The Space Show
The Space Show
The Space Show focuses on timely and important issues influencing the development of outer-space commerce, space tourism,space exploration and space development. The Space Show is committed to facilitating our becoming a space-faring nation and society with a growing and self-sustaining space-faring economy. The Space Show also focuses on other related subjects of interest to us all.
Station feed:  Created by: David Livingston |
Created on: 12 May 2005 Language: English |
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Theresa Hitchens, Sunday, 3-9-08 (36.99MB; download) -- Theresa Hitchens, Executive Director of the World Security Institute's Center for Defense Information, was the guest for this Space Show program. We started our interview by asking Ms. Hitchens about the recent U.S. shoot-down of its ailing satellite and considering this event from the perspective on U.S. space policy and how others around the world see us as a nation. Don't miss this important discussion. We then discussed U.S. space policy now and for the future by looking at space weapons, ASAT policy, national defense, budgets, and more. Ms. Hitchens explained several times during the program just why such weapons do not increase security or protect space assets. In fact, they do just the opposite! You will want to hear this discussion to learn why. In the context of U.S. space policy, we talked about the VSE, NASA and its funding, and much more. A listener asked about establishing a separate military force for space, potentially removing Space Command from the USAF. Another listener asked how our policy was perceived by our close European allies as well as other nations and another asked if the current NASA should be given additional funding. Ms. Hitchens stated she was for increasing NASA's budget, but the magic number is not known. This led to another listener question about how many projects NASA can take on without leading to problems or failures with existing projects. She did not know the answer, but thought this would be an excellent research project by the GAO. In the last segment of the show, she was asked how we in the space community could be more effective in advocating and lobbying for a good space policy and program. She put forth a multi-step program which I urge each of you listen to and consider following. It's excellent. In response to another listener question, she discussed the future of space policy. Also, visit the Center for Defense Information website (www.cdi.org/) as many papers are there that relate to today's discussion and space policy. If you have additional comments or questions for Theresa Hitchens, please send them to her at thitchens@cdi.org. Selected by: David Livingston [ stations ], Mon, 10 Mar 2008 04:16:46 UTC
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Tracey Knutson, Friday, 3-7-08 (48.57MB; download) -- Tracey Knutson, Atty., was the guest for this Space Show program which focused on informed consent for spaceflight participants as required by the AST. This was a comprehensive discussion, largely from the spaceflight operator's perspective, but also pointing out what a participant or a participant's family would likely encounter were there an accident and litigation against the spaceflight operater. There were many listener questions covering all kinds of variables and scenarios that could happen with a space tourism flight. One listener asked Tracey if she would advise an operator to tell a client/passenger to get their will and estate in order before the flight. She said yes. Other issues came up from listeners regarding product liability and Tracey was excellent at separating these issues from the issues that would normally fall under the jurisdiction of a release and waiver agreement (informed consent). Another interesting point Tracey made was that the industry is definitely experimental and still in its "Barn Storming" days. In elaborating on this, Ms. Knutson made the excellent point that the spaceflight participant was actually part of the experiment and that makes it more difficult to pierce a well-made and administered informed consent agreement, or "release and waiver" as she called such documents. I urge listeners to listen to the full two hours of this discussion because she provides a comprehensive analysis of this important element of the developing space tourism industry. You can learn more about Tracey Knutson, read her articles, and contact her by visiting her website: www.traceknutson.com. Use her website contact page to send your email questions or comments to her, www.traceyknutson.com/contact_us.html (the email address on her page is tracey.knutsonlaw@alaska.net. ) Additionally, you can read a good analysis of this subject at http://rescommunis.wordpress.com/?s=tracey+knutson.
