protect/dp/1541675045 And, you can learn more about Analog Astronauts and our missions at: https://www.analog-astronaut.com/ | |||
| 22 Sep 2023 | 202: Exploring Antarctica with Tara Sweeney | 01:06:09 | |
Tara Sweeney is a United States Air Force Academy graduate, a Space Camp Hall of Fame inductee, a corporate leader in advanced technology test and evaluation events, a former crew member on parabolic research flights, a private pilot, and a graduate of SpaceKind training. She has been instrumental in establishing and executing the Cosmic Odyssey Scholarship as a mentor to Niko Blanks. In addition to being a proven leader, entrepreneur, and STEM mentor to many organizations, individuals, and students, Tara is a field geologist who recently returned from a 102-day Antarctic science expedition to McMurdo Station, the West Antarctic Ice Sheet, Thwaites Glacier, and the McMurdo Dry Valleys. She is currently working on PhD research related to rocket seismology, impact cratering, and field techniques and technology in preparation for extravehicular activity on the lunar surface. As a matter of fact, Tara Sweeny and her team laid out the largest number of seismometers in the history of Antarctic exploration and scientific achievement (deploying 457 seismometers)! Why is this important to Tara? In her current research as a Ph. D candidate, she’s investigating using a similar seismic array on the Moon, on Mars, to understand the human influences of our presence on other planetary bodies and here at home. We discuss how seismometers work, Antarctica adventures, Moonquakes, Earthquakes, and Marsquakes, milkshakes and being wicked awesome! Where to find Tara On Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/sweeneytl On LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/taralsweeney/ More Wicked Awesomeness about Tara Tara Sweeney has been inspiring children and adults to see the wonder of space exploration and the importance of the STEM fields that make it possible for nearly four decades. She has served as CEO, President, Interim Executive Director, COO, CSO, and Vice President, of technology test and evaluation organizations focused on operations in austere and hazardous environments for national defense, homeland security, and intelligence community projects. Tara is a retired United States Air Force Special Operations Command Officer. She has engaged in both military and civilian aviation activities, including as a single-engine aircraft pilot, a glider student pilot, a helicopter maintenance officer, a parabolic flight coach, and a parabolic flight attendant. Tara has accumulated approximately five hours in microgravity while conducting space-based research experiments and training participants how to experience reduced gravity. She previously served as the leader of the world-renowned STEM education program, Space Camp, at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center and was inducted into the Space Camp Hall of Fame in 2018. Tara holds degrees from the United States Air Force Academy, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and Regis University. She is currently pursuing her doctorate at the University of Texas at El Paso. Tara is from Fitchburg, Massachusetts, and has twice been inducted into the Fitchburg High School Athletic Hall of Fame as an Individual Inductee and as a Team Inductee. She presently lives in El Paso, Texas, with her wife, Dr. Jennifer Bishop, and their dog, Sylvia.
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| 11 Apr 2019 | 20: Award Winning Sci-Fi Writer C. Stuart Hardwick | 00:48:35 | |
In this episode, Beth and Stuart laugh about:
Key Takeaways:
“All stories are about people. I look for what fits my technical knowledge, but mostly I look for characters.” “Anybody who can’t take rejection, should not be in a creative field.” “As a science fiction author, my primary goal in a story is to reveal the reader, and learn something about yourself.”
About C. Stuart Hardwick: Stuart Hardwick is a winner of the prestigious Writers of the Future contest and the Jim Baen Memorial Short Story Award. His work regularly appears in Analog Science Fiction & Fact, as well as Galaxy's Edge, Forbes.com and Mental Floss, among others. A southerner from South Dakota, Stuart grew up creating radio dramas and animated shorts before moving on to robots and ill-conceived flying machines. He's worked with the creators of the video game Doom, married an aquanaut, and trained his dog to pull a sled. | |||
| 15 Feb 2024 | 213: Jan Spacek - Searching for Life in the Universe | 00:26:54 | |
Jan Spacek is an explorer both on Earth and beyond. He has worked in the fields of astrobiology, electrochemistry, nanoscience, genomics, and proteomics searching for life within our solar system. Jan is an astrobiologist working with renowned scientist Steven Benner on expanding the genetic alphabet. In this episode of Casual Space, Jan discusses his transition to astrobiology, his work on projects related to the search for life on Mars and Venus, and the potential for private space missions. Jan explains the importance of planetary protection, the challenges of distinguishing between Earthly contamination and Martian life, and the implications of discovering life for future human missions. When he’s not looking for life on Mars, or why Venus is yellow, Jan is busy freediving or bicycling across Australia. (!) Follow Jan’s critical thinking about life in the universe at The Primordial Scoop https://primordialscoop.org/, a blog devoted to discussing questions related to synthetic biology and astrobiology and asking the big questions about where life began and how. Jan has worked in the field of electrochemistry of modified and natural DNA at the Czech Academy of Sciences and the Central European Institute of Technology. He has also visited the Ege University (Izmir), the Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (Aarhus), the Department of NanoEngineering at UCSD, and the Foundation for Applied Molecular Evolution (Alachua). He presently develops life detection devices, from coronavirus to Venusians and Martians, at the Firebird Biomolecular Sciences LLC. Outside of science, Jan bicycled around the Baltic Sea and across the Australian continent, 7500 kilometers in all. Jan earned a Master’s degree in Molecular Biology and Genetics and a Ph.D. in Genomics and Proteomics (both at Masaryk University in the Czech Republic). | |||
| 28 Sep 2024 | 246: From Space Camp to Space Force with Col. Heather Bogstie | 00:44:53 | |
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:
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 beth@casualspacepodcast.com.
*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
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| 20 Aug 2021 | 133: Wonders All Around with Bruce McCandless III | 00:56:51 | |
That famous photo- the one we’re all familiar with- an astronaut in a bright white suit flying untethered – floating, really, above the Earth with the dark contrast of space in the background… that photo has an incredible backstory… and it’s been captured perfectly in an awesome new book by author Bruce McCandless III.
Astronaut Bruce McCandless III is perhaps best remembered as the subject of a famous NASA photograph (below right), flying alongside the space shuttle in the Manned Maneuvering Unit (MMU) -- the first astronaut to fly untethered from his spacecraft… His time as an astronaut encompassed much more than that mission, including serving as the Mission Control communicator for Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin's moonwalk on the Apollo 11 mission. There’s so much more to this iconic photo- and now we can enjoy the story behind the moment from Bruce’s son, Bruce McCandless III in his new book, Wonders All Around. On this episode, Bruce shares his perspective with Beth on what it was like growing up with an astronaut Dad and more right here on this week’s Casual Space Podcast. Both the book -and this conversation- is really good.
About Bruce McCandless III Bruce McCandless III grew up in the shadow of Houston’s Johnson Space Center during the Apollo and Skylab eras, watching Batman and Buzz Aldrin with equal enthusiasm. He graduated from the Plan II Honors Program of the University of Texas and went on to earn an M.A. from the University of Reading in England and a J.D. from the University of Texas School of Law. After teaching at Saint David’s School in New York City, he returned to Austin to practice law and retired in 2019 as general counsel of Superior HealthPlan, the Texas affiliate of Fortune 100 company Centene.
In addition to Wonders All Around: The Incredible True Story of Astronaut Bruce McCandless II and The First Untethered Flight in Space, Bruce is also the author of the science fiction novel Sour Lake (2011), the modern fairy tale Beatrice and the Basilisk (2014), and, with his daughter Carson, a book of light verse for middle schoolers titled Carson Clare’s Trail Guide to Avoiding Death (And Other Unpleasant Consequences) (2017). He has published poems, stories, and essays in a variety of journals, including the Texas Observer, The Seattle Review, The Asian Wall Street Journal, Pleiades, and Consequence, and his book of poems, All of This is Ours, will be published in the summer of 2021 by Kelsay Books. Bruce is an avid runner and mountain biker who spends most of his free time on Central Texas trails. He is also a board member of the Worthy Garden Club—an Oregon-based environmental organization working to plant a million trees in the Pacific Northwest—and the Austin Library Foundation. Bruce and his wife, Pati McCandless, live in Austin
To Learn More about Bruce and his work: First, check out the famous photo here: Bruce McCandless III from the NASA website: https://www.nasa.gov/image-feature/astronaut-bruce-mccandless-on-first-ever-untethered-spacewalk And Bruce III, the author, the attorney, the teacher and more: https://brucemccandless.com.
ORDER YOUR COPY OF THIS GREAT BOOK Wonders All Around HERE: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1626348650/ref=cm_sw_su_dp
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| 30 Oct 2018 | 01: Welcome to Casual Space with Beth Mund | 00:07:52 | |
Welcome to Casual Space, a podcast about the wonders of space. Beth brings us space as it really and truly is, every day in our lives. Beth is a former NASA public affairs officer and shares with us her dream job and its experiences. Beth and her guests explore how space affects your daily life. She tells us the stories and adventures of space that she learned during her time at the Johnson Space Center. In each episode, we will learn about the different jobs that are available right now, and how those jobs will open your world to wonderful intergalactic adventures.
About Beth Mund: Beth’s love for space started as a Space Camp attendee at the Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, where she would return years later as an instructor. After grad school, Beth worked as a journalist, a technical writer for Motorola, and then went on to serve as a Public Affairs Officer for the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. In addition, Beth worked to support the International Space Station program as a communication specialist. In Chicago, Beth worked as a corporate communication advisor to Fortune 50 companies including Allstate and United Airlines. She’s worked as a college instructor, a political advisor, and public relations manager for her hometown city. Beth recently founded Stellar Communications, LLC and travels the country as a keynote speaker- inspiring audiences with her lessons learned from our nation’s space program.
Connect with Beth Mund: Email: beth@bethmund.com
Show notes by show producer/podcastologist: Laura Gray | |||
| 08 Nov 2018 | 05: Laurie Guest Would Make a Perfect Astronaut! | 00:35:41 | |
In this episode, Beth and Laurie discuss:
Key Takeaways:
“I don’t have the answers, I have the right questions.” — Laurie Guest
About Laurie Guest:
Connect with Laurie Guest: Twitter: @laurieguest
About Beth Mund: Beth’s love for space started as a Space Camp attendee at the Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, where she would return years later as an instructor. After grad school, Beth worked as a journalist, a technical writer for Motorola, and then went on to serve as a Public Affairs Officer for the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. In addition, Beth worked to support the International Space Station program as a communication specialist. In Chicago, Beth worked as a corporate communication advisor to Fortune 50 companies including Allstate and United Airlines. She’s worked as a college instructor, a political advisor, and public relations manager for her hometown city. Beth recently founded Stellar Communications, LLC and travels the country as a keynote speaker- inspiring audiences with her lessons learned from our nation’s space program. She’s the host of the Casual Space Podcast, and a self-proclaimed space geek.
Connect with Beth Mund: Email: bethisbeth@me.com
Show notes by show producer/podcastologist: Laura Gray | |||
| 30 Jul 2023 | 196: We’re BACK and Ready to Launch! | 00:28:38 | |
Casual Space is BACK with all new episodes, casual conversations with amazing guests!
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| 29 Feb 2024 | 216: Engineer, Astronaut and Artist Karen Nyberg | 00:47:47 | |
Dr. Karen Nyberg is an engineer, astronaut, and artist who, through nearly thirty years of experience in human spaceflight, has gained an appreciation for the value of working within and across diverse political ideologies, cultural values, and world views to advance critical missions. In this episode of Casual Space, Beth and Karen delve into Karen's journey from learning how to sew by her mother, to creating art inspired by her space missions. Karen discusses her love for quilting, which she began during graduate school, and how the breathtaking views from the space station influenced her artwork. She recounts her interactions with fellow astronaut-artist Alan Bean and the challenges of finding creative time in space and making a special dinosaur quilt for her son. Additionally, Karen shares her experiences with space food, her fabric design work, and her passion for trail running. The episode provides a glimpse into how Karen balanced her professional duties with her artistic pursuits and personal life, both on Earth and in orbit. Check out Karen’s artwork and more: https://karennyberg.com/ About Karen: Karen was selected as a member of the NASA Astronaut Corps in 2000. She made her first trip to space aboard Space Shuttle Discovery in 2008, during the height of International Space Station (ISS) construction, delivering and installing the Japanese Laboratory. On her second spaceflight in 2013, Karen launched on a Russian Soyuz spacecraft and lived and worked at ISS for 166 days. Prior to astronaut selection, Karen worked as an Environmental Control Systems Engineer at the Johnson Space Center where she led several design and analysis initiatives in the areas of space vehicle and space suit thermal and environmental control. Recently retired from NASA, Karen is currently pursuing interests in the areas of conservation and sustainability, fully appreciating the responsibility for innovation and technology to strive to meet those needs. Karen received her undergraduate degree from the University of North Dakota and graduate degrees from the University of Texas at Austin and has been honored with the highest alumni award from each alma mater. Karen lives in Park City, Utah with her husband, Astronaut Doug Hurley, their son, Jack, and two sweet dogs, Leo and Luke.
