Those Space People

Rachana
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Technology

A podcast series of casual cosmic conversations with people working on all things space. Listen to all the episodes here --> https://thosespacepeople.transistor.fm/episodes

  1. Bridging the Gap: Satellites, Signals & Standing Up

    1d ago

    Bridging the Gap: Satellites, Signals & Standing Up

    In this episode, we are Bridging the Gap with Cécile Deprez - a scientific researcher at DLR (German Aerospace Center). They work in the field of satellite positioning and specialize in next-generation GNSS. They are also an anti-imperialist intersectional LGBTQIA+ activist. Also a fellow member of the WIA-E and involved with several of its working groups. They also run a volunteer organization Sexisme Flop. In this episode, we dive into the future of satellite navigation, explaining how optical inter-satellite links could make systems like Galileo more accurate, secure, and resilient. The conversation then shifts to Cécile's equally impactful work as an intersectional LGBTQIA+ activist, co-founder of employee resource groups at DLR, and advocate for creating more inclusive workplaces in the aerospace sector. From unpacking the hidden applications of positioning and timing services in everyday life - from power grids to banking, to sharing hard-won lessons on calling out microaggressions, building allyship, and driving institutional change, Cécile offers both technical depth and deep personal insights into what it means to show up fully - as a researcher and as oneself in a highly technical field. Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction & Guest Welcome (01:20) - What Is Next-Generation GNSS? The Kepler Concept (04:33) - Surprising Applications of GNSS (Timing, Energy Grids, Finance) (06:27) - How a GNSS Network Works (Space, Ground & User Segments) (09:40) - Optical Inter-Satellite Links & Autonomous Navigation (13:49) - Future Trends: Private Sector, Space Debris & European Independence (17:11) - Building Employee Resource Groups at DLR (17:22) - Cecile's First Day & the "Diversity Hire" Comment (24:34) - Activism & Professional Reputation: Backlash and Recognition (28:30) - The Role of Allyship & How to Find and Train Allies (35:24) - Career Advice: Breaking Into GNSS (37:11) - Advice for Advocates in Technical Institutions

    40 min
  2. Thermal Lens: Understanding Uncertainties in Land Surface Temperature (LST)

    03/23/2025

    Thermal Lens: Understanding Uncertainties in Land Surface Temperature (LST)

    This episode of "Thermal Lens" features Dr. Claire Bulgin, a Senior Research Scientist in Earth Observation at the University of Reading. Claire takes us into the often-overlooked world of uncertainties in land surface temperature (LST) measurements and elaborates on the differences between error and uncertainty, the roles of accuracy, precision, and bias, and the challenges of calculating and communicating uncertainties. Claire breaks down how current satellite missions address these issues, the common sources of uncertainty, and what goes into building reliable uncertainty budgets. We also discuss her recommendations for both satellite data providers and users on how to better provide, interpret, and apply uncertainty information. Whether you're working in climate services, agriculture, or environmental monitoring, this conversation is packed with insights into how uncertainty shapes our understanding of the Earth’s surface. This episode is hosted by Jennifer Susan Adams, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Zurich and Rachana Mamidi, a Space Engineer & Podcaster based in Berlin. Links to resources mentioned in the episode:  The LST CCI project webpage - https://climate.esa.int/en/projects/land-surface-temperature/LST CCI product user guide - https://admin.climate.esa.int/media/documents/LST-CCI-D4.3-PUG_-_i2r0_-_Product_User_Guide.pdfUncertainty budget document  - https://admin.climate.esa.int/media/documents/LST-CCI-D2.3-E3UB_-_i3r0_-_End-to-End_ECV_Uncertainty_Budget.pdfFor users with a strong mathematical background, the entire document will be accessible. For those less comfortable with mathematics, attention should be directed to the last three pages,  where the key examples are presented.LST CCI Climate Assessment Report - https://admin.climate.esa.int/media/documents/LST_cci-D5.1-CAR_-_i3r0_-_Phase2_Climate_Assessment_Report.pdfChapters:(00:00) - Intro (01:07) - Episode Summary (02:09) - Diving into Uncertainty and Error (05:22) - Importance of Uncertainty in Data (08:12) - Calculating Uncertainty Budgets (12:59) - Lifecycle of Uncertainty in Satellite Data (24:55) - Challenges in Computing Uncertainties (28:18) - Educating Users on Uncertainty (30:14) - European Space Agency's LST_CCI Project (37:34) - Resources for Learning About Uncertainty (39:21) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    40 min
  3. Merging Art and Science to Tackle Flood Prediction