Selected by: David Livingston [ stations ], Sat, 08 Mar 2008 15:24:07 UTC
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Charles Pooley, Tuesday, 3-4-08 (39.27MB; download) -- Charles Pooley of Microlaunchers (www.microlaunchers.com) returned as the guest for this Space Show program. Charles started the discussion by explaining the Microlaunchers concept, which is to design a spacecraft for a 200 grams or less payload in order to take advantage of new FAA regulations as well as the continuing evolution in the components and technology of small mechanisms. He also cited the example of the Google Lunar X Prize as a potential outlet for the Microlaunchers concept. You will certainly want to hear about the application of Microlaunchers to this prize. He also discussed his plan to divide his work and projects into smaller components for easier management and financing. In fact, he mentioned that he was far along with two such projects that he is personally funding. Listen to the show to hear details about these projects. Charles received lots of questions about mass ratios for both large and small vehicles, starting his own machine shop, expanding the market and awareness for Microlaunchers to reach the approximately 2% of the public who Charles believes to be the eligible part of the nation's population base for interest in the Microlaunchers concept. One listener asked how he plans to make Microlaunchers attractive for investment and Charles discussed various ideas on air. He also made it clear that he welcomed ideas and support from listeners. Another listener asked about having too many ideas and concepts floating around in the New Space industry and why there are so few mergers among the participants which would likely lead to more people working together for a stronger industry. Don't miss how Charles responds to this question. You can send Mr. Pooley additional questions or comments through the Microlaunchers website, www.microlaunchers.com. Use the email address ckpooley@microlaunchers.com. Selected by: David Livingston [ stations ], Wed, 05 Mar 2008 15:20:39 UTC
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Dr. Tahir Rahman, Monday, 3-3-08 (39.47MB; download) -- Dr. Tahir Rahman was the guest for this Space Show program to discuss his new book, "We Came In Peace For All Mankind: The Untold Story of the Apollo 11 Silicon Disc." Please refer to Dr. Rahman's website www.silicondisc.com for more information about his book and this interesting topic. This is a meticulously researched book on the subject of the goodwill silicon message disc which the Apollo 11 astronauts left on the moon. Dr. Rahman took us through many of the special goodwill messages that were on the disc, all of which are detailed in his book. Listeners commented on the absence of several nations and the messages of several other nations that did submit a message. Another listener commented on how many countries have changed their direction since Apollo 11, not just their government. Yet another listener suggested how messages today would be different from those of the late 1960s. I am sure you will find this discussion interesting, unique, and valuable. Tahir, as a practicing psychiatrist, was asked about lessons learned from this disc for the present and the future regarding our space development and exploration programs. You will want to hear what he says about it. Several other space behavioral issues came up during the show, even those which are seemingly unrelated to his book. His book is a beautiful and well-researched book with outstanding color plates, not only from Apollo 11, but of the messages from the different nations. Many, like the one from Thailand and the one from the Vatican, are a work of art and you have to see what they look like in their original form. Tahir's book does this, it shows us the messages in their original form. During the show, Dr. Rahman explains how he was able to do this and the tools he used to capture their original image. You do not want to miss this program. His book is widely available, especially with the online stores such as Amazon and B&N Online. If you have questions or comments for Dr. Tahir Rahman, please contact him using the email address on the website, info@silicondisc.com, or you can send them to me at drspace@thespaceshow. Selected by: David Livingston [ stations ], Tue, 04 Mar 2008 04:44:28 UTC
