Are We There Yet?

The latest news from the space beat, plus moon experiments go for a spin Feb 19, 2025

Boeing is a contractor for NASA’s SLS rocket that will take astronauts on the moon, but Boeing recently announced plans to lay off over 400 employees from its SLS team. Plus, one professor’s experiment went for a spin on Blue Origin’s recent launch of New Sheppard that mimicked lunar gravity.

A love story at the edge of our solar system. Plus, how to study centaurs Feb 11, 2025

Researchers have uncovered evidence that Pluto may have found one of its moons through what they call the “kiss and capture method.” Plus, a centaur named Chiron has characteristics of both a comet and an asteroid; making scientist wonder what else makes this celestial body unique.

After the International Space Station retires, what comes next? Feb 04, 2025

After almost three decades of science, research and exploration, the International Space Station is set to retire by the end of 2030. Once the station is decommissioned, commercial companies like Axiom Space will establish new orbiting platforms.

NASA nixes DEI and updates on Mars Sample Return Jan 28, 2025

The new Trump administration has ended DEI programs for all federal organizations–how will this affect NASA? Plus, a look at the efforts to bring Mars rocks back to Earth.

Searching for worlds far away from our own Jan 21, 2025

Exoplanets, or planets orbiting another star, were originally confirmed in 1992. New telescopes and technological advancements have aided in the discovery of thousands of exoplanets. Now, astronomers wonder if worlds like our own could exist.

Predictions for this year’s space economy and last year’s record-breaking climate data Jan 14, 2025

This year could be transformative for the space economy with new rockets, AI technology and upcoming missions to the moon. Plus, NASA and NOAA scientists found that 2024 was the hottest year on record since the 1850’s.

A spacecraft that touched our sun and Ghost Riders in the sky Jan 07, 2025

The Parker Solar Probe is the first man-made spacecraft to get closer to our sun than ever before. Plus, Firefly aerospace is launching its Blue Ghost Lunar Lander to deliver payloads to the moon.

"Star Bound" and this year’s space news highlights Dec 31, 2024

The book, Star bound, A Beginner's Guide to the American Space Program, from Goddard's Rockets to Goldilocks Planets and Everything in Between (Outward Odyssey: A People's History of Spaceflight) explains America’s space history while highlighting the nation’s social and cultural contexts in space. Plus, a glimpse into the major space news from this past year.

Holiday celebrations in space Dec 23, 2024

How an astronaut celebrated holidays at the International Space Station with festive foods, decorations and traditions.

Inspiring the next generation of space enthusiasts and a new moon mobile Dec 17, 2024

SpaceKids Global’s founder Sharon Hagle launched into space for the second time and eight kids from the organization’s Press Squad contest watched her journey while getting experience as space journalists. Intuitive Machines unveiled its new lunar rover after being selected by NASA to create the vehicle for Artemis astronauts to use on the moon.

The wonders in the night sky this month and China’s race to the moon Dec 10, 2024

December skies will bring stargazer delights. Plus, a look at the growing tension between the U.S. and Chinese space programs.

What we know about UAP's, and creating space for birds Dec 03, 2024

One astronaut helped build a bridge between space and birds. New UAP hearings are leading to public conversations.

The quest to find planets outside of our solar system Nov 22, 2024

Exoplanets are planets that exist outside our solar system. As a relatively new field of study, there’s much to learn about these newly discovered worlds.

Leaks on the ISS and Space policy impacts on Florida Nov 20, 2024

Space policy in Florida and the potential for private companies on Mars, plus the ISS begins to show its age.

Rocket science meets political science. Plus, inspiring cosmic images from JWST Nov 12, 2024

During the last Trump administration there were big moves in space exploration like pushing for human landings on the moon and launching astronauts on commercial rockets, plus a look at some of JWST’s incredible images of stars exploding and galaxies deep in our universe.

The science of Europa Clipper and research from the red planet Nov 05, 2024

Europa Clipper may open doors on the grander questions on life beyond Earth. Plus, Mars scientists found that Mars might not be so different than Earth as research suggests life could exist in signs of water on the red planet.

Cosmic creeps and black hole heartbeats Oct 29, 2024

UCF physicist and co-host of the podcast “Walkabout the Galaxy”, shares spooky cosmic occurrences. Stephen Eikenberry, UCF professor of applied optics and professor of physics, explains the humanlike pulses from the darkest vacuums in our universe.

Starship's big catch and Hubble's deep look Oct 22, 2024

A journalist takes us through the significance of Starship’s test flight and Hubble’s senior project scientist shares new observations of cosmic phenomena.

Research endeavors on the space station and exploring an ocean world Oct 15, 2024

A director at the ISS Laboratory shares unique research experiments to benefit life on Earth and exploration beyond and a chief of planetary policy addresses the need for executable plans and public support following Europa Clipper’s launch.

Earth’s new mini moon and tracking tropical weather from space Oct 01, 2024

Earth has an asteroid, or mini moon, orbiting the planet for the next several weeks. Plus, a look at how forecasters use weather satellites to track storms.

SpaceX’s past and future. Plus, a Florida scientist’s journey to space Sep 24, 2024

One journalist takes us through the trajectory of SpaceX and its possible future and a University of Florida scientist takes a journey to space to better understand how humans thrive in space.

NASA’s strategies for space exploration and menstrual cycles in space Sep 10, 2024

NASA is making plans for the future of space exploration with space enthusiasts and companies around the world preparing for the future retirement of the International Space Station and a look into women’s health in space.

One commercial astronaut is helping kids reach for the stars Sep 03, 2024

Blue Origin commercial astronaut and founder of the nonprofit organization SpaceKids Global, Sharon Hagle, is going back to space, this time, with an audience of young people audience. Eight lucky winners from SpaceKids Global’s contest will be able to watch Hagle launch into space and be a part of a Press Squad: interviewing members of Blue Origin’s team.

The science of Polaris Dawn and water under the surface of Mars Aug 27, 2024

Scientists will study the crew of SpaceX’s Polaris Dawn mission analyzing how the human body reacts to the environment of space and Mars has water hidden under its surface.