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| 04 Jun 2020 | 76: Wi-Fi in Space with Brian Barnett and Solstar Space | 00:29:55 | |
Brian is the CEO of Solstar Space Company where they are working to create a ‘Space Wide Web’ to connect everything in space, to everyone on Earth. Solstar’s mission is to build and create the tools necessary to enable 24/7 secure, economical, convenient, two-way, internet-based communications with every “thing” in space, to be the ISP of choice in Earth Orbit and beyond. “We are able to provide a Wi-Fi connection for payloads, and payload specialists, as well as future astronauts, during take off, landing and throughout their spaceflight. In 2018 we sent the first commercial Tweet from Space. Imagine the first phone call during a commercial flight, the first selfie sent from the Kármán line, and the first instant results from payloads on-board a commercial spacecraft. Solstar Space Company can make that happen.” -Brian Barnett
NASA has government-supplied wi-fi for the current astronauts. But what about when commercial astronauts and you and I go to space? We’re going to want to be wi-fi connected, too- along with rovers, robots wi-fi enabled payloads to be connected, too. Brian’s company, Solstar Space, if working on providing world-class customer service, and we believe that this will revolutionize “We enable you to do things for the first time in space. There are an infinite number of things people can do for the first time in space! We did the first commercial wi-fi in space, and the first commercial tweet in space, and I want to fly the first drumsticks in space as the first drummer!” -Brian Barnett from the Casual Space Podcast “Solstar is providing a commercial wi-fi service that people can purchase. More and more people will be flying in space, and wi-fi will be used for things in space- laptops, smartphones, wearable devices that astronauts will want to stay connected to.”- Brian Barnett from the Casual Space Podcast
About Brian Barnett: Brian Barnett barnett@solstarspace.com Brian Barnett is a serial entrepreneur with 33 years’ experience in commercial space, the mobile satellite services industry, as a aerospace technologies at NASA, and at KPMG Consulting as a management consultant. He is Founder and CEO of Solstar Space Co., the first internet service provider for people, Internet of things and machines in space is that is developing technologies to build a Space Wide Web. On April 29th, 2018, Solstar demonstrated the first commercial two-way data and wi-fi hotspot service in space and Tweet from space aboard Blue Origin’s New Shepard crew capsule, using Barnett’s patent-pending technology. Mr. Barnett began his career at NASA/Marshall Space Flight Center where he provided Space Shuttle payload integration services at the Payloads Project Office. He also provided astronaut crew training in the Mission Operations Laboratory for Spacelab missions. At Johnson Space Center, he worked in the Missions Operations Directorate, and later worked on JSC’s 1992 Strategic Plan. He also managed a contract to document all Space Shuttle operations processes as directed by Congress after the Challenger accident. Later, as a management consultant for KPMG’s Space and High Technology group, he wrote dozens of business plans and market assessments for commercial space companies. This is the group that very early and accurately, predicted that GPS applications would grow into the huge market it is today. Barnett led the Team that wrote the initial business plan and helped identify the best location for the spaceport that eventually became Spaceport America in New Mexico. Solstar Space is his third commercial space start-up. He earned a B.S. in microbiology from the University of Oklahoma, a Masters in Administrative Science from the University of Alabama in Huntsville and is a graduate of the International Space University. Mr. Barnett is a classically-trained rock and reggae drummer and is founder and producer of DrumsAstro®, an organization Connecting Artists and Musicians of all Genres to Space and Space Exploration.
About Soltar: www.SolstarSpace.com and www.Solstar.net
Solstar is the leading commercial satellite communications company pioneering the use of WiFi in space. We use existing commercial communications satellite networks in Low Earth Orbit and Geostationary Earth Orbit. We provide space-to-space communications on spacecraft and bi-directional two-way data services for payloaders.
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| 07 Apr 2025 | 261: Steve Matier: Expanding Access to Space with Maritime Launch | 00:30:01 | |
Returning guest Steve Matier, CEO of Maritime Launch Services, joins the podcast to share the latest developments in the rapidly growing satellite industry and how Maritime Launch is shaping the future of commercial spaceflight. As the first commercial spaceport in Nova Scotia, Maritime Launch is poised to provide critical access to orbit for satellite companies worldwide. Steve discusses the increasing demand for launch capabilities, the challenges of global launch site logistics, and how Maritime Launch stands apart. With a prime location on the 45th parallel, a deep-sea port, and a strong regional infrastructure, the site offers unparalleled access to key orbital inclinations. He also explains the significance of the newly signed Canada-U.S. Technology Safeguards Agreement, which enables American launch vehicles and payloads to operate from Canadian soil, opening vast market opportunities. Beyond launching rockets, Maritime Launch is diversifying its operations with suborbital testing, data downlink ground stations, and satellite processing facilities. Steve provides a behind-the-scenes look at their innovative leasing model for multiple launch providers, ensuring a flexible and efficient solution for companies seeking reliable and frequent launch opportunities. About Steve Matier & Maritime Launch ServicesStephen Matier, President and CEO of Maritime Launch Services, is the visionary and driving force behind the development of Spaceport Nova Scotia, a world-class commercial space complex that will launch Canada into the global space industry. A mechanical engineer (Bachelor of Science, University of New Mexico, 1989) and an award-winning former NASA contractor engineering manager (NASA White Sands Test Facility), Matier is leading coordination and approval among provincial, federal, and international governing bodies, securing private financing, leading satellite sales, coordinating launch vehicle integration, and selecting best-in-class commercial firms to support launch operations at Maritime Launch. As part of Steve’s work with Maritime Launch, he is driving the collaboration and partnerships that will support the development of a safe and environmentally sustainable commercial space launch market in Canada. With satellite and launch vehicle clients within Canada and around the globe interested in launching from Spaceport Nova Scotia, Maritime Launch is joining a global industry that will exceed one trillion dollars annually within the next 20 years. While Steve’s day-to-day focus is squarely on developing Canada’s first commercial spaceport, his interest in space extends beyond the technology and the launch itself. Steve has a passion for teaching, which means he is never far from the classroom—whether guest lecturing at a local high school physics class in Canso or presenting to kids at summer programs in Antigonish. He has driven partnerships with St. Francis Xavier University and Cape Breton University and is a supporter of Dalhousie’s cubesat program. His passion for working with schools began in his early career in the Space Shuttle program, recognizing that kids can look up into space and see opportunity for themselves on the ground. Steve is a recipient of the prestigious Silver Snoopy Award, an honor in recognition of outstanding achievements related to human flight safety or mission success. His leadership in Canada’s space sector continues to create new opportunities for commercial space access and international collaboration. Connect with Maritime Launch Services
This episode is a must-listen for space industry professionals, entrepreneurs, and anyone curious about the evolving landscape of commercial spaceflight.
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| 09 Apr 2020 | 68: Sequencing DNA in Space with NASA’s Dr. Sarah Wallace | 01:01:34 | |
A 6th grade science teacher, a field trip to the Cosmosphere, lots of hard work, several advanced degrees, and a NASA internship has all been a influential part of Dr. Sarah Wallace’s journey. Dr. Sarah Wallace has always been in love with space, and through her work at NASA, she’s found her calling. As a microbiologist, Sarah serves as the principal investigator for the Biomolecule Sequencer, allowing DNA to be sequenced in space on board the International Space Station. Talking to Sarah is like talking to your best friend, if your best friend happens to be a super-smart, yet down-to-Earth NASA microbiologist! Beth and Sarah energetically enjoy discussing:
About Dr. Sarah: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FaEqVYw7O3g Taken from adafruit.com: Dr. Sarah Wallace is currently is the NASA Microbiologist and Principal Investigator for the Genes in Space-3 Project aboard the International Space Station (ISS). She works at the NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. Dr. Wallace conducts research to understand how the environment in space alters the behavior of microbes and runs her tests aboard the ISS. This will help us to one day identify microbes in-flight. The recent Biomolecule Sequencer (MinION) that Wallace worked on, showed that DNA sequencing in space is possible.
BONUS SHOW NOTES & QUOTES: On being a female in microbiology: “I had a pretty even split of females and males in my graduate classes, and at my lab here at NASA, we have TONS of female scientists, and it’s really exciting! I have several female colleagues that started with me right out of their undergrad or Ph. D. programs and have blossomed into become these phenomenal scientists! I feel like things are really opening up for anyone who is qualified and passionate, and it’s no longer a stereotypical ‘man’s world’. I got to meet with some of the women from the Apollo mission, and most of them were assistants. Now, females are running the divisions and the directorates, and females leading as subject matter experts in all disciplines. It’s really great to see how big that change has been since Apollo. Sarah attended Wichita State and loved microbiology, and molecular biology. Determined to find a graduate program that had both, Sarah found the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. The NASA connection and fellowships in the life sciences through NASA allowed Sarah to conduct most of her research at the NASA Johnson Space Center for her Ph.D. dissertation.
About Being a Part of the Team to Put the First DNA Sequencer on Station: “If you just stop and think about it, something that’s very complex on Earth, sequencing DNA, has become commonplace in space! We have DNA sequencing in space! We have been sequencing DNA on board ISS since 2016. To date, we’ve done about 30 sequencing runs with about 6 different astronauts. Why that’s important: it’s been not only an incredible achievement, and there are SO many applications… from my area we monitor the station (air and water microbes) and we have no way to do that unless we bring the samples back to Earth, which does not set us up very well as we try to move away from low-Earth orbit and not be dependent on sample return. My team developed a method where we could go all the way from sample to answer not only to fly the sequencer, but we developed all the preparation methods to take a swab of anything really and sequence the microbial DNA from that swab. The things we find are common and they are the same things we find in your room. ISS is incredibly clean.
About What’s Next: “I have colleagues who are interested in getting in the human health domain. We know humans are changing in response to spaceflight. The hows and whys and what’s really going on are not widely known, so this technology can be very powerful in helping us understand this better. Based on an astronaut’s genetic makeup, there could be a “eat this, do this kind of exercise” monitoring to understand if they are responding favorably or poorly to the recommendations (based on the sequencing) and really get into a precision medicine type approach. This (sequencing technology) is definitely something that I see moving into a doctor’s office for everyone’s benefit.
On DNA and RNA sequencing and epigenetics- “Yes, there’s absolutely ways that we ourselves are regulating what genes are turned on or off through these mechanisms, HOW that’s happening and to what responses are the types of questions that we are looking to answer right now.”
On What Happens When Girls Get to Meet Sarah (as a Doctor, as a Scientist, as a NASA researcher for Station): “It’s surreal.” Between all of the amazing opportunities I’ve had since we launched the sequencer in 2016 until now, I’ve had more people ask for my autograph and to take selfies with me.. it’s like, ‘what is happening? I’m just a nerd!’ It’s incredible and it makes me feel so good. NASA has a video series called, “What’s on Board?” and I was fortunate to talk about the DNA sequencer. There was a young girl in the audience interested in science journalism, and she came up to me after the program and said to me, ‘You are NOT what I expected a NASA scientist to be!’ It made me feel really good because obviously I connected with her.”
What’s On the Horizon: “I look forward to when we can address those opportunities with cutting edge technologies, making sure we’re making the environment safe for the crew, and then using these technologies to learn more about what happens to life in space. We are at the cusp of this really exciting time where we know things change, but we don’t really understand the hows and the whys and the next decade is really going to start to shine light into these answers, and I’m excited to see NASA using these technologies to understand what’s happening in space with cellular life.”
MORE!!!! On International Space Station DNA Sequencing: https://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/station/research/news/dna_sequencing https://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/station/research/news/biomolecule_sequencer
KIDS! Students! Check out Genes in Space- YOUR opportunity to fly an experiment in SPACE: https://www.genesinspace.org/
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| 25 Dec 2020 | 102: Dr. Gary Li Perfectly Explains Plasma Propulsion | 00:49:44 | |
Gary Li is currently a spacecraft system engineer at The Aerospace Corporation. He recently graduated with a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering from UCLA in 2020 and a dual B.A. in Astrophysics and Physics from UC Berkeley in 2014. As an NDSEG fellow, he conducted research on advanced materials for plasma rocket and nuclear fusion technologies. During his academic career, he published over 10 papers and received 1 patent. Gary is also passionate about science communication. In 2017, he gave a presentation titled "Can weak plasma rockets get us to Mars?" at TEDxUCLA. He has also published popular science articles on plasma rockets and lunar fuel depots that have been featured on The Conversation, BusinessInsider, and space.com. After becoming a Matthew Isakowitz Fellow in 2019, Gary decided to pursue a commercial space career and set a goal of becoming a science and technology leader in the New Space era. He believes that humanity will hit two enormous milestones in the coming decades: a sustained human presence on the moon and the first human on Mars. Plasma rocket technology is sure to play a major role in making that happen.
Where to find out more from Gary Li and his work, as mentioned on the show: You can find Gary on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-li-1b301047/ and:
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| 02 Sep 2022 | 174: Will Green is making your Space Suit | 01:09:21 | |
“We are in a space renaissance right now, but with that comes new challenges. This is especially true for spacesuits.” Will Green is a Ph.D. student at the University of North Dakota. He is collaborating on research with NASA that is centered on applying breakthrough technologies to push the boundaries of what is possible with spacesuits. Will has taken part in analog missions at UND’s Inflatable Lunar/Martian Analog Habitat as a mission commander and an EVA ground control officer. Follow Will and his work on Instagram at: spacesuit_will And enjoy this clip: Beth and Will talk about how claustrophobic wearing spacesuits can be… and we loved watching this BBC reporter “have a moment” with his spacesuit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q3AXhN3Wo0g | |||
| 09 Nov 2024 | 252: Anna (Hanna Sav) Harutyunyan: Armenia's First Analog Astronaut and Founder of Rocket Space Academy | 00:41:13 | |
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: Resources Mentioned:
Connect with Hannah:
If you enjoyed this episode and would like to share, I’d love to hear it! YOU CAN HELP US SEND STORIES TO SPACE! Please visit our GoFundMe campaign, and help send more stories to space! https://gofund.me/62f1ff87 You can follow and share in the socials,
or email me at beth@casualspacepodcast.com. *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
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| 04 Mar 2021 | 111: For All Mankind Creator, Ron Moore | 00:52:03 | |
If space exploration didn’t happen the way you envisioned it, go back and rewrite the story. For All Mankind is an incredible new sci-fi series on Apple TV+ created and written by Ronald D. Moore, Matt Wolpert and Ben Nedivi. If you have not yet discovered this intense and dramatic show, here’s why it’s worth binge watching immediately- it’s an alternate history depicting "what would have happened” if the global space race never ended after the Soviet Union succeeds in the first crewed Moon landing ahead of the United States.
In this episode of the Casual Space Podcast, Beth asks Emmy Award-winning screenwriter and television producer Ron Moore (Star Trek; Battlestar Galactica and Outlander), about the challenges presented when telling (rewriting) the alternative history of America’s space race, and why this show moved Beth (many times) to tears. When will we see a woman walk on the moon? Can art imitate life to influence our next space race? How in the world did Ron and his team perfectly recreate historic Mission Control at NASA’s Johnson Space Center? All this and more waiting for your ears to enjoy in this episode of Casual Space!
