Shows
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Podcast Episode 42: Hypersonic Passenger FlightIn this episode of the Space Madness podcast, host Jeff Nosanov speaks with Oscar Garcia, principal of Interflight Global, about the evolving landscape of aviation and aerospace. They discuss the merging of airspace and space travel, the importance of capital in the industry, and the exciting new technologies in propulsion that could revolutionize air travel. Garcia shares his personal journey in aviation, the regulatory challenges ahead, and the potential for new economic centers as hypersonic passenger travel becomes a reality. The conversation emphasizes the need for innovation balanced with safety and the growing public demand for faster travel options.
2026-02-2343 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Podcast Episode 41: Personal Metabolomics and You!In this episode of the Space Madness podcast, host Jeff Nosanov interviews José Andrade, co-founder of Deleon, a startup focused on personal metabolomics. They discuss the journey from aerospace engineering to health technology, the rapid development of startups in the current environment, and the potential of personal metabolomics to revolutionize health and wellness. Andrade explains how their technology allows for real-time measurement of biochemical data, the importance of user feedback in product development, and the challenges of integrating this technology into clinical practice. The conversation highlights the exciting future of personalized medicine and the role of athletes in testing a...
2026-02-1636 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Podcast Episode 40: A Million Satellites?In this episode of the Space Madness Podcast, Jeff Nosanov and Telecom lawyer Will Lewis delve into SpaceX's recent application for spectrum for "a million satellites". They discuss the implications of this ambitious submission, whether it rises to the level of an actual plan, the regulatory processes involved with the FCC especially the extent to which the FCC is required to take things seriously, and the technical aspects of satellite communication, including spectrum requests and optical links. The conversation also touches on the potential market impacts and public perceptions surrounding such a large-scale project, as well as the future...
2026-02-0940 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Podcast Episode 39: A Major General's JourneyIn this episode of the Space Madness podcast, host Jeff Nosanov engages in a captivating conversation with retired Air Force Major General Jim Armor. The discussion begins with Jim sharing insights into his role as a Major General, particularly his responsibilities at the National Reconnaissance Office and the National Security Space Office. He explains how his work involved overseeing various military and intelligence operations, ensuring they had the necessary resources and support to succeed. Jeff and Jim discuss Jim's experience undergoing full astronaut training before his mission was cancelled after the Challenge tragey. They delve into the transition from...
2026-02-0240 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Podcast Episode 38: Geology - Beyond RocksIn this episode of the Space Madness podcast, host Jeff Nosanov speaks with Aaron Celestian, curator of gems and minerals at the Museum of Natural History in Los Angeles. They discuss the museum's extensive collection, including urban wildfire ash and recent efforts to study the January 2025 Los Angeles fire, and the role of geology in drug development and environmental science. Aaron shares his journey to becoming a curator, the challenges of funding research, and the innovative projects underway at the museum. The conversation also touches on unexpected applications of Geology, the differences between museums and academia, and the philosophical...
2026-01-2642 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Podcast Episode 37: Systems Engineering and Space ExplorationIn this episode of the Space Madness podcast, host Jeff Nosanov interviews Craig Peterson, a retired systems engineer from JPL and current employee at TransAstra. They discuss Craig's journey into the space field, his experiences at JPL, and the exciting work being done in asteroid mining. Craig shares insights on the evolution of software in space engineering, the importance of systems engineering, and the lessons learned throughout his career. The conversation also touches on early planetary missions and the future of space exploration, including the role of AI in engineering.
2026-01-1949 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Podcast Episode 36: Space ArchitectureIn this episode of the Space Madness podcast, host Jeff Nosanov interviews Brent Sherwood, a retired space architect, who shares his journey into the field of space architecture. They discuss the role of architects in designing human environments for space, the evolution of space exploration, and the challenges faced in the industry. Brent emphasizes the importance of architectural design as more civilians venture into space and outlines his vision for the future of space exploration, including the concept of the 'four futures' that could shape humanity's path in the cosmos.
