Today In Space

Alex G. Orphanos, Science Communicator
  • 5.0 (20)
  • ASTRONOMY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

The award-winning space science podcast about all things space! Hosted by Alex G. Orphanos, science communicator, maker, and aerospace engineer. Our mission: to spread love and spread science!

  1. NASA Sending Crew 11 Home Early Jan 14th | Astronaut Med Alert Conference from LIVE Hangout Jan 8th

    6D AGO

    NASA Sending Crew 11 Home Early Jan 14th | Astronaut Med Alert Conference from LIVE Hangout Jan 8th

    This week has been BUSY with activity in Low Earth Orbit on the Space Station! This episode is a recap from our LIVE Hangout broadcast on social media during NASA's International Space Station Update. We hear from the new NASA Administrator (Jared Isaacman), the Associate Administrator (Amit Kshatriya), and the Chief Space Medical Officer (Dr. James D. Polk) as they answer questions from NASA HQ in Washington, D.C. as the ISS operation teams at JSC in Houston were prepping Crew 11 to come home.  Hear my thoughts at the start and close - this conference was really good and a sign of the kind of leadership Jared Isaacman is bringing to NASA. One major takeaway, aside from wishing the now stable Astronaut gets home safetly, is that NASA really has a good head on it's shoulders. There is a lot of work to do - but in this I feel confident there are good winds of change under NASA's wings. Looking forward to the rest of 2026! #SpaceMedicine #NASA #SpaceSafety #HumanSpaceflight #TodayInSpace Timestamps: 00:00 ISS Update and Initial Reactions 02:04 Background and Initial Information 08:04 NASA's Response and Transparency 08:28 Details of the Medical Incident 09:56 Q&A Session with NASA Officials 13:23 Further Questions and Clarifications 19:20 Crew's Training and Medical Capabilities 32:10 Impact on ISS Operations and Future Missions 50:19 Final Thoughts and Next Steps We'd like to thank our sponsors: AG3D Printing (go to ag3d-printing.com to learn more & start 3D printing today!) Support the podcast: • Buy a 3D printed gift from our shop - http://ag3dprinting.etsy.com 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  • Get a free quote on your next 3D printing project at http://ag3d-printing.com • Donate at todayinspace.net

    53 min
  2. Who Keeps Astronauts Alive? w/ Chuck Doarn COO of SolaMed Solutions | NASA Space Medicine, Emergencies & The Ethics of Human Exploration

    JAN 6

    Who Keeps Astronauts Alive? w/ Chuck Doarn COO of SolaMed Solutions | NASA Space Medicine, Emergencies & The Ethics of Human Exploration

    🚀 In this full-length episode of Today In Space, Chuck Dorn — former NASA official and COO of SolaMed Solutions — takes us deep into the world of space medicine. We discuss: • What it takes to keep astronauts alive during long-duration missions • The challenges of medical care in microgravity • Ethical questions like "Who should fly to space?" • How telemedicine and remote care will shape commercial space travel • The role of standards and safety protocols for future space exploration If you're curious about the human side of spaceflight, this is a must-watch episode. 📌 Join the conversation and subscribe for more space insights! #SpaceMedicine #NASA #SpaceSafety #HumanSpaceflight #TodayInSpace Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Background of Chuck Dorn 05:04 Chuck's Journey to NASA and Early Career 07:06 Development of Telemedicine and Remote Healthcare 14:15 Challenges and Ethical Considerations in Space Exploration 17:04 Impact of Space Exploration on Public Health and Society 18:32 The Role of Private Companies in Space Exploration 20:26 Importance of Crew Protection in Space 01:15:25 Challenges of Medical Equipment in Space & Lessons from Past Missions 01:23:21 Impact of Federal Government Changes on Space Exploration 01:28:58 Personal Reflections and Future of Space Exploration We'd like to thank our sponsors: AG3D Printing (go to ag3d-printing.com to learn more & start 3D printing today!) Support the podcast: • Buy a 3D printed gift from our shop - http://ag3dprinting.etsy.com 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  • Get a free quote on your next 3D printing project at http://ag3d-printing.com • Donate at todayinspace.net