A moment from the show: Beth: How do you think people will react when we witness a woman walk on the Moon for the first time? Ron: “I think when a woman sets foot on the Moon, that is going to be a real seminal moment. I think it’s going to move people, I think people will all gather around their TV sets just like they did in 1969 to see it happen… it means something… especially in the context of this event not having happened for so long, that when women do it, it will be a major event! -Ron Moore from Casual Space Podcast
To watch every episode from every season of For All Mankind, go to: https://tv.apple.com/us/show/for-all-mankind/umc.cmc.6wsi780sz5tdbqcf11k76mkp7
Follow Ron on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/writerRonDMoore or on Twitter at: @RonDMoore
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| 12 Feb 2022 | 151: Writing about Space with Emily Carney | 00:48:58 | |
Emily Carney is an award-winning writer, editor, and public speaker specializing in spaceflight history. She’s also the co-host of the Space & Things podcast, and she’s the founder of the Space Hipsters Facebook group. Today on the show, Beth asks Emily how her love for space and talents as a writer began, how and when she’s most effective at writing, and what advice she may have for future space writers. AND, Emily shares a couple of classic astronaut adventures, too. About Emily: Emily Carney is a spaceflight enthusiast and author hailing from Saint Petersburg, Florida. Her first vivid space memory was seeing Columbia launch in late 1981 (STS-2). Even though she was very young (three years old) and the launch was 140 miles away from where she stood, she’ll never forget it. From then on, she was obsessed with the space shuttle, and spaceflight in general. In 1997, Carney enlisted in the United States Navy, and at one point worked as a nuclear propulsion mechanical operator aboard the USS George Washington (CVN 73). When she was honorably discharged in 2003, she went back to college and earned a degree in education. She only taught for a brief time, but after she left the education field, her passion for spaceflight was reignited. Carney worked as a freelance writer from 2008 to 2011, and during that time she started a spaceflight blog, This Space Available (accessible via https://space.nss.org/category/this-space-available/). Fun fact: the late Gene Cernan (Gemini 9A, Apollo 10, and Apollo 17 astronaut, also known as “The Last Man on the Moon”) once asked her, “What the hell is a space blog?” Read and enjoy Emily’s work
In 2011, Carney wanted to start a Facebook group for space enthusiasts, but was struggling to find a good name. Her husband, Steve, suggested “Space Hipsters” as sort of a sarcastic placeholder, but the name stuck. The group grew more quickly than she could imagine, and at present time it totals over 27,800 members. Space Hipsters boasts members from all around the world, and includes space enthusiasts, writers, artists, scientists, engineers, aspiring astronauts, and even a few actual astronauts. | |||
| 22 Nov 2018 | 07: Through the NASA Lens: A Discussion with NASA Photographer Mark Sowa | 00:53:17 | |
In this episode, Beth and Mark discuss:
The unique behind the scenes perspective as witnessed by a NASA photographer The opportunity Mark created when he didn’t fit "traditional pre-defined roles" in school Watching space movies without a bias (is this even possible)? Some of the most memorable moments NASA gave us, and how we share them with the world
Key Takeaways: Mixing art with science is not only possible, it greatly benefits our perspective. Documenting the good days can be rewarding, and documenting the difficult days can share a true perspective. Space exploration is for everyone, and NASA has made all images shared available to explorers big and small!
About Mark Sowa: https://www.annenbergphotospace.org/person/mark-sowa/
Photographer Operating eight different camera systems, the NASA photography team captures images, HD video, high speed digital motion picture, time‑lapse and spherical 360 panoramas as a record of research and development at NASA. The wide range of multimedia products produced by Sowa’s team not only record humankind’s efforts in space exploration but inspire the public.
Connect with Mark Sowa: Twitter: @marksowa Website: https://www.annenbergphotospace.org/person/mark-sowa/
About Beth Mund:
Beth’s love for space started as a Space Camp attendee at the Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, where she would return years later as an instructor. After grad school, Beth worked as a journalist, a technical writer for Motorola, and then went on to serve as a Public Affairs Officer for the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. In addition, Beth worked to support the International Space Station program as a communication specialist. In Chicago, Beth worked as an corporate communication advisor to Fortune 50 companies including Allstate and United Airlines. She’s worked as a college instructor, a political advisor, and public relations manager for her hometown city. Beth recently founded Stellar Communications, LLC and travels the country as a keynote speaker- inspiring audiences with her lessons learned from our nation’s space program. She’s the host of the Casual Space Podcast, and a self-proclaimed space geek.
Connect with Beth Mund:
Email: bethisbeth@me.com Website: bethmund.com Facebook: @BethMund
Show notes by show producer/podcastologist: Laura Gray | |||
| 02 Nov 2022 | 181: The Roddenberries | 01:10:43 | |
This band is on a mission: To boldly go where no star band has gone before, mixing pop culture with rock-n-roll theater, comedy, and sci-fi awesomeness to unite and entertain multiple generations of fans throughout the nerd-o-sphere. Insert Star Trek voice-over voice: Casual Space Podcast formally invites you to experience the artful and entertaining parodies of the classic movies, tv scores, pop rock classics that are recreated by the incredible band members who make up The Roddenberries! This band of like-minded friends have been playing together for over a decade- each influenced by the possibilities of space exploration from watching Star Trek as kids. “Through music and performance, we can express the ideas of Star Trek and of Gene Roddenberry's vision of a brighter, more united and inclusive tomorrow. With a generous helping of comedy thrown in.” – The Roddenberries Band On this episode of Casual Space, Beth and Chad join band members Bill Tayoun and Beth Kellner to learn their origin story, how they write and shape their clever lyrics into the best songs, and how they found time during COVID to create some of the best videos and performances we’ve ever seen. The Roddenberries are THE galaxy’s premier sci-fi party band, and you’re going to want to enjoy them ASAP! | |||
| 14 Jun 2024 | 230: Imagineering the Future: Disney Innovation and Space Exploration | 00:35:27 | |
This week, in our ongoing summer series, “Summer-ease,” we meet at the intersection of innovation, Disney, and space exploration. Our returning and always insightful guest (and Disney insider), Hannah Stanley, joins us to discuss Disney's innovative culture and its profound influence on space-related endeavors. Why Disney? Disney shares the same pioneering spirit as our nation’s space industry. Like NASA, Disney’s culture from the very beginning has encouraged the application of innovative ideas, leaving unforgettable imprints on various industries, from animation to theme parks and environmental initiatives. We delve into the visionary ideas of Walt Disney, such as the futuristic EPCOT, and the groundbreaking technological innovations that have propelled Disney's unparalleled success. Did you know that Wernher von Braun served as a spokesman for three Walt Disney television programs on space travel, Man in Space?
WATCH: How Disney Built America on the History Channel https://www.history.com/shows/how-disney-built-america “How Disney Built America” is a nostalgia-filled ride that paints a vivid picture of the world of Walt Disney and the history-making empire he and his brother Roy Disney built. Each hour-long episode focuses on a different example of game-changing brilliance in Disney’s history, including creating the world’s most recognizable characters, establishing the animated features industry, revolutionizing the concept of merchandising, and using groundbreaking design and engineering to construct Disneyland, Walt Disney World® Resort, and beyond. Viewers will hear from legendary Disney Imagineer Bob Gurr, a direct hire from Walt who developed over 100 designs for Disney theme park attractions, to gain surprising insights into the unique innovations and struggles involved in realizing the dreams of a visionary.
WATCH: Disney Imagineer Lanny Smoot describes the HoloTile (we mention in this episode): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hyc33U6f8rk
If you enjoyed this episode and would like to share an innovation you are inspired by, I’d love to hear it! Please share it in the socials, LinkedIn - @casualspacepodcast Facebook - @casualspacepodcast Instagram - @casualspacepodcast YouTube - @casualspacepodcast83 or email me at beth@casualspacepodcast.com.
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| 03 Apr 2022 | 157: An Astronaut’s Support Team: Family & Friends Chris Proctor and Brian Riehle | 01:13:13 | |
Last March, family and friends learned of Dr. Sian Proctor’s selection for the SpaceX Inspiration 4 mission and were able to join her along many parts of her incredible journey to space. On this episode, Chris and Brian join Beth to reminisce-and share wonderful moments from this recent adventure- from hearing the exciting news to watching the launch and landing. Here are the personal stories and sincere impressions from Sian’s support team! About Chris: Chris Proctor and his wife Pattie and live outside of Phoenix, AZ. Chris has worked for Progressive Insurance for 28 years! Chris has two sons (Chase 21, & Maverick 18) and 2 stepdaughters (Alex 32, & Nicole 27). Chris loves spending time with his family, hiking, golfing, and traveling. Chris and his entire family enjoyed Sian's extraordinary adventure to space and the opportunity to reunite with old friends and to meet many new friends, too! About Brian: Mr. Riehle has 35 years’ experience in computer systems, including 21 years in Air Traffic Control (ATC) automation systems with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) of which 13 years were in a management position. Prior to entering the Federal Civil Service, he was a field engineer with Sperry Univac, and worked on the ARTS 3 Terminal Automation program. While employed with Sperry Univac, he worked in the ARTS 3 development labs in St. Paul, MN, and installed the ARTS 3 systems at Detroit, Columbus, Cincinnati, Indianapolis and the FAA Technical Center (FAATC). Before going to Sperry Univac, he worked for the Bendix Field Engineering Corporation on the NASA Manned Space Flight Network, and supported 5 Apollo lunar missions as the computer supervisor and data systems supervisor at the Guam and Corpus Christi, TX, Apollo tracking stations. Before that, he was employed by North American Rockwell and worked on the development of the Navy Tactical Data Systems (NTDS). He has held numerous FAA technical management positions in Airway Facilities including the positions of Branch Manager, Assistant Division Manager, Division Manager, and Deputy Director of the Operational Support Program. Don’t forget to listen to previous episodes featuring Sian and Brian! Sian Episode #108 https://www.bethmund.com/casual-space-podcast/2021/2/11/108-mund-on-mars-6 Brian Episode #144 https://www.bethmund.com/casual-space-podcast/20211111/144-brian-riehle | |||
| 12 Jun 2020 | 77: The Convergence of AI and the Commercialization of Space with Hypergiant’s Gary Gattis | 00:50:28 | |
Gary Gattis spent his entire career making video games, AI/Space was a late life industry transition. Why? When Gary decided it was time to move into the next adventure in his professional career, he asked everyone (yes, everyone) two important questions that led him to Hypergiant, where Gary and the team believes that AI is essential to secure our place in the universe via space exploration. “We started looking at ground control, and saw there was a lot of room for disruption.”- Gary Gattis on Casual Space Podcast When it was time to move into the next chapter of Gary’s professional journey, he went to friends and colleagues and asked everyone two questions: “1. What’s the coolest stuff going on in the world, and 2. If you weren’t doing what you were doing, what WOULD you be doing? That was a fascinating time in my life! I was doing 10+ coffee/ lunches a week! It was full time!” “I call it my journey of discernment. Really, three things came out of it. The first was a deeper connection to myself. I was talking to people I’ve known 20-30 years ago- old friends. Second, I got to see myself through other people’s eyes. Third, it really helped me hone my personal brand. It took a lot of external conversations for me to validate [what my personal brand was] through other people. It was a great experience for me, and I highly recommend this experience.” -Gary
Oh by the way, He’s been to Space Force HQ.
About Gary Gattis: Gary is an Interdisciplinary leader guiding people and process to improve our world. Specialties include growth, operations, and management. Founded several companies at the intersection of technology and design, led extremely diverse teams to success. More about Gary and his work and career at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garygattis/ Interesting stuff about Hypergiant from Texas Monthly: Hypergiant aims to help its clients gather and analyze vast amounts of data. You’re working on improving the sensory perception of machines. You’re aiming to launch a network of small satellites gathering data from above. And you’re looking to empower “smart cities,” stitching together data from cameras that are increasingly everywhere Hypergiant does sell—artificial intelligence-enabled software and hardware—and you’ll appreciate Lamm’s problem. Even many people lacking in technological savvy have heard of AI as a force with the potential to shape much of humanity’s future—for better or worse. Some of those people look to get into business with Hypergiant without any real idea of what it is they’re buying. They just know they want some. “It’s like the most addictive drug that no one’s ever had,” says Lamm, who serves as the company’s CEO. | |||
| 16 Jul 2020 | 82: Rocket Engines with Joe Cassady from Aerojet Rockedyne | 00:46:55 | |
Joe Cassady is Executive Director of Space Programs in the Washington DC Operations for Aerojet Rocketdyne. Joe and the AR team help to plan human missions to the Moon and Mars, helping to develop the strategy and architectures for future space and launch systems. Joe and Beth met at the NASA Stennis Space Center and the NASA Michoud Assembly Center in New Orleans for the NASA Artemis Day celebration. Together, Beth and Joe geek out about rocket engines and what it takes to get us to the Moon and Mars and beyond. They discuss the different types of rockets, types of propulsion systems, how building rocket engines is a kind of architecture, and working to shorten the transit time of getting to the places we want to go in space. Learn what the GREEN RUN test is coming up, and why it’s another HUGE milestone in our journey toward our return to the moon. What surprises people most when it comes to rocket engines? Find out all this and more on this episode with Joe! Beth’s favorite quote from Joe on the podcast: “Literally, tens of thousands of people and hundreds of companies are involved- many are small companies that are our suppliers…they’re the real lifeblood of things like this and they are very proud of it. Being able to go out, and go across the country and say to people, ‘The road to Mars and the road back to the Moon starts here, in your town. You’re part of this’. It’s really exciting. More great stuff from Joe: “We’re able to use what we learned on the Space Shuttle Program- some of the very engines themselves on a fleet of orbiters that flew three of the RS-25s that gave us an inventory of engines! Rather than keeping them on the orbiters that went to museums, they removed the flight engines and we’ll be using them for the first few Artemis missions! We went back an equipped them with a new brain, and electronic controller…it’s really neat to see them be available to the nation to get us on this path in an accelerated way. “I’m looking forward to the day we put those boots back on the Moon, and I’m really really looking forward to seeing the first steps taken on the surface of Mars.” About Joe Cassady is Aerojet Rocketdyne's Executive Director for Space in the company’s Washington Operations. He is responsible for strategy and capture activities related to many of the company’s NASA programs, including: the Space Launch System (SLS);the propulsion system for the Orion deep space capsule; Commercial Crew propulsion and power systems; advanced electric propulsion; International Space System (ISS) power system, as well as AFRL and DARPA programs. He also is involved with research activities for next-generation space technology, including additive manufacturing, advanced materials, non-toxic propellants, modular propulsion for small satellites, and nuclear propulsion and power technology efforts. Joseph Cassady joined Aerojet in 1985 and was appointed to his present position in June 2013. Previously, he served in various Engineering and Business Development positions related to advanced propulsion for missiles and spacecraft. He began his career at the Air Force Rocket Propulsion Laboratory at Edwards AFB, where he performed research into the acceleration mechanisms of Magneto Plasma Dynamic (MPD) thrusters as part of an AFOSR graduate program. After graduation, Joseph Cassady continued his research at the AFRPL, where he helped to create the in-house Electric Propulsion Laboratory (EPL). He earned his Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering from the Purdue University. He is the recipient of several technical awards from Aerojet Rocketdyne and outside organizations. Joseph Cassady has authored or co-authored more than 50 papers dealing with mission design, space architectures, and propulsion technology and its applications and holds four patents for electric propulsion technologies. His professional affiliations included the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, where he is an Associate Fellow; the American Astronautical Society; and the Electric Rocket Propulsion Society, where he serves as Vice President. He also serves on the board of ExploreMars, Inc., an organization dedicated to education, STEM activities and outreach related to the exploration of Mars.
