The Space Show by Dr. David Livingston

Hosted by Dr. David M. Livingston

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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

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August 17, 20261 hr 28 min

The Space Show Presents SpaceComputer with CEO Daniel Bar and CTO Filip Rezabek On Quantum, space stable internet, post-quantum cyber and more.

The Space Show Presents SpaceComputer With Daniel Bar & Filip Rezabek, Sunday 8-16-26 This Space Show interview program featuring Daniel Bar and Filip Rezabek from SpaceComputer, a company developing secure computing infrastructure for space-based internet located in Australia. Daniel, based in Australia, and Filip, based in Germany, explained their SpaceFabric technology, which creates a secure computing architecture in space that generates cryptographic keys after satellites reach orbit and provides mutual attestation between independent secure stations. The company is preparing for their first launch in October 2026 on an unnamed mission, with two additional launches planned for 2027. They also discussed their post-quantum security features, multi-tenancy capabilities, and plans to operate across 5-7 communication layers similar to the TCP/IP stack. The technology aims to address current security gaps in space communications, where recent research found 50% of space communications are transmitted unencrypted, and enables verifiable data transmission from spacecraft to Earth with cryptographic attestation. Our guests discussed their backgrounds, with Daniel sharing his Israeli heritage and connection to the Israeli Air Force, while Filip and The Space Show Dream Team were introduced by their professional backgrounds in engineering and agriculture. Our guests from SpaceComputer said they would be addressing relevant topics based on their work on developing a stable internet, quantum computing security, and post-quantum encryption. We began with a discussion about SpaceComputer’s technology called Space Fabric, with John Jossy sharing a link to a related paper on David’s Space Show blog. Daniel and Filip introduced themselves as co-founders of SpaceComputer, a company developing secure hardware and software infrastructure for space internet. They clarified that while their work is inspired by NASA’s efforts in a secure space internet, they have not yet started working with NASA directly. The company aims to create secure interconnectivity systems for space-based data centers, enabling proper workload segregation and software isolation, with their Space Fabric hardware set to be integrated aboard a satellite launching in October. The Space Show Wisdom Team discussed their SpaceFabric architecture, which aims to provide a software stack for space internet communication that goes beyond physical layer capabilities like Starlink. Filip explained that SpaceFabric would consist of 5-7 communication layers similar to TCP/IP stack, with the first mission launching in October as their first step toward space heritage. The team cannot yet reveal the launch partner or details about the mission due to pending spacecraft clearance and partner sensitivities, with full details expected to be announced around end of September. Filip explained their company’s focus on building space-native computer services and hardware for spacecraft, emphasizing their software development capabilities with hardware components that enable secure, multi-tenant computing in space. The system includes a hardware component providing root of trust, a software stack, and a Satellite Execution Assurance Protocol that verifies computations are happening in space through challenge-response between ground stations and satellites. When asked about their company’s focus, Filip clarified they are primarily a software development company with a hardware team that develops embedded systems and PCBs, rather than building spacecraft or rockets. 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 We use Zoom phone numbers for program participation. 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: Tuesday, August 18, 2026: No program today | Tuesday 18 Aug 2026 700PM PT Guests: Dr. David Livingston No program today. Broadcast 4578 Hotel Mars featuring Rohan Naidu on the black hole star discovery | Wednesday 19 Aug 2026 930AM PT Guests: John Batchelor , Dr. David Livingston , Rohan Naidu Hotel Mars Featuring Rohan Naidu on the newly discovered black hole star Broadcast 4579 Zoom: Amir Notea, Shar Bahiri, Fred Simon | Friday 21 Aug 2026 930AM PT Guests: Amir Notea , Shar Bahiri , Fred Simon Zoom: Our guests discuss the Israeli company Moonshot.space and more Broadcast 450 Zoom: Open Lines Discussion | Sunday 23 Aug 2026 1200PM PT Guests: Dr. David Livingston Zoom: Open Lines Discussion. Join us if you can. Get full access to The Space Show-One Giant Leap Foundation at doctorspace.substack.com/subscribe