    1h 31m

  3. 12/25/2025

    Humans In Space, Culture, and Leadership w/ Dr. Michelle Hailey Director of Global Affairs at SolaMed Solutions

    This week, we talk with the Director of Global Affairs at SolaMed Solutions - Dr. Michelle Hailey. We learn about her origin story of entering the space industry, meeting Dr. Saralyn Mark, and diving into this space industry of ours on Earth. We learn about space culture, international partnership, and another non-traditional pathway to entering the Space Workforce. So buckle up - and get ready for another episode of Today In Space and a People of Space segment with Dr. Michelle Hailey.   Happy Holidays & Merry Christmas - let's dive in!   Timestamps:   00:00 My thoughts on America's upcoming 2026 Space Missions and Human Health 02:22 Interview with Dr. Michelle Hailey, Director of Global Affairs at SolaMed Solutions 06:14 Dr. Haley's Origin Story and Career Journey 10:06 The Importance of Relationships and Networking in the Space Industry  14:02 Leadership and Cultural Intelligence in Space Exploration  27:01 The Role of SolaMed Solutions in Global Space Collaboration  39:10 Gender and Space: Addressing Gender-Specific Challenges in Space Exploration  43:28 The Space Conundrum and the Role of NASA We'd like to thank our sponsors: AG3D Printing (go to ag3d-printing.com to learn more & start 3D printing today!) Support the podcast: • Buy a 3D printed gift from our shop - http://ag3dprinting.etsy.com 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  • Get a free quote on your next 3D printing project at http://ag3d-printing.com • Donate at todayinspace.net

    56 min
  4. SpaceX is Finally Going Public?!? The Space Conundrum STRIKES BACK!

    12/17/2025

    SpaceX is Finally Going Public?!? The Space Conundrum STRIKES BACK!

    In this episode, Alex uses a scientific approach to combat the emotional rollercoaster this past week has been since Mr. Musk has confirmed SpaceX is going Public! The Space Conundrum strikes again - and it's leaving many to wonder: Why Now? Listen to this episode if you'd like to learn more and explore: What is Elon Musk Thinking, taking SpaceX from an independent private company and trading it on the US stock exchange? What does an IPO mean for SpaceX? Does this mean "SpaceX's Mission to Mars" is over? What are the upsides to SpaceX going public? We're going to give our answer to all of those questions and I'll share my thoughts on this major piece of news. Just another day in the Space Conundrum - but it definitely wasn't on my 2025 or 2026 space bingo card. By the end of the video - we want to hear from YOU! What do you think?? Are you excited? Scared?? Or Both??!! We'd love to hear what you think in the comments or by emailing us at todayinspacepodcast@gmail.com. Make sure to follow us on social media - you can find links to everything by going to stan.store/ag3dlabs. Links & Resources: Eric Berger Article on SpaceX IPO Announcement https://arstechnica.com/space/2025/12/after-years-of-resisting-it-spacex-now-plans-to-go-public-why/ Harvard Linked Study on % of Success for Repeat Entrepreneurs https://www.newyorkfed.org/medialibrary/media/research/economists/kovner/performance_persistence.pdf Timestamps: 00:00 SpaceX Going Public: Initial Reactions and Concerns 03:40 Potential Impact on SpaceX's Mission and NASA's History as A Lesson 06:31 Tesla's Success and SpaceX's Potential IPO 09:59 SpaceX's Strengths and Advantages 13:10 The AI Race and SpaceX's Future 18:39 Let us know what YOU think! We'd like to thank our sponsors: AG3D Printing (go to ag3d-printing.com to learn more & start 3D printing today!) Support the podcast: • Buy a 3D printed gift from our shop - http://ag3dprinting.etsy.com 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  • Get a free quote on your next 3D printing project at http://ag3d-printing.com • Donate at todayinspace.net