Brewing beer in microgravity and a big question about human space exploration Aug 20, 2024

University of Florida researchers are brewing beer in microgravity and one author believes that humanity needs to focus on the needs of our own planet before focusing on space exploration.

The Starliner decision and bees on the space station Aug 13, 2024

NASA is weighing its options when it comes to returning two astronauts on Boeing's Starliner space craft. Plus, we'll hear about robotic bees on the International Space Station.

'Curious Space' and fire in orbit Aug 06, 2024

Veteran NASA astronaut, Winston Scott, answered questions from kids about his experiences while on the International Space Station and one researcher is studying flames in space for wildfire research.

Science during a suborbital flight and life in faraway ocean worlds Jul 30, 2024

One scientist is conducting the first research tended suborbital flight on board Blue Origin’s New Shepard capsule. Plus, could there be evidence of life on two icy moons in our solar system?

Spacesuits out of a science fiction novel and sulfur on Mars Jul 25, 2024

Researchers are trying to make a spacesuit that can recycle urine into clean drinking water for astronauts and curiosity accidentally discovered pure sulfur on Mars.

Two years of JWST science and a Falcon 9 rocket malfunction Jul 16, 2024

A new James Webb Space Telescope image of two galaxies in a cosmic dance was released for the telescope’s two-year anniversary of science operations. SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket malfunction resulted in satellites burning up in Earth’s atmosphere, and the rocket grounded.

Uncovering the mysteries of Bennu and a space news roundup Jul 09, 2024

From the OSIRIS-REx mission, phosphate was found in a sample from the asteroid Bennu, a necessary building block for life to exist here on Earth. Then, as NASA grapples with aging space suits on the International Space Station, efforts to build the next generation of space suits hit a major snag.

Launching a new weather satellite and fixing a spacecraft in interstellar space Jul 02, 2024

The fourth and final satellite of the GOES-R weather satellite constellation is one step closer to tracking weather from space like never before. Plus, after a year of lost communication, Voyager 1 is back online after engineers delivered a fix 15 million miles away from Earth.

Mystery lunar domes and missing moon trees Jun 25, 2024

Scientists are sending instruments to the moon to explore unique domes similar to ones on Earth, but how they were made is a mystery. Plus, one man is trying to save and document moon trees, seedlings sent to orbit the moon that now are scattered across the country.

Another Starliner delay and an update from Mars Jun 18, 2024

After helium and thruster malfunctions, Boeing’s Starliner has been delayed once again, with the crew still on the International Space Station. Plus, the rovers on Mars have been hard at work drilling on the red planet to find answers to how and why water flowed abundantly on Mars in the past.

The future of Hubble and a mission to Saturn’s moon Titan Jun 11, 2024

For over three decades, the Hubble Space Telescope has remained in low earth orbit sending images to Earth for scientific research. But now, the telescope is starting to show signs of its age. Plus, a look at a new mission is headed far into our solar system to study one of Saturn’s moons.

‘Challenger’ takes a new look at the 1986 Space Shuttle disaster Jun 04, 2024

Author and journalist Adam Higginbotham and his new book Challenger: A True Story of Heroism and Disaster on the Edge of Space explores the events that led up to the disaster in 1986.

Mini moon rovers and communicating in deep space May 29, 2024

A trio of mini moon rovers will launch to the moon later this year and an Italian space company is trying to communicate farther into space than ever before with new transponders and satellites.

Saving the Space Coast’s future and past from rising water May 21, 2024

On the space coast, engineers and anthropologists are trying to combat rising sea levels that threaten to wash away launch pads at the Kennedy Space Center and thousands-years-old village sites in the Indian River Lagoon.

Space Kids Global heads to space and a mission to Venus is back on track May 07, 2024

Space Kids Global is inspiring the next generation of space enthusiasts and scientists are preparing to study the hottest planet in our solar system.

Curious Space and Starliner’s first crewed mission Apr 30, 2024

Young space enthusiasts are asking an astronaut their burning questions about space exploration.

Exomoons and lunar cameras Apr 23, 2024

Scientists and astronomers are on the search for moons outside our solar system. Meanwhile, NASA and Nikon are working on a new camera designed to withstand our own moon’s environment.

Space bites Apr 16, 2024

Space food scientist Vickie Kloeris, speaks about her new book Space Bites, a memoir of her career with NASA preparing food for orbit.

The future of pharmaceuticals in space Apr 09, 2024

Varda Space Industries is working on pharmaceutical research in space that could help produce HIV therapy drugs at a much lower cost.

Sun science during a solar eclipse Apr 02, 2024

Viewers across the country are gearing up for the upcoming solar eclipse, and scientists are using this time to launch rockets into the skies – for science!

Exploring the women of U.S. space exploration Mar 26, 2024

It’s Women’s history month and ‘Are We There Yet?’ is exploring the women that made history in space with Wendy Lawrence, a veteran NASA Astronaut.

Starship’s success and the Space Coast celebrates a launch icon Mar 19, 2024

In Texas, Starship’s third orbital test flight was a win for SpaceX. Here in Florida, the Space Coast is celebrating the life of Robert Osband.

Starship, take three Mar 12, 2024

SpaceX is launching its third orbital test flight off Starship. How high are the stakes? Plus, a glimpse into the history of women in the space program and the fight for female astronauts.

Stuck on Mars Mar 05, 2024

As NASA explores human isolation on other planets, the agency’s plan to return Mars rocks to Earth is in limbo.

Astronaut Winston Scott’s journey to space Feb 27, 2024

Former NASA astronaut Winston Scott shared his academic journey that brought him to space and his hope for the future of space exploration.

Weather satellites in space and humans on Mars Feb 20, 2024

A new satellite will track things like hurricanes and volcanoes from space. Plus, a conversation with the Walkabout the Galaxy podcast hosts Josh Colwell, Audrey Martin and Jim Cooney about humans on Mars.

Observatories on the moon and art that reaches orbit Feb 13, 2024

New technology on the moon and a space art competition that highlights the importance of space.

Space science gets microscopic Feb 08, 2024

Plankton and staph bacteria are being studied in space to help keep humans and our oceans safe.

A new space race and dust from an ancient asteroid Jan 30, 2024

The Congressional response to Artemis delays and looking at ancient space rock samples.

