Astro Ben Podcast

In Episode 97, join us as we journey into the world of astrobiology and space exploration with Dr. Michaela Musilova. Michaela has been the Commander of over 30 simulated missions to the Moon and Mars, in collaboration with NASA and many international organizations. She is currently Global Faculty at the International Space University, Ambassador for Space ScAvengers and the Head of Research of NE...

Kalpana Pot is an actor, writer, host, and science communicator. She's appeared in numerous national commercials and TV shows like Grey's Anatomy, Hot in Cleveland, and Days of Our Lives to name a few, runs popular space-based social media pages, and is a published author. Her latest book, Spaced Out: A Casual Approach to the Cosmos is a general overview of all things space-related mixed with a se...

In this episode, we had the privilege of exploring the profound insights of Frank White regarding the overview effect—a cognitive shift experienced by astronauts when viewing Earth from space. Frank shared with us his journey into the realm of space exploration and his research into this remarkable phenomenon. We delved into the core characteristics of the overview effect, including the sense of a...

In this weeks episode, Ben chats to Meredith Garofalo, a regional Murrow award-winning Broadcast Meteorologist and space correspondent, whose journey into meteorology was ignited by her mother's survival of a tornado outbreak. In this episode, they delve into Meredith's dynamic career, from covering rocket launches to advocating for women in STEM. Join us as we explore her insights on the intersec...

In this episode, we had the privilege of diving into the world of analog space missions with Emily Apollonio, CEO and founder of Interstellar Performance Labs. Emily shared insights into her dynamic leadership journey, her commitment to optimising safety and performance in critical missions, and her dedication to empowering aspiring astronauts. We explored the innovative programs offered by Inters...

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating journey of Susie Martínez, from nail art to space influencer. As a twin sister and daughter of a mechanic, Susie's path to NASA's doors was filled with unique twists and turns. We explore her transition from being one of the only girls studying mechanical engineering at a large university, to finding her niche in the space industry. Susie shares insigh...

In this episode, we have the privilege of chatting with Jeffrey Hill, the Executive Chairman of the renowned SATELLITE 2024 Conference. Jeff shared fascinating insights into the intricacies of running one of the world's largest satellite tech events, highlighting his experiences interviewing space luminaries like Jeff Bezos, Richard Branson, and Elon Musk. Find out how Jeffrey is the most cropped-...

In this episode, we have the privilege of diving into the world of Maynard Okereke, better known as the Hip Hop M.D., a dynamic science communicator and STEM advocate. Ben and "Hip Hop" explored Maynard's journey from civil engineering to award-winning SciComm, highlighting his passion for blending humour, education, and creativity. They discussed the importance of representation in the STEM field...

In this episode, Ben chats to Dr. Mark Wagner, CEO of ARES Learning and a leading figure in space education, to discuss his journey from high school English teacher to space education advocate. With a background in educational technology and a lifelong passion for space exploration, Dr. Wagner shares insights from his book "Space Education: Preparing Students for Humanity's Multi-Planet Future" an...

In this episode, we delved into Dr. Greg Hodgin's groundbreaking work at ZC Institute, where the fusion startup is exploring the possibilities of quantum spacetime distortion for micro-scale fusion and, eventually, faster-than-light warp drives. The "quantum hack" approach, collaboration with research institutions, and the ambitious timeline outlined by Dr. Hodgin shed light on the potential futur...

In this episode, we journey through the vast cosmos with Professor Chris Lintott, a distinguished astrophysicist and presenter of the BBC's 'Sky at Night.' Our discussion revolved around his latest book, "Our Accidental Universe," where Chris eloquently unraveled the accidental nature of astronomical discoveries. From the diverse worlds in our Solar System to the outer reaches of the observable un...

Buckle up, cosmic adventurers! In this episode, we soared through parallel universes with the brilliant Paul Halpern, professor of physics at Saint Joseph's University. From Rick & Morty vibes to bouncing universes, we unravel the mysteries of the multiverse. Explore BRAIN Worlds, bubble universes, and join the cosmic conversation on the future of multiverse research. Also we discussed Paul's book...