Videos and more from this rocket engine conversation: State of NASA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mRvLuM8ZzGc What is the Green Run test mentioned? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ebzxYAIOb-w What is Artemis Core Stage? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IWkBeOqvtWA What is a rocket and how does it work? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jI-HeXhsUIg About AeroJet Rocketdyne: https://www.rocket.com/ “Aerojet Rocketdyne is a world-recognized aerospace and defense leader providing propulsion and energetics to its space, missile defense, strategic, tactical missile and armaments customers throughout the world. Aerojet Rocketdyne's strategic and tactical missile programs defend America, our troops and our allies.” More about Joe and where to find him: Twitter: @MarsJoe Joe obtained his BS and MS in Aeronautics and Astronautics from Purdue University as well as a Graduate Certificate in Systems Engineering from the George Washington University. He has nearly 40 years of experience in various forms of rocket propulsion and mission and systems analysis and has authored more than 60 technical papers dealing with electric propulsion, power and attitude control systems, space architectures and mission analysis. Recently, Mr Cassady collaborated with three Purdue University professors to co-author a new textbook for university level studies entitled Rocket Propulsion. He also serves on the Board of the non-profit Explore Mars, Inc. | |||
| 20 Nov 2021 | 145: Author Patrick Mullane and Astronaut Mike Mullane | 01:15:45 | |
Mike Mullane is a NASA astronaut who has written several award-winning and popular books detailing his space exploration experience. Years later, his son, Patrick Mullane, would also write a popular book about his own unique experience watching his father become an astronaut. Both accomplished veterans, Mike and Patrick sit down with Beth on Veteran’s Day to share some of their (hilarious) stories and (sincere) reflections, and even make a few predictions about the future of space exploration (Dad jokes in space?) on this episode of Casual Space. Don’t miss this one- Mike and Patrick are some of the best storytellers you’ve ever heard!
About Mike Mullane: https://mikemullane.com/ Colonel Mullane was born September 10, 1945 in Wichita Falls, Texas but spent much of his youth in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where he currently resides. He was a child of the space race and in the late 1950’s embarked on his own rocket experiments in the deserts near his home. Upon his graduation from West Point in 1967, he was commissioned in the United States Air Force. As a Weapon Systems Operator aboard RF-4C Phantom aircraft, he completed 134 combat missions in Vietnam. He holds a Master’s of Science Degree in Aeronautical Engineering from the Air Force Institute of Technology and is also a graduate of the Air Force Flight Test Engineer School at Edwards Air Force Base, California. Mullane was selected as a Mission Specialist in 1978 in the first group of Space Shuttle Astronauts. He completed three space missions aboard the Shuttles Discovery (STS-41D) and Atlantis (STS-27 & 36) before retiring from NASA and the Air Force in 1990. Mullane has been inducted into the International Space Hall of Fame and is the recipient of many awards, including the Air Force Distinguished Flying Cross, Legion of Merit and the NASA Space Flight Medal. Since his retirement from NASA, Colonel Mullane has written an award-winning children’s book, Liftoff! An Astronaut’s Dream, and a popular space-fact book, Do Your Ears Pop In Space? His memoir, Riding Rockets: The Outrageous Tales of a Space Shuttle Astronaut, has been reviewed in the New York Times and on the Daily Show with Jon Stewart. It has also been featured on Barnes and Noble’s recommended summer reading list.
About Patrick Mullane: https://www.pjmullane.com/ Patrick Mullane is the Executive Director of Harvard Business School Online. He brings over 20 years of management experience across several industries to the position. As Executive Director, he is responsible for managing HBS Online's growth, expansion in global markets, and long-term success. HBS Online leverages Harvard Business School's reputation for excellence and impact in business education and the broader business community, as well as the vast intellectual property, academic pedagogy, and faculty talent of the School to be the premier provider of high-quality digital business education. Prior to joining HBS Online, Patrick was the CEO of Fabrico, Inc., an industrial manufacturing company that was purchased by Technetics, Inc. in 2014. Subsequent to the sale of Fabrico, he served as vice president and general manager in Technetics' industrial turbine portfolio. Before earning his MBA, Patrick served as a captain in a U.S. Air Force intelligence organization. He has also been an early employee of a technology startup, managed Kaplan Test Prep and Admissions' Washington DC market, and worked for a telecommunications equipment company. | |||
| 13 Feb 2020 | 61: Bill Nye and Beth Mund Celebrate Space Exploration | 00:20:03 | |
Beth shares a Casual Space conversation with the incredible Bill Nye! Together, they enjoy:
About Bill Nye: Along with serving as CEO of the world’s largest independent space interest group, The Planetary Society, Nye is also an internationally renowned and award-winning science educator, television presenter, mechanical engineer, science advocate, and author. He is best known as the host of the PBS children’s science show Bill Nye the Science Guy, and for his many subsequent appearances in popular media as a science educator and advocate. After earning a degree in mechanical engineering at Cornell University, Nye spent more than 20 years working as an engineer for the Boeing Corporation, Sundstrand Data Control (now Honeywell), and other engineering firms in the Seattle area. Drawing on his strengths in science and comedy, Nye went on to create, write, produce, and host the Emmy award-winning television show Bill Nye the Science Guy between 1993 and 1998. He continued his work in television with The Eyes of Nye in 2005 and Bill Nye Saves The World in 2017 and 2018. A documentary film about his life’s work, Bill Nye: Science Guy, was released in 2017 to critical acclaim. Nye has authored several books, including the New York Times Bestseller Undeniable, Unstoppable, and Everything All at Once. In addition to his many other activities, he travels the world and appears on television on a regular basis, sharing his views on the importance of science and space exploration, and inspiring people of all ages to change the world for the better. Where to find Bill Nye: Planetary.org https://www.planetary.org/about/ Science Rules! Podcast: https://www.billnyepodcast.com/
BONUS LINKS AND NOTES FROM THIS CASUAL SPACE CONVERSATION: About Light Sail 2: https://www.planetary.org/blogs/jason-davis/heres-what-we-learned-so-far-ls2.html Learn more about Light Sail 2 from Planetary Radio’s Mat Kaplan on EPISODE 58 of Casual Space! http://bethmund.com/2020/01/23/58-mat-kaplan/
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| 17 Aug 2023 | 198: The Big Book of Mars and More! Fun with Marc Hartzman | 00:58:35 | |
Mars. Mars has fully invaded pop culture, inspiring its own day of the week (Tuesday), an iconic Looney Tunes character, and many novels and movies, from Ray Bradbury’s Martian Chronicles to The Martian. It’s this cultural familiarity with the fourth planet that continues to inspire advancements in Mars exploration, from NASA’s launch of the Mars rover Perseverance to Elon Musk’s quest to launch a manned mission to Mars through SpaceX by 2024. Perhaps, one day, we’ll be able to answer the questions our ancestors asked when they looked up at the night sky millennia ago. Or, we’ll just listen to this conversation with Marc Hartzman! Author of The Big Book of Mars, Marc describes how Mars has been a source of fascination and speculation ever since the ancient Egyptians observed its blood-red hue and named it for their god of war and plague. But it wasn't until the 19th century when “canals” were observed on the surface of the Red Planet, suggesting the presence of water, that scientists, novelists, filmmakers, and entrepreneurs became obsessed with the question of whether there’s life on Mars. If there IS life on Mars, I bet they’ll enjoy reading about themselves in Marc’s book! In addition to his books about UFOs, ghosts, Mars, Oliver Cromwell's embalmed head, weird things on eBay, sideshow performers, and unorthodox messages from God, Hartzman has written for Mental Floss, HuffPost, AOL Weird News, AllThatsInteresting.com, The Morbid Anatomy Online Journal, and Bizarre magazine. He's discussed oddities on CNN, MSNBC, Ripley’s Radio, History Channel’s The UnXplained, the Travel Channel's Mysteries at the Museum, and dozens of podcasts. More of his love for the unusual can be found on his site, WeirdHistorian.com. Outside of these projects, Hartzman earns a living as an award-winning advertising creative director. Marc is also a STORIES of Space Project Ambassador and story contributor! Want more cool stories about fun and weird stuff? Listen to Marc’s Podcast, the Weird Historian! https://www.weirdhistorian.com/the-podcast/ Enjoy The Big Book of Mars: From Ancient Egypt to The Martian, A Deep-Space Dive into Our Obsession with the Red Planet: https://www.amazon.com/Big-Book-Mars-Deep-Space-Obsession/dp/1683692098
We Are Not Alone: The Extraordinary History of UFOs and Aliens Invading Our Hopes, Fears, and Fantasies | |||
| 26 Mar 2020 | 66: Solutions that Inspire Trust with CEO Irene Woerner | 00:50:44 | |
Irene Woerner is no stranger to start ups (she’s built a few) and is a certified space expert; she was the principal investigator on research and ground software on the Pluto missions at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory AND, while at NASA, she led a team of researchers on advanced information systems. Currently, Irene is the Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder of emTRUTH, because she believes in the transformative power of innovative technologies combined with people of excellence to make it happen. Prior to emTRUTH, Irene was a technology consultant to Fortune 500 companies. Beth and Irene finally meet in person at SPACECOM Expo, and share a casual conversation that includes:
“I founded the company on two principals. One, I wanted to do something that I believed in. Two, I wanted to do it with people that I really liked.” -Irene Woerner from Casual Space Podcast About Irene Woerner: Irene Woerner, Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder Irene co-founded emTRUTH, because she believes in the transformative power of innovative technologies combined with people of excellence to make it happen. Prior to emTRUTH, Irene was a technology consultant to Fortune 500 companies. emTRUTH is Irene’s second start-up. Irene spent many years at NASA JPL and was responsible for flight and ground software on the Pluto mission. While at JPL, she also led a team of researchers on advanced information systems. About emTruth: https://www.emtruth.com/ Every company is a data company. Cybersecurity, authenticity, traceability and compliance are all important factors for this data.
Powered by an innovative blockchain technology stack, emTRUTH provides secure and trusted solutions for enduring value.
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| 10 Dec 2020 | 100: Beth and Chad Celebrate 100 Episodes of Casual Space! | 00:28:34 | |
Chad and Beth sit down (literally, in their living room) and reflect (while enjoying a cocktail) on reaching the 100th episode of Casual Space! Beth and Chad talk about:
Thank you to everyone who has helped make the Casual Space Podcast so much fun each week. I sincerely appreciate it! Can’t wait to share with you the next 100! -Beth | |||
| 06 Jun 2019 | 28: 100 Milestones in Lunar History with Astrobiologist David Warmflash | 00:42:43 | |
On this episode, Beth and Astrobiologist Dr. David Warmflash discuss his new book, Moon: An Illustrated History; From Ancient Myths to the Colonies of Tomorrow.
Here are some highlights from both the book and the Casual (Space) conversation:
“Going to the moon will help everyone on Earth. The new mission to go back to the moon is named Artemins (the sister to Apollo). We can get energy from the moon and make things [on Earth] more sustainable.” Dr. David Warmflash
About David Warmflash:
Dr. David Warmflash is an astrobiologist and prolific science writer. He was in the first cohort of NASA astrobiology postdoctoral trainees and served as a member of NASA’s Jupiter Icy Moons Orbiter Science Definition Team. He has collaborated with The Planetary Society on three experiments that have flown in space, including “the peace experiment” that involved an Israeli and a Palestinian student working with Dr. Warmflash as co-investigators. He has published in scientific journals and popular science publications including Wired UK, Scientific American, Discover, Air and Space, Astronomy Magazine, and others. He contributed to the book George and the Blue Moon by Lucy Hawking and Stephen Hawking, and was interviewed for an article in the Kansas City Star concerning the accuracy of the science in the sci-fi TV series Orphan Black.
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| 16 Jan 2020 | 57: Inflatable Antennas and Disruptive Space Innovations with Doug & Julie from FreeFall Aerospace | 00:37:18 | |
“We are addressing the problem of communications, being able to provide big data from small spacecraft.” -Doug Stetson from FreeFall Aerospace When we travel through and explore space, we’re going to need to communicate, and gather a LOT of data. Fast, reliable, low-cost access to large volumes of data is one of the most critical capabilities that will define the future. So the folks at Freefall provide some pretty neat technologies that help move data and help us communicate effectively and quickly. Julie Bonner and Doug Stetson sat down with Beth at SpaceCom Expo in Houston, Texas and highlighted these new technologies, why and how they will “disrupt” and improve communications, and what some of the challenges their company, Freefall Aerospace, will have to overcome, including a LAUNCH later this year.Freefall’s technologies include an All-Sky Antenna (think of an antenna for things on the move like vehicles and ships), an INFLATABLE Cubesat Antenna (think of a small, thin, skinny balloon) and a Smart City Antenna, all enabling data to move quickly- which is going to be important in the space-based communication systems we’ll use. “We are developing some very innovative technologies. That’s a good thing, but one of the challenges is that when you have something that’s what we call disruptive, it has to be not just a little bit better, but a LOT better than the other systems that people and companies are used to using…and it’s a question of proving to the community that the rewards of using this type of new system are worth the additional risk to implement something new.” -Doug Stetson About Doug Stetson:
About Julie: Julie Bonner, Marketing Director for FreeFall Aerospace, connects partners, vendors, and investors to FreeFall’s intelligent antenna systems. She’s created marketing campaigns and collateral for national corporations like Mister Car Wash and Clear Channel Outdoor, to Tucson-based start-ups and non-profits. She has been awarded the Tucson AdFed Next Generation Award for making a significant impact on the advertising industry through leadership, career achievements and personal qualities, which also inspire others to excel. She is also active in Start-Up Tucson, Arizona Technology Council and Local First Arizona. Julie holds a Bachelors of Science in Graphic Design from Drexel University and a Masters in Business.
