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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#Mars #Moon #NASA #SpaceExploration #TheSpaceConundrum #MoonToMars #HumansInSpace #TodayInSpace #NASA #JaredIsaacman #ElonMusk #SpaceX #Starship #Gratitude #Adaptability #1970

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

Support the podcast:
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• 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:

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

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

Welcome to Today In Space podcast - and another People of Space segment. This week we have an expert in space medicine & health. As we enter an age where more and more humans go into space, to the moon, mars, and beyond - and even just in zero g - a better understanding about the wide spectrum of humans in space environments is needed.

And that's why I'm excited to introduce Dr Saralyn Mark expert in space medicine, women’s health, endocrinology, and geriatrics. As President and CEO of SolaMed Solutions, LLC and its space subsidiary, she advises organizations and agencies including NASA, HHS, and the White House on health and space-related policies and programs. Dr. Mark is also President of iGIANT®, the only nonprofit accelerating gendered innovation/precision design in the world.

Join us as we dive into Space Health with Dr. Mark and talk about the past, present, and future of human health & spaceflight!

Learn more about SolaMed Solutions, LLC here: solamedsolutions.com

Timestamps:
01:00 Dr. Sarah Lynn Mark's Journey and Early Inspirations
02:34 The Evolution of Space Medicine and Space Programs
05:15 Challenges and Opportunities in Human Space Flight
08:01 The Role of NASA and the Private Sector in Space Exploration
18:06 Gender and Health Considerations in Space
33:04 The Future of Space Medicine and Commercial Space Exploration
47:16 The Impact of Space Medicine & Inclusivity on Earth
48:51 The Potential for Space Tourism and Commercial Space Exploration

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

#SpaceMedicine #SpaceHealth #SpaceExploration #SpaceMedicine #SpaceHealth #HumansInSpace #TodayInSpace #SpaceResearch #Astrobiology #ZeroGravity #MoonMission #MarsExploration

This week, Alex shares his thoughts on practical uses of technology. As an engineer, it's hard not to focus on how technology could be useful. On today's episode, we're talking about AI and the good that can come from practical daily use of it. But, we're also talking about the bad and the ugly that comes with using it, and how most of Alex's perspective on the future of AI comes from playing 'Megaman: Battle Network' as a teenager.

As AI Tools enter the market more and more (and are embedded into more products) it's important to discuss all aspect of it, the good the bad and the ugly. Alex even shares how AI introduced a new 'blind spot' where relying on these tools for speed and efficiency led to what we would call an "ugly" moment. Nothing but honesty and sharing learning experiences so we can all have the best chance of partnering with AI and not losing our humanity.

We'd love to hear from you! Whether you are using AI on the regular, are curious but aprehensive, or all-in - reach out to us and share your story by emailing us at todayinspacepodcast@gmail.com or DM us on social media!

Follow us: @todayinspacepod on Instagram/Twitter @todayinspace on TikTok /TodayInSpacePodcast on Facebook

Sources:
https://www.capcom-games.com/megaman/exe/en-us/

https://youtu.be/Rx3pM7zKo4Q?si=bJZf4inPnE_KMojS

Timestamps:

00:00 Practical Tech Advice with AI: Introduction and Purpose
00:59 AI as a Partner in Productivity: The Megaman.EXE Method
03:24 My Practical Uses of AI Tools
06:34 Enhancing Skills (or Gaps) with AI: The Good of AI
15:46 The Reality of AI Tools: The Bad
16:03 AI-Induced Blind Spots: The Ugly
17:54 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

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
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#ai #artificialintelligence #aitools #agenticworkflows #practicaltech #technology #nasa #spacepodcast #practicalai #megaman #battlenetwork #aigeneratedart #opuspro #otterai #chatgpt #grok #engineer #aimedical #aipilot #tech

On this episode, we have Roman Chiporukha, the Co-Founder & CEO of SpaceVIP on the podcast to talk everything 'Space Tourism'. SpaceVIP was responsible for booking the Axiom-1 Spaceflight mission to the ISS! But that's not all that Roman & SpaceVIP are working on to play a part in building the space economy, creating cultural moments with tourist flights to the edge of space, and helping premium customers have one place to access every "Astronaut" experience possible.

SpaceVIP is making it easier for individuals with means to access everything the space industry has to offer to this kind of experience in today's world. Just like early air travel, we discuss the reality of technology development for "access to space" like we have today with "access to air". But we also vent about the struggle the space industry has for itself, and after the Blue Origin NS-31 All-Female flight to the edge of space and back!

Check out spacevip.com to learn more!

We'd love to know what YOU think! Comment below, or message us @todayinspacepod on Instagram/Twitter @todayinspace on TikTok /TodayInSpacePodcast on Facebook, or email us at todayinspacepodcast@gmail.com!