2026-01-1245 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Episode 35: Rich DalBello, Former director of the Office of Space CommerceIn this episode of the Space Madness Podcast, host Jeff Nosanov interviews Rich DalBello, a prominent figure in the aerospace industry. They discuss Rich's unexpected journey into aerospace, the evolution of the commercial space industry, and the regulatory landscape surrounding it. Rich shares insights from his time in government, including his role at the Office of Space Commerce and the challenges of integrating commercial capabilities into government procurement processes. The conversation also touches on the excitement of working at Virgin Galactic, the future of space exploration, and the importance of leadership and international collaboration in shaping the future of...
2026-01-0539 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Episode 34: Africa's Space PotentialIn this episode of the Space Madness podcast, Jeff and Joshua Faleti discuss the evolving landscape of space activities in Africa, focusing on the African Space Agency, Nigeria's role in the space industry, and the cultural perspectives surrounding space exploration. Joshua shares his journey into space law and journalism, highlighting the potential for socio-economic development through space initiatives. The conversation also touches on international collaborations, particularly with China and the US, and concludes with Joshua's aspirations in space data analysis.
2025-12-2936 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Podcast Episode 33: Taekwondo and Space LeadershipIn this episode of the Space Madness podcast, Jeff Nosanov interviews Rhonda Stevenson, an aerospace executive with a shared background in Taekwondo. They discuss Rhonda's journey into the space industry, the influence of martial arts on leadership and resilience, and the importance of community in achieving ambitious goals like interstellar travel. Rhonda shares her experiences overcoming challenges, transitioning from martial arts to business, and her vision for the future of space exploration. The conversation emphasizes the need for collaboration and a shared commitment to advancing humanity's presence in space.
2025-12-2242 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Podcast Episode 32: From Homeless at JPL to the Highest Peaks on EarthIn this episode of the Space Madness podcast, Dr. Michaela Musilova shares her inspiring journey as an astrobiologist and analog astronaut. From her early fascination with space to overcoming challenges in her education and career, Michaela discusses her research on extremophiles and their potential for Mars colonization. She reflects on her experiences at Caltech, leading analog missions, and the evolution of science communication in the digital age. Currently, she is working on the Astro 7 Summits project, which combines astrobiology research with climate change awareness, as she climbs the tallest mountains on each continent.
2025-12-1543 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Episode 31: The Great Observatories Past, Present, and FutureToday I talk with Program Scientist Dominic Benford from NASA HQ. We discuss the history of the great observatories program dating back to the immediate post-Apollo era, and go into some depth about the sensor and cooling technologies necessary for extremely distant observations. We also talk about how there are thousands of ways to tie a necktie. We explore Dominic's journey from undergraduate researcher to NASA HQ technology development leader, and his wish to pass that mantle on to the next generation.
2025-12-0852 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Episode 30: Space MedicineIn this episode of the Space Madness podcast, host Jeff Nosanov speaks with Dr. Octav Cristea, an Emory University transplant surgeon and urologist with a research focus on space medicine. They discuss the complexities of human health in space, particularly focusing on kidney stones and urinary issues that arise in microgravity. Dr. Cristea shares insights from his journey into space medicine, the physiological challenges astronauts face, and the future of medical practices in space exploration.
2025-12-0146 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Podcast Episode 29: Telecom Law and You!Telecom law is not something most people put much thought into, but after today's episode you will understand how it affects everyone's life, every day. I speak with Will Lewis, space and telecom lawyer, about how even the 1934 Telecommunications act still affects the technology we use today. We talk about space communications, cross-border radio signal lobes, and how ocean vessels have to manage their broadcasts near land.
2025-11-2440 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Episode 28: Improving Institutions, The Power of the PubIn this episode of the Space Madness podcast, host Jeff Nosanov speaks with Michael Rudolph, a former systems engineer at JPL and current board member at the Quicycle Society. They discuss Michael's journey from architecture to aerospace, the importance of effective communication in science, and the challenges faced by large and legacy institutions in the space industry. The conversation delves into historical examples of historically productive innovators such as Bell Labs and Silicon Valley - exploring both unique and potentially repeatable sets of incentives - and explores the need for new institutions that can foster collaboration and creativity in...
