The Space Show by Dr. David Livingston

Dr. David M. Livingston

The Space Show® focuses on timely and important issues influencing the development of outer-space commerce and space tourism, as well as other related subjects of interest to us all. doctorspace.substack.com

  1. The Beyond Earth Institute Presents A Space Show Program CEO Steve Wolfe & Tyler Bender.

    38 MIN AGO

    The Beyond Earth Institute Presents A Space Show Program CEO Steve Wolfe & Tyler Bender.

    The Space Show Presents Steve Wolfe, Tyler Bender, & The Beyond Earth Institute, Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026 Quick Summary: This Space Show program focused on promoting the upcoming Beyond Earth Symposium, scheduled for February 24-25 in Washington, D.C., which will explore creating a clear pathway to a space town and discuss Artemis program developments. The discussion covered NASA’s authorization bill, commercial space station development, and the need for infrastructure to support a sustainable lunar presence. Key speakers included Steve Wolfe and Tyler Bender from Beyond Earth, who explained their organization’s focus on policy and strategic thinking for human expansion into space. The conversation also touched on Jared Isaacman’s leadership at NASA, the potential impact of China’s space program, and the importance of developing cislunar space infrastructure. The symposium will feature approximately 50 speakers and include meals in the registration package, with a 30% discount available for attendees using the promo code BES30. Detailed Summary: Our program focused on the upcoming Beyond Earth Symposium, which will take place in Washington, D.C., at the Law School for American University from February 24th to 25th. Tyler Bender, the space policy industry analyst for Beyond Earth, introduced the symposium’s theme of creating a clear pathway to a space town, discussing the evolution from space habitats to more permanent lunar settlements. Steve Wolfe, president and Co-founder of Beyond Earth, elaborated on the symposium’s speakers, including George Whitesides, and highlighted the importance of the NASA authorization bill amendment supporting human expansion into space. The discussion also touched on the challenges of organizing a diverse group of speakers from different regions and the need for policy discussions on advancing a human space migration agenda. The symposium will feature discussions on lunar exploration, focusing on sustainable lunar presence rather than the race to be the first to return to the moon. Steve mentioned that the event will include audience Q&A sessions and panels led by experts who will explore lunar development plans and compare different lander systems. Tyler confirmed that meals are included in the symposium package. Space Show Wisdom Team participant Dallas emphasized the importance of the SpaceX Starship for establishing a lunar community due to its larger capacity compared to the Blue Origin HLS. David raised a question about the development of cislunar space, which Tyler and Steve noted would be addressed in the first panel. The Beyond Earth Institute, a non-profit think tank, aims to provide thoughtful policy and strategic guidance for human space exploration, focusing on creating permanent communities on the Moon, Mars, and beyond. Steve explained that while the Institute is policy-focused, it also considers technology and economic aspects, such as funding mechanisms and commercial development, to support space migration. He mentioned that the Institute has developed papers on financing options and has been advocating for a large-scale public-private partnership lunar research and development facility capable of housing up to 50 people. Wisdom Team member Ajay shared insights from his recent op-ed in the Space Review about lunar cargo transportation, highlighting the need for infrastructure development by 2028 and the limitations of current launch systems like Falcon Heavy and Starship. The group discussed the importance of focusing on infrastructure elements such as power, communications, navigation, and prospecting for building a lunar community, with Steve noting the recent commitment to a lunar space station. David inquired about trending shifts in congressional attitudes towards space policy, prompting Steve to reflect on the potential for policy to align with rhetoric and the support of constituents. The group discussed the increasing congressional interest in returning to the moon, driven by concerns about China’s potential to surpass the US in lunar presence. They noted a shift towards commercial space activities, with companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin making vocal commitments to lunar missions. Dallas shared insights from an upcoming AIAA paper series on lunar sustainability, highlighting the importance of ISRU (In Situ Resource Utilization) and the need for practical applications rather than experimental tech demos. The conversation also touched on the process of selecting speakers for conferences, with Steve explaining their leadership council and working groups approach. Space Show program participants discussed funding challenges for mining robots, with Dallas explaining that their development was funded by mining companies but now they need to generate revenue through product sales. Steve clarified that the Beyond Earth Symposium is primarily a forum for discussion and networking rather than a workshop with specific outputs, though they have provided advice to the White House in the past. Ajay shared that he had received a call from Senator Rick Scott’s office regarding his recent op-ed, and will meet with a staffer to discuss space policy and the Artemis program. The discussion concluded with an assessment of Jarod Isaacman’s NASA leadership, with Tyler noting that while he started late, he shows genuine commitment to the Beyond Earth mission and NASA. The group also discussed NASA Administrator Bill Nelson’s leadership and initiatives, including his efforts to bring more civil servants back into NASA and reduce reliance on contractors. They also discussed the recent elimination of the National Space Council by President Trump, with Michael Kratsios serving as the current space policy point man as he is the Trump administration Science Advisor. The conversation concluded with an announcement about the upcoming Beyond Earth Symposium in two weeks. Special thanks to our sponsors:American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Helix Space in Luxembourg, Celestis Memorial Spaceflights, Astrox Corporation, Dr. Haym Benaroya of Rutgers University, The Space Settlement Progress Blog by John Jossy, The Atlantis Project, and Artless Entertainment Our Toll Free Line for Live Broadcasts: 1-866-687-7223 (Not in service at this time) For real time program participation, email Dr. Space at: drspace@thespaceshow.com for instructions and access. The Space Show is a non-profit 501C3 through its parent, One Giant Leap Foundation, Inc. To donate via Pay Pal, use: To donate with Zelle, use the email address: david@onegiantleapfoundation.org. If you prefer donating with a check, please make the check payable to One Giant Leap Foundation and mail to: One Giant Leap Foundation, 11035 Lavender Hill Drive Ste. 160-306 Las Vegas, NV 89135 Upcoming Programs: Broadcast 4504 Zoom: Frank Pietronigro | Friday 13 Feb 2026 930AM PT Guests: Frank Pietronigro Zoom: Frank discusses the Zero Gravity Arts Commission and more Broadcast 4506 Zoom Open Lines | Sunday 15 Feb 2026 1200PM PT Guests: Dr. David Livingston Open Lines discussion. All topics welcome Get full access to The Space Show-One Giant Leap Foundation at doctorspace.substack.com/subscribe

    1h 18m
  2. Dr. Scott Solomon talks humans in space, on the Moon, Mars, living in space and our space biology needs so don't miss this!