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Ken Davidian, Sunday, 3-2-08 (35.33MB; download) -- Ken Davidian returned to The Space Show as the NASA EMSD (Exploration Systems Mission Directorate) Commercial Development Policy Lead. You can follow part of Ken's discussion with the following URLs. The first is part of his presentation from the recent Space Exploration Conference and can be found at: http://www.nasa.gov/pdf/214648main_1015-Davidian%20.pdf. The second URL is a complete list of presentations from the conference: www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/exploration/main/3rd_exploration_conf.html. In the first segment of the program, Ken explained the position and effort NASA is making regarding both commercialization and commercial development. Ken went into some detail in order to explain the difference between the two and described some of the challenges facing the organization in the transition from commercialization to commercial development. We discussed the value behind NASA contracting for private services versus doing them in-house and a listener brought in the Zero G flights as an example. You will want to hear this discussion. Ken spoke about the need to sustain a commercial presence on the lunar surface when we go back. When asked about the high cost of the ESAS architecture needed to take us back to the Moon as being unaffordable for the private sector, he spoke about possible private options that he and others in NASA hope develop. Another interesting topic was the reception within NASA for commercial development. Ken had much to say on this topic throughout the program and you will certainly want to hear this. We spoke a little about the COTS program, but he also brought us current on Centennial Challenges and that there is now a new director of the program. He talked about a few of the specific programs still in play, including the Lunar Lander Challenge and we went into some detail about the next contest. While the date and location are not finalized, Ken was optimistic that it will take place later this year. Ken Davidian provided a superb inside NASA look at efforts to support commercialization and commercial development. This was a comprehensive discussion covering many more topics than I am summarizing here and you will want to hear what he has to say. Toward the end of the show, we discussed new forms of networking and Generation Y, including his having attended a recent Gen Y conference at NASA Ames. This is important, so don't miss this part of the discussion. Also, note that Ken is on FaceBook and Twitter and can easily be found by searching for Davidian or KDavidian on either one. If you want to send Ken further comments or questions, his email address is kdavidian@nasa.gov. Selected by: David Livingston [ stations ], Mon, 03 Mar 2008 03:58:39 UTC
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Alan Steinberg, Friday, 2-29-08 (50.42MB; download) -- Guest: Alan Steinberg was the guest for this Space Show program. Alan represents the brightest of the brightest of the American youth who we talk about frequently on The Space Show. Today, we get to hear about common Space Show topics and themes through the eyes, ears, and perspective of our future policy makers. We talked about many topics that, while not unique to youth, clearly have a special meaning for young Americans. For example, you will definitely want to hear how Alan responded to questions about ITAR and planetary defense from a potential incoming NEO. The same goes for competition, China, and other space countries. As Alan Steinberg is experienced in politics and policy, we also addressed space as a political issue and as an important policy. Again, you will want to hear what he said about this, even regarding the upcoming changes in our government for later this year and 2009. We talked with Alan about ways to get more of his peers interested in space and space development. See what you think of his ideas and his analysis of the key issues impacting related problems. Several listeners asked how we would know if Alan would be a truly dedicated space-focused elected official, instead of just another empty suited politician paying lip service to space with the right buzz words and timing. Alan addressed these questions and concerns head-on without missing a beat, so you will definitely want to hear this discussion. Later, he told me these were easy questions compared to what was asked of him when he was running for Congress in Texas. Early in the show, I asked Alan about science fiction and reality, a subject we have been discussing lately with many Space Show guests. I asked Alan if he had read Robert Heinlein and surprise, surprise, the answer was no. Listen to his story of how he became interested in space. He did not take a path to space from sci-fi, and instead quite the opposite. Of course, growing up in Texas and being able to visit NASA JSC made a difference. This archive summary of our program today does not cover all the great topics and discussion points we had on air with Alan Steinberg. Perhaps Alan will have continued opportunities to influence his peers toward the space direction, certainly as you will hear on this show, he has the know-how, the smarts, and the ability to do so. But as you will hear, it's not easy to do, even for someone like Alan with his credentials and experience . Visit his blog which is at www.steinbergforcongress.com/. You can send your comments and questions to Alan Steinberg at either alan_steinberg@yahoo.com or SteinbergForCongress@gmail.com. Selected by: David Livingston [ stations ], Sat, 01 Mar 2008 03:39:53 UTC