2025-11-1741 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Episode 27: Interstellar Research GroupIn this episode of the Space Madness podcast, host Jeff Nosanov speaks with Dr. Joe Meany, president of the Interstellar Research Group. They discuss the group's mission to enable interstellar human travel, the evolution of the organization from a gathering of science fiction fans, and the importance of interdisciplinary contributions to space exploration. Joe shares his personal journey in science, the role of volunteers in the organization, and the significance of ethics and philosophy in the context of interstellar exploration. The conversation also touches on future goals, including expanding scholarship opportunities and hosting international symposia.
2025-11-1043 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Podcast Episode 26: The Future of Science In EuropeIn this episode of the Space Madness podcast, host Jeff interviews Matthias Girod, an independent science and diplomacy consultant based in France. The conversation explores the differences in educational experiences, the challenges faced by researchers in Europe, and the complexities of European science funding and collaboration. Matthias shares insights on the cultural differences between countries and the evolving landscape of scientific research in Europe, including the impact of Brexit and the role of Switzerland. The episode concludes with reflections on the future of the EU in global scientific collaboration.
2025-11-0343 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Podcast Episode 25: HK to Utah to GeorgiaIn this episode of the Space Madness podcast, host Jeff Nosanov speaks with Hugh Chen, a PhD student in aerospace engineering at Georgia Tech. Hugh shares his journey from Hong Kong to the US, his passion for space exploration, and his experiences in different educational systems. He discusses his research projects, including liquid mirror telescopes and CubeSat propulsion systems, and his aspirations to make a positive impact on the world through technology and conservation efforts.
2025-10-2739 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Podcast Episode 24: Residential Space to Space HabitatsIn this episode of the Space Madness podcast, Jeff Nosanov interviews architect Anthony Longman, who discusses his innovative ideas for expandable rotating habitats in space. Anthony shares his journey from the UK to the US, traditional architecture to space architecture, and the importance of ecological design and the influence of nature on his work. He explains the concept of tensegrity structures and their potential applications in space, as well as the challenges of developing sustainable and maintainable structures for long-term use in extraterrestrial environments. The conversation also touches on the role of NASA's NIAC program in fostering innovative concepts...
2025-10-2039 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Podcast Episode 23: Apollo Microsats to Space ArchaeologyIn this episode of the Space Madness podcast, host Jeff Nosanov speaks with Matt Bille, a seasoned professional in the space industry. Matt shares his journey from witnessing the Apollo 11 launch as a child -from an airplane!- to his military career in the Air Force, and later his extensive work in the private sector, including collaborations with NASA. He discusses his passion for writing, particularly in science fiction and space-related topics, and reflects on the evolution of microsatellites and the importance of space archaeology. The conversation also touches on the formation of the Space Force, the Artemis program...
2025-10-1341 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Podcast Episode 22: What's Space got to do with it?Today we talk with Shelli Brunswick, who shares her unique journey through the space industry, from her early days in the Air Force to her current role as an entrepreneur and author. The conversation explores various themes including space acquisition, the importance of soft skills, the impact of space technology on everyday life, and the significance of mentorship and leadership in the industry. Shelli emphasizes the need for a growth mindset and the role of technology in fostering economic prosperity, while also discussing the geopolitical implications of space exploration.
2025-10-0652 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Podcast Episode 21: Labor Law, NASA, and JPLIn today's episode we talk with labor and employment attorney Jon Anderson from law firm Husch Blackwell to discuss the evolving landscape of labor law as it pertains to NASA and JPL. We explore the historical context of unions, the complexities of employment at JPL, and the implications of project-based funding on job security. The conversation delves into the challenges of unionization efforts, the importance of transparency in layoff decisions, and the unique nature of employment in the government-sponsored space industry. The episode concludes with reflections on the future of labor rights in this context.
Here are...
2025-09-2948 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Episode 20: Journey to the National Space SocietyIn this episode of the Space Madness Podcast we have Ken Ruffin, a long-time volunteer with the National Space Society. We discuss Ken's journey into space exploration, the history and mission of the National Space Society, and the impact of the Challenger disaster on Ken's career. The conversation also touches on the importance of public engagement in space exploration, the challenges of funding, and the role of optimism in advocating for a better future in space. Ken shares his experiences in outreach and education, emphasizing the need for public awareness and the potential for rapidly advancing technology to shape...