    1 DAY AGO

    Dr. Scott Solomon talks humans in space, on the Moon, Mars, living in space and our space biology needs so don't miss this!

    The Space Show Presents Dr. Scott Solomon, Sunday, Feb. 8, 2026 Quick Summary: The Space Show program focused on Dr. Scott Solomon’s new book “Becoming Martian,” which explores the biological and evolutionary challenges of human space settlement, particularly on Mars. Our discussion covered key concerns about reproduction in space, medical care for astronauts, and the genetic diversity needed for a successful Mars colony. Solomon emphasized that while technology for space travel is advancing rapidly, biological research and medical care capabilities need to develop in parallel to ensure human survival and reproduction in space. The Space Show Wisdom Team discussed various challenges including radiation effects, gravity prescription, and the potential for evolutionary changes in humans and animals living off Earth. Our conversation concluded with thoughts on how space settlement could impact Earth’s ecosystems and the psychological effects of living in space. Detailed Summary: I introduced Dr. Scott Solomon, a biologist and science communicator from Rice University, who discussed his new book, “Becoming Martian,” which explores the potential effects of living in space on the human body and mind. The Space Show Wisdom Team also touched on the topic of gravity prescription and the challenges of having children in space, with Dr. Solomon suggesting that significant changes could occur in as few as 10 generations of space settlers. Scott, an evolutionary biologist, discussed his book “Future Humans” which explores scenarios for human evolution, including the possibility of people adapting to life in space settlements. He explained his research process, which involved studying how space conditions affect the human body, particularly focusing on Mars as a potential first destination for long-term human settlement. Scott emphasized his approach of not only presenting known facts but also describing the scientific process and the people involved in space exploration. Scott discussed the potential impacts of living in space, using Mars as an example, and highlighted the lack of data on how partial gravity affects the human body. He emphasized that factors such as the founder effect and evolutionary changes would be relevant regardless of the location, whether on Mars, the Moon, or a space station. Scott also proposed conducting experiments using bacteria as a proxy to study evolutionary changes in space, predicting that evolution might proceed faster in space due to higher radiation exposure. David and Scott discussed the potential for conducting non-profit driven scientific research on commercial space stations, emphasizing the importance of understanding the biological and psychological impacts of living in space for long-term human habitation. Scott highlighted the need for more research on human reproduction in space, citing a Dutch company’s efforts to study this using in vitro fertilization technology that can simulate different gravitational environments. They also discussed the rapid advancement of technology for space travel but agreed that biological and ethical considerations need to be addressed before long-term human settlements on Mars can be considered viable. Our team discussed ethical considerations of bringing children into extreme environments, particularly focusing on Mars. Scott explained that while Earth has challenging situations, Mars presents unique risks including potential health issues from lower gravity and limited microbial exposure. Marshall raised questions about genetic changes in animals brought to space, referencing historical dog breeding as an example. The discussion concluded with Scott suggesting that minimizing infectious diseases could be achieved by avoiding mammals and birds in space colonization efforts, as many human diseases originate from animal spillovers. We also discussed potential animals to bring on a space mission, with Scott advocating for insects over mammals and birds due to their resource efficiency and lower risk of infectious disease transmission. Marshall suggested a mix of goats, chickens, mealworms, and fish, while David expressed concerns about the cultural acceptance of insect-based diets among potential space tourists. Scott shared his experience with insect-based cuisine, including Mexican ant larvae, and explained the nutritional benefits of insects compared to other animal proteins. The discussion touched on the potential effects of an insect diet on human reproduction and microbiome, with Scott noting that a vegan diet might be most energy-efficient for space settlements. Scott discussed the challenges of sending humans to Mars, including the need for a stable food supply for a two-and-a-half-year-round trip. He expressed interest in participating in a Mars mission but emphasized the importance of ensuring a safe return. John Jossy raised concerns about reproduction in space, highlighting the need for mammalian reproduction experiments in variable gravity environments. Scott acknowledged this issue in his book and mentioned ongoing rodent embryo studies by Spaceborne United as a first step in addressing these challenges. Our guest outlined the steps needed to make space settlement a reality by 2026, emphasizing the need for parallel research in technology, biology, and ethics. He highlighted the importance of studying reproduction in space, exploring genetic modifications, and understanding ethical challenges. Dr. Solomon noted that current investments in space life sciences research are insufficient and called for increased funding, both in the U.S. and through international collaboration. John Hunt asked about the potential impact of humans visiting exoplanets with Earth-like biospheres, to which Scott replied that he had explored such scenarios in a recent astrobiology class, emphasizing the importance of understanding the ecological impacts of human visits. The group discussed the challenges of human reproduction and medical care in space environments, focusing on the potential risks and unknowns of extraterrestrial life support systems and ecological interactions. Solomon emphasized the importance of applying Earth-based ecological knowledge to predict and prepare for space environments, while Marshall highlighted the complexity of allergies and the vast number of potential allergens in new environments. John Jossy noted that NASA’s current priorities do not include reproduction or variable gravity research, and David raised concerns about the advancement of medical care for long-duration space missions. Doug Plata suggested that medical needs should be anticipated and planned for in the different phases of space settlement, advocating for accelerated animal studies to address reproduction before 2055. As a group and with our guest, we discussed the importance of genetic diversity and a large starting population for a successful human settlement beyond Earth, emphasizing the need for a genetically diverse population even if it’s smaller. Doug and Marshall raised questions about the feasibility of selecting specific traits in the starting population, with Marshall suggesting that smaller, subsistence-based individuals might be advantageous. They also discussed the potential for evolutionary changes in isolated populations, with Solomon highlighting the role of gene flow between Earth and Mars. David asked about public interest in human spaceflight, to which Scott responded that interest varies but that space exploration can inspire a sense of interconnectedness and environmental stewardship. Scott continued discussing his book “Becoming Martian,” which explores the challenges of rebuilding civilization in space, including the basics like toilet paper and pencils, as well as the need to understand and potentially rebuild Earth’s ecosystems. Doug raised questions about the role of ecology in space settlements, suggesting that complex biospheres might not be necessary and that agriculture could be simplified. Our guest agreed that agriculture could be simplified but emphasized the importance of ecological interactions, even in space. The group discussed the potential of using ant and termite nest structures as inspiration for designing habitats on Mars. They also touched on the concept of paraterraforming Mars, with Doug suggesting that it could be a quick way to produce Earth-like air using local resources. Special thanks to our sponsors:American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Helix Space in Luxembourg, Celestis Memorial Spaceflights, Astrox Corporation, Dr. Haym Benaroya of Rutgers University, The Space Settlement Progress Blog by John Jossy, The Atlantis Project, and Artless Entertainment Our Toll Free Line for Live Broadcasts: 1-866-687-7223 (Not in service at this time) For real time program participation, email Dr. Space at: drspace@thespaceshow.com for instructions and access. The Space Show is a non-profit 501C3 through its parent, One Giant Leap Foundation, Inc. To donate via Pay Pal, use: To donate with Zelle, use the email address: david@onegiantleapfoundation.org. If you prefer donating with a check, please make the check payable to One Giant Leap Foundation and mail to: One Giant Leap Foundation, 11035 Lavender Hill Drive Ste. 160-306 Las Vegas, NV 89135 Upcoming Programs: Broadcast 4504 Zoom: Frank Pietronigro | Friday 13 Feb 2026 930AM PT Guests: Frank Pietronigro Zoom: Frank discusses the Zero Gravity Arts Commission and more Broadcast 4506 Zoom Open Lines | Sunday 15 Feb 2026 1200PM PT Guests: Dr. David Livingston Open Lines discussion. All topics welcome Get full access to The Space Show-One Giant Leap Foundation at doctorspace.substack.com/subscribe