    19 min
  5. The Road to NASA Administrator | Jared Isaacman Passes Senate Committee AGAIN

    12/09/2025

    The Road to NASA Administrator | Jared Isaacman Passes Senate Committee AGAIN

    Jared Isaacman, previously chosen as the President's pick for NASA Administrator in March 2025, faced the Senate committee hearing AGAIN to discuss his qualifications and potential conflicts of interest before leading the American Space Program. The past year of delay was due to political nonsense, leaving NASA without leadership that whole time. Mr. Isaacman is an entrepreneur, 2 mission astronaut commander, philanthropist, and father who has a unique leadership style. He returned to the Senate Committee sharper than ever! We listen in on the live Senate Committee meeting for some Q&A and talk about the state of NASA. Not to mention, how much NASA is in need of clear leadership and direction after almost a year of delay. Today In Space is PRO-Jared! Go get 'em Rook! As of December 9th, 2025 - Mr. Isaacman has passed the Senate Committee and is on to full Senate Vote! Enjoy this bit of LIVE hangout from the past week We'd love to hear what you think in the comments or by emailing us at todayinspacepodcast@gmail.com. Make sure to follow us on social media - you can find links to everything by going to stan.store/ag3dlabs. Timestamps: 00:00 Jared Isaacman's Nomination and Background  01:58 Senate Committee Hearing: Jared Isaacman's Testimony  03:36 Political Influence on Economic Data  06:38 Critical Mineral Supply Chain and Defense Industrial Base  11:12 Elon Musk and Financial Ties  18:01 NASA's Role in Supersonic Flight and Space Diplomacy  22:01 Support for Science and Earth Observation Data  26:18 Agriculture Data and Space Medicine 29:41 Access to NASA Data for Researchers w/ Private Partners? 32:53 Digital Trade and Cross-Border Data Flows We'd like to thank our sponsors: AG3D Printing (go to 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 Support the podcast: • Buy a 3D printed gift from our shop - http://ag3dprinting.etsy.com  • Get a free quote on your next 3D printing project at http://ag3d-printing.com • Donate at todayinspace.net

    43 min
  6. NASA & Interstellar 3I-ATLAS | Recap w/ My Thoughts & Press Q&A

    11/25/2025

    NASA & Interstellar 3I-ATLAS | Recap w/ My Thoughts & Press Q&A

    We went live for the NASA broadcast of the release of images of the Interplanetary "comet" 3I-Atlas, which was delayed due to the government shutdown. As the cultural curiosity surrounding 3I-ATLAS went viral during the poorly timed government shutdown, it was a unique opportunity for NASA to do what it does best. Share data and spend a little more time with the actual experts to explore that curiosity and dig deeper into what we found.  Unfortunately, it feels as though the government shutdown and funding cuts proposed by the current President's cabinet was more of an influence on this 3I-ATLAS review than curiosity was. If you wanted to know how I feel about this you can rewatch it live.  Two major themes for me: - Don't be an intellectual bully. There are curious people out there who are not trolling you (NASA). Talk to those people without demeaning their curiosity - The definition of a "Comet" is vague and outdated. Just like Pluto needed to be reclassified as a dwarf planet, we need a better term for these icy objects.  Would love to know what you think! Let us know in the comments below or email us at todayinspacepodcast @ gmail.com Timestamps:  00:00 Initial Thoughts before NASA's Image Reveal Event  04:31 Some Context and Observations of 3I Atlas  11:45 Q&A Session with Press and Scientific Insights 14:01 Alien Hypothesis and Scientific Evidence 36:07 Scientific Goals and Future Observations  36:20 Processing and Release of Images  39:06 Orbital Dynamics and Non-Gravitational Accelerations 39:24 Public Engagement and Citizen Science  40:00 Alex's Final Thoughts on the definition of a "comet" and power of science communication We'd like to thank our sponsors: AG3D Printing (go to 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 Support the podcast: • Buy a 3D printed gift from our shop - http://ag3dprinting.etsy.com  • Get a free quote on your next 3D printing project at http://ag3d-printing.com • Donate at todayinspace.net