    09/02/2024

    Merging Art and Science to Tackle Flood Prediction

    In this episode of Those Space People, we sit down with Priyanka Rajkakati, Head of Special Projects at Vortex IO in Toulouse, France. With a background in aerospace engineering and systems engineering, and a passion for art, Priyanka leads groundbreaking projects like Europe's first flood forecasting system (WHYLD project). She discusses her multidisciplinary approach, combining satellite data with in-situ sensors, the challenges in flood prediction, and the vital role of art in scientific endeavors. Join us for an insightful conversation that bridges the gap between technology and society, and explore how artistic perspectives can enhance technological solutions. Chapters  (00:00) - Introduction to Priyanka Rajkakati (00:48) - Vortex IO and Water Intelligence (01:55) - The WHYLD Project: Europe's First Flood Forecasting System (05:02) - Priyanka's Journey from Art to Science (07:49) - Challenges in Flood Prediction (14:37) - The Role of Art in Scientific Projects (25:56) - Flood Impact and Personal Motivation (29:41) - Challenges in Space and Flooding (30:58) - Forming the Reveins Initiative (32:03) - The Role of Art in Science and Technology (34:58) - Exploring Space Sci-Fi (43:37) - Art and Space Collaborations (49:51) - Final Thoughts and Future Projects

    52 min
  4. Bridging the Gap: Space Policy towards Greening of the Space Sector

    05/19/2024

    Bridging the Gap: Space Policy towards Greening of the Space Sector

    In today's episode, we are "Bridging the Gap" with Vera Pinto - Policy Coordinator at the European Commission (Directorate General for Defense Industry and Space). The discussion covers Vera's diverse background in international relations, political science, and space policy, and her current role focusing on equality, diversity, inclusion, and the sustainability of the space sector. Vera shares insights into the skills and backgrounds needed in the aerospace industry, the importance of greening space activities, and the development of sustainable methodologies for the space sector in collaboration with industry stakeholders. The episode also explores the potential of AI in enhancing environmental sustainability and processing vast quantities of Earth observation data, and discusses the various career paths and opportunities within the European Commission for those interested in the space sector. This episode is part of the "Bridging the Gap" series brought to you by Women in Aerospace Europe (WIA-Europe) and Those Space People, and ties into the theme of the WIA-Europe Symposium 2024.  "Bridging the Gap" is a special series that spotlights inspirational figures from the aerospace industry talk about the current skills gap, and provides guidance on developing skills to future proof your career. So if you're looking to enter the aerospace industry or advancing into leadership roles, then this series is tailor made for you. Chapters (00:00) - Introduction to Bridging the Gap Series (00:38) - Spotlight on Vera Pinto: A Diverse Career in Space Policy (01:06) - The Multifaceted Role of a Policy and Equality Coordinator (02:12) - Skills and Backgrounds Needed in the European Commission (03:31) - Sustainability in the Space Sector: Challenges and Methodologies (09:41) - The Future of Green Roles in the Space Industry (14:41) - AI's Role in Enhancing Space Sustainability (20:55) - Diverse Career Paths at the European Commission (27:41) - Advice for Aspiring Space Industry Professionals (32:21) - Closing Thoughts and Personal Anecdotes

    35 min

  5. 05/05/2024

    Journey of an Aerospace Engineer into Venture Capital

    In this podcast episode, Nithish Kumar, an aerospace engineer working with the VC firm Speciale Invest, shares his diverse experiences ranging from space education and outreach to entrepreneurship. Nithish recounts his proud yet failed passion project, ALINEA, which aimed to be a startup pitching platform inspired by Shark Tank, and how it marked a transformative period in his life during the COVID-19 pandemic. He delves into his transition from being deeply fascinated with space to exploring the business side of technology, leading to his current role at Speciale Invest. Nithish discusses the value of resilience, the transition from engineering to business, and how his early passion for space and podcasting played a pivotal role in defining his career trajectory. Chapters (00:00) - Welcome to Those Space People: Meet Nithish Kumar (00:37) - The Story of ALINEA: A Failed Passion Project (04:21) - From ALINEA's Lessons to Space Tech Investment (05:12) - An Aerospace Engineer in the VC World (08:53) - The Power of Networking in Venture Capital (11:27) - A Journey Through Space Education and Outreach (19:31) - The Unbounded Podcast: A Gateway to Space Tech Insights (25:16) - The Resilience Required in Venture Capital