2025-09-2247 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Episode 19: Gravity Assists from Iowa to Mars Part 2Today we continue the conversation with Dr. Jim Green, former Chief Scientist of NASA. We discuss Green's journey to becoming Chief Scientist, his experiences working with different NASA administrators, and the surprising discoveries he made while expanding his knowledge beyond planetary science. The conversation also delves into the role of medicine in space exploration, the potential of virtual reality for astronaut mental health, and the future of NASA's Chief Scientist position amidst changing political landscapes. Green shares insights from his ongoing research and educational initiatives in the metaverse, highlighting the importance of collaboration in advancing space science.
2025-09-1542 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Episode 18: Gravity Assists from Iowa to Mars Part 1Today we have a real treat; the former Chief Scientist of NASA, Jim Green. We talk about his journey from the fields of Iowa to the top floor of NASA HQ. He shares series of fortunate events - gravity assists as he calls them - that introduced him to astronomy and space exploration, then unique educational opportunities, and a wonderful series of leadership opportunities first connecting NASA and then global institutions using the early internet. We also talk about Jim's other interests including history and civil war hot air ballooning.
2025-09-0844 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Episode 17: Astrobiology, Analysis and AthleticismToday we talk with recent Georgia Tech Ph.D. graduate Chad Pozarycki. We discuss Chad's journey into the field, the intricacies of capillary electrophoresis, and its applications in detecting life on other planets. The conversation also covers the challenges of Mars sample return missions, the importance of risk management in instrument development, and Chad's innovative startup focused on health monitoring through chemical analysis.
2025-09-0144 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Episode 16: From Cellos to the CosmosToday we talk with Jason Derleth, a recently retired NASA technologist with a diverse career. We discuss Jason's journey from aspiring fantasy author to a key player in NASA's innovative projects, including the NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts program and the Habitable Worlds Observatory. The conversation explores the importance and value of unusual career paths in space exploration, the philosophical implications of discovering life beyond Earth, and the impact of NASA's work on society and technology. Jason shares insights on leadership, creativity, and the challenges of project management in a complex environment.
2025-08-2552 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Episode 15: From Nebraska with LawToday we talk with Elsbeth Magilton, former Executive Director of my alma mater, the University of Nebraska, Lincoln Space and Cyber Law LL.M. program. We talk about growing up in Nebraska, finding a pathway to a legal education through community programs and web design, and joining the UNL Law Space Law program and ultimately the faculty. We also discuss the Artemis Accords and how international legal agreements affect space exploration.
2025-08-1852 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Episode 14: The Life of Lou Friedman Part 3In our final episode with Lou we talk about different views on the future of space exploration in the USA, options for young people interested in the field, and thoughts about predicting the future.
2025-08-1131 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Episode 13: The Life of Lou Friedman Part 2In part 2 of our discussion with Lou Friedman, co-founder of The Planetary Society, we discuss his decades of advocacy work. We talk about early Direct Mail efforts that enabled the Society's explosive growth, the conflict between planetary science and the Space Shuttle, his visits to Washington, D.C. to give testimony, and more. Lou also shares charming stories of Carl Sagan's wit.
2025-08-0452 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Episode 12: The Life of Lou Friedman Part 1"I have been working on space as long as there has been a space age, since 1957."
With a career spanning the entire space age, Lou shares his journey from the Bronx to the forefront of space exploration. He discusses his pivotal roles at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, co-founding the Planetary Society with Carl Sagan, and his insights into the evolving role of humans in space exploration. Dive into the history of space missions, the challenges of interplanetary navigation, and the future of human space travel.
2025-07-2841 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Episode 11: The Je ne sais quoi of JupiterToday we talk with a JPL colleague of mine, Olivia Dawson. Inspired by Voyager as a child (as was I) she began a long journey to JPL that took some unexpected turns. Now she moves on to an international opportunity for herself and her family.