Leslie and Stephen Shaw both have a lifelong love affair with the subject of ufology and both consider themselves to be armchair ufologists. They've both been UFO witnesses and are authors of 'Who They Are And What They're Up To' and in this episode they tell Ben their theory about Who and What the UFO's are! OUTLINE: Here's approximate timestamps for the episode. 00:40 Intro to episode 02:10 Step...

Harry Cliff is a particle physicist and former stand-up comedian specialising in making science accessible and fun. Harry is a research physicist working at the cutting-edge of science at   CERN's Large Hadron Collider. His latest book (Space Oddities) explores a number of exciting anomalies, and asks whether they suggest a revolutionary new scientific age, or if we might be so desperate to see so...

In this episode, Ben learn's about the dynamic career and current ventures of Dylan Taylor, chairman and CEO of Voyager Space Holdings. They delve into Voyager's acquisitions, discussed the impact of Space For Humanity, and gained insights into Taylor's vision for the future of commercial space. The conversation concluded with a call to arms, inspired by Dylan's trailblazing spirit, inviting liste...

In this episode of 'The Astro Ben Podcast,' we embark on a fascinating journey with Chris Sembroski, a civilian astronaut who challenges the notion that space is reserved for the elite. From being a 'normal' individual to training for space like one would train for a 5K, Chris shares his extraordinary experiences, both with SpaceX's Inspiration4 and his recent transition to Blue Origin as an avion...

In this captivating episode, Sharon Hagle, the CEO and Founder of SpaceKids Global, takes us on a journey beyond our atmosphere. We delve into Sharon's recent spaceflight experience on Blue Origin's NS-20, where she and her husband, Marc Hagle, made history as the first married couple to venture into space together on a commercial vehicle. The conversation explores the profound impact of the overv...

In this episode, we explore the transformative vision of Pablo, co-founder of MoonDAO, as he shares how decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs) can reshape space exploration, fostering accessibility and collective governance. From his departure from BigTech to pioneering decentralised solutions, Pablo envisions a future where space is truly for everyone. OUTLINE: Here's approximate timestamp...

In today's episode, Erin takes us on a journey from her childhood in Florida, where shuttle launches ignited her passion for space. From sewing Halloween costumes to studying mechanical engineering, Erin's diverse path led her to NASA and MIT. She shares the thrill of contributing to the Benefits for Humanity initiative, bridging the gap between science and the public. And, amidst her love for sew...

In semi-retirement, Ladwig is the chief of To Orbit Productions, an independent company that provides consulting services and lectures on space issues, as well the creation of folk art based on space themes. He also serves on the Board of Directors of STAR HARBOR, a R&D, spaceflight training, and education startup company.   In 2019 Ladwig published See You in Orbit? Our Dream of Spaceflight , a c...

Dr Becky Smethurst is an astrophysics researcher who is trying to understand the connection between galaxies and their central supermassive black holes in the local Universe. In particular Dr Becky focus's on the non-merger driven growth of supermassive black holes and the resultant feedback effects on their host galaxies! In this episode, Ben and Dr Becky discuss the misconceptions about black ho...

Dr Jason Forshaw is the Head of Future Business at Astroscale UK/Europe all aspects of future business including BD, bid and support to sales and strategy.   In this episode, Ben and Jason discuss how much of the publics 'day to day life' goes through satellites and how disastrous it would be if the Space Junk issue is not taken seriously.   Please support this podcast by checking out our sponsor:...

Frances "Poppy" Northcutt is an American engineer and attorney who began her career as a "computer", and was later a member of the technical staff of NASA's Apollo program during the Space Race. During the Apollo 8 mission, she became the first female engineer to work in NASA's Mission Control. In this episode, Ben and Poppy discuss the Apollo Era, where there were more "whooping cranes" than fema...

Julia Brodsky is a STEM education researcher at the Blue Marble Space Institute of Science, a former NASA astronaut instructor, independent school teacher, math education book author, educational consultant for gifted students, and homeschooling mom of three, including a special needs child.  Julia's academic training is in astrophysics and science education. As the founder of the Art of Inquiry,...

Anna Menon is an American engineer scheduled to fly on Polaris Dawn, Anna worked for NASA for seven years before joining SpaceX, where she works as a lead engineer of space operations.   In this episode, Ben and Anna discuss the significance of Polaris Dawn, preparing mentally for a mission and SpaceX's vision for humanity in Space. This completes a fantastic set of interviews with each crew membe...