A new moon of excitement and rovers on the red planet Jan 23, 2024

With upcoming moon missions, scientists have been eager to study the lunar surface. Rovers on Mars continue to find evidence that water once flowed on the dusty planet.

Growing plants and human tissue in space Jan 16, 2024

NASA scientists are growing crops in orbit to see how plants are affected by the space environment and Redwire scientists are 3D printing tissue in space.

Veteran astronauts find new missions in writing Jan 09, 2024

Veteran astronauts Chris Hadfield and Tom Jones use writing to tell stories about space exploration.

A tale of two telescopes Dec 26, 2023

Two telescopes have captured images that led scientists to a better understanding of our universe and our place in it.

Talking to whales and searching for life in the universe Dec 19, 2023

Researchers are looking to nonverbal communication to find life within our universe, and we may be closer to knowing if aliens do exist.

A virtual space tourism launch and new space station plans Dec 12, 2023

Guests at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex can blast off into space without leaving the ground and Vast is creating a new space station.

Buzz in the commercial space industry Dec 05, 2023

A glimpse into some of the recent space news and how Space Florida plans to grow the aerospace industry.

SETI searches for extraterrestrial life and scientists probe beneath planetary surfaces Nov 28, 2023

Are we alone in the Universe? The SETI Institute is working to answer that question.

Flying cars and a glimpse into the life of a stranded cosmonaut Nov 21, 2023

NASA is working on technology to develop air taxis, bringing humanity one step closer to living like The Jetsons.

Relativity Space continues its 3D-printed rocket development and rovers take a 'Mars-cation' Nov 15, 2023

We'll get an update on Relativity Space's efforts to build its Terran R vehicle. Plus, why the Mars rovers are on vacation.

NASA's planetary defenders track potentially harmful asteroids Nov 07, 2023

Tracking the threat of asteroids before they get too close and a look at a book chronicling the first U.S. women astronauts.

Are we spooked yet? A creepy tour of the cosmos on this Halloween Oct 31, 2023

In the cosmos many eerie mysteries await us. From the haunting specter of stars from the past to super massive black holes lurking in the depths of the universe.

From 'water bears' to orbital workouts. Here's how NASA is preparing humans for long-duration missions Oct 24, 2023

Animals have been a part of NASA's research for generations. What scientists learn about them can help humans spend more time in space.

Can life exist on a planet without a surface? Oct 17, 2023

Can life exist on a planet without a surface? Plus, a look at new evidence from the Webb Space Telescope about galactic evolution.

Scientists psyched about mission to metal-rich asteroid Psyche Oct 10, 2023

NASA scientists can't wait to launch a probe to the metal-rich asteroid Psyche. Its findings could uncover how our own planet formed.

The commercial space world is over the moon about lunar exploration Oct 03, 2023

The upcoming Artemis missions have grabbed the attention of the nation — and the commercial space sector. Plus, a look at how a NASA engineer honors his Native American heritage with his work.

The space dust has landed! Here's why scientists are so eager to examine asteroid dirt Sep 26, 2023

A capsule of space dust arrived on Earth from an asteroid hundreds of millions of miles away, and scientist can't wait to start analyzing the sample. Plus, Firefly Aerospace discusses efforts to launch a rocket in record time.

Once again, phosphine spotted in the clouds of Venus. Could this mean life on another planet? Sep 19, 2023

Signs of phosphine were detected in the atmosphere of Venus alluding to signs of life on the hot planet. Plus, a new era of moon exploration has started.

'The Six' explores the stories and impact of NASA's first female astronauts Sep 12, 2023

A new book by space journalist Loren Grush dives into the stories of the first female astronauts. Plus, a look at the new decadal survey outlining the next 10 years of space exploration.

Martian sounds create music and melodies in new science-inspired symphony Sep 05, 2023

Sound that is collected by tiny microphones are being used to understand Martian life and create musical symphonies.

John Shoffner flew to space on a commercial spaceflight. His new mission is to inspire a new generation of space travelers Aug 29, 2023

John Shoffner is working to inspire the next generation of astronauts to follow in his path. We also eplore the theoretical existence of white holes.

A tale of two climates. Tracking climate change on Earth and on Mars Aug 22, 2023

Scientists are working to understand climate change both here on Earth and on Mars. On Earth, these warmer temperatures are part of human-driven climate change. On Mars, understaning the planet's climate history is helping scientists uncover the possibility past life.

NASA Chefs prepare food good enough to send you into orbit Aug 15, 2023

Cooking for astronauts, space news around the world and a conversation with NASA astronaut Woody Hoburg.

How artificial gravity and a giant telescope may change space exploration Aug 07, 2023

The Vast aerospace company is creating a space station with artificial gravity. We'll hear why gravity is a good thing in space exploration. Plus, a giant telescope will launch within the decade that could capture images of planets outside of our own solar system.

A space for artistic inspiration with veteran astronaut Nicole Stott Aug 01, 2023

Sending art into orbit. Veteran astronaut Nicole Stott talks about her Space for Art Foundation and fields questions from kids at a live taping Friday from the Orlando Science Center.

Sierra Space's new Dream Chaser hopes to bring people into orbit Jul 25, 2023

Sierra Space plans to launch humans on the company’s Dream Chaser spacecraft. NASA’s Perseverance rover found evidence of organic molecules on Mars.

Asteroid dust returning to Earth could explain the origin of life Jul 18, 2023

What do scientists hope to learn from a sample of asteroid dust from NASA's OSIRIS-REx mission? Plus, a look at the public's reaction to one year of Webb Telescope images.

Ripples in the cosmos: What we're learning from gravitational waves Jul 11, 2023

Scientists have observed more ripples in the fabric of space-time, in the form of gravitational waves. The most recent discovery appears to be supermassive black holes on a collision course.

OceanGate disaster puts spotlight on high-risk tourism, including space Jun 27, 2023

The catastrophic implosion of a submersible visiting wreckage of the Titanic that left all five people on board dead is raising questions about regulation in the high-risk tourism industry, including space.