2025-07-2138 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Episode 10: Sheila Xu, the First Deaf Asian Female PilotToday we chat with Sheila Xu, the first deaf asian female pilot. We discuss her hearing challenges as a child, the range of availability of accomodations throughout her education, and the events that led to her goal of becoming a pilot. We also talk about technologies and products available to help people hear, backpacking through Europe while deaf, and charting her path to advocacy.
2025-07-1428 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Episode 9: Australia, Atticus Finch, and Ad Astra!Today we chat with Wing Commander Duncan Blake from the Royal Australian Air Force about space law, norms and expectations of military conflict in outer space, the development of global legal manuals, and how satellites have no mothers.
2025-07-071h 02
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Episode 8: From Romania to the StarsIn this episode of the Space Madness Podcast, we host Andreea Mosila, who shares her remarkable journey from growing up in communist Romania to working at NASA and JPL. Andreea discusses her passion for space exploration, her experiences at various NASA centers, and her current research on climate security in the Danube Delta. The conversation highlights the importance of bridging science and governance, the challenges of communicating research findings, and the impact of personal passion on career choices.
2025-06-3050 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Episode 7: Space Weather and Growing up with Modern TaiwanIn this episode we have a college buddy of mine, now Dr. Loren Chang, Professor and Chair of the Department of Space Science and Engineering at the National Central University in Taiwan. We discuss his fascinating journey growing up traveling back and forth to Taiwan throughout his education. That period happened to overlap with Taiwan's growth from post-martial law scenario to global dominance in technology - specifically semiconductors - and it's recent embrace of space and drone technologies.
* this episode has been edited much more extensively than previous ones, due to slight lags and delays w...
2025-06-2354 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Episode 6: Science Fiction, Faction, and Communication with Advanced Chemistry's Director Etana JacobsonIn today's episode we have director of the film Advanced Chemistry Etana Jacobson. Etana has an extensive career in film, television and video games bringing science to audiences in an engaging and personal way. Today we discuss those efforts and new ones in the modern digital environment.
2025-06-1655 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Episode 5: Deafness in Space? The first deaf human in Microgravity since the 1960sToday we "talk" with Eric Shear, a remarkable Ph.D. student with the unique distinction of being the first deaf person to experience microgravity since the Galludet 11, a group of deaf men who were instrumental in developing the Apollo program. View his writing here.
2025-06-0942 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Episode 4: a War Reporter, the Book of Genesis, and Apollo 8Today we have a special guest with a deep connection to history. Peter Laitin joins me to talk about his father, Joe Laitin, a war correspondent turned trusted member of several administrations in the 1960s and 1970s. Notably, he and his wife Christine Laitin wrote the speech read by Apollo 8 astronauts on Christmas Eve, 1968 from Earth orbit after being the first human beings to see the whole Earth at once from space. See this short CNN clip from the 90s. https://youtu.be/VFzZ2yHHq9c?si=GLszGyvrsn7kAu9h
2025-06-0253 min
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Episode 3: Justin Kugler of Intuitive MachinesJustin Kugler shares his story of finding a pathway from a Texas neighborhood to the surface of the moon. Coincidentally also with the CIA in his background like Tim Chrisman of episode 2, Justin followed a winding path from a chance high school opportunity. He and I also share the challenge of building personally meaningful space careers while our wives built their own medical careers. We end the episode with a fascinating new perspective on human space exploration that I had not previously considered.
2025-05-261h 01
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Episode 2: Tim Chrisman and WW2, the CIA, and the Rise of Overwhelming Private CapitalIn episode 2, Investor and former CIA laser expert Tim Chrisman and I discuss the changes in capital markets since WW2 and the resulting impact on everything from war to planetary exploration.
2025-05-191h 01
The Space Madness Podcast VideoSpace Madness Episode 1: Daniel Leeb and the Icelandic Space AgencyIn our inaugural episode I talk with Daniel Leeb of the Icelandic Space Agency. We explore the lesser known relationship between Iceland and every human and nearly planetary surface space mission and think about what the near future of global space leadership looks like in a dynamic era.
2025-05-1435 min