For more information about FreeFall: www.freefallmovingdata.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/freefall-aerospace/ Did you know… FreeFall Aerospace received the 2019 Innovator of the Year Startup Company award https://freefallmovingdata.com/innovator-of-the-year/ Listen to more! Julie was recently interviewed about marketing for FreeFall: https://youtu.be/20kvGzZ0bt8
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| 03 Nov 2023 | 206: The Artemis Accords- A Discussion with Dale Skran | 01:10:51 | |
The Artemis Accords- A Discussion with Dale Skran What are the Artemis Accords? Are countries starting to “pick sides” as they decide to sign the Artemis Accords? What do the Artemis Accords mean for our future of space exploration, space settlement and space economy? Will the future of space exploration invite us into a collaborative market in space, or a competitive market? Dale Skran is the Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the National Space Society- the preeminent citizen’s voice on space exploration, development, and settlement- and shares his perspective on the Artemis Accords with us on this episode of Casual Space. About Dale: Dale Skran worked 17 years with Bell Labs (AT&T, Lucent Technologies) and continued his career at several companies including Ascend Communications (VP of Enterprise Engineering), Sonus Networks (Director of Engineering), and CMWare (Founder, CEO, COO, and VP of Engineering). He was also a negotiator/ manager at the UN (International Telecommunication Union) where he led the development of international Internet standards for video conferencing and voice services (VoIP). Read more about Dale and find numerous articles and blog posts he’s authored at https://space.nss.org/dale-skran-biography/ Learn more about & become a member the NSS (National Space Society): https://space.nss.org/ | |||
| 10 Jul 2020 | 81: The New Right Stuff with Loretta Hidalgo Whitesides | 00:56:12 | |
Loretta Hidalgo Whitesides is a public speaker, co-creator of Yuri's Night, and an author on space exploration. Whitesides received a bachelor's degree in biology from Stanford and a master's from Caltech, with a particular interest in astrobiology. She accumulated over five hours of weightless time as a Flight Director for Zero-G Corporation, and plans to travel to space as a "Founder Astronaut" on Virgin Galactic's SpaceShipTwo with her husband George T. Whitesides.[1] Beth’s favorite quote from Loretta on the podcast: “I’ve been to a Hollywood movie premier! I’ve been to the bottom of the ocean! I’ve partied with Buzz Aldrin! I’ve done all of these fancy, glitzy, amazing, check-the-box-I’m-a-successful-person-things, and I can assure you, IT DOES NOT MEAN ANYTHING. At the end of the day and on my deathbed, what’s going to matter most is, Do I love myself? Am I proud of myself? Am I proud of who I am? Am I proud of the relationships that I’ve maintained? Have I restored integrity? Have I forgiven people? Have I let go of resentment? That’s what important and that’s what life is really made of, and what I hope people attend to.” “My religion is Jedi.” About wanting to be princess Leia: “She was so courageous, and she was so powerful. I was like, yeah, that’s obviously like what women are! That’s obviously what women should do in the universe, and that’s obviously like what I’m going to be when I grow up.” “We talk about being “successful and miserable” and the transformational journey of being honest. We discuss the many Star Wars references and the influences books and movies and art had on Loretta from a very young age. I ask Loretta if we’re really meant to leave this planet, and if we can afford to make mistakes in space. “When we go to space, we will have to learn how to live sustainably in a closed ecosystem, and how and take care of everyone in our community and to care for ourselves so we are all honored, nurtured, and will help us back on our home world. Space is not s silver bullet. It does not fix us, but it IS an opportunity. I’m saying the most precious resource is the opportunity we have in space is to hit that restart. We can either squander that resource, and we can just do things the way we’ve always done them, or we can take advantage of that opportunity. We have one chance to restart fresh when we go to space. And I want to make sure we’ve done the thinking before we go, and that we make the most of it. About Loretta Hidalgo Whitesides Having dreamed of space since she was a little girl, Loretta wants to use the power of space to shift our perspectives, connect us with each other and our home planet and become the kind of species we would be proud to send to the nearest star. About The New Right Stuff book: (Taken from the website)This book was written for you. It was created to support you in fulfilling what you came to Earth to do. It will take you on a hero's journey, to find your calling, to face your dark side, to be the person you have always wanted to be, to capture your dream and to return home to share the wisdom you have gained from your journey with others. We use space as a backdrop for the whole adventure. Why? Because I love space, many of you love space, and space is a powerful reminder of what we are capable of as a species. Space is also an inspiration for us each fulfilling our piece in creating what Buckminster Fuller called, "a world that works for everyone." I invite you to continue your training here. We each have a unique mission. If you don't fulfill your mission, no one else can. More about Loretta: Having studied astrobiology at Stanford and Caltech, Loretta has worked in the Astronaut Office in Houston Texas, done research on plant life in the Canadian Arctic with NASA, dove to the bottom of the ocean with Titanic Director James Cameron to film the IMAX “Aliens of the Deep,” floated weightless hundreds of times as a Flight Director for Zero Gravity Corporation, studied terraforming Mars with Dr. Chris McKay of NASA Ames, worked for the X Prize Foundation during the $10M winning Ansari X Prize flights in 2004, helped launch the Space Generation Advisory Council in 1999, and Co-Created Yuri’s Night, The World Space Party in 2001. Loretta Hidalgo Whitesides has been a Future Astronaut with Virgin Galactic since 2005. She currently lives in the desert outside Los Angeles with her husband George and their two kids and leads leadership development training for Virgin Galactic staff as well as continuing to give talks and write to help people fulfill on what they came to Earth to do! MORE with Loretta: Space Kind: http://www.spacekind.org/?fbclid=IwAR3EBZt3CpQSqONtOjiEd8tBPVyzkJeSlYgLXkTg5mZIsL4uNkZiJrKUze0 Yuri’s Night: https://yurisnight.net/
TED Talks: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rdJlJ0V-UaA | |||
| 20 Dec 2019 | 54: Inside NASA’s Mission Control with Bill Foster | 00:58:36 | |
Bill Foster is a Ground Control Officer and has supported more than 50 NASA missions from within Mission Control at the Johnson Space Center. He shares his unique perspective with Beth on:
If you would like to hear more about Bill and his work Episode 26 features Bill Foster, Ground Controller in Mission Control Houston, talks about how space communication networks work and what they will look like for missions into deep space, listen to NASA’s “Houston, We Have a Podcast,” Episode number 26: https://www.nasa.gov/johnson/HWHAP/can-you-hear-me-now/ About Bill Foster: Reports to the Flight Director during real time mission support on all matters concerning the Mission Control Center and NASA Integrated Network required to receive and display telemetry, radar data and voice; and works to transmit commands and voice to/from spacecraft carrying NASA and International Partner Astronauts. Bill manages a team of backroom support personnel in the MCC and at various locations throughout the Integrated Network to ensure proper support to human spaceflight. Bill has served as lead Ground Controller (GC) for Space Shuttle Ascent and Entry phases of flight, and currently supports the International Space Station, major upgrades to the MCC and supporting MCC and network requirements for Boeing CST-100 spacecraft.
Learn about NASA’s Mission Control at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v8aWXJeh9R4 And: https://www.nasa.gov/content/johnson-space-centers-mission-control-center-1/#.Xf0470dKg2w | |||
| 19 Oct 2024 | 249: Chris Quigg: Exploring Grace in All Simplicity | 00:48:44 | |
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: Resources Mentioned:
Connect with Chris: Check out the reviews of the book: If you enjoyed this episode and would like to share, I’d love to hear it!
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| 20 Dec 2018 | 11: Space Journalist & Author Rod Pyle | 01:07:18 | |
In this episode, Beth and Rod discuss:
Key Takeaways:
“Don’t just tell us how the mission works, tell us a story.” — Rod Pyle
Connect with Rod Pyle: Website: RodPyleBooks.com Book: Amazon Author Page - Rod Pyle Show: Cool Space News
About Beth Mund:
Beth’s love for space started as a Space Camp attendee at the Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, where she would return years later as an instructor. After grad school, Beth worked as a journalist, a technical writer for Motorola, and then went on to serve as a Public Affairs Officer for the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. In addition, Beth worked to support the International Space Station program as a communication specialist. In Chicago, Beth worked as an corporate communication advisor to Fortune 50 companies including Allstate and United Airlines. She’s worked as a college instructor, a political advisor, and public relations manager for her hometown city. Beth recently founded Stellar Communications, LLC and travels the country as a keynote speaker- inspiring audiences with her lessons learned from our nation’s space program. She’s the host of the Casual Space Podcast, and a self-proclaimed space geek.
Connect with Beth Mund:
Email: bethisbeth@me.com & askbeth@casualspacepodcast.com Website: bethmund.com Facebook: @BethMund
Show notes by show producer/podcastologist: Chelsea Taylor-Sturkie | |||
| 01 Nov 2018 | 03: Beth Meets the Earth Lady, Izolda Trakhtenberg | 01:10:15 | |
About Izolda Trakhtenberg: Born in Moldova, Izolda learned how to communicate in multiple languages through a year-long immigration process. Today, Izolda facilitates workshops that help people tap into and master their leadership, creativity, and communication skills. She worked as an educator for the National Geographic Society. Later, she traveled the world as a NASA trainer. Additionally, she is the author of five books, including, Speak From Within, Engage, Inspire, and Motivate Any Audience. She is also the host of the Tell Your Story Better podcast. Izolda, her husband, and their dog and two cats live in Maryland, USA.
Connect with Guest: Instagram: @IzoldaT
About Beth Mund: Beth’s love for space started as a Space Camp attendee at the Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, where she would return years later as an instructor. After grad school, Beth worked as a journalist, a technical writer for Motorola, and then went on to serve as a Public Affairs Officer for the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. In addition, Beth worked to support the International Space Station program as a communication specialist. In Chicago, Beth worked as a corporate communication advisor to Fortune 50 companies including Allstate and United Airlines. She’s worked as a college instructor, a political advisor, and public relations manager for her hometown city. Beth recently founded Stellar Communications, LLC and travels the country as a keynote speaker - inspiring audiences with her lessons learned from our nation’s space program. She’s the host of the Casual Space Podcast, and a self-proclaimed space geek.
Connect with Beth Mund: Email: bethisbeth@me.com
Show notes by show producer/podcastologist: Laura Gray | |||
| 05 Mar 2025 | 257: Alex Reynolds: Founder & CEO of ATTX | 00:54:44 | |
Alex Reynolds, Founder and CEO of ATTX, joins Casual Space to share his inspiring journey from a childhood fascination with flight to leading a company dedicated to democratizing access to space. Growing up in Missouri, Alex's creativity and curiosity were nurtured in a DIY workshop his mom set up in the family attic—an experience that ultimately inspired the name of his company. From building airplanes as a kid to shaping the future of space exploration, Alex's story is one of passion, persistence, and problem-solving. In this episode, Alex reflects on his work at CU Boulder’s Dream Chaser program, groundbreaking satellite missions, and the launch of ATTX. His company’s mission is to “open space for all through software innovation,” providing accessible, ready-to-use tools that enable startups and smaller organizations to compete in the challenging space industry. Alex also shares how ATTX fosters a culture of innovation by balancing mission-focused work with a supportive, people-first approach to leadership. About Alex ReynoldsAlex Reynolds is the Founder and CEO of ATTX, a company revolutionizing the space industry with innovative simulation and software solutions. With a background in aerospace engineering and years of experience on high-profile projects, Alex brings both technical expertise and visionary leadership to the table. At ATTX, Alex and his team focus on creating tools that simplify the complexities of space missions, empowering organizations to turn their ideas into reality. To learn more about ATTX, visit attx.tech or email Alex directly at alex@attx.tech. Whether you're a budding aerospace engineer, a startup founder, or simply passionate about space, Alex is eager to connect and share his knowledge. Every episode, Beth selects and shares a job listing within the space industry! You can be one of the first to know about unique opportunities by going to our LinkedIn page and social platforms! LinkedIn - @casualspacepodcast YOU CAN HELP US SEND STORIES TO SPACE! Please visit our GoFundMe campaign and help send more stories to space! https://gofund.me/62f1ff87 You can follow and share in the socials,
And if you enjoyed this episode, let Beth know directly at beth@casualspacepodcast.com. Are you interested in having Beth in as your featured speaker for your conference, special event? Audiences everywhere agree; her voice is truly unique, and her programs are stellar. Inquiries for Beth’s availability in 2025 can be sent to beth@casualspacepodcast.com *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 | |||
| 14 Sep 2024 | 244: Unlocking the Secrets of Life in the Universe with Nathalie Cabrol | 00:51:11 | |
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. 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 beth@casualspacepodcast.com.
*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.
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| 07 Sep 2021 | 135: Frank White Part Two | 00:39:53 | |
My conversation with author and philosopher of the Overview Effect Frank White continues - including the announcement of the Overview Effect Film Festival- on this episode of Casual Space.
What is the Overview Effect? From Frank’s book, The Overview Effect, page 2, edition 3 (I’ve ordered my NEW addition, and so should you): The Overview Effect is a cognitive shift in awareness reported by some astronauts and cosmonauts during spaceflight, often while viewing the Earth from orbit, in transit between the Earth and the moon, or from the lunar surface. It refers to the experience of seeing firsthand the reality that Earth is in space, a tine, fragile ball of life, “hanging in the void,” shielded and nourished by a paper-thin atmosphere. The experience often transforms astronaut’s perspective on the planet and humanity’s place in the universe. Some common aspects of it are a feeling of awe for the planet, a profound understanding of the interconnection of all life, and a renewed sense of responsibility of taking care of the environment.
About Frank White Frank has authored or coauthored numerous books on topics ranging from space exploration to climate change to artificial intelligence. His best-known work, The Overview Effect: Space Exploration and Human Evolution, is considered by many to be a seminal work in the field of space exploration. A film called "Overview," based largely on his work, has had nearly 8 million plays on Vimeo.
Since the first edition of his book on the subject was published in 1987, "the Overview Effect" has become a standard term for describing the spaceflight experience. The fourth edition of The Overview Effect, including original interviews with 31 astronauts, is scheduled for publication in 2019.
White considers himself to be a "space philosopher," and has long advocated developing a new philosophy of space exploration. His book on this topic, The Cosma Hypothesis: Implications of the Overview Effect, has just been published. In it, he asks the fundamental question, "What is the purpose of human space exploration? Why has the evolutionary process brought humanity to the brink of becoming a spacefaring species?"
In the book, he shares the idea of "the Human Space Program" as a "central project" that will engage all of us in the process of becoming "Citizens of the Universe."