    1h 4m
  7. BEST Moments from Blue Origin New Glenn Launch & Landing | NASA ESCAPADE Mission to Mars

    11/20/2025

    BEST Moments from Blue Origin New Glenn Launch & Landing | NASA ESCAPADE Mission to Mars

    We were LIVE hanging out for the 2nd launch of Blue Origin's New Glenn - this episode is a compilation of the best moments from launch, including the audio and sounds of launch, landing, and pure success from Team Blue. Make sure to follow us online and hang out in the chat in the future! Come hang, Ask questions, and let's all learn more and have a blast watching the Next Space Culture Moment LIVE Are you a big New Glenn or Blue Origin Fan? Check out our Blue Origin New Glenn-inspired Rocket Pen (3DPrinted) https://ag3dprinting.etsy.com/listing/1859644348   Timestamps: 00:00 New Glenn Launch and Blue Origin's Achievements 02:25 Live Stream and Launch Preparations 03:27 NASA's ESCAPADE Mission and Its Importance 08:55 Challenges and Significance of the Launch 10:51 Countdown and Launch Sequence  23:44 Post-Launch Updates and Analysis 24:58 Blue Origin's Future and Reusability 31:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts We'd like to thank our sponsors: AG3D Printing (go to 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 Support the podcast: • Buy a 3D printed gift from our shop - http://ag3dprinting.etsy.com  • Get a free quote on your next 3D printing project at http://ag3d-printing.com • Donate at todayinspace.net

    33 min
  8. 3D Printing & Making Parts for Space Applications! Xometry's Mike Cavalieri & Greg Paulsen

    10/30/2025

    3D Printing & Making Parts for Space Applications! Xometry's Mike Cavalieri & Greg Paulsen

    We are joined by experts from Xometry, a company that many engineer's have grabbed instant quotes & custom parts on demand with CNC machining, 3D printing, and more. This week, we are joined by Mike Cavalieri and Greg Paulsen - both leaders at Xometry. Our guests are experts in rapid prototyping to full production and have helped big Space Companies like SpaceX, Blue Origin, NASA, and more when they need a reliable machine shop to make parts for space applications.  We discuss their origin stories, how 3D Printing can be helpful in Space applications, and what kinds of parts have been made for Aerospace. While they can't get too into the specifics, we get a great deep dive into how Xometry plays a big role in helping customers find unique advantages with 3D printing. We also discuss big topics like Manufacturing in America, and how platforms like Xometry can help skilled machine shops in the US find customers using their powerful tools and data. When AI is combined with their skilled experts in many manufacturing methods, you get a powerful web of part makers and consumers that can help fill the gap on the feast or famine that is manufacturing. Please check out https://www.xometry.com/ to learn more Thank you to both Mike & Greg for joining us and sharing so much with us about what it takes to make parts for Aerospace in 3D printing but also many other traditional techniques. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Origin Stories 03:58 Challenges in 3D Printing and Prototyping 09:17 Global Operations and Time Zone Management 11:31 Additive Manufacturing in Space Applications 16:15 Assisting US Machine Shops, Vetting Suppliers, and Quality Control 30:22 More Applications for 3D Printing In Space 47:53 Digital Manufacturing and Marketplace Dynamics 48:46 Education and Training in Manufacturing 50:41 Future of Additive Manufacturing and AI We'd like to thank our sponsors: AG3D Printing (go to 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 - http://ag3dprinting.etsy.com  • Get a free quote on your next 3D printing project at http://ag3d-printing.com • Donate at todayinspace.net

    57 min
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About

The award-winning space science podcast about all things space! Hosted by Alex G. Orphanos, science communicator, maker, and aerospace engineer. Our mission: to spread love and spread science!

Information

  • Creator
    Alex G. Orphanos, Science Communicator
  • Years Active
    2014 - 2026
  • Episodes
    401
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Show Website
    Today In Space