July 28, 20262 hr 5 min

The Space Show presents an Open Lines Discussion, Sunday, May 31, 2025

Open Lines Discussion For Sunday, May 31, 2026 Short Summary This was an open lines episode of The Space Show, hosted by David Livingston with participants including Marshall Martin, John Hunt, Dr. AJ Kothari, Philip Swan, and Bob Zimmerman. The main discussion centered on NASA’s lunar payload delivery challenges after the New Glenn explosion, with Dr. AJ Kothari proposing Falcon Heavy as a solution to transport 1-7 tons to the lunar surface. The group discussed why innovative space ideas often fail to gain traction at NASA, citing factors like the “not invented here” syndrome, regulatory burdens on new companies, and patent/copyright issues. The conversation also covered Blue Origin’s timeline for recovering from their recent explosion, with participants offering various estimates ranging from before year-end to potentially two to three years, depending on the extent of damage and investigation requirements. Detailed Summary The Space Show Wisdom Team discussed how NASA’s payloads to the moon in 2026 are now at risk due to the New Glenn explosion, and proposed using Falcon Heavy as a solution. David expressed frustration about good space ideas not getting implemented, while Bob explained that NASA’s resistance to new ideas and heavy regulatory burdens on new companies are significant obstacles. The discussion highlighted how SpaceX would need to work quietly with Falcon Heavy rather than publicly due to commercial considerations regarding Blue Origin. Dr. Kothari discussed NASA’s “not invented here” syndrome and mentioned a potential introduction to SpaceX through Congressman Herodopoulos, though he expressed uncertainty about follow-through. The group discussed challenges with patents and copyrights affecting space projects, with Robert noting SpaceX’s willingness to help competitors to avoid antitrust issues. Phil suggested that Ajay should use the Evidence Ledger platform to structure and validate his lunar transport claims before approaching SpaceX or NASA, which Dr. agreed to do. The conversation ended with a discussion about Blue Origin’s timeline for returning to flight, where Marshall indicated that the exact timeline depends on the extent of damage to the launch pad and the extent to which it was designed to handle such issues. The group discussed the timeline for rebuilding Blue Origin’s launch facility after a rocket explosion. David estimated delays could range from one to three years due to government investigations and Blue Origin’s slow pace, while Marshall suggested it could be quicker if it was an engine failure. The team debated potential causes, with Marshall proposing a combustion chamber or rocket bell fracture as a possibility, and discussed implications for other rocket programs including Vulcan and Artemis. The conversation concluded without any evidence of sabotage being reported. The group discussed SpaceX’s upcoming IPO, with participants expressing skepticism about the $2 trillion valuation due to operating losses and lack of revenue supporting the claims in the registration statement. John Jossy shared updates on the National Space Society’s new cislunar space development goals, including efforts to create legal frameworks for space resource utilization and mining. The discussion concluded with concerns about the impact of Blue Origin’s recent accident on the Artemis program, particularly regarding rocket capabilities and backup options for lunar missions. The team discussed the challenges and funding of rocket development, particularly focusing on Falcon Heavy and New Glenn. Dr. Kothari suggested that accidents could create opportunities for Congress to fund necessary modifications, while Marshall warned about the political challenges of securing such funding. The discussion explored whether government funding should support Blue Origin’s New Glenn development, with John Jossy questioning whether federal money was needed given Bezos’s personal wealth, and David suggesting that government mandates for regulatory or safety upgrades could provide a path for additional funding. The group discussed the competitive urgency around lunar missions, with David emphasizing the need to hurry due to China’s upcoming lunar launch. They debated the status of Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket and its NASA contracts, with Dr. providing details about different Mark versions of the lunar lander. The conversation then shifted to SpaceX’s recent Starship test flight incident, where they discussed the FAA’s investigation and debated whether it would significantly impact SpaceX’s development timeline, with Philip arguing that government regulations are generally designed to ensure safety rather than slow progress. Marshall discussed the booster issue, highlighting concerns about fuel sloshing and its potential impact, estimating an 8-week timeline for resolution. John Jossy supported the optimistic timeline, noting SpaceX’s ability to iterate quickly, while Dr. expressed concerns about hot staging, explaining its mechanics and potential risks. Philip defended hot staging as a trade-off for efficiency, and John Hunt questioned its appropriateness for a reusable rocket. The discussion concluded with Dr. mentioning the pressure to advance quickly due to potential lunar missions by Chinese astronauts in 2027. The group discussed Pope Francis’s recent encyclical on AI, with Phil sharing his interview experience about the Pope’s concerns regarding AI development and public opinion on the topic. The discussion explored various regulatory challenges around AI, including questions about medical licenses, legal practice, and the need for human oversight of AI systems. The conversation concluded with updates about upcoming Space Show episodes, including a scheduled interview with Thomas Zurbuchen on June 22nd and discussions about potential delays to the Artemis III mission due to issues with the Vulcan rocket and BE4 engines. 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 We use Zoom phone numbers for program participation. 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 4566 Zoom: George Tyson w/co-host John Jossy | Tuesday 28 Jul 2026 700PM PT Guests: George Tyson Zoom: George Tyson, fresh from ISDC, along with John Jossy, have news and updates for us Broadcast 4567: Hotel Mars MIT details to follow | Wednesday 29 Jul 2026 930AM PT Guests: John Batchelor , Dr. David Livingston Hotel Mars details to follow Broadcast 4568 Zoom: Dr. Logan Smith | Friday 31 Jul 2026 930AM PT Guests: Dr. Logan Smith Zoom: Dr. Logan Smith return. Details to follow. To listen & participate in this program email us for Zoom phone numbers & access before airtime. Broadcast 4569 Zoom: Lisa La Bonte | Sunday 02 Aug 2026 1200PM PT Guests: Lisa La Bonte Lisa La Bonte returns to The Space Show. Details to follow. To listen & participate in this program email us for Zoom phone numbers & access before airtime Get full access to The Space Show-One Giant Leap Foundation at doctorspace.substack.com/subscribe