Sun science on the summer solstice and how Mars rocks get their names Jun 20, 2023

We dig into the science of the sun as we approach the summer solstice. Plus, a look at how rocks on Mars get their names.

From malware to barf, dealing with the nasty side of space exploration Jun 13, 2023

A security company found malware on an unnamed aerospace company's computers — what's the risk for the industry at large? And kids ask question about puking in space.

Space-flown seeds take root in orbit, NASA's UAP interest, and Florida gets STARCOM Jun 06, 2023

Seeds adapt to grow in the harsh environment of space. Do they pass along these changes to the next generation? Researchers hope to soon find out.

Private space station astronaut John Shoffner speaks with WMFE from orbit May 30, 2023

Astronaut and Ax-2 mission pilot John Shoffner speaks with WMFE from orbit about art, food, and the future of commercial space travel.

"Unfolding the Universe" brings new perspective to Webb telescope images May 23, 2023

At the Museum of Arts and Sciences in Daytona Beach, a new exhibit gives patrons a new way to view and interact with images from the Webb Space Telescope.

"When The Heavens Went On Sale" May 16, 2023

Author Ashlee Vance's new book explores the people and companies reshaping the commercial space industry.

Can we make food from CO2? On Mars? May 09, 2023

Carbon dioxide is generally a bad thing when it comes to space travel. But what if you could harness it for good?

A conversation with commercial space pilot John Shoffner May 02, 2023

Shoffner is piloting the SpaceX Crew Dragon that will carry Axiom Space's second private space mission to the International Space Station

More private space missions mean more data on astronaut health Apr 25, 2023

A research institute is leveraging a surge in private space missions to collect critical data on how space travel affects the human body

What's driving the private space economy? Apr 11, 2023

We'll hear from one investor in the private space sector on what's driving this industry upward despite economic uncertainty.

Artemis II: We have a crew Apr 04, 2023

NASA announced the next crew to head to the moon, the first in more than 50 years. Plus, a conversation with retired astronaut Eileen Collins.

Breaking down NASA's $27 billion budget proposal Mar 28, 2023

The proposal includes funding for NASA’s human missions like trips to the moon and maintenance of the International Space Station and science missions like a Mars sample return and probe heading to Venus.

A commercial mission to the far side of the moon Mar 21, 2023

Firefly Aerospace is flying a mission to the far side of the moon for NASA, paving the way for astronauts and other companies to explore the lunar surface. And, we'll talk about efforts to keep astronauts' brains sharp.

The history of women in the U.S. astronaut corps Mar 14, 2023

For Women's History Month, we revisit conversations chronicling the inclusion of female astronauts at NASA.

A 3D printed rocket could soon take flight. Where does it fit in to a growing launch market? Mar 07, 2023

Relativity Space plans to launch its first 3D printed rocket this week, joining a growing number of commercial launch companies. We'll hear from CEO Tim Ellis about the compnay's plans and industry analyst Caleb Henry about its place in this market.

SETI's search for ETs & NASA's new science chief Feb 28, 2023

The SETI Institue has been searing for extraterrestrial life for decades. Now, the organization is closer than ever to hearing from life outside our planet.

Measuring the sound of rockets & NSYNC's Lance Bass chronicles "The Last Soviet" in space Feb 21, 2023

NASA's Artemis I launch was really loud. That's according to new research by physicists hoping to better understand the behavior of rocket sounds. Plus, boy band superstar Lance Bass talks about his new podcast "The Last Soviet."

Starship & stitches: A look at SpaceX's Super Heavy test firing and the history of space mission patches Feb 14, 2023

SpaceX completed a critical test of its Super Heavy booster. NASASpaceflight.com's Chris Gebhardt explains what's next for the massive vehicle that will take us to places like the moon and Mars? Plus, a look at this history of space mission patches with CollectSpace's Robert Pearlman.

Mars updates: Percy's sample collection and the possibility of astronaut missions Feb 07, 2023

A look at the latest robotic explorer on Mars and a conversation about efforts to send humans to the red planet.

In the search for life in the universe, it's time to get nuclear Jan 31, 2023

As NASA develops nuclear thermal propulsion rockets for human exploration in our solar system, some astrobiologists say the technology could help us answer the age-old question: Are we alone?

Oh the places we're going, for science! Jan 25, 2023

From missions to the moon, a heavy metal asteroid, and findings outside our solar system, it's going to be a busy year for space science.

The planet is getting hotter. Here's how NASA is measuring Earth's changing temperature Jan 17, 2023

Last year was the fifth warmest on record, according to new data released by NASA and the NOAA. How is NASA tracking out warming planet?

Neil deGrasse Tyson on the search for life outside our planet Jan 10, 2023

Is there life out there? Astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson says the answer to that question could come from our own solar system.

Making space accessible for all Jan 03, 2023

Fourteen disabled crew members took trip on a Zero-G flight, conducting research with the hope of making space accessible for all.

Inflatable space is bursting at the seams Dec 20, 2022

Inflatable habits could be the future of space exploration. But before they leave this planet, they have to explode.

Artemis I is back on Earth. What's next? Dec 14, 2022

NASA's newest moon mission appears to be a success. So what's next for the agency's lunar ambitions.

Seeing the clouds of Titan Dec 06, 2022

The Webb Space Telescope has captured weather on Titan, one of the moons of Saturn.

To the moon, for good? Nov 30, 2022

NASA's Artemis I mission is a big step in the agency's plans for permanent presence on the moon. Just how close is the agency to that goal, and what is left to be done?

From the moon to Mars Nov 22, 2022

NASA's Artemis I mission has made it to the moon. We check in with the mission and preview what's ahead. Plus, the new documentary "Goodnight Oppy" chronicles a planned 90 day mission on Mars that lasted 15 years.

Artemis I, take three Nov 15, 2022

NASA’s next moon mission could take flight this week. Artemis I is poised to launch from Kennedy Space Center as early as Wednesday morning. The mission has faced a handful of obstacles, from engine issues, a gas leak, to riding out a hurricane.

The Pillars of Creation in a brand new light Nov 03, 2022

We’re getting a fresh new look at this cosmic nursery thanks to the James Webb Space Telescope.