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Dr. Jeff Bell, Tuesday, 2-26-08 (49.33MB; download) -- Guest: Dr. Jeff Bell returned to the Space Show for a two hour controversial discussion on many important topics. This is a program you will not want to miss. For example, did you know that we might soon see the cancellation of the human spaceflight program? Listen and see if you agree with Dr. Bell and his analysis. We also talked about the much needed human factors research which is not being done as well as other problems with NASA along with its focus on the VSE/Aries 1. Dr. Bell suggested that space tourism was the most promising of possible space business ventures Furthermore, he suggested the industry was top heavy with visionaries. Later in the show, we talked about confusing science fiction with real science and what can be done about it. This led to comprehensive discussion about sci-fi authors, such as Robert Heinlein, and the fact that they were writing escape literature and were not intending to produce blueprints for space development or space travel. You will want to hear this discussion. Space Solar Power was discussed along with the recent NSSO report. Don't miss Dr. Bell's analysis of this potential source of energy. During the first segment of our show, our military presence in space was discussed as well as our having recently shot down an ailing U.S. spy satellite. Engineering designs of space capsules came up and you will hear us compare the capsule design to an American Indian teepee. You will also hear Dr. Bell's requirements for real engineering regarding space mission and design work. We concluded this two hour program with a discussion about space journalism, blogs, and websites. Dr. Bell suggests that the credibility of many websites can be lacking, so you will want to hear what he has to say about this important subject. I asked him what we can do to defend against misinformation and bad facts. His solution to the problem makes this a must-hear part of the show. You can send your email comments and questions to Dr. Bell through me at drspace@thespaceshow.com. Selected by: David Livingston [ stations ], Wed, 27 Feb 2008 15:24:16 UTC
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David Hook, Monday, 2-25-08 (35.05MB; download) -- Guest: David Hook. David Hook was the guest for this special program in order to discuss the unusual topic of security regulations for space tourism. As President of his company, Planehook Aviation Services in San Antonio, Texas, David specializes in security work for general aviation, but he has quietly expanded this interest to space tourism. During the first segment of the program, David referenced the FAA/AST regulations dealing with security issues and told us what they mean and how they are likely to be interpreted and applied. We then discussed how space tourism companies would likely comply with these regulations, the costs which may be incurred, and if there would really be added safety for spaceflight participants. David received many listener questions about the No Fly List for spaceflight participants, possible terrorism for suborbital tourism, insurance, and much more. Several listeners also asked him to give an opinion on the way airport security and searches are carried out now, including shoe removal and other methods used which many people find offensive and/or even useless. You will want to hear what he has to say about the subject. David also received questions about applying the security regulations to overseas spaceports given that many FAA regulations are enforced overseas. Again, listen to what he says about this issue. Another question dealt with the timeline of when the space tourism industry would start taking this issue of security seriously. David suggested it should be taken seriously right now given the lead times to have things in place for commercial flight operations. Much more was discussed, even the fact that there are forces who want to harm and destroy what we and others do, thus the need for security and the regulations. I am sure you will find this program as informative as I did and I am equally sure that Mr. Hook will return as a Space Show guest to keep us abreast of this important topic. You can send David Hook your comments or questions at david.hook@spaceflightsecurity.com.
