On Independence Day 2025, Alex discusses the current state of the U.S. space program and the world, searching for ways to navigate the chaos. We make historical parallels with the 1970s, during the end of the first space race and the post-Apollo era tumble (i.e. the end of the 1st Space Conundrum).

Alex emphasizes the importance of mental freedom and adaptability in navigating societal chaos, and how he is practicing gratitude and using it as a tool for maintaining focus on what matters. We close out with some gratitude on the return of the last 10 years of space progress, and the glimmer of hope Alex sees in humanity during these trying times.

Wishing you a fulfilling and restful Independence Day - urging you to find your own mental freedom, and finding insights into today by learning more about the 1970s.

Here's to building a fantastic future - and continued progress in Space (and humanity)!
Spread Love, Spread Science

Alex G. Orphanos

Timestamps:

00:00 Fourth of July Episode Introduction and Podcast Promotion
00:58 NASA Administrator and Budget Cut Chaos
01:54 The Space Conundrum Theory Revisited
03:50 Reflections on Space Progress and Societal Chaos
04:22 Gratitude unlocks my Mental Freedom
08:10 Independence and Space Industry Progress
10:58 Closing Remarks and Wishes for Independence Day

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Welcome to Today In Space podcast - and another People of Space segment! This week we get an aerospace engineer's perspective. We learn about what it takes to develop a Human Landing System for NASA, and go head to head with the like's of Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk in the Space Industry. But more importantly, we learn about values and how they can help us overcome burnout, reconnect with what matters, and live with purpose.

I'm excited to introduce the author of the book "The Unconditionals" - Andy Crocker. Andy is an aerospace executive with three decades of experience across human and robotic exploration, hypersonics, and missile defense. He’s held senior roles at several companies, leading the development of innovative technologies and managing complex system programs for NASA, commercial, and Department of Defense customers. As a strategic leader, he’s built high-performance teams and contributed to some of the most ambitious projects in aerospace, including NASA’s Human Landing System.

For the space fans, you're in luck - we get to nerd out on all-things space! And for the newbies, we hope you enjoy this deep dive into topics like becoming an Astronaut, traveling to the Moon and Mars, and what the future might hold for all of us in space. One thing we know for sure - values will be important for everyone. Join us as we dive into the world of Aerospace Engineering and Space!

Learn more about Andy Crocker and his new book "The Unconditionals" here: https://andycrockerbooks.com

You can follow Andy here:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/andycrocker/
https://www.facebook.com/andycrockerbooks
https://www.instagram.com/andycrockerbooks/

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction
01:00 Andy Crocker's Introduction and Background
02:59 Inspiration for Writing "The Unconditional"
08:49 Challenges and Successes in the Human Landing System Program
30:29 The Importance of Values in Engineering and Life
35:56 The Future of Space Exploration and Personal Aspirations
42:47 Advice for Aspiring Space Engineers
01:01:18 The Impact of Space Programs on Society
01:02:06 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

Here's to building a fantastic future - and continued progress in Space (and humanity)!
Spread Love, Spread Science Alex G. Orphanos

We'd like to thank our sponsors:
AG3D Printing (ag3d-printing.com to learn more & start 3D printing today!)

Today In Space Merch:
James Webb Space Telescope Model (3DPrinted) https://ag3dprinting.etsy.com/listing/1839142903

SpaceX Starship-Inspired Rocket Pen (3DPrinted) https://ag3dprinting.etsy.com/listing/1602850640

Blue Origin New Glenn-inspired Rocket Pen (3DPrinted) https://ag3dprinting.etsy.com/listing/1859644348

Support the podcast:
• Buy a 3D printed gift from our shop - ag3dprinting.etsy.com
• Get a free quote on your next 3D printing project at ag3d-printing.com
• Donate at todayinspace.net

#Mars #Moon #NASA #SpaceExploration #HumanLandingSystem #MoonToMars #HumansInSpace #TodayInSpace #SpaceResearch #Aerospace #MoonMission #MarsExploration #values

On this episode, we discuss the second attempt by the Japanese company iSpace to land their Hakuto-R rover on the moon. The lander was lost on descent and no communication followed. What happened? What was the root cause of the failure? Why is the moon so hard to land on?

This week we touch on the broader spectrum of space exploration, including the improbable but successful Apollo 11 mission and the challenges for the current push for lunar missions by various nations and private companies.

We'd love to know YOUR thoughts - so make sure to reach out to us on social or email us at todayinspacepodcast@gmail.com

Here's to building a fantastic future - and continued progress in Space (and humanity)!

Spread Love, Spread Science
Alex G. Orphanos

Timestamps:

00:00 Ispace Moon Landing Attempt and Initial Findings
02:02 Challenges, Technical Issues, and Range Finder Problems
13:35 Comparison with Apollo 11 and Current Lunar Missions
20:32 Ispace's Future Plans and the Importance of Learning
20:47 Best-of Live Broadcast and Community Hangout
35:11 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

We'd like to thank our sponsors:

AG3D Printing (ag3d-printing.com to learn more & start 3D printing today!)

Today In Space Merch:
James Webb Space Telescope Model (3DPrinted) https://ag3dprinting.etsy.com/listing/1839142903
SpaceX Starship-Inspired Rocket Pen (3DPrinted) https://ag3dprinting.etsy.com/listing/1602850640
Blue Origin New Glenn-inspired Rocket Pen (3DPrinted) https://ag3dprinting.etsy.com/listing/1859644348

Support the podcast:
• Buy a 3D printed gift from our shop - ag3dprinting.etsy.com
• Get a free quote on your next 3D printing project at ag3d-printing.com
• Donate at todayinspace.net

#spacemoonlanding #resilience #moonlander #laserrangefinder #lunarsurface #spaceexploration #microrover #spaceindustry #moonlanding #spacetechnology #apollo11 #NASA #ESA #JAXA