    28 min

  6. 04/22/2024

    The Future of AI in Space Exploration: Insights from JPL NASA and ISRO Experts

    In this episode, Asitang Mishra, a senior data scientist from JPL NASA, and Nitish Kumar, an AI team lead from ISRO, discuss the current and future applications of Artificial Intelligence in space exploration. They delve into how AI is transforming space missions, from satellite imagery analysis and space debris modeling to the automation of spacecraft systems. The conversation also covers the challenges and opportunities AI presents, the integration of AI into space agency workflows, and potential AI-driven advancements in space technology. Furthermore, the discussion touches on the necessity of AI literacy among space professionals, the impact of AI on job roles within the space industry, and the impact of AI advancements on regulations like ITAR. The guests also explore the broader implications of AI on the future of work, emphasizing the growing importance of AI in making space exploration safer, more efficient, and more innovative. Chapters (00:00) - Welcome to Those Space People: NASA and ISRO Experts Share Insights (01:18) - AI's Role and Challenges in ISRO's Space Missions (03:30) - How NASA is Leveraging AI: From ChatGPT to Spacecraft Autonomy (05:05) - Exploring the Use of AI in Historical and Current Space Missions (07:33) - The Impact of ChatGPT and AI on Space Agencies (10:25) - The Future of AI in Space: Predictions and Possibilities (18:17) - Leveraging AI for Knowledge Management and Innovation (27:34) - Preparing for an AI-Driven Future in the Space Industry (32:31) - Exploring AI's Role in Hardware: Limitations and Potential in the Physical World (41:53) - Exploring the Capabilities of Large Language Models (LLMs) (47:53) - AI's Impact on Space Debris Management and Traffic (52:36) - The Future of Employment in the AI-Enhanced Space Industry (56:11) - Navigating ITAR and Open Source in Space Tech (01:01:10) - AI Teams and Projects Across ISRO Centers (01:03:29) - Concluding Thoughts on AI's Expansive Potential

    1h 6m

  7. 03/26/2024

    Impact of podcasting on space industry communication

    This episode of 'Those Space People' features Alice Carruth, a podcast producer at T-Minus Space Daily Podcast for a deep dive into the world of space podcasting. Alice discusses her role as a podcast producer, the similarities and differences in podcast production within the space industry, and her career journey from broadcast journalism to becoming a key voice in space news dissemination. She emphasizes the importance of making complex space technology understandable for the general audience, the evolution of space industry marketing, and the critical role of human narrative in podcasting. Alice also delves into the use of AI in content creation, the globalization of the space industry, and the significance of cultural diversity in shaping the future of space exploration. This episode offers an insightful look into the interplay between media, technology, and human stories in building a more accessible and globally representative space sector. Chapters (00:00) - Welcome to Those Space People: Introducing Alice Carruth (00:40) - The Role of a Podcast Producer in the Space Industry (02:42) - Alice's Journey into Space and Media (04:02) - Demystifying Space for the Public (06:45) - The Impact of AI on Podcast Production (08:23) - Exploring the Future of AI in Content Creation (14:41) - The Global Landscape of Space Podcasting (18:05) - Making a Career in Space Podcasting (22:27) - The Importance of Diverse Perspectives in Space (31:58) - Cultural Differences in the Space Industry (35:38) - Closing Thoughts: Space as a Global Commons

    36 min
  8. Thermal Lens: Impact of directionality on Land Surface Temperature (LST)

    03/10/2024

    Thermal Lens: Impact of directionality on Land Surface Temperature (LST)

    This episode of “Thermal Lens” features Mary Langsdale, an Environmental Scientist at King’s College London. Mary has a background in mathematics and a Phd in remote sensing. In this episode, Mary delves into her recent multi-national ESA and NASA co-funded air-borne and ground campaign that aimed to quantify the effect of directionality on land surface temperature (LST) data. She elaborates on the significance of directionality in LST measurements, exploring techniques and data requirements for its accurate assessment. Issues surrounding data availability, correction methods, and the implications for downstream applications are also discussed. Mary emphasizes the need for better validation strategies and the potential of AI to process large-scale remote sensing data. Lastly, she offers insights into the essential skills and mindset required to excel in the field of remote sensing. This episode is hosted by Jennifer Susan Adams, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Zurich and Rachana Mamidi, Space Engineer & Podcaster based in Berlin. Links to resources mentioned in the episode: ESA & NASA airborne and ground campaign in Italy - https://www.nceo.ac.uk/article/airborne-and-ground-campaign-in-italy-during-summer/Blogpost on the campaign - https://www.kcl.ac.uk/news/enhanced-sensor-design-developed-by-kings-accuracy-of-monitoring-for-heatwaves-wildfiresReview paper on directionality - https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0034425719303232Chapters (00:00) - Intro (01:07) - Episode Summary (01:52) - What is directionality and what drives it (ESA & NASA airborne and ground campaign) (09:35) - Quantifying, correcting and accounting for directionality (16:53) - Implications for sensors, products and applications (25:39) - Deep dive into the ESA & NASA airborne and ground campaign (32:04) - What to look for as a non-expert (35:29) - Other challenges in LST and changing landscape of thermal remote sensing (41:04) - What should you study if you want to get into TIR remote sensing? (43:03) - The role of AI in remote sensing (45:55) - Publications and resources on the ESA & NASA campaign

    47 min
See All (47)

About

A podcast series of casual cosmic conversations with people working on all things space. Listen to all the episodes here --> https://thosespacepeople.transistor.fm/episodes

Information

  • Creator
    Rachana
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    47
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Rachana