To Learn More about Frank and his work: frankwhiteauthor.com ORDER YOUR COPY OF THE Overview Effect HERE: https://frankwhiteauthor.com/books And check out the Overview Effect Film Festival… premiering in November 2021~ https://filmfreeway.com/OverviewEffectFilmFestival
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| 11 Apr 2025 | 262: Andrew Parris, Broadcast Television Engineer and Space Communicator | 01:00:50 | |
Andrew Parris, Broadcast Television Engineer and Space Communicator, joins Beth from the Cape for a long-overdue chat about life behind the lens at NASA and beyond. With over four decades in broadcast television and thirteen action-packed years at NASA, Andrew shares his extraordinary journey—from diving with astronauts and filming space shuttle landings, to flying on NASA's "Weightless Wonder." Andrew’s passion for space never fizzled, and today, he's helping others chase their own cosmic dreams through The Inspired 24, a group he co-founded to expand access to the space experience and the Overview Effect. In this episode, Beth and Andrew launch into memories of SCUBA dives at the WETF, share laughs about zero-G adventures gone sideways (literally), and open up about the emotional impact of witnessing spaceflight tragedies firsthand. Andrew also walks us through his recent work with AstroAccess, supporting inclusive microgravity flights, and Copernic Space, sending stories and digital mementos to the Moon. You’ll hear about the human moments behind the missions, the stories you don’t see on screen, and the joyful chaos of bridging the technical with the emotional in NASA’s most public-facing roles. Andrew’s reflections—equal parts heartwarming, hilarious, and humbling—remind us that space exploration isn’t just about rockets and research. It’s about people, passion, and persistence.
More about Andrew Parris: Andrew Parris is a 3-time Technical Emmy award-winning Broadcast Television Engineer, space communicator, and Commercial Astronaut-in-training. He spent 13 years at NASA's Dryden and Johnson Space Centers supporting shuttle and ISS missions, astronaut training, and global documentation efforts—including trips to Russia and the Baikonur Cosmodrome. After his NASA years, he helped launch the first all-HDTV network with Mark Cuban and directed live coverage of STS-114’s launch and landing. Today, he leads The Inspired 24 community, volunteers at Space Center Houston, and partners with space-forward orgs like Copernic Space, MoonDAO, and AstroAccess. He’s flown multiple commercial zero-G flights and is preparing for a stratospheric balloon mission with World View in 2026. Want to connect with Andrew or join The Inspired 24? Head to theinspired24.com. Call sign Titan is always ready to welcome fellow space dreamers aboard. If you enjoyed this episode and would like to share, I’d love to hear it! beth@casualspacepodcast.com Want to hear more about the incredible AstroAccess Zero G Mission? Listen to episode 138 with Zero-G’s Tim Bailey: https://www.bethmund.com/casual-space-podcast/2021/0930/138-tim-bailey You can follow our Casual conversations on Casual Space and share in the socials,
YOU CAN HELP US SEND STORIES TO SPACE! Please visit our GoFundMe campaign and help send more stories to space! Each dollar helps send a story. https://gofund.me/62f1ff87 or email me at beth@casualspacepodcast.com. *Remember!!! You can send your story to space TODAY! The window for STORIES of Space MISSION 03 and MISSION 04 is NOW OPEN! Send your story, for free, to www.storiesofspace.com | |||
| 05 Jun 2022 | 164: UFO Hearings with Special Guest Mark O’Connell | 01:00:00 | |
On Tuesday, May 17, A House Intelligence subcommittee held the first congressional hearing in more than 50 years to focus on military reports of unexplained aerial phenomena (UFOs and UAPs)! This rare event included documents, discussions, videos and testimonies from Pentagon officials, pilots and others- along with the formation of a new organization called, AOIMSG….and YOU KNOW wherever there’s a long space acronym, an episode of Casual Space is sure to follow!!! Join Beth, Chad and special guest Author, podcast host and UFO researcher AND friend of the show Mark O’Connell! From the official congressional transcripts, this is how the hearing opened: “In 2017, we learned for the first time that the Department of defense had quietly restarted a similar organization tracking what we now call Unidentified Aerial Phenomena or UAPs. Last year, Congress rewrote the charter for that organization now called the Airborne Object Identification and Management. Synchronization Group or AOIMSG for short. Today, we will bring that organization out of the shadows. This hearing and oversight work has a simple idea at its core. Unidentified aerial phenomena are a potential national security threat, and they need to be treated that way. For too long the stigma associated with UAPs has gotten in the way of good intelligence analysis, pilots avoided reporting or were laughed at when they did. It’s true, but they are real. They need to be investigated. And many threats they pose need to be mitigated.” Here’s a great article by Axios to get you all caught-up: https://www.axios.com/2022/05/17/congress-pentagon-ufo-uap-hearing and here are the actual transcripts of the congressional hearing if you really want to dig in: https://www.rev.com/blog/transcripts/congress-holds-historic-open-hearing-on-ufos-5-17-22-transcript About Mark: Mark O’Connell bio: Mark O’Connell got his start in television writing for Trek: The Next Generation” (“Timescape”) and “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine” (“Second Sight,” “Meridian,” “For the Cause” and fan favorite “Who Mourns for Morn?”). Since then, he has had feature screenplays optioned and placed in development at Ruddy-Morgan Productions, DreamWorks Animation, and Disney. His comedy screenplay Doug and Dave was in development at Disney with the late Bill Paxton attached to direct. Mark’s first book is The Close Encounters Man: How One Man Made the World Believe in UFOS, a biography of Dr. J. Allen Hynek, famed UFO researcher and inspiration behind Steven Spielberg’s epic film Close Encounters of the Third Kind. The Close Encounters Man was published by Dey Street Books, an imprint of HarperCollins. Mark is currently Co-Executive Producer and on-camera expert on UFO Witness, a reality show now streaming on the Discoveryplus streaming service. The second season of UFO Witness is currently in production. Mark is also on the screenwriting faculty of the College of Computing & Digital Media at DePaul University. Follow Mark on Twitter: @markoconnell_1 And be sure to listen to him on his Far-Fetched podcast: https://ococonnell.podbean.com/ GET THE BOOK: Get your copy of The Close Encounters Man: How One Man Made the World Believe in UFOS, a biography of Dr. J. Allen Hynek, https://www.amazon.com/Close-Encounters-Man-World-Believe/dp/0062484176/ref=asc_df_0062484176/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312090128349&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=15632495319288089556&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy= | |||
| 20 Mar 2022 | 155: Pete Davidson Is Going To Space | 00:49:09 | |
UPDATE! Since this posting, the New York Times has reported that Pete Davidson may NOT be going to space, after all: Pete Davidson, the “Saturday Night Live” comedian and actor, will no longer travel to the edge of space on the next Blue Origin spaceflight, the company said late Thursday. The company had announced this week that its New Shepard rocket would launch on Wednesday, March 23, with Mr. Davidson and five other passengers. But the launch, the company’s fourth with human passengers, has now been rescheduled for March 29, Blue Origin said on Twitter. The company, founded by Jeff Bezos, said that Mr. Davidson, 28, was “no longer able to join” the mission and that a replacement sixth crew member would be announced soon. No further details were given. Pete Davidson is heading to space. The Saturday Night Live star is among the six passengers on the next launch of Jeff Bezos' space travel venture Blue Origin, the company announced Monday. The launch is scheduled for March 23, and Davidson will be the third celebrity on a Blue Origin flight. Beth didn’t tell her friends Chris and Char about this podcast topic discussion until they (willingly?) sat down with Beth and Chad to chat about Pete, and some other fun questions together, including, “Who gets to go to space?” “Should the first private space explorers be required to have a charitable component tied to their mission?” “What can Pete Davidson bring to a space mission,” and “Which celebrity would YOU like to see fly in space?” Answers to all of these questions and more casual conversation on episode #155 of the Casual Space Podcast! About the mission: From the New York Times reporter, Johnny Diaz: https://www.nytimes.com/2022/03/14/science/pete-davidson-blue-origin.html
About Pete Davidson: Peter Michael Davidson (born November 16, 1993) is an American comedian and actor. He has been a cast member on the NBC late-night sketch comedy Saturday Night Live since 2014. Davidson has also appeared on the MTV shows Guy Code, Wild 'n Out, and Failosophy.[1][2] He has performed stand-up comedy on Adam DeVine's House Party, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, and Comedy Underground with Dave Attell, and guest-starred in Brooklyn Nine-Nine.[3] In 2020, he co-wrote and starred in the semi-autobiographical comedy-drama film The King of Staten Island. You’re going to want to watch this: Saturday Night Live Skit featuring “Chad” aka Pete Davidson | |||
| 29 Oct 2021 | 142: Commercial Space Stations! Orbital Reef, Axiom Space, and Starlab | 00:36:47 | |
A mixed-use business park. In space. That’s the description of the newly introduced Orbital Reef Commercial Space Station. More good news, this is not the ONLY commercial space station proposed, there are BIG plans on the LEO horizon… listen as Beth and Chad examine a future of orbiting laboratories providing solutions on, off and for planet Earth.
About Orbital Reef: https://www.orbitalreef.com/ Orbital Reef will be the premier mixed-use space station in low Earth orbit for commerce, research, and tourism by the end of this decade. “Designed for use cases and ideas never before possible, Orbital Reef unlocks LEO by reducing cost and complexity for new kinds of customers. We provide end-to-end services, standard interfaces, and technical support needed by space flight novices: planning, payload development, training, transportation, data analysis, and security for your people or payloads (or both).” Commercially developed, owned, and operated, Orbital Reef opens doors to new markets and catalyzes the growth of a vibrant space ecosystem. It provides an "address on orbit" for use, lease, or ownership that is international and open to all.
Through this giant inspirational and representative Artemis themed Earthwork created by artist Stan Herd, we will honor and recognize African American astronaut Stephanie Wilson who is not only a pioneer but also in the current NASA Artemis group. She could be the first women to set foot on the Moon.
About Starlab: https://nanoracks.com/starlab/ The First Ever Free-flying Commercial Space Station Nanoracks spent the last decade mastering the commercial operation of space stations, meeting customer demand, charting market growth, and self-investing in private hardware on the ISS. Based on this experience, we are excited to introduce Starlab, a continuously crewed commercial platform supporting a business designed to enable science, research, and manufacturing for customers around the world.
To learn more about the business and policy of space, check out Payload: https://payloadspace.com/ To BID on Dr. Sian Proctor’s space art, “Seeker” go here before November 5th: https://www.charitybuzz.com/catalog_items/auction-live-bid-seeker-space-flown-world-traveling-2285701?preview=1 More about the IAC (International Astronautical Congress)https://www.iafastro.org/events/iac/iac-2021/ Article about the 2020 space economy: https://www.statista.com/statistics/662231/space-economy-breakdown-globally-by-sector/ | |||
| 05 Nov 2020 | 96: Artemis Green Run | 00:48:30 | |
NASA is testing the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket’s 212-foot tall core stage- the tallest rocket stage the agency has ever built- with a Green Run test on Earth before launch day. The core stage design will be used for all configurations of the SLS rocket, and the series of eight tests will verify the stage is ready for the first and future Artemis lunar missions. On this episode, Beth speaks with Doug Bradley, RS-25 Deputy Program Manager at Aerojet Rocketdyne, Yassaman Liaghati from Boeing, Tyler Nester, SLS Chief of Staff at NASA MSFC, and Maury Vander, from NASA Stennis to discuss this exciting milestone! The last test is a hot fire test with all four of the stage’s RS-25 engines firing, just as they will during the Artemis I launch. After the firing test at NASA’s Stennis Space Center, the stage will be assembled with the other parts of the rocket and the Orion spacecraft, in preparation for the first integrated flight of SLS and Orion on Artemis I. What IS the Artemis Green Run Test? Start here with this video: https://www.nasa.gov/artemisprogram/greenrun Green Run Overview: https://www.nasa.gov/exploration/systems/sls/sls-core-stage-green-run-tests-critical-systems-for-artemis-I.html
Most Recent Completed Test (Test 5) | |||
| 30 Mar 2023 | 189: State of NASA 2023 & Budget Discussion with Dean Mikolajczyk | 00:53:58 | |
Artemis Generation Exploration. International Space Station Crewed Missions. SLS Test Crew Announcement. MARS Sample Return, Satellite Missions to obtain more of Earth’s Climate Data, Asteroid Detection and Protection, “Green” Aircraft, and a 7.1% increase in the NASA budget to accomplish it all. Last week, NASA Administrator Bill Nelson presented the State of NASA address for 2023. Listen as Beth and Dean walk through the goals for 2023, NASA’s plans to explore the Moon and Mars, monitor and protect the planet, sustain U.S. leadership in aviation and aerospace innovation, drive economic growth and promote equity and diversity within the agency and across the nation, while inspiring the next generation of explorers for the benefit of humanity. There’s lots to learn in this episode, and it’s all fun with our retuning guest and resident space expert Dean Mikolajczyk. Watch NASA’s State of the Agency Address with NASA Administrator Bill Nelson here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yTVxELrVfB0 DO NOT MISS the opportunity to check out Lockheed Martin’s and NASA’s x-59 Supersonic “quiet” jet https://www.lockheedmartin.com/en-us/products/quesst.html
About Casual Space’s Resident Space Expert; Dean Mikolajczyk (and listen to one of Beth’s favorite episodes with Dean on episode #167 “James Webb Space Telescope with RSE Dean Mikolajczyk… Part 2”)
Where to find Dean: | |||
| 10 Oct 2019 | 44: Exoplanets! With Resident Space Expert, Dean Mikolajczyk | 00:46:54 | |
Everything you ever wanted to know about exoplanets! Our Resident Space Expert Dean explains:
About Dean:
Where to find Dean: | |||
| 27 Nov 2024 | 254: Ronak Dave, NASA Johnson Space Center Flight Director | 00:45:16 | |
Ronak Dave is a Flight Director at NASA’s Johnson Space Center who always knew he wanted to work in Human Spaceflight Operations. His journey from a curious engineer to one of NASA’s elite is inspiring. With a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering from Purdue University, his path to NASA was fueled by curiosity, determination, and a little networking ingenuity. From tinkering with appliances in his childhood home to orchestrating critical missions at NASA, Ronak talks about how each experience brought him to work in the space industry. He shares lessons learned in leadership and teamwork while managing a $150 billion spacecraft and working alongside astronauts. Ronak also offers insight into how NASA’s redundancy, preparation, and collaboration principles shape the space program and everyday decision-making. Beyond the control room, Ronak emphasizes the importance of balance and finding moments to disconnect. Whether stepping away to cook, enjoying Purdue basketball games, or practicing the art of turning off work’s ever-present “buzz,” he reminds us that mindfulness is essential—even in a high-stakes role. About Ronak DaveRonak Dave joined NASA in 2011 as a Pathways Intern, becoming a cornerstone of the Flight Operations Directorate. His extensive career includes roles in mission control for the International Space Station, propulsion systems support for Boeing’s Starliner, and leadership in Artemis I and II missions. Selected as a Flight Director in 2022, Ronak now spearheads critical projects like the SpaceX-30 Dragon cargo mission. His team, Momentum, reflects the physics principles he champions and the urgency required to keep missions and people safe. To connect with Ronak or learn more about his work, follow him on X (formerly Twitter) at @Momentum_Flight. YOU CAN HELP US SEND STORIES TO SPACE! Please visit our GoFundMe campaign and help send more stories to space! https://gofund.me/62f1ff87 You can follow and share in the socials,
or email me at beth@casualspacepodcast.com. *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
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| 29 Aug 2019 | 38: NASA Successes from Failures, PART 1 | 01:01:02 | |
In this two-part series, RSE Dean Mikolajczyk shares several examples of how NASA learned valuable lessons from manned spaceflight mistakes including: (Part 2 will feature manned flights and will be posted January 2020)
Show Highlights: As always, expect to enjoy the expertise and fun facts presented from Dean Mikolajczyk, the show’s “Resident Space Expert” as he shares powerful examples of what makes space exploration so challenging when it comes to unmanned missions. This “back-to-school” episode is all about the most difficult kind of learning- learning from our mistakes. Even our nation’s space agency, with more than 60+ years of missions, continues to learn valuable lessons from space exploration. So pay attention! There will be a quiz.