Zero G and I feel fine Oct 26, 2022

What’s it like to feel weightless, like the astronauts on the International Space Station?

From the Space Shuttle to Starship Oct 18, 2022

A look at a new documentary which highlights the people behind the scenes that kept the Space Shuttle program flying. Plus, and update on SpaceX's Starship plans.

Let's talk about the weather (and space, of course) Oct 11, 2022

People in the path of Hurricane Ian are still dealing with its aftermath. Before and during the storm, residents rely on forecasts from meteorologists to track the storm and plan to prepare. Many of the tools these forecasters use come from space.

Six years of science: NASA's Dr. Thomas Zurbuchen reflects on his tenure as the agency's science cheif Oct 06, 2022

For the past six years, Dr. Thomas Zurbuchen has led NASA’s science division. From the deployment of the James Webb Space Telescope to landing a robot on Mars, Dr. Z has been at the helm for some of NASA’s most complex and critical science missions. At the end of this year, he’s leaving the agency.

The science of averting disasters. From asteroid impacts to severe storms due to climate change, NASA is on the case Sep 27, 2022

As Florida prepares for Hurricane Ian, NASA is hoping to deflect another natural disaster -- an asteroid.

From the moon to Mars: A look at an intriguing finding on Mars and NASA's plans for deep space exploration Sep 20, 2022

How will NASA's lunar missions help get humans to Mars? And a look at an intriguing finding by NASA's newest Martian explorer in the search for signs of ancient life on Mars.

Failure to launch: A look at the delays and possible fixes to NASA's Artemis I mission Sep 13, 2022

Two attempts to launch NASA’s new moon rocket SLS and deep space capsule Orion have been waived off -- facing a handful of issues including a hydrogen leak. Now, engineers are working on fixing the issues for an attempt as soon as the end of this month as NASA faces pressure to get this long-delayed and over-budget rocket to the moon.

NASA is heading back to the moon. These kids have some important questions Aug 30, 2022

NASA is heading back to the moon and some of our youngest listeners have some really important questions about the future of exploration.

NASA's next moon program Artemis takes flight next week. What sets this program apart from the Apollo missions? Aug 23, 2022

A historian discusses how NASA's new moon missions differ from the Apollo flights of the 1960s and 70s. Plus, a look at the criticism of the Artemis program and why it's worth the cost.

Curiosity's decade of discovery on Mars Aug 16, 2022

A look back at Curiosity's decade of exploring Mars and what's ahead for the red planet rover. Plus, the Space Coast braces for at least 100,000 spectators as NASA launches Artemis I.

Space law -- it's complicated. Aug 09, 2022

As more countries and companies leave the planet, governing space is getting increasingly more complicated.

James Webb Space Telescope zooms in on other worlds & Planetary Radio's Mat Kaplan reflects on 20 years of hosting Aug 02, 2022

How can the James Webb Space Telescope help us spot other Earth-like worlds? Plus, a conversation with Planetary Radio's Mat Kaplan about his two decades hosting the show.

Commercial space goes deep Jul 26, 2022

Commercial companies are setting ambitious goals and heading into deep space.

Oh the things we can see, thanks to JWST Jul 19, 2022

It’s been a week since the first James Webb Space Telescope images captivated scientists and the general public alike.

The big reveal: NASA drops stunning first images from James Webb Space Telescope Jul 12, 2022

They’re here. The first images from the James Webb Space Telescope are out, revealing thousands of ancient galaxies, nebulae, and a close-up look at a planet outside our own solar system.

'Escaping Gravity': A conversation with NASA's former deputy administrator Lori Garver Jul 05, 2022

Lori Garver served as NASA deputy administrator, its second in command, during the Obama administration. It was a tumultuous time for the agency. The Space Shuttle was retiring, Obama canceled NASA’s costly Constellation program, and the agency was at odds with Congress on how to move NASA forward. Garver was there for all of those conversations and takes a critical look back at what happened during her time at NASA in a new memoir.

Protecting our planet for potential asteroid strikes Jun 28, 2022

Thursday marks World Asteroid Day, a U.N.-sanctioned campaign to raise awareness of the scientific opportunities, and planetary threats, posed by asteroids. So we’re taking this week’s episode to explore asteroids.

From a new space station to supply chain solutions, a check in with commercial space Jun 21, 2022

From filling the gap left by a retiring International Space Station to a possible solution to a unique supply chain issue, commercial space leaders weigh in on the future of the industry.

More moon science: Researchers explore lunar magma domes and growing plants on the moon Jun 14, 2022

A team of researchers received approval for a $35 million dollar mission to the moon. The group will explore an uncharted portion of the moon, which scientists say was formed by magma below the surface.

For NASA's new moon-bound astronauts, it's time for some new suits Jun 07, 2022

NASA needs new space suits. The agency wants to put people back on the moon in the 2020s, and to do it safely, it needs brand new space suits for use on the lunar surface. NASA is working with two private companies to design, develop and build the new suits -- at a price of up to $3.5 billion.

MegaCon, MegaRocket. The science of going back to the moon May 31, 2022

From MegaCon Orlando -- the science of NASA’s next moon missions.

The power of parachutes May 24, 2022

What’s it like plummeting from space and landing…alive? We'll talk with Inspiration4 astronaut Chris Sembroski about the power of parachutes and how the technology helped get him back on the planet.

Starliner's redo, part two. Plus, the story of Susan Borman, Apollo 8 commander's wife May 16, 2022

Boeing’s Starliner is set for yet another test mission, a critical step before NASA lets its astronauts fly to space in it. So what’s at stake for Boeing? And why is having two providers so important for NASA?

What's at the center of our galaxy? May 10, 2022

At the center of our galaxy lies a supermassive black hole. It’s a region of space where gravity is so strong nothing can escape it, not even light. While the name supermassive might make it seem like these things are easy to spot -- they’re really not.

A new chapter in commercial space & how Elon's Twitter buy might impact SpaceX May 03, 2022

With the first all-private space mission in the books, what's ahead for the commercial space economy? Plus, a look at the impacts to SpaceX after found Elon Musk announced plans to buy Twitter.