Selected by: David Livingston [ stations ], Tue, 26 Feb 2008 05:17:59 UTC
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Don Beattie, Sunday, 2-24-08 (41.93MB; download) -- Guest: Don Beattie. Don Beattie returned to The Space Show in order to continue our discussion about the current Vision for Space Exploration, NASA, and our future in space. Don started us off with a bit of NASA lunar history and then took us forward to three planned NASA lunar missions, GRAIL which is to use twin satellites to study the Moon's gravitational pull, another program to measure factors within the lunar atmosphere, and yet a third program to do penetration experiments of the Moon itself. Mr. Beattie posed the question as to why we are spending upwards of a billion dollars for these missions when we have already done similar experiments in the past and learned a lot about all three of these issues. He made the case that the NASA budget should be used on learning and researching new things, not revisiting old things. I made the case that we should be doing necessary human factors experiments in order to enhance our chances of maintaining a long-term presence in space. I invited listeners to call in with an explanation of why these missions were being planned as well as funded rather than new missions, but no such calls or comments were forthcoming during the show. Later in the program, Don strongly suggested that the NASA budget should reflect more spending on science and robotic missions rather than being top-heavy towards the human space program. Listeners and I asked him what the percentage should be and then I asked if he could calculate the probable delay in the manned program to return to the Moon for each percentage removed from the manned budget. This is an interesting discussion and I liked Don's idea of getting the task of doing this over to the GAO. If anyone has any connections with GAO, this might prove to be a productive task with important charts, graphs, and conclusions, whatever they may be. During the show, listeners asked him about Mars and what the business and economic case would be for going to Mars. You will want to listen to his comments on this point. We also talked about being a visionary in the space world, but holding on to the need to be grounded in reality. Don suggested that today's NASA is missing its focus on the aeronautics part of its mission. You definitely need to hear his discussion on this point throughout this program. As we heard, all our aviation today has been greatly influenced by NASA and he calls for a return of that work, influence, and progress. Later in the show, we discussed China, space militarization, and the private sector, especially space tourism. Please send your comments and questions to Don Beattie through me at drspace@thespaceshow.com.
Selected by: David Livingston [ stations ], Mon, 25 Feb 2008 02:11:44 UTC
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Dr. Louis Friedman; Open Lines, Friday, 2-22-08 (50.95MB; download) -- Guest: Dr. Louis Friedman. Dr. Louis Friedman returned for this special Space Show program to discuss the recent Stanford University workshop regarding "Examining The Vision: An Independent Look At The Future Of Human Space Exploration." You can read the workshop's statement at http://www.planetary.org/programs/projects/advocacy_and_education/space_advocacy/20080214.html. Dr. Friedman explained the purpose of this workshop, the many issues and subjects which were discussed, as well as the conclusions from the workshop. We then applied these findings to our current space policy and the upcoming changes in our government. Don't miss our discussion about how this influential group and their conclusions will work to successfully influence the new administration to keep the VSE on track. There were numerous questions for Lou which focused on lunar commerce, sustainability for a lunar presence, and ultimately the grand prize of going to Mars. One listener asked about LaGrange points as an intermediate destination. You will want to hear what he has to say about this idea . Dr. Friedman spoke about science and the human program in balance and we received several questions which suggested science should not be funded by NASA, but rather by the NSF and similar organizations. Listen to Dr. Friedman's response to these questions. Another listener asked Dr. Friedman how and why he started The Planetary Society as well as what he perceives the future of The Planetary Society to be, so you will want to hear this bit of important history and hear about his future vision. Also, near the end of the show, I mentioned that I get emails about supporting the VSE from many listeners outside America. I suggest the listeners should write to their government to create or support or participate in the space program to return to the Moon, etc. Lou agreed, but said that NASA is the world's space program although they don't realize or understand this. His comment led to an interesting discussion about global involvement in the VSE, NASA, China, and more. You will hear parts of this discussion throughout the program. If you want to send a follow up comment or question to Dr. Friedman, please do so through the Planetary Society website at www.planetary.org or through me at drspace@thespaceshow.com. During the Open Lines portion of this show, our first caller was Charles Pooley of Microlaunchers and Mohave, CA. Charles took issue with some of what Dr. Friedman said, instead preferring his incremental approach. Surprisingly, Charles received many questions including a few about the space tourism industry in Mojave and elsewhere. As you will hear, Charles is not enthusiastic about the commercial potential of space tourism. After Charles got off the line, a second caller called the show, John from Montana. John continued talking about the incremental approach which Charles had introduced and also the applicability of it with student and academic payloads. This makes for an interesting, but brief Open Lines segment.
Selected by: David Livingston [ stations ], Sat, 23 Feb 2008 00:00:16 UTC
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