July 26, 20261 hr 45 min

The Space Show Presents Dr. Jim Green, Tuesday, July 7, 2026 with Bill Gowan co-hosting.

The Space Show Presents Dr. Jim Green, Tuesday, July 7, 2026 Short Summary: The Tuesday Evening Space Show featured Dr. James L. Green, former NASA chief scientist, who presented on the solar system’s movement through different interstellar clouds and the potential effects on Earth’s environment. Dr. Green discussed how our heliosphere is shrinking as we transition from the local interstellar medium to the G-cloud, which could impact cosmic radiation and space weather. He explained the concept of the Sun’s galactic center Lagrange point (L1) at 3.8 light years away, where objects could potentially be captured by the Sun, and suggested this area could be important for future interstellar travel and resource utilization. The discussion covered how NASA’s SLS rocket could deliver 20 metric tons to Mars and the importance of testing technologies incrementally before human missions. Participants explored philosophical questions about scientific knowledge and uncertainty, with Dr. Green sharing his personal perspective on faith and science. Detailed Summary Dr. James Green discussed his experience as NASA’s Division Director of Planetary Science during a budget crunch in 2012, when the planetary science budget was proposed to be cut from $1.3 billion to about half that amount over five years. To address this challenge, Green decided to engage the public directly rather than relying on congressional hearings or industry lobbying, as he found those approaches ineffective. He worked with Kristen Erickson to develop outreach strategies, including broadcasting mission control activities to the public, which initially faced resistance from his supervisor Ed Weiler but ultimately led to public engagement efforts across NASA centers. Jim discussed his experience with the Curiosity rover mission, including a conversation with Ed about potential risks and the importance of public outreach. He explained how the mission faced delays and technical challenges before successfully landing, which gave him confidence in its readiness. Jim emphasized the importance of sharing scