STARS Launch Pod

Discover how the Beyond Earth Institute is helping shape the future of human spaceflight through policy, innovation, and global collaboration. Learn why experts say people—not just technology—will be the driving force behind humanity’s expansion to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.

From robotic “space octopuses” to modular satellite upgrades, KMI is rewriting the future of on-orbit operations. Dive into this conversation with CTO Austin Morris and explore the breakthroughs shaping the next era of space sustainability.

Discover how spaceports are becoming the next major global infrastructure—from commercial launches to future point-to-point space travel. Dr. George Nield reveals the technologies, opportunities, and careers shaping the new space economy.

Step into the world of two UCF aerospace innovators who are shaping the future of space exploration through mentorship, groundbreaking research, and bold vision. From guiding the next generation of engineers to exploring revolutionary propulsion concepts, their work reveals how curiosity and collaboration can propel humanity toward the stars.

From pioneering stem cell therapies to inspiring young minds with space-borne spiders and butterflies, this episode uncovers the magic of life science in orbit. Learn how microgravity research on the ISS is advancing healthcare, improving cancer treatments, and shaping the future of human spaceflight.

Discover how Valparaiso University is launching the next generation of space engineers. Professor Dan White shares how students build real satellites, join a global open-source ground station network, and turn childhood dreams into hands-on space exploration.

Dive into our conversation with space architect Dallas Bienhoff as he reveals how lunar resources, reusable landers, and next-gen technologies are paving the way for sustainable life on the Moon—and our journey to Mars.

Join Dr. Gabrielle Caswell, founder of Spaceport Australia, as she shares how humans can thrive beyond Earth. Discover bio-regenerative habitats, sustainable space systems, and the science of adapting our biology for life on Mars, the Moon, and beyond.

Explore the magic of STEM education with Janet Ivey, the powerhouse behind Janet’s Planet. Her stories, wisdom, and humor ignite a sense of possibility in learners of all ages. This episode is a joyful reminder that the universe is waiting for you to explore it.

Join host Susan Wise as she chats with Adam Kall, Chief Strategy Officer at Kall Morris Incorporated, about revolutionizing in-space logistics and tackling the growing challenge of orbital debris. Discover how his startup’s octopus-inspired spacecraft could change the future of satellite operations — and open the door to building the next generation of space infrastructure.

From radio waves to rocket launches—Chris Leslie’s journey is out of this world. Once a Houston radio guy, Chris became a NASA mission controller for the International Space Station, helped launch the Constellation Program,trained astronauts, worked with Axiom Space, and now shapes the future in NASA’s Moon to Mars Program Office. In  this episode, Chris shares behind-the-scenes stories of mission...

Discover how the Canaveral Council of Technical Societies (CCTS) is shaping the future of space innovation through collaboration, STEM outreach, and industry-leading events like Space Congress. A must-read for anyone looking to break into or level up in the space industry.

Join host Susan Wise on Stars LaunchPod as she speaks with Dr. Marshall Porterfield, Purdue University professor and NASA researcher, about how his team is preparing to grow plants on the Moon through the groundbreaking LEAF experiment aboard Artemis III. Discover how space biology, biosensors, and mitochondrial research are shaping the future of sustainable space exploration, food production beyo...

Discover how a passionate seventh grader is already presenting at national space conferences, building CubeSats, researching AI, and shaping the future of space exploration. Meet Lucas Lowery—the young innovator proving the next generation is ready for liftoff. Shorter- At just 12, Lucas Lowery is building satellites, speaking at space conferences, and preparing for Mars. This rising star is the f...

Join host Susan Wise as she sits down with Ubaldo “The Space Ace” Ciminieri, Chief of Staff at CisLunar Industries, to explore how the future of space power, recycling, and innovation is turning science fiction into reality. From transforming space debris into usable materials to empowering new voices in the space industry, this episode is a reminder that space needs everyone’s talent and imaginat...

Join host Susan Wise on the Stars Launch Pod as she talks with Tyler Bender, Policy Analyst at the Beyond Earth Institute, about the future of human space settlement, space policy, and how everyday careers on Earth can shape life beyond our planet. Discover insights on space migration, innovation, and building sustainable communities beyond Earth.

Can we grow fresh food in space? Astrobotanist Jess Bunchek takes us inside her work at DLR, from Antarctica to advanced aeroponics, revealing how space farming could transform life both off-world and here on Earth.

Join us as we talk with Alyssa Carson, astrobiologist and aspiring astronaut, about her journey from a curious child fascinated by space to a pioneering researcher exploring the possibility of life on Mars. Discover the challenges, triumphs, and inspiring advice from someone chasing her dreams beyond Earth—and learn how she’s empowering the next generation to do the same.

Bill West, Executive Director of the Space Workforce Institute, about the future of the space economy and the people powering it. Discover how new workforce standards, credentials, and training programs are opening doors for professionals from all backgrounds to launch their careers in space. From welders to cybersecurity experts — find out how you can be part of the next giant leap in the space i...

Geophysicist Douglas Jerolmack explores how legged robots are transforming planetary exploration. From NASA’s LASSIE and TRUSSES projects to surprising discoveries about lunar soil, crack patterns on Mars, and even the secret mud behind Major League Baseball, this episode reveals how persistence, creativity, and collaboration are driving the future of science—on Earth and beyond.

Discover the fascinating story behind the Fisher Space Pen—the pen that writes upside down, underwater, and even in zero gravity. Eric Bond, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, shares the innovation that made it possible, its legacy in every NASA mission since 1968, and how this iconic tool continues to inspire the future of space exploration.

Join host Susan Wise as she talks with Dr. Paul Westerhoff, Regents Professor at Arizona State University, about his groundbreaking work using UV light to control biofilms on the International Space Station. Discover how this innovative, chemical-free technology could revolutionize water systems both in space and here on Earth—from keeping astronauts safe to transforming how we manage clean water...

Discover how cutting-edge space research—from cancer treatments and artificial retinas to fiber-optic breakthroughs—is transforming life here on Earth. Ryan Reeves, Technical Director of Research & Innovation at the International Space Station National Laboratory shares behind-the-scenes stories, surprising discoveries, and a look at what’s next after the ISS.

In this episode of Stars Launch Pod, host Susan Wise sits down with Troy Morris, co founder and CEO of KMI, to explore how his team is building the “tow truck for space.” From tackling orbital debris to demonstrating groundbreaking capture technology aboard the International Space Station, Troy shares the journey, challenges, and aha moments behind developing a sustainable future in orbit. Tune in...

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