    1h 38m
  3. Dr. Greg Autry Returns To The Space Show

    2 DAYS AGO

    Dr. Greg Autry Returns To The Space Show

    The Space Show Present Dr. Greg Autry, Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2026 Quick Summary: The group explored various aspects of the Artemis program, including its challenges, timeline concerns, and comparison with China’s space efforts, while discussing the importance of maintaining U.S. leadership in space exploration. The conversation concluded with discussions about space policy, commercial space activities, and educational challenges facing the U.S., with emphasis on the need to generate public enthusiasm for space exploration initiatives. Detailed Summary David introduced Dr. Greg Autry, a space policy expert and economics professor at UCF, to discuss his work and recent developments in space exploration. They touched on the Artemis II mission, commercial space launches in Florida, and concerns about the U.S. moon landing timeline. Greg expresses skepticism about the political commitment to space exploration under potential new leadership, noting that candidates like Vance and Harris may not prioritize space initiatives. The conversation concludes with a brief overview of Greg’s background and upcoming programs at UCF. Dr. Autry discussed his role at the University of Central Florida, where he helped launch the world’s first space MBA program in collaboration with Professor Zahir Ali. He highlighted the program’s space-relevant curriculum, notable faculty, and upcoming guest speakers, including Pam Melroy and Jim Bridenstine. Autry also introduced the Space Ideation Challenge, a competition offering $125,000 in prize money for innovative space policy ideas. Greg also mentioned the delay of the Artemis launch due to cold weather affecting the hydrogen seals. He expressed pride in contributing to the decision to return to the moon in 2016 and shared his thoughts on the public’s perception of the Artemis program. Our Wisdom Team group discussed the challenges and potential of the Artemis program, particularly focusing on the Starship mission and the complexities involved. They expressed concerns about the timeline for meeting 2028 deadlines, given the complexity of the technology and the need for political appointments. Despite these challenges, Greg expressed optimism about Administrator Jared Isaacman’s leadership and the potential for a sustainable and permanent presence on the moon. Greg also compared the U.S. approach to the moon with China’s simpler program, viewing the U.S. effort as a more ambitious but worthwhile endeavor. Our team discussed the Artemis program and space exploration strategy, with Phil sharing insights from a space historian’s video that criticized NASA’s approach as being too focused on quick wins rather than long-term scientific objectives. Greg noted that Americans typically prefer a “poker” approach to waiting for lucky breaks rather than the Chinese “Go” style of careful long-term planning, but emphasized that the Orion capsule and Space Launch System have been under development since 2003 and 2010 respectively, with continuity through multiple administrations. The discussion concluded with Marshall raising questions about launch facility readiness, which Autry addressed by explaining that the United States has three human-rated launch pads, with facilities at Cape Canaveral and the Space Force side being prepared for Starship launches. Our team discussed the need for infrastructure and base building on the moon, with Ajay emphasizing the importance of starting construction to save face for the Trump administration and prevent future program cancellations. Autry noted that while Artemis II will be significant, they need to generate public enthusiasm. Ajay proposed using Falcon Heavy to transport 14 tons of payload to the moon’s surface. David questioned the likelihood of private companies alone achieving these goals, to which Greg responded that while private companies could theoretically fund it, they might be reluctant to make donations to a government program. The group discussed space policy and commercial space activities, with Dr. Greg Autry emphasizing that NASA’s Artemis program should continue while exploring additional initiatives like Ajay’s proposed lunar lander concept, which Autry suggested could be an addition rather than replacement for existing programs. The discussion covered concerns about China’s space program and the importance of maintaining U.S. leadership in space, with Autry noting that completing the Artemis moon program is crucial to avoid having China claim superiority over the U.S. The conversation also touched on educational challenges facing the U.S. and the need to better prepare students for science and engineering careers, while David highlighted growing public interest in space science among younger generations. Special thanks to our sponsors:American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Helix Space in Luxembourg, Celestis Memorial Spaceflights, Astrox Corporation, Dr. Haym Benaroya of Rutgers University, The Space Settlement Progress Blog by John Jossy, The Atlantis Project, and Artless Entertainment Our Toll Free Line for Live Broadcasts: 1-866-687-7223 (Not in service at this time) For real time program participation, email Dr. Space at: drspace@thespaceshow.com for instructions and access. The Space Show is a non-profit 501C3 through its parent, One Giant Leap Foundation, Inc. To donate via Pay Pal, use: To donate with Zelle, use the email address: david@onegiantleapfoundation.org. If you prefer donating with a check, please make the check payable to One Giant Leap Foundation and mail to: One Giant Leap Foundation, 11035 Lavender Hill Drive Ste. 160-306 Las Vegas, NV 89135 Upcoming Programs: Broadcast 4502 Zoom Steve Wolfe, Elizabeth Change | Tuesday 10 Feb 2026 700PM PT Guests: Steven Wolfe Zoom: Steve Wolfe , Elizabeth Change on the Beyond Earth Upcoming Symposium and more BE news Broadcast 4503: Hotel Mars with Rick Fisher | Wednesday 11 Feb 2026 930AM PT Guests: Rick Fisher, John Batchelor, Dr. David Livingston Rick Brings us news regarding United States and China are also locked in a contest regarding Solar System domination between China and the US Broadcast 4504 Zoom: Frank Pietronigro | Friday 13 Feb 2026 930AM PT Guests: Frank Pietronigro Zoom: Frank discusses the Zero Gravity Arts Commission and more Broadcast 4506 Zoom Open Lines | Sunday 15 Feb 2026 1200PM PT Guests: Dr. David Livingston Open Lines discussion. All topics welcome Get full access to The Space Show-One Giant Leap Foundation at doctorspace.substack.com/subscribe

    1h 23m
  4. MARK WHITTINGTON Returns to The Space Show!

    3 DAYS AGO

    MARK WHITTINGTON Returns to The Space Show!

    The Space Show Presents Mark Whittington, Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026 Quick Summary: Our program began with followed by conversations about the Artemis II mission and space technology advancements. The group explored various aspects of space exploration, including Iran’s space program, lunar missions, and the development of space suits and launch systems. The discussion concluded with conversations about AI in journalism, nuclear reactor technologies, and the upcoming Artemis II mission, including its potential for public celebration and media coverage. Detailed Summary Our Zoom program Wisdom Team discussed the Artemis II mission, with Mark expressing confidence in its success. They also talked about the challenges of keeping up with rapidly advancing technology and the stock market, particularly in the space industry. David expressed interest in doing a show about space-related ETFs but felt that Andrew, who focuses on his own ETF, might not be the best person for it given there now a plethora of space focused ETFs. After introducing Mark Whittington as the guest for the Sunday space show, we discussed Iran’s space program. Mark explained that while Iran’s space program is not robust by global standards, it serves dual purposes, potentially threatening global security. He suggested that if Iran were to transition to a more freedom-oriented regime, preserving and developing their space program could be beneficial for economic growth and inspiring young Iranians to pursue STEM subjects. Mark continued talking about Iran’s space program, highlighting its development of launch vehicles and satellites, and its potential to support a nuclear program. He suggested that a post-Islamic Republic Iran could benefit economically from continuing its space program and joining international initiatives like the Artemis Accords. David inquired about the U.S. government’s perspective on Iran’s space program, and Mark noted that concerns primarily focus on its nuclear capabilities. They briefly touched on the potential for military action against Iranian spaceports and the possibility of Reza Pahlavi returning as a stabilizing figure in Iran. The conversation concluded with a brief mention of the upcoming Artemis II mission. Mark discussed the Artemis II mission in some detail, addressing concerns about the heat shield and NASA’s confidence in its workarounds. He highlighted the mission’s potential impact on American society, comparing media coverage then and now, and expressed hope that Artemis II would be a significant story. Mark also noted the mission’s duration of 10 days, including a loop around the moon, and emphasized the diversity of the crew. David shared a question from a listener about potential lunar payload or surface interaction during Artemis II, which Mark clarified does not involve landing on the moon but rather a loop around it. We continued focusing on the Artemis program and lunar exploration. Mark explained that CubeSats will launch with Orion but won’t be lunar landers, and SpaceX and Blue Origin are developing lunar landers. The next Starship test is expected in 5 weeks, aiming to refuel in low Earth orbit and land on the moon. John Jossy inquired about ESA’s life support system test, which Mark confirmed is part of the systems test in low Earth orbit. Marshall asked about reusability of the Space Launch System’s solid rocket boosters, to which Mark replied they are not planned to be reusable due to the infrequent use of the system. Our team discussed public excitement and historical significance of the Artemis II mission, with Mark noting that while Artemis II should be the story of the year, public awareness and support may be lower than during the Apollo missions. They discussed the upcoming Starship test in 5 weeks as a potential rival for public attention, and explored the possibility of live TV coverage during the mission, including the crew’s perspective of Earth rise. Mark suggested that the crew should be allowed to express their personal thoughts and experiences during the mission rather than following a pre-determined script. Our team also discussed the inspirational impact of Earthrise, with Marshall sharing his perspective on the spiritual connection to celestial objects. Mark and Marshall exchanged views on the role of mathematics and physics in understanding the universe, while David inquired about public perceptions of space exploration versus Earth’s economic concerns. Mark highlighted the potential economic benefits of space travel and SpaceX’s upcoming IPO, as well as Elon Musk’s plans for AI data centers in orbit, powered by a network of satellites. The conversation concluded with a discussion on the development of space-based solar power and its potential to overcome the limitations of solar energy on Earth, with our guest emphasizing the importance of diverse energy sources like nuclear and natural gas. Mark discussed the development of lunar spacesuits, noting that Axiom Space is the prime contractor and progress is ongoing, with suits expected to be ready by 2028. He also addressed the potential merger between SpaceX and Tesla, suggesting it would create a holding company with separate divisions, and discussed the development of Optimus robots for space exploration. Mark highlighted the success of NASA Administrator Bill Nelson, who was confirmed after a tumultuous process, and expressed optimism about Artemis II’s upcoming launch and its potential to generate momentum for future space missions. He also touched on the challenges of transitioning from SLS to commercial systems for future Artemis missions, noting that while there are concerns about delays, the goal remains to build a lunar base. Our group discussed historical SpaceX launch operations, particularly focusing on the Falcon 1 rocket launches from Kwajalein Atoll in the Pacific. David explained that while Kwajalein offered advantages like reduced orbital velocity requirements due to its equatorial location, the 8,000-mile supply line and classified military operations at the site ultimately led SpaceX to shift operations to other locations including Vandenberg and Boca Chica. The discussion concluded with Marshall recalling the Celestas Memorial payload incident, where a Falcon 1 rocket failed to reach orbit and instead crashed into the Marianas Trench, though the exact crash location was never publicly disclosed by SpaceX. John Hunt proposed a fallback plan for Starship’s on-orbit refueling, involving an unmanned variant with an exploration upper stage as a third stage, to reduce costs for lunar missions. Mark and David discussed the potential of nuclear power and propulsion in space, as well as the integration of such technologies into Starship for Mars missions. David emphasized the importance of having a plan for implementing new ideas, cautioning against presenting alternatives without a clear path forward. The conversation also touched on the role of AI in managing information overload for executives like Elon Musk, with Marshall sharing insights from his experience with AI in research and business. Mark described the limitations and potential of AI in journalism, emphasizing the need for human oversight in verifying sources. Ajay shared information about advanced nuclear reactor technologies, including Generation 4 reactors and molten salt reactors, highlighting their safety features and reduced waste production. Mark expressed interest in learning more about these reactors. The group agreed to continue the discussion if time permitted, with Mark mentioning his upcoming focus on the Artemis II mission and other space-related stories. Mark continued promoting the upcoming Artemis II mission, which is scheduled for a wet dress rehearsal followed by a potential launch on February 8th, after the Super Bowl. He shared his experience as a space writer and author, mentioning his books about lunar exploration. The group discussed the potential for a ticker tape parade and public celebration if the mission is successful, with Mark agreeing to write about this possibility in his Sunday newsletter. Dr. Ajay and others expressed interest in subscribing to Mark’s newsletter, which is distributed through The Hill newspaper. David did not think a ticker tape parade was in the cards, so to speak. Special thanks to our sponsors:American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Helix Space in Luxembourg, Celestis Memorial Spaceflights, Astrox Corporation, Dr. Haym Benaroya of Rutgers University, The Space Settlement Progress Blog by John Jossy, The Atlantis Project, and Artless Entertainment Our Toll Free Line for Live Broadcasts: 1-866-687-7223 (Not in service at this time) For real time program participation, email Dr. Space at: drspace@thespaceshow.com for instructions and access. The Space Show is a non-profit 501C3 through its parent, One Giant Leap Foundation, Inc. To donate via Pay Pal, use: To donate with Zelle, use the email address: david@onegiantleapfoundation.org. If you prefer donating with a check, please make the check payable to One Giant Leap Foundation and mail to: One Giant Leap Foundation, 11035 Lavender Hill Drive Ste. 160-306 Las Vegas, NV 89135 Upcoming Programs: Broadcast 4502 Zoom Steve Wolfe, Elizabeth Change | Tuesday 10 Feb 2026 700PM PT Guests: Steven Wolfe Zoom: Steve Wolfe , Elizabeth Change on the Beyond Earth Upcoming Symposium and more BE news Broadcast 4503: Hotel Mars with Rick Fisher | Wednesday 11 Feb 2026 930AM PT Guests: Rick Fisher, John Batchelor, Dr. David Livingston Rick Brings us news regarding United States and China are also locked in a contest regarding Solar System domination between China and the US Broadcast 4504 Zoom: Frank Pietronigro | Friday 13 Feb 2026 930AM PT Guests: Frank Pietronigro Zoom: Frank discusses the Zero Gravity Arts Commission and more Broadcast 4506 Zoom Open Lines | Sunday 15 Feb 2026 1200PM PT Guests: Dr. David Livingsto

    1h 41m
  5. We welcome Marc Berte, CEO, and Dr. Paul Jaffe of Overview Energy regarding innovative space solar power for Earth.

    4 DAYS AGO

    We welcome Marc Berte, CEO, and Dr. Paul Jaffe of Overview Energy regarding innovative space solar power for Earth.

    The Space Show Presents Marc Berte & Paul Jaffe of the Overview Energy Co. Friday, 2-6-26 Quick Summary The Space Show hosted a discussion about space solar power with Marc Berte, CEO of Overview Energy, and Paul Jaffe, Vice President of Systems Engineering at Overview. The conversation focused on Overview’s innovative approach to space solar power, which involves beaming near-infrared light from geosynchronous orbit to existing large-scale solar projects on Earth. Marc explained how their system could potentially provide utility-scale power at a lower cost than other space solar concepts, with a target of delivering the first megawatt to the grid by 2030 and a gigawatt by the mid-2030s. The discussion covered technical details such as efficiency, launch costs, and regulatory considerations, with Marc emphasizing that their approach could complement rather than replace existing energy sources. The conversation also touched on potential challenges like debris impact and maintenance in space, with Marc noting that the distributed nature of their satellite constellation would make the system more resilient. Detailed Summary: The Space Show team with our two guests discussed a new space solar power technology that uses existing solar panels to collect energy beamed via infrared/near-infrared radiation. David expressed skepticism about the logistics and regulatory challenges, particularly regarding the potential to bypass utility companies like PG&E. The conversation then shifted to introducing both Marc Berte a nuclear engineer from MIT who is now involved with the space show, along with Dr. Paul Jaffe. Marc and Paul discussed space solar power and Marc’s company’s work on building space energy for delivery to Earth. Marc presented the Overview Energy innovative approach to space solar energy, focusing on wide-beam near-infrared energy transmission from geosynchronous orbit to existing large-scale utility solar projects. He explained that the system requires no modifications to existing solar panels, as it uses near-infrared light matched to the bandgap of common PV materials, achieving up to 60% efficiency compared to 20% with sunlight. Marc addressed regulatory concerns by highlighting that the system operates within Class 1 laser safety regulations worldwide, making it passively safe and compliant with FAA, OSHA, and FDA standards. David inquired about the feasibility of weaponizing the beam, to which Marc responded that it is physically impossible due to the spatially incoherent nature of the laser light used. The Wisdom Team discussed space solar power systems, with Marc explaining that cloud cover only slightly affects beam availability due to site diversity across different geographical locations. Paul shared his experience at NRL researching various power beaming methods, including microwave and optical systems, before transitioning to commercial projects. The discussion clarified that the satellite system uses geosynchronous orbit (GEO) rather than geostationary orbit (GSO), with each satellite having a 200-meter array capable of delivering about a megawatt of power. Marc noted that while the system is not designed for small, mobile military applications, it could potentially support large military installations like Anderson Air Force Base on Guam. The discussion focused on the economic and technical considerations of space solar energy, particularly the challenges of small-scale expeditionary power systems. Marc explained that while small, logistically constrained units may not be ideal customers due to concerns about being laser-designated from space, larger bases and power distribution systems are more promising markets. The conversation also covered power density considerations, with Paul and Marc emphasizing that moving vehicles require higher power density than stationary applications, and that Overview’s approach of using existing solar farms offers advantages in terms of safety and cost-effectiveness. Marc concluded that space solar energy, along with other methods like fission, fusion, and terrestrial solar plus storage, will be needed to meet the world’s growing energy demands over the next 25 years. Marc explained the concept of using solar power satellites to beam energy to Earth, addressing questions about safety, intensity, and market viability. He clarified that each satellite delivers about a megawatt of power, with multiple beamlets aggregated to focus on specific targets, ensuring safe and efficient energy delivery. The system aims to provide a stable power source by filling in energy gaps caused by clouds, night, and seasonal variations, potentially reducing reliance on peak power plants and backup power. Marc also discussed the economic model, noting that contracts would be based on megawatt photons, and the system could reduce overall electricity costs by optimizing power distribution across different regions and times of day. Marc talked about plans for a satellite constellation plan for global solar power distribution, explaining how the system would use ground-based beacons to direct satellites to specific locations for energy transmission. He outlined a timeline with a low Earth orbit test scheduled for January 2028 and first megawatt deployment in 2030, with TRL levels ranging from 4 to 6 across different system components. When asked about timeline acceleration with increased funding, Marc explained that while some aspects could be accelerated by a year or two, space development involves serial negative learning that makes rapid scaling challenging. Our guest explained how his company’s space-based solar power system could complement terrestrial solar installations by providing peak power when needed, without the need for storage. He discussed the economics of launching satellites into orbit, noting that with current technology and pricing, they could be profitable at launch costs of $800 to $1,000 per kilogram. Phil raised concerns about the efficiency of the system, particularly the conversion of solar photons to electricity, but Marc claimed their DC-to-DC efficiency was better than 20-25%. The discussion also touched on the potential for using electric propulsion to move satellites from low Earth orbit to geostationary orbit. Our conversation zeroed in on the technical and economic aspects of space-based solar power systems. Marc discussed the efficiency of solar panels and lasers, emphasizing that while efficiency is important, cost per watt is the critical factor. He encouraged participants to research the DARPA Sheds program and look up published efficiencies of diode and fiber-coupled pump lasers. The group also discussed the impact of debris on satellite systems and the need for latitude-adjusted panel angles. Paul, representing Overview, highlighted the importance of economics in space solar power projects and noted the need for collaboration between the space and energy industries. We also talked about space solar power technologies, with Paul explaining their approach of deploying large satellites (200 meters) that can self-deploy without in-space assembly. The conversation covered the trade-offs between multi-junction cells and silicon-based cells, with Paul noting that while multi-junction cells are more efficient, they are too expensive for ground-based applications. The group discussed the challenges of solar power beaming, including the need to track the beam over long distances and the potential variations in solar cell performance across different wavelengths. David emphasized that while the theoretical business case exists, it remains unproven until operational demonstrations are completed. Special thanks to our sponsors:American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Helix Space in Luxembourg, Celestis Memorial Spaceflights, Astrox Corporation, Dr. Haym Benaroya of Rutgers University, The Space Settlement Progress Blog by John Jossy, The Atlantis Project, and Artless Entertainment Our Toll Free Line for Live Broadcasts: 1-866-687-7223 (Not in service at this time) For real time program participation, email Dr. Space at: drspace@thespaceshow.com for instructions and access. The Space Show is a non-profit 501C3 through its parent, One Giant Leap Foundation, Inc. To donate via Pay Pal, use: To donate with Zelle, use the email address: david@onegiantleapfoundation.org. If you prefer donating with a check, please make the check payable to One Giant Leap Foundation and mail to: One Giant Leap Foundation, 11035 Lavender Hill Drive Ste. 160-306 Las Vegas, NV 89135 Upcoming Programs: Broadcast 4501 Zoom Dr. Scott Solomon | Sunday 08 Feb 2026 1200PM PT Guests: Dr. Scott Solomon Zoom: Settlement, humans in space, reproduction and more Get full access to The Space Show-One Giant Leap Foundation at doctorspace.substack.com/subscribe

    1h 38m
  6. The Space Show Hotel Mars with Eric Berger

    4 DAYS AGO

    The Space Show Hotel Mars with Eric Berger

    Eric Berger of Ars Technia joined both John and me on this one segment Hotel Mars program to discuss thre details regarding NASA's urgency in acquiring a new Mars telecommunications orbiter. The debate seems to be between traditional public (government) builds or commercial partnerships to meet the critical 2028 launch window for future missions. Note that this was a one segment Hotel Mars program. Special thanks to our sponsors:American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Helix Space in Luxembourg, Celestis Memorial Spaceflights, Astrox Corporation, Dr. Haym Benaroya of Rutgers University, The Space Settlement Progress Blog by John Jossy, The Atlantis Project, and Artless Entertainment Our Toll Free Line for Live Broadcasts: 1-866-687-7223 (Not in service at this time) For real time program participation, email Dr. Space at: drspace@thespaceshow.com for instructions and access. The Space Show is a non-profit 501C3 through its parent, One Giant Leap Foundation, Inc. To donate via Pay Pal, use: To donate with Zelle, use the email address: david@onegiantleapfoundation.org. If you prefer donating with a check, please make the check payable to One Giant Leap Foundation and mail to: One Giant Leap Foundation, 11035 Lavender Hill Drive Ste. 160-306 Las Vegas, NV 89135 Upcoming Programs: Broadcast 4501 Zoom Dr. Scott Solomon | Sunday 08 Feb 2026 1200PM PT Guests: Dr. Scott Solomon Zoom: Settlement, humans in space, reproduction and more Get full access to The Space Show-One Giant Leap Foundation at doctorspace.substack.com/subscribe

    11 min
  7. The Space Show Presents Space/Science Journalist Sarah Scoles

    4 FEB

    The Space Show Presents Space/Science Journalist Sarah Scoles

    The Space Show Presents Sarah Scoles, Friday, 1-30-26 Quick Summary” Our program initially focused on discussing the status and challenges of the Breakthrough Starshot project, including its cancellation and implications for interstellar travel research through Sarah’s Oct 2025 Scientific American story. Participants explored the technical and financial aspects of space exploration, including the development of laser propulsion technology, the importance of mechanical engineering in different gravity environments, and the role of commercial space companies in pharmaceutical development and national security. The group also discussed space budget allocation, the challenges of evaluating space companies, and the geopolitical implications of space exploration, with participants expressing optimism about space’s potential contributions to global progress. Summary David and Sarah discussed the status of the Breakthrough Starshot project, which Sarah had recently written about in Scientific American. David noted that several previous guests who had been involved with Breakthrough, including Worden, Phil Lubin, and Zach Manchester, had been unable to return for updates. Sarah’s article revealed that the project had become dormant, which came as a surprise to David, who had been discussing it as a real possibility for years on his Space Show program. In introduced the Wisdom Team for this program including Dr. James Benford, who argued that the Breakthrough Starshot project was successful in achieving its Phase 1 objectives, which involved investing in high-risk, high-reward research to de-risk technology and identify potential showstoppers. Others highlighted the importance of designing equipment that functions in microgravity or zero-gravity environments, a topic that is often overlooked in space exploration discussions. Later in the program the team discussed the need for mechanical engineering specialists tailored to different gravity conditions, such as those on Mars, and considered the possibility of writing an article on this topic. David discussed the cancellation of Breakthrough’s interstellar flight project and its impact on the show’s guests, noting that Pete Worden and others had not been Space Show guests in the past few years. He introduced Sarah Scoles, a science journalist who wrote an article about the project’s demise in Scientific American. Sarah explained that Breakthrough’s plan to send wafer-sized spacecraft to Alpha Centauri at a quarter the speed of light had been abandoned, highlighting the risks of billionaire-funded science projects. David and Sarah discussed the reasons behind the project’s cancellation and its implications for future interstellar missions. Sarah’s article explored the demise of Breakthrough Starshot, a $100 million project aimed at developing laser propulsion technology for interstellar travel. Despite significant progress in laser and spacecraft technology, the project faced challenges such as high costs and technical difficulties, leading to its quiet discontinuation. Jim Benford, a key figure in the project, clarified that the concept predates Breakthrough Starshot and has a long history, including his own laboratory work on microwave sails in the 1990s. He criticized the article for not consulting with major project participants and emphasized the secretive nature of the Breakthrough team. Jim discussed the Starshot project’s Phase 1, which aimed to assess the feasibility of interstellar travel using a sail propelled by a laser. The phase was successful in determining that there are no showstoppers to the concept, which is technically and financially viable. The project addressed four key challenges, including building a coherent laser array, finding a suitable material for the sail, ensuring stable beam riding, and transmitting data over vast distances. Phase 2, which would involve laboratory and in-orbit demonstrations, is now seeking funding to continue the work, with an estimated cost of $100 million. The group discussed Sarah’s article about Breakthrough Starshot, with Jim and David expressing appreciation for her thorough coverage of the project’s four main challenges and progress made. Jim, who is 85 years old, explained that Breakthrough Starshot’s communication issues have been a significant problem, particularly regarding the final report that was completed over a year ago but has not been released. Jim announced he would be writing a two-part series on Centauri Dreams about Breakthrough Starshot, with the first part focusing on Sarah’s article and the second part providing a technical review of the project’s achievements. The group continued discussing Sarah’s recent article about the Breakthrough Starshot project, with Sarah defending her reporting approach and acknowledging she spoke to key researchers but not top executives due to their secrecy. Jim explained that Yuri Milner, the project’s financier, is secretive and avoids public attention, which contributes to the organization’s poor internal and external communications. Marshall inquired about the appropriate budget allocation for R&D project publicity, and Jim shared that Kevin Parkin had modeled the system’s costs, estimating $10 billion for construction if laser costs decrease, with half the budget going to the beamer and the rest split between the aperture and power. Sarah discussed her overall experience covering space and technology, highlighting the rapid development of low Earth orbit satellite constellations for communications and Earth observation. She noted that companies are increasingly using space data for various applications, including national security and weather monitoring. David inquired about Sarah’s views on the progress of space development, particularly in areas like human spaceflight and the shift of commercial space companies towards defense and national security work. The group discussed the current state of space companies and their funding. David expressed concern about the high failure rate of entrepreneurial space ventures, noting that many companies may not be able to sustain themselves due to technological limitations or financial constraints. Joe agreed, emphasizing that founders often focus more on technology than fundraising. The discussion also touched on the challenges of distinguishing between credible and fraudulent space companies at conferences, with Sarah and David sharing their approaches to evaluating potential stories or investments. Sarah discussed her experience covering space news, including her interest in space policy and UAP topics. Ajay brought up Russia’s development of a nuclear-powered missile, which sparked a debate between Ajay and Jim about the feasibility and implications of such a weapon. John suggested that Russia’s development might be a response to the U.S. pulling out of the ABM Treaty and deploying its own missile defense system. The group discussed the development and implications of nuclear-powered cruise missiles, with Ajay emphasizing their strategic significance regardless of whether they have a “Golden Dome” capability. Marshall raised concerns about evaluating economic claims and technical feasibility of such projects, leading to a discussion about methods to verify claims, including Sarah’s approach as a physics-major journalist and Phil’s description of the Atlantis Project’s evidence ledger system for crowdsourced peer review. The conversation concluded with David inquiring about Sarah’s media work, learning that she primarily focuses on print media and is developing a podcast called “What I Left Out” about journalists’ omitted article content. The group discussed the state of medical research and drug development in space, with David expressing skepticism about private space stations replacing the ISS’s national lab. Sarah shared her experience writing about the major private space station projects, noting limited transparency and detailed information from the companies. Jim and Ajay agreed with David’s concerns about the technical challenges of building and maintaining private space stations, particularly regarding power requirements and vibration control. The conversation concluded with a brief discussion about fusion research, where Sarah noted that while fusion companies often receive significant funding, technical progress remains uncertain. The group discussed the status of commercial space tourism, with David noting that true commercial space tourism is still 2 years away as it requires tickets to be sold without specific reservations. Joe shared his investments in Axiom and Voyager, highlighting VAST as an interesting single-purpose space station company that aims to launch in 2027 and is entirely privately funded without federal money. Jim shared his expertise on fusion, predicting that Tri-Alpha Energy will succeed with a 100-megawatt reactor in the early 2030s, while most tokamak-based fusion companies are unlikely to succeed. The discussion concluded with Sarah expressing interest in space stations for pharmaceutical development, while Marshall mentioned potential uses for satellite maintenance and astronomy. The program addressed the allocation of space budgets between commercial and scientific endeavors, with Sarah and Jim agreeing that commercial space activities, including pharmaceutical development in orbit, are important alongside scientific research. David highlighted the geopolitical implications of space exploration and emphasized the need for a balanced approach that considers both commercial and scientific interests. The discussion concluded with Jim and David expressing optimism about space’s potential to contribute to global peace and progress, while acknowledging challenges posed by political leaders and educational systems. Special thanks to our sponsors:American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Helix Space in Luxem