The case for Uranus: Outlining the next decade of discovery Apr 26, 2022

Every 10 years, the National Academies submits a report, outlining what it thinks NASA should focus on when it comes to planetary science efforts. Uranus came out the big winner.

Catching up with NASA's administrator & keeping an eye on the planet's health Apr 19, 2022

It’s a busy week for space news. The first all-private crew is set to depart the space station after spending more than a week on board, a new crew of NASA astronauts is set to launch to the station this weekend, and the agency’s next mega moon rocket experienced some troubles during a test at its launch pad, prompting more delays. We’ll speak with NASA administrator Bill Nelson about these stories

Private space station missions, Amazon's big rocket buy and NASA's next budget. Here's a rundown of the latest space news stories Apr 12, 2022

It’s been a busy few weeks on the space beat. We’ll chat with Anthony Colangelo, he covers spaceflight and the aerospace industry on his podcast Main Engine Cutoff.

What it's like when black holes collide Apr 05, 2022

Some nine billion light years away, a pair of black holes are on a collision course. It’s a cosmic waltz that could come to an end in 10,000 years which will shake space and time. It’s now the second possible observation of two massive black holes colliding -- and scientists are eager to watch the destruction.

A new era of space science takes flight thanks to private civilian missions Mar 29, 2022

SpaceX is set to launch another crew of private astronauts from Kennedy Space Center, this time on a ten-day mission to the International Space Station. Researchers are taking advantage of the increased access to space -- and human subjects -- thanks to these private space missions.

NASA'S new moon rocket has left the building & UAE's Hope probe tracks a year of Martian weather Mar 22, 2022

NASA’s mega-rocket the Space Launch System has left the Vehicle Assembly Building at Kennedy Space Center and made its way to a launch pad, ahead of an uncrewed mission around the moon and back later this year. It’s the first time a moon-class rocket has seen Launch Complex 39B since the days of Apollo and marks the start of NASA’s newest moonshot missions called Artemis.

A Florida couple heads to space on Blue Origin's New Shepard spacecraft Mar 15, 2022

Next week, Blue Origin’s New Shepard rocket is set to take 6 people to the edge of space and back. Central Florida married couple Sharon and Marc Hagle will be on the flight from West Texas. Sharon Hagle is the founder and CEO of SpaceKids Global, a non-profit organization aimed at getting kids, especially girls, interested and excited about STEM learning. She hopes to share her experience in space with future explorers -- and highlight all the different career paths that lead to space.

"Becoming Off-Worldly" & the hunt for moon water Mar 08, 2022

It seems like a lot more people are going to space these days. Commercial companies are not only sending NASA astronauts into space, they’re giving ordinary people with the right amount of cash the chance to fly in space, too.

Can the U.S. and Russia partnership in space last despite growing tensions here on Earth? Mar 01, 2022

Tensions between the U.S. and Russia are high as the U.S. imposed strict sanctions in the wake of the Russian military’s invasion of Ukraine, but some 150 miles above Earth an important partnership between the U.S. and Russia remains: the International Space Station. Historically, the partnership between the two countries has transcended political tension here on Earth. But how long will that last?

Taking art to new heights. A conversation with Dr. Sian Proctor about creating a space for inspiration Feb 22, 2022

Dr. Sian Proctor was one of four civilians to head to space last year thanks to SpaceX’s Crew Dragon capsule. The mission called Inspiration 4 sent the crew on a three-day orbital trip and back.

A year on Mars & the gift of space Feb 15, 2022

NASA’s Perseverance rover is celebrating one year on Mars. The robot explorer arrived last year after a seven month journey from Cape Canaveral in Florida. It’s on the hunt for evidence of ancient life on Mars and is tasked with selecting and preparing samples of Martian rocks to send back to Earth.

"Alexa, take me to the moon." Feb 08, 2022

NASA’s Orion space capsule will soon head on a mission to the moon and back, launching from Kennedy Space Center later this year. There won’t be a crew on board, but there will be a familiar voice. Lockheed Martin partnered with Amazon to install Alexa voice assistance on the capsule.

A curious carbon finding on Mars & the long wait for James Webb Space Telescope's first science campaign Feb 01, 2022

This past year, all eyes have been on NASA’s Perseverance rover as it explores Mars during its first year on the red planet. But a robotic explorer that landed there nearly a decade ago has made a curious finding -- carbon.

The great Pluto debate reignites once more Jan 25, 2022

Back in 2006, a science organization changed the classification of Pluto as a planet, sparking a debate in both the astronomical community and pop culture. More than 15 years later, a new paper is reigniting that debate.

Tracking a changing climate on Earth and the robots exploring Mars Jan 11, 2022

NASA is focusing on climate change -- specifically, observing our changing climate from space. But NASA’s focus on climate isn’t new. It has been observing the Earth’s climate for more than 50 years.

Another year of space exploration Jan 04, 2022

It was a very busy year for space exploration. In 2021 we saw the arrival of three missions to Mars, multiple human launches -- from suborbital space flights to commercial NASA missions -- two missions to asteroids and a massive space telescope took flight. And there’s no signs of slowing down in 2022. From moon missions to a busy launch schedule, there’s a lot to look forward to when it comes to space exploration.

Inside NASA's Mission Control Center with its longest-serving flight director Paul Dye Dec 28, 2021

NASA’s Mission Control Center is responsible for the safety of its astronauts and space hardware.It takes a special kind of person to take on that responsibility.

The James Webb Space Telescope takes flight Dec 21, 2021

After decades of development, the James Webb Space Telescope takes flight. Scientists have been thinking about this moment since the 1990s -- a new set of eyes that will see father into our universe than ever before.

New astronauts, new rockets Dec 14, 2021

Meet new astronaut candidate Luke Delaney and hear from "Main Engine Cut Off" host Anthony Colangelo about the new commercial rockets in development.

Biden's space agenda & the ethics of exploration Dec 07, 2021

What's ahead for space policy under a Biden administration? And how can we ethically explore space?

"A smashing good time": NASA plans to knock an asteroid out of orbit to learn how to save our planet from a future impact Nov 23, 2021

NASA’s DART mission is set to launch tonight from Vandenberg in California, on a 10-month mission that ends when it smashes into a tiny rock in space. The spacecraft is part of NASA’ planetary defense plan -- figuring out ways to save our own Earth should an asteroid threaten to hit us.