About Dean: BS Technical Photography MS Astrophysics NASA MER Mars program NASA Public Relations Astronomy instructor & lecturer
Where to find Dean: | |||
| 25 Jun 2020 | 79: Space Reporting, Writing and Communicating with Elizabeth Howell | 00:48:56 | |
Elizabeth Howell is a space writer, science consultant and writing teacher based in Ottawa, Canada. She writes about space, science and astronauts, and has even BEEN an astronaut in a simulation on Mars!** Elizabeth writes hundreds a stories a year on the space business, from conferences, from live events and from my own home. You can see her work daily in places like Space.com, Forbes and SpaceQ. Elizabeth’s notable projects include:
*She participated in the Mars Desert Research Station. Run by the Mars Society- researchers go there for 2 weeks with isolated conditions to work and learn and adapt to the environment. She rocked the research. Not so much the cooking… About writing her latest book: “Canada Arm and Collaboration” about the Canadian space program, and it will be published in October. It will be my 3rd book about science that will be out earlier this year… What really made the book easy to write form me- because book writing is terrible- it’s a lot of work and a lot of research- it was the result of 25 years of passion from the Apollo 13 movie just pouring out. what I really wanted to highlight was the behind the scenes work the astronauts do.” – Elizabeth Howell from Casual Space About the story behind the story: “The challenge is that there’s not very much coverage because there’s only about 6 of us (covering space) across the country (in Canada), so I’ve trying to attend as much as possible trying to tell the stories of both the astronauts from the launch, but they do all of these cool things on the ground that nobody talks about! They do underwater missions! They do geological field work! They do inspirational events for children! They have conversations with our Prime Minister! I like to be there and report when they are doing things in between (missions). About being a writer: “I was quite good at writing, it just seemed to come naturally to me. I had this ability to sit down and translate complex ideas into really cool stuff!” About inspiring her students: “There are many ways to do something. If you want to be an astronaut, I tell students that I’ve gone and simulated being an astronaut, I’ve gotten a degree where I was studying astronaut behavior. I’ve written and talked to so many astronauts over the years, so I basically have come as close as I can!”
Where to find Elizabeth and her work: https://elizabethhowell.ca/ On Twitter: @Howellspace Books: https://elizabethhowell.ca/books/ The Science of Time Travel: The Secrets Behind Time Machines, Time Loops, Alternate Realities, and More! The Search of Life On Mars: The Greatest Scientific Detective Story of All Time by Elizabeth Howell and Nicholas Booth And Canadarm and Collaboration: How Canada’s Astronauts and Space Robots Explore New Worlds | |||
| 01 Nov 2024 | 251: Samantha Christensen: Opening the Marley Foundation Astronomy Discovery Center at Lowell Observatory | 00:30:54 | |
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:
Connect with Lowell Observatory:
If you enjoyed this episode and would like to share, I’d love to hear it! You can follow and share in the socials,
or email me at beth@casualspacepodcast.com. *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
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| 08 May 2020 | 72: Air and Space Law with Attorney Rebekah Rounds | 01:01:37 | |
The Outer Space Treaty is vague. Rebekah believes there’s a way to encourage the international community and develop education to balance opportunities for everyone to use and benefit from the resources space can provide. We talk Space Force, NASA, private space companies, international and domestic treaties and everything in between. When it comes to space law and policy, sometimes the answers can be as interesting as the questions. So let’s dive in and discuss!
Valuable resources Rebekah mentions on the show:
About Rebekah: Rebekah Rounds is a Maryland and California-licensed attorney whose private practice focuses on corporate law, start-ups related to emerging technologies and industries, telecommunications, and domestic and international space law and policy. Before graduating with her J.D. from Mississippi College School of Law in 2014, Rebekah served as a legal fellow for the Chairman of the Space Subcommittee in the U.S. House of Representatives, Rep. Steven Palazzo. Under Chairman Palazzo, Rebekah researched international and domestic space law, space law issues related to Federal Acquisition Regulations and Space Act Agreements, and various legal issues pertaining to NASA Reauthorization, commercial space policy, and liability and indemnity regimes for private space launch actors.
Rebekah believes that the future of space activity relies on a well-established education pipeline. | |||
| 04 Apr 2019 | 19: NASA Orion Program with Stu McClung | 00:24:15 | |
In this episode, Beth and Stu discuss: The differences between the retired Space Shuttle and NASA’s (new) Orion spacecraft*
NASA’s work with international and commercial partners has played a large role in building this new vehicle
Since 2006, Mr. McClung has worked at NASA Johnson Space Center in the Orion Crew/Service Module Office. He is currently the Chief of Staff in the Program Planning and Control Office Mr. McClung recently completed his 1 year assignment to NASA Headquarters as the Orion Program executive, representing the Orion Program to internal and external stakeholders. Prior to that assignment, he served as the Functional Area Manager for Mechanical and Pyrotechnic systems and lead for Orion Production and Assembly. a focusing on engineering and supply chain management. Mr. McClung spent seven months in 2010 at the NASA Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans as the Orion Ground Test Article vehicle manager. He also served as the Orion Production Operations Deputy Manager for Exploration Flight Test -1 for nine months at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida... Mr. McClung joined NASA in 1989 in the Orbiter Project Office at Johnson Space Center. He served as project manager through 2005 for orbiter hardware upgrades and safety improvements, including the orbiter docking system, external airlock, and the main landing gear. In 1992, Mr. McClung spent one year at NASA Headquarters in Washington, D.C. where he served as the space shuttle orbiter liaison in the Office of Space Flight
About Orion: NASA’s Orion spacecraft is built to take humans farther than they’ve ever gone before. Orion will serve as the exploration vehicle that will carry the crew to space, provide emergency abort capability, sustain the crew during the space travel, and provide safe re-entry from deep space return velocities. Orion will launch on NASA’s new heavy-lift rocket, the Space Launch System.
Orion on the NASA Website: www.nasa.gov/exploration/systems/orion | |||
| 17 Jun 2021 | 124: The Future of Education in Space with ARES co-founder Mark Wagner | 01:13:38 | |
“How might we prepare today’s students for humanities multi-planet future?” -Mark Wagner, Casual Space Podcast How will we go to school in space? What will we need to learn? What do the “classrooms” look like? And who will be our “teachers?” Mark and the team at ARES Learning have thought about these questions and have come up with some very inspiring solutions!
About ARES Learning At ARES Learning, cadets build the knowledge, skills and mindsets necessary to navigate the great challenges of the future - on this planet or any other. ARES cadets emerge from their experience prepared for jobs that don't yet exist, to use technology that hasn't been invented, and to solve enormous problems we can't foresee. ARES prepares young people to become the designers, builders, philosophers and explorers of tomorrow.
About Mark Wagner, Ph.D. Originally a high school English teacher, Dr. Mark Wagner also served as an educational technology coordinator at the site, district, and county levels. For fourteen years, he then served as CEO of EdTechTeam, a California Benefit Corporation and global network of educational technologists which provides professional development to fifty thousand teachers a year. In this capacity he helped lead the Google Certified Innovator Program since 2006, led a series of conference-style summits featuring Google for Education since 2011, and helped launch Future Ready Schools in 2014. Over this time he also founded or helped lead six influential non-profit organizations. As co-founder of ARES Learning, Dr. Wagner now unites his early love of space exploration (he originally studied Astronautical Engineering as an undergrad) with his career in education technology. He brings a unique combination of experience with constructivist learning theory, school transformation, and space science education. He focuses on student agency, inspiring and empowering students to generate their own solutions to the problems they are most passionate about.
Mark Wagner has a Ph.D. in Educational Technology and a master’s degree in cross-cultural education. His doctoral research focused on the use of video games in education, and specifically on the potential applications of massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs) as constructivist learning environments. He is the author of More Now: A Message from The Future for The Educators of Today (2018). Dr. Wagner is currently engaged in original research for graduate certificates in Space Education and Space Philosophy at the Kepler Space Institute, with expected completion in 2021. | |||
| 02 Jul 2021 | 126: Introducing: Space Drinks Association | 00:19:55 | |
Today on the podcast…. Beth welcomes back Chris Carberry to help introduce Space Drinks Association, a new organization comprised of diverse and unique collection of brewers, distillers, space exploration professionals, farmers, medical professionals, inventors, hospitality professionals, enthusiasts and futurists who are actively advancing the production and consumption of alcohol in space!
Listen as Chris and Beth say “cheers” to the holiday weekend, and to all of the great potential benefits (and potential challenge) that the SDA plans to create for mission success: “To work to encourage, promote and celebrate achievements made in the space science and beverage industries.”
Chris Carberry Carberry is President of the Space Drinks Association and CEO of Explore Mars, Inc. Prior to
And learn more about Explore Mars at https://www.exploremars.org/ | |||
| 31 Mar 2025 | 260: Alan Smale: Blending Science, History, and Imagination | 00:44:40 | |
Award-winning author and astrophysicist Alan Smale joins the podcast to share his unique journey of weaving hard science and historical fiction into gripping alternate-history narratives. From his NASA career studying X-ray astronomy to crafting meticulously researched novels that reimagine space exploration and ancient civilizations, Alan’s storytelling is as rich as the history that inspires it. Alan discusses how his extensive travels and deep scientific knowledge influence his writing, leading to immersive stories like the Clash of Eagles trilogy and the Apollo Rising series. He explores the inspiration behind his latest work, highlighting the Apollo program’s alternate path had space exploration continued at full speed beyond the 1970s. With detailed world-building and intense character development, Alan’s books challenge readers to consider how history might have unfolded differently. Through engaging storytelling, Alan shares insights into the creative process, the importance of critical thinking in science and fiction, and the evolving landscape of space exploration. He also provides a behind-the-scenes look at the editorial process, his approach to writing large-scale narratives, and the personal stories that shape his characters. About Alan SmaleAlan Smale is a physicist and author known for blending history, science, and fiction into compelling alternate-history novels. With a background in astrophysics at NASA, he brings a unique perspective to his storytelling. His books, including Clash of Eagles and the Apollo Rising series, have been widely acclaimed for their meticulous research and captivating narratives. Connect with Alan Smale
This episode is a must-listen for fans of historical fiction, space enthusiasts, and those fascinated by the intersections of science and storytelling.
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| 04 Oct 2024 | 247: Defending Space Through Storytelling with Stuart Hardwick | 01:06:50 | |
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:
Learn more and get a free ebook sampler at:
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 beth@casualspacepodcast.com.
*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
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| 30 Aug 2024 | 240: Through These Doors - Jennifer Heldmann | 00:30:59 | |
What drives someone to pursue a lifelong career exploring the cosmos? In this episode of Through These Doors, Chris Key, Josh Whitfield, and Beth Mund sit down with Dr. Jennifer Heldmann, a NASA planetary scientist whose passion for space began at Space Camp and led to a groundbreaking career at NASA. Jennifer’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. Jennifer's story is a testament to the power of following one's dreams, from her first plane ride to Space Camp in Huntsville, Alabama, to earning a PhD in planetary science. In this episode, she recounts her experiences at Space Camp, where she first realized that a career in space wasn’t just a dream but a tangible goal. Jennifer takes us through her exciting work at NASA, including her contributions to Mars exploration and the search for life beyond Earth. Throughout the conversation, Jennifer reflects on the impact Space Camp had on her life and career, offering valuable advice to young and mid-career professionals on pursuing their passions in the space industry. She also shares her thoughts on the potential discovery of life on Mars and how it could fundamentally change our understanding of the universe. Whether you're an aspiring astronaut, a space enthusiast, or simply looking for inspiration, this episode will motivate you to reach for the stars. Follow Us on Social Media: Instagram: @casualspacepodcast Facebook: Casual Space Podcast YouTube: Casual Space Podcast
About: Dr. Jennifer Heldmann Dr. Jennifer Heldmann is a Planetary Scientist in the Division of Space Sciences & Astrobiology, Planetary Systems Branch at NASA Ames Research Center. Heldmann studies the Moon with a focus on improving our understanding of lunar volatile deposits as well as focusing on lunar geology. She works on spacecraft missions to study ice on the Moon (e.g., NASA’s LCROSS & VIPER missions) and leads teams analyzing data, creating numerical models, conducting field campaigns, and developing cutting-edge hardware and software tools for future planetary mission applications. Heldmann also supports NASA’s Artemis program by providing scientific input and astronaut training to optimize scientific exploration of the Moon on crewed missions.
Have you attended Space Camp or been inspired by similar stories? We’d love to hear about it!
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| 23 Jan 2020 | 58: Falcon Heavy Launch Highlights and Light Sail 2 review with Planetary Society's Mat Kaplan | 00:43:44 | |
Beth and Mat enjoyed sharing their Falcon Heavy Launch experience AND..
About Mat: Mat Kaplan loves hosting and producing Planetary Radio. He was just 17 when he got his first job in broadcasting, yet it wasn't until the 2002 premiere of The Society's popular weekly broadcast and podcast series that he combined his twin loves of space and radio. A Planetary Society staff member for more than 15 years, Mat also plans and manages technical support for our Planetfest celebrations and other major events and webcasts.