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction and Overview of Today In Space Podcast
03:17 Roman Chiporukha's Background and SpaceVIP
07:31 Challenges and Opportunities in Space Tourism
08:28 Impact of Space Tourism on Society
11:14 Blue Origin's NS-31 Mission and Public Reaction
21:22 The Role of Celebrities in Space Tourism
29:10 Roman's Thoughts on Building Your Own Life/Business
34:05 The Power of "The Mission" of Space
38:15 The True cost of the Business of Exploration
44:04 Stratospheric Balloons: Low-Cost Entry & Space Perspective's Challenges
45:58 What Really Triggered People about this All-Female Trip to Space?
51:12 Action over Anxiety: Less Talk and more Doing to change this world for the better
53:44 Smart People & Communication: We need to do Better
57:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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

Follow us: @todayinspacepod on Instagram/Twitter @todayinspace on TikTok /TodayInSpacePodcast on Facebook

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

#spacecraft #technology #aerospace #spacetechnology #engineer #stem #astronaut #arctic #antarctica #crewdragon #spacex #polarexpedition #fram2 #polarorbit #mars #tothemoon #artemis #blueorigin #ns31 #katyperry #galeking #newshepard #karmanline #edgeofspace #astronaut

6 Women took flight on Blue Origin's New Shepard rocket to the edge of space and a powder keg of hype and celebrity blew up the internet. Something about this all-female mission triggered people from all sides, with many jumping on the trend or not even realizing this billionare space race has been underway for a while (or even what the Karman line is).

This episode lays out some basic facts about the mission and dedicates coverage of the two women with (IMO) the most powerful stories of the NS-31 crew, Aisha Bowe and Amanda Nguyen. These are chaotic times, with people chasing the algorithm - but that doesn't mean we can't share the powerful stories underneath the hype & celebrity of it all. The Space Conundrum is in full effect! So let's dig in to try and understand WHY and hear Aisha & Amanda's stories in their own voices.

Thanks for joining us

Timestamps:

00:00 Blue Origin NS-31 Backlash & Our Focus
02:17 Breakdown of Blue Origin NS-31 Mission
03:37 Hype & Celebrity with Space Tourism
05:44 The Space Conundrum, Critiques, & Societal Impact of NS-31
08:05 The two crew members of NS-31 we think you SHOULD know
09:32 Aisha Bowe's story told by her
12:36 Amanda Nguyen's story told by her
15:05 Closing thoughts

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

Follow us: @todayinspacepod on Instagram/Twitter @todayinspace on TikTok /TodayInSpacePodcast on Facebook

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

#spacecraft #technology #aerospace #spacetechnology #engineer #stem #astronaut #arctic #antarctica #crewdragon #spacex #polarexpedition #fram2 #polarorbit #mars #tothemoon #artemis

The FRAM2 Astronauts have returned safetly after their "work-week" long mission in polar orbit. One thing about these private missions is that they can happen so fast! They don't stay up in space as long as NASA missions these days (ISS) so it's a fresh & interesting take on human spaceflight.

And that's the theme for this week: discussing our top 3 favorite experiements shared live, in-flight by the FRAM 2 Crew. It also blends perfectly with our thoughts on how these private missions differ from the classic "NASA" spaceflight mission, and the future missions to the Moon & Mars. So buckle up - and let's dive in!

Let us know what you think about the mission! Hit is up on social media @todayinspacepod on X/Instagram/Threads, @todayinspace on TikTok, or email us at todayinspacepodcast@gmail.com!

Sources:

https://x.com/SpaceX/status/1906033185353334805

https://f2.com/

https://f2.com/research-announcement.pdf

Mission Commander Chun Wangs thoughts post mission:
https://x.com/ELGR3CO/status/1910511261982269902

https://x.com/satofishi/status/1908586223603417507

https://x.com/satofishi/status/1909278819552567328

The Sounds of Deorbit inside of Dragon:
https://x.com/satofishi/status/1908175471923335276

15 Minute video from orbit, sent to Earth:
https://x.com/satofishi/status/1908020230561075521

https://x.com/astro_jannicke/status/1907952467758960856

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro & More Space to Follow this Week!
05:25 Our Top 3 Science and Research In-Flight during FRAM2
11:08 The Uniqueness of Private Astronaut Missions
15:52 Closing Thoughts

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

Follow us: @todayinspacepod on Instagram/Twitter @todayinspace on TikTok /TodayInSpacePodcast on Facebook

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

#spacecraft #technology #aerospace #spacetechnology #engineer #stem #astronaut #arctic #antarctica #crewdragon #spacex #polarexpedition #fram2 #polarorbit #mars #tothemoon #artemis