    1h 30m
  8. Hotel Mars presents Dr. Paul Kalas re the Fomalhaut Star System with multiple collisions.

    3 FEB

    Hotel Mars presents Dr. Paul Kalas re the Fomalhaut Star System with multiple collisions.

    Hotel Mars Dr. Paul Kalas for Weds, Jan. Jn. 28, 2026, #4495 Quick Summary John Batchelor and I presented Professor Paul Kalas of the University of California at Berkeley, who discussed his groundbreaking observations of the Fomalhaut star system using the Hubble Space Telescope. Kalas explained how he discovered evidence of asteroid collisions creating massive dust clouds, which occur approximately every 100,000 years and last only 5-10 years. The discussion explored how planetary systems form through collisions between smaller objects, with Fomalhaut serving as a “time machine” to Earth’s early history when similar collisions shaped our own solar system. The conversation concluded with a broader discussion about the uniqueness of our solar system and the ongoing search for Earth-like planets around other stars, with David Livingston and Dr. Space highlighting their show’s focus on both space science and commercial space development. Detailed Summary Professor Paul Kalas from the University of California at Berkeley discussed his recent discovery using the Hubble Space Telescope of a star system called Fomalhut Dr. Pau, which is 25 light years away. He explained how they used techniques to cancel out the star’s bright light and revealed the presence of dust belts and a planet with a ring system, initially thought to be similar to Saturn. However, a new point of light appeared in 2023, challenging their previous understanding of the system, as planets are not supposed to suddenly appear. Dr. Kalas discussed the formation of Earth and the moon, explaining that a collision with a Mars-sized object created the moon and that Earth was subject to frequent impacts during the Great Bombardment. He mentioned ongoing research into a debris belt around a star 25 million light years away, suggesting a planet might be responsible for the belt’s structure. Our guest said his colleagues have imaged the star with the James Webb Space Telescope but have not yet detected any planets as large as Jupiter. He noted that smaller planets, like Uranus and Neptune, might exist but are beyond current detection limits. This was a one segment Hotel Mars program but after Dr. Kalas spoke, John talked with me about The Space Show, Hotel Mars and more. Continue listening for this short discussion. Special thanks to our sponsors:American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Helix Space in Luxembourg, Celestis Memorial Spaceflights, Astrox Corporation, Dr. Haym Benaroya of Rutgers University, The Space Settlement Progress Blog by John Jossy, The Atlantis Project, and Artless Entertainment Our Toll Free Line for Live Broadcasts: 1-866-687-7223 (Not in service at this time) For real time program participation, email Dr. Space at: drspace@thespaceshow.com for instructions and access. The Space Show is a non-profit 501C3 through its parent, One Giant Leap Foundation, Inc. To donate via Pay Pal, use: To donate with Zelle, use the email address: david@onegiantleapfoundation.org. If you prefer donating with a check, please make the check payable to One Giant Leap Foundation and mail to: One Giant Leap Foundation, 11035 Lavender Hill Drive Ste. 160-306 Las Vegas, NV 89135 Upcoming Programs: Broadcast 4498: Zoom Dr. Greg Autry | Tuesday 03 Feb 2026 700PM PT Guests: Dr. Greg Autry Zoom: Dr. Autry on policy, economics, commercial and space missions/projects Broadcast 4499 Hotel Mars TBD | Wednesday 04 Feb 2026 930AM PT Guests: John Batchelor, Dr. David Livingston Hotel Mars TBD Broadcast 4500: Zoom Overview Energy with Dr. Paul Jaffe | Friday 06 Feb 2026 930AM PT Guests: Dr. Paul Jaffe Zoom: Dr. Jaffe with others talks about Overview Energy Broadcast 4501 Zoom Dr. Scott Solomon | Sunday 08 Feb 2026 1200PM PT Guests: Dr. Scott Solomon Zoom: Settlement, humans in space, reproduction and more Get full access to The Space Show-One Giant Leap Foundation at doctorspace.substack.com/subscribe

    19 min
See All (132)

About

The Space Show® focuses on timely and important issues influencing the development of outer-space commerce and space tourism, as well as other related subjects of interest to us all. doctorspace.substack.com

Information

You Might Also Like