"Delusions of space enthusiasts." Neil deGrasse Tyson on balancing the ambitions of space exploration with the reality of global politics Nov 16, 2021

Astrophysicist, author and science communicator Neil deGrass Tyson says space enthusiasts are delusional. Exploration is aspirational, and the reality of geopolitics, economy and culture are huge challenges keeping us planted firmly on the ground.

Lunar litigation, space tourism and the software driving NASA's SLS rocket to the moon Nov 09, 2021

Blue Origin sued NASA over its selection of SpaceX to build the agency's next moon lander. With the lawsuit behind it, what's ahead for NASA's Artemis program?

From Mars to Jupiter, the latest findings from the space probes exploring our solar system Nov 02, 2021

NASA's Perseverance rover on Mars and Juno spacecraft at Jupiter are helping us better understand our solar system.

"Back to Earth": Astronaut Nicole Stott wants us to be better crew mates on spaceship Earth Oct 26, 2021

Astronaut Nicole Stott spent more than 100 days in space. Her view of the planet up there changed the way she thinks about it now that she’s down here. We’ll talk with Stott about her motivation to write the book, and her rules for us here on this planet to treat it like our own spaceship and what we can do to be better crew mates.

After SpaceX's Inspiration4 mission, Chris Sembroski is back on Earth Oct 19, 2021

Sembroski and the Inspiration4 crew are now back here on Earth. So what was the experience like? We’ll speak with Sembroksi about the mission and what’s next after leaving the planet.

NASA's next space station astronaut & Lucy's mission to the Trojan asteroids Oct 12, 2021

A crew of four is set to launch to the International Space Station at the end of the month, starting a six month mission on the orbiting lab. One of those astronauts is Kayla Barron and she tells us the first rocket launch she’ll ever see in person will be the one she’s sitting on top of. We’ll speak with Barron about her rookie mission to space, and what she expects to do when she gets to the ISS.

Trouble Brewing At Blue Origin & The Search For Intergalactic Polluters Oct 05, 2021

Trouble brewing at Blue Original and the search for extraterrestrial life.

Can We Call The Inspiration4 Crew Astronauts? Sep 21, 2021

Looking back at Inspiration 4’s launch and the future of commercial astronauts.

Countdown To Inspiration4 Sep 14, 2021

We’re just a day away from the launch window opening of SpaceX’s Inspiration-4 mission. It’s the first all-civilian space mission to orbit, taking four people on a three-day trip to space and back. It’s also unlike any launch from the U.S. People are leaving the planet, and they’re not NASA astronauts.

Grounding Virgin Galactic & Documenting SpaceX's All-Civilian Mission Sep 07, 2021

An inside look at Virgin Galactic as the FAA investigates a recent "mishap" and a conversation with the photographer documenting the all-civilian SpaceX mission Inspiration4.

Civilian Space Science & Surviving Black Holes Aug 31, 2021

An all-civilian space mission is set to take flight in about two weeks. the crew of four will fly in SpaceX’s Crew Dragon capsule mission on a three day trip to low-Earth orbit and back. But it’s not all about fun and games for this private mission. The crew will be performing crucial science experiments that will help get humans to farther places in our solar system like the moon and Mars and survive longer in the harsh environment of space.

An Inside Look At SpaceX's Inspiration 4 Mission & What To Make Of A Galactic Arc Aug 24, 2021

It’s a new chapter in space flight history -- so how did we get here? Axios space reporter Miriam Kramer explores the mission’s origin and purpose in a new podcast for Axios. We’ll speak with her about her reporting and what’s ahead for the Inspiration 4 crew.

Fight & Flight: A Look At Blue Origin's Fight For A Lander Contract & SLS's New Flight Software Aug 17, 2021

Fight and flight -- the battle over NASA’s lunar lander and new software for the agency’s moon rocket.

Printing On The Moon & Black Hole Observations Aug 10, 2021

Can you print things on the moon? Redwire Space wants to find out using a 3D printer installed on the International Space Station.

A Soundtrack For Space & The Curious Case Of Dimming Stars Aug 03, 2021

The soundtrack of space. From Gustov Holtz’s suite "The Planets" to Kubrick’s choice of "Blue Danube" in 2001: A Space Odyssey, certain pieces of music are just cosmic. Now, a new project by a space entrepreneur and musician is building upon the soundtrack of space by beaming songs into the cosmos, starting from the International Space Station.

Starliner's Redo & Measuring The Pulse Of Mars Jul 27, 2021

Boeing’s Starliner is set to launch on an uncrewed mission from Cape Canaveral to the International Space Station later this week on a critical test mission to certify the vehicle to fly astronauts. It’s a redo of a previous test attempt in late 2019 that failed to reach the space station. We’ll speak with Michelle Parker, Boeing’s space and launch chief engineer about the mission and what the team learned from the previous attempt.

A Space For All? How Will Space Tourism Shape Access To Space Jul 20, 2021

Billionaire Jeff Bezos has reached a life-long goal of flying in space. His company Blue Origin launched its first mission with passengers Tuesday morning from West Texas, ushering in a new era of private space tourism. But with a high price tag can only the wealthy fly?

A Countdown To Clean Clothes In Space Jul 13, 2021

Astronauts rarely get the comforts of home. Fresh food is scarce, a hot shower is unheard of, and they’re asked to wear their clothes multiple times before tossing them to the trash. Laundry is something missing from human space exploration, but scientists at Proctor and Gamble are hoping to change that.

10 Years Since Shuttle: A Look To The Past & Future Jul 06, 2021

On July 8, 2011, Atlantis launched from Kennedy Space Center, the final mission of the shuttle program. We’ll revisit the Space Shuttle program with two time astronaut Bruce Melnick, who was a mission specialist on both Space Shuttle Discovery and Endeavour. Then, we’ll speak with Space Florida’s Dale Ketcham about the Space Coast plan post-Shuttle and how commercial companies are filling in the void left by the program.