Where to find Mat Kaplan: Planetary.org Follow Mat on Twitter at @planrad
BONUS LINKS AND NOTES FROM THIS CASUAL SPACE CONVERSATION: This is the rocket image Beth and Mat reference from the launch YOU CAN’T MISS: #rocketnebula This is the what’s what about NASA’s recent announcement to move forward with the Dragonfly Mission: https://www.nasa.gov/press-release/nasas-dragonfly-will-fly-around-titan-looking-for-origins-signs-of-life
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| 31 Oct 2019 | 47: First All-Woman Spacewalk celebration with Beth and RSE Dean Mikolajczyk | 00:38:43 | |
Christina Koch and Jessica Meir make HISTORY as the first two women to complete spacewalks TOGETHER in space! Beth and Dean review what this means for women everywhere, why this is a significant milestone for women, and how women have been a significant part of our success in space exploration for over 50 years. Beth and Dean discuss many firsts for women in space in this episode and more:
About Dean M: Dean is an American Astronomer who has been gazing at the heavens for over fifty years. From early trips to NASA centers, Dean caught the Space Bug at a very young age. Having many mentors in his quest to become an astronomer, Dean excelled at Physics & Astronomy. The only problem I can see in becoming an astronomer is that I have trouble staying up at night. I was able to get around this situation by getting my Master's in Solar Physics. However, I did end up biting the astronomy bullet by doing research on Quasars and Galaxies. An early instructor of mine once said, “Dean, I don't understand how you can keep looking out the window and still get an "A" in my class." I responded to him by saying, "I hear and understand everything you're saying, but if I have questions, I'll ask. " That was my 6th grade science teacher Mr. Pederson. Dean went on to using major astronomical research centers in the Midwest, such as LARC Lindheimer Astronomical Research Center on the campus of Northwestern University and also Yerkes Observatory of the University of Chicago. Dean published 3 papers on his research. Published in the Astronomical Society of the Pacific. Being very outspoken, Dean was able to land a position at Marshall Spaceflight Center as a Public Affairs Officer. Beside his regular duties of promoting NASA, Dean was able to study computer programming. This led Dean to do minor software programs for the space shuttle. Recruited by the Jet propulsion laboratory in California Dean’s position directly supported the MER program to Mars. Dean continues to actively promote NASA through his lectures to students and space enthusiasts throughout the Midwest. Dean's passion for Space & Astronomy has led him on a quest to educate the public through his classes and lectures on Space & Astronomy.
Where to find Dean:
More news coverage about this historic spacewalk: and https://www.theatlantic.com/science/archive/2019/10/nasa-first-all-female-spacewalk/600331/ and https://www.nasa.gov/press-release/in-space-news-conference-to-review-first-all-woman-spacewalk and https://www.nasa.gov/johnson/HWHAP/women-of-jsc-apollo-to-artemis | |||
| 19 Nov 2020 | 98: Dr. Graham Lau, The Cosmobiologist | 00:56:58 | |
Dr. Graham is the Director of Communications and Marketing for Blue Marble Space, a Research Scientist with Blue Marble Space Institute of Science, the Director of Logistics for the University Rover Challenge, the Host of the NASA Astrobiology and SAGANet show “Ask the Astrobiologist” AND the Research Community Coordinator for the Hypothesis Browser and the Life Detection Forum’s Knowledge Base. *Whew!* *Ask an Astrobiologist airs live on SAGANet and on the NASA Astrobiology Facebook page. People watching the show live can ask questions of our interviewees on either streaming platform or on Twitter using #AskAstrobio.
Check out Graham’s talks, presentations and videos all below- lots of fun here to learn, chat about, and share!
Where to find Graham and pretty much everything he’s doing: https://cosmobiota.com/
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| 02 Sep 2020 | 87: Controlling Risk with Astronaut Capt. Jim Wetherbee | 00:57:29 | |
In 1984, Jim Wetherbee was selected to join NASA in its tenth group of astronauts. Over a twenty-year career, he flew six times on the Space Shuttle. The five-time commander flew two missions to the Russian Space Station, Mir, and two missions to the International Space Station. In 1998, he was appointed as the Director, Flight Crew Operations, specifically selected to improve the flight and ground safety in the astronaut corps. Based on that success, Jim was selected after the Columbia accident to enhance the safety aspects in the organizational culture at the Johnson Space Center, home of NASA’s human space flight program. With thirty-five years of experience in high-hazard operational environments, Jim enjoys consulting with leaders and operators in dangerous endeavors with critical mission objectives. He is the only American astronaut to have commanded five missions in space, and is the only person to have landed the Space Shuttle five times. What an incredible conversation Beth and Jim share about space with SO many great techniques to apply in our every day lives! Here are some of Beth’s favorite moments: On the balance between having confidence and humility: “You must be confident to do the kinds of things astronauts and test pilots do… you have to have the confidence to be able to get in the vehicle and strap in, but you better have the humility to recognize that we’re all humans and we might make a mistake- even as best trained as I am, I might make a mistake. If you have confidence, you’ll make mistakes… If you don’t have humility, you won’t KNOW you’re making mistakes.” Often I ask people, ‘Do you know someone with supreme confidence and insufficient humility?’ We all know those kind os people- and it’s best to avoid those people and avoid their trailing wake of disfunction and debris.” -Jim Wetherbee from the Casual Space Podcast At 35 minutes in, Jim shares his own perspective from flying the space from the shuttle- what surprised him, what he went looking for, and what came full-circle from his goal he set when he was 10 years old. At the end of the podcast, Jim explains what went through his mind and helped him sleep the night before he would launch and start his mission. Here’s more great memories about shuttle launches from Jim: “When you see a rocket launch from a far, and you notice how very slow the rocket/ vehicle seems to be moving up off the Earth… there is NOTHING slow about a launch!!! You get that sense because it’s so far away from the camera, but when you are SITTING IN IT, and it FIRES, and you instantly are accelerating at twice the force of gravity….I try to describe this experience in the book, and it’s exactly analogous to lying down on a hard bench, in an elevator, in a 19-story tall building, having the floor suddenly open up, and you’re dropping straight down 190 feet! The space shuttle feels that that, accelerating, but in the other direction. The launch tower out your window just disappears. You are forced back in your seat with twice the force of gravity, then quickly picks up to three times the force of gravity. I did the math, and at one point, there was more than 800+ pounds pushing on my body as I traveled straight up, and it’s so hard you almost can’t breathe! But you can’t think about it or devote any brain cells towards breathing because your job is to be thinking about the life support, the reaction control systems, the readouts on the computers, making sure everything is working flawlessly, and if it doesn’t and when it doesn’t, you must take action right away.”
You wrote the book, “Controlling Risk in a Dangerous World.” How can we control risk when there’s so much that seem out of our control right now in the world?!?!: Can we predict all accidents from observing the past? Are some unpreventable? We easily prevent potential accidents that are similar to recent occurrences, but preventing accidents that exceed corporate experience seems extraordinarily difficult. Organizations continue to be blindsided by tragedies that no one thought would occur. Yet, in any given postincident analysis, investigators often determine the latest catastrophe was tragically similar to a forgotten previous incident. New rules are promulgated, operating procedures are updated—and the cycle of accidents continues. Organizations must need something more than rules and procedures to prevent accidents.
About Jim Wetherbee: https://www.jimwetherbee.com/about-1 Jim earned a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Notre Dame in 1974. He began his career as a Naval Aviator aboard the USS John F Kennedy, flying the A-7 Corsair. After graduating from the US Naval Test Pilot School, Jim performed flight-testing of the F/A-18 Hornet.
Bringing his experience from the aerospace industry as a former NASA executive and astronaut, Jim joined the oil and gas industry as a Safety and Operations Auditor for BP. Four years later, he was selected as a VP for Operating Leadership. In this role, he supported efforts to improve performance results consistently over the long-term, by emphasizing effective leadership behaviors as a key way to influence and inspire people to conduct safe and high-quality operations.
After successful careers in naval aviation, aerospace, and the oil and gas industry, Jim is passionate about helping leaders and operators perform successfully in hazardous environments.
Get a copy of Jim’s Book here: https://www.jimwetherbee.com/book | |||
| 31 Jan 2019 | 15: Space Illustrator James Vaughan | 00:57:15 | |
Born in 1955, James Vaughan grew up in the idyllic surroundings of a small town near Akron, Ohio. His father was a scientist and director of research for one of America’s largest corporations. His mother was an artist and a poet.
Vaughan completed high school a year ahead of his classmates and in 1972 left for Chicago and college. He studied both photography and journalism and, while still a student, his freelance work appeared in many of the city’s major magazines and newspapers.
After he earned his degree, Vaughan took a job as an assistant with a large commercial studio. Then in 1977, during a long and cold Chicago Winter, he converted an entire floor of an old factor into his first studio.
Over the next twenty-five years, he worked at the forefront of Chicago’s advertising and fashion industry and was commissioned for a wide variety of advertising and editorial assignments. “My original training in photo-journalism served me well,” says Vaughan. “It brought a sense of realism and sincerity to my work. I have always thought of myself as a storyteller. That’s what the word ‘photography’ really means – ‘to write with light.’”
“I can’t say I was much of a financial success,” laughs Vaughan. “Most of the money went to new ideas and experiments. We were all mad-scientists back then, pushing the envelope in search of the next break-through image.”
With the arrival of the 21st Century, and its limitless digital technology, James Vaughan has been able to return to his small-town roots. Now back in Ohio, he has taught at nearby Kent State University and built a new state of the art studio. “This is the most important time for my work. Away from the demands and distraction of the big city I can be even more creative,” he says.
“After all these decades, I finally have the skill and technology to catch-up to my imagination!”
In this episode, Beth and James discuss:
Key Takeaways:
“Surprise! We live in space. Right now, all the time. The idea that we won’t go farther than our front yard is sort of silly. I know there will be ups and downs and trials and tribulations, but it’s inevitable that the human race will expand further and further out into the universe.” — James Vaughan
Connect with James Vaughan: Website: JamesVaughanPhoto.com
About Beth Mund:
Beth’s love for space started as a Space Camp attendee at the Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, where she would return years later as an instructor. After grad school, Beth worked as a journalist, a technical writer for Motorola, and then went on to serve as a Public Affairs Officer for the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. In addition, Beth worked to support the International Space Station program as a communication specialist. In Chicago, Beth worked as a corporate communication advisor to Fortune 50 companies including Allstate and United Airlines. She’s worked as a college instructor, a political advisor, and public relations manager for her hometown city. Beth recently founded Stellar Communications, LLC and travels the country as a keynote speaker- inspiring audiences with her lessons learned from our nation’s space program. She’s the host of the Casual Space Podcast, and a self-proclaimed space geek.
Connect with Beth Mund: Email: askbeth@casualspacepodcast.com
Website: bethmund.com/casualspace Facebook: @Casual Space Podcast
Show notes by show producer/podcastologist: Chelsea Taylor-Sturkie | |||
| 28 Apr 2024 | 224: You’re Never Too Old to Chase Your Dreams- Just Ask Danny Jaques | 00:36:16 | |
Returning guest Danny Jaques has taken students to Space Camps for the past 32 years! He’s been a certified space geek since he watched the last flight of Project Mercury with Gordon Cooper in Faith 7 on May 15, 1963, with his Dad.
Danny started his career in education teaching science and was invited to tour the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama. He was so impressed with the programs, facilities, and people that he decided it would become his mission to share the opportunity with his students. Danny started organizing students in grades 4-12 to attend Space Camp, and since then, has chaperoned over 500 students, with plans to continue for many more years. Because of his work and dedication to so many students, Danny was inducted as a member of the Space Camp Hall of Fame in 2010.
YOU ARE NEVER TOO OLD TO CHASE YOUR DREAMS!
Learn more about Danny and his work on an earlier episode here: https://www.bethmund.com/casual-space-podcast/20230505/194-space-salsa
Order Danny’s coffee, Rocket Ranch Space Salsa, and more here: Website: https://www.dannysrocketranch.com. https://www.facebook.com/DannysRocketRanch https://www.instagram.com/dannysrocketranchspacesalsa https://www.linkedin.com/in/dannysrocketranch/ https://twitter.com/DRR_SpaceSalsa
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| 07 Nov 2019 | 48: Mike French from Aerospace Industries Association | 00:46:05 | |
“[In the space community], you have highly capable people used to working in an environment where you need a team to get it done, and they have an overall sense of the mission – it’s geared toward collaboration- and it’s a very unique aspect of [this] industry.” -Mike French
About Mike French: Mike French is Vice President for Space Systems at the Aerospace Industries Association. As the lead of the Space Systems policy division, Mike works with AIA’s membership to advocate for policies, regulations, and investments that ensure American leadership and strong industry partnership across the civil, commercial, and national security sectors. Mike’s experience in the space industry ranges from advising senior government leaders on space policy, to developing market forecasts and assessments for industry executives, to analyzing major space investments for companies and banks. He previously served as the Senior Vice President for Commercial Space at Bryce Space and Technology, a market analysis and management consulting firm. Mike has also held several federal government positions, most recently serving as NASA’s Chief of Staff, advising the NASA Administrator, White House, and other government leadership on national space policy issues. He received NASA’s Distinguished Service Medal for his service. Prior to serving in government, he practiced law in the defense and aerospace sector in Los Angeles where he advised clients on matters regarding aircraft and aerospace weapons systems. Mike holds a Bachelor of Science in business administration from the Haas School of Business at the University of California, Berkeley and a J.D. from Harvard Law School.
Where to find Mike and his work: https://www.aia-aerospace.org/ Career opportunities and this week’s featured “Job In Space” at: https://www.aia-aerospace.org/careers/ More featured guests from the SpaceCom Expo are coming! Check out who’s presenting what and when at https://spacecomexpo.com/ | |||
| 18 Apr 2019 | 21: Star Wars Celebration with Beth and Chad | 00:43:19 | |
In this episode, Beth and Chad geek out about:
Key Takeaways:
"Everyone who sees Star Wars sees something of themselves within the story.” Beth
SHOW NOTE BONUS LINKS https://www. All things official Star Wars: https://www.starwars. Star Wars YouTube channel: https://www.youtube. Star Wars KIDS YouTube channel: https://www.youtube. My favorite Star Wars podcast, “Collider Jedi Council” https://www.
About Beth and Chad: Beth & Chad have seen every Star Wars movie in addition to several animated series and select comics. They never really lived, however, until they attended the Star Wars Celebration. If you were to visit Beth and Chad on December 20, 2019…don’t. They will be in the theater. Watching Episode 9. Maybe the next day, too. | |||