Mercury Rising: John Glenn And The Space Race Jun 29, 2021

When we think of the space race between the U.S. and the Soviet Union, we focus much on the Apollo program and the U.S. astronauts who crossed that finish line. But the space race began earlier than that and was far more perilous than we thought.

NASA Investigates UFOS & Tiny Mars Mic Captures Big Sounds Jun 22, 2021

Why NASA is joining the inquiry into Unidentified Aerial Phenomenon (UAP), how a tiny mic on Mars is beaming back bigs sounds and a profile of a launch photographer capturing rockets leaving the planet.

Space Tourism: Up There & Down Here Jun 15, 2021

A seat on Blue Origin’s first crewed New Shepard flight went for $28 million at auction. It marks the start of a new chapter of space tourism. So what’s the future of this burgeoning market?

We're Going To Venus Jun 08, 2021

NASA selected two missions to head to Venus by the end of the 2020s. VERITAS and DAVINCI+ will be the first U.S. mission to Venus in decades. So why study Venus?

Bringing Mars To Earth Jun 02, 2021

NASA’s Perseverance rover is sending back some of the clearest and most dramatic images of the Martian surface ever. It landed earlier this year, and since then has been beaming back detailed panoramics, up close images, even sound and video of one of our closest celestial neighbors.

Decade of Discovery & Dating Stars May 24, 2021

Every 10 years, NASA tasks the science community to chart the course for the next decade of discovery and exploration. As NASA and other agencies push forward looking for signs of life in our universe, what’s the path ahead? We'll also talk with ERAU's Terry Oswalt about techniques to uncover the age of stars.

The Next Space Telescope Will Peer Deep Into The Universe. Scientists Can't Wait To See What It Sees. May 18, 2021

The next space-based telescope is almost ready to head into orbit. The James Webb Space Telescope aims to look deeper into the history of the universe, piggy-backing off the incredible observations of the Hubble Space Telescope.

Interplanetary Helicopters & SOFIA's New Eyes May 11, 2021

NASA’s Ingenuity helicopter had a Wright Brothers moment on Mars after performing the first powered flight on another planet. It’s the first in many planned helicopter missions to other worlds. So what are engineers learning from the test? And -- an aerial telescope is getting some new hardware to peer deep into the universe.

NASA's Moon Mission Hardware: SLS Arrives, SpaceX Wins Lunar Landing Contract May 04, 2021

NASA’s next moon rocket has reached its final destination before launching from Kennedy Space Center. The massive 212-foot tall rocket will carry the Orion space capsule on an uncrewed mission around the moon and back, possibly launching at the end of this year.

Sleeping In Space & "Woman In Motion" Apr 20, 2021

Later this week, a new crew will launch to the International Space Station from Kennedy Space Center here in Florida. When the four astronauts arrive in SpaceX’s Dragon capsule about a day after launch, they’ll join the seven already on board bringing the total number of people on the station to 11. Where will they all sleep?

A Helicopter On Mars, Some Gas On Venus Apr 13, 2021

NASA’s Perseverance rover is hard at work, exploring Jezero crater since landing back in February. But the dune-buggy sized rover is about to get upstaged by a tiny helicopter.

Michio Kaku & The Quest For A Theory Of Everything Apr 06, 2021

Before he died, Einstein was working on a theory of everything. It aims to combine all the forces in the universe into one beautiful, mathematical equation to explain everything. That equation remains incomplete, but physicists like Michio Kaku are charging ahead using new scientific observations from gravitational wave detectors and particle accelerators.

Scientists Are Hunting For Alien Worlds Outside Our Solar System Mar 30, 2021

Scientists are on the hunt for exoplanets, planets that exist outside our solar system. So far, they’ve found thousands of planets orbiting other stars and some that might be like our own world.

Celebrating Five Years Of WMFE's Space Exploration Podcast Mar 23, 2021

This podcast and radio show is celebrating its five year anniversary. To celebrate this milestone event we invited frequent guests for a virtual conversation last week -- Charlie Bolden, a former NASA administrator under President Obama and retired astronaut, and Nicole Stott, a retired astronaut who spent more than 100 days in space.

Alien Evolution & A Civilian Space Mission Mar 16, 2021

At 10 years old, Hayley Arceneaux was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer. Now at age 29 she's a physician's assistant at St. Jude Children’s research hospital and about to launch to space.

The Big Business Of Small Space Tech Mar 09, 2021

Small satellites plus small rockets equals big business.

The Early Days of SpaceX & Crew Dragon's Next Commander Mar 02, 2021

From booster landings to astronaut launches, it’s hard to imagine a time when SpaceX struggled. But once it seemed like the company may never get off the ground. Eric Berger, journalist and Ars Technica’s senior space editor, chronicles the company’s desperate first years in his new book Liftoff: Elon Musk and the Desperate Early Days That Launched SpaceX, starting with the company's founding 2002 and ending with the successful launch of Falcon 1 in 2008.

Welcome To Mars, Percy. It's Time To Do Science. Feb 23, 2021

After a seven month journey hundreds of millions of miles through our solar system, NASA’s Perseverance rover safely landed on the surface of Mars. Now, the science campaign begins.

The Long Road To Mars Feb 16, 2021

Getting to Mars isn’t easy, but so far this month two space agencies have delivered payloads to the red planet’s orbit -- China and the United Arab Emirates. A NASA mission is also on course for Mars.

First Of Mars Mission Trio Arrives At Red Planet Feb 09, 2021

The first of three robotic explorers has arrived at the red planet. The United Arab Emirates Hope probe successfully entered the orbit of Mars Tuesday, marking the UAE's first mission to the red planet.

The Hunt For Planet 9 Feb 02, 2021

On the outer edges of our solar system, beyond the orbit of Neptune, objects cluster in weird ways. This clustering led some scientists to search for something that could be acting as a gravitational shepherd, moving and modifying their orbits. That something could be Planet 9, a hypothetical planet at the edge of our solar system that could be tugging and clustering these far-out objects.

As Bridenstine Says Goodbye, What's Ahead For NASA? Jan 26, 2021

NASA’s administrator Jim Bridenstine stepped down last week as a new presidential administration took office. President Biden will now select the next leader of the civilian space agency -- could that mean a new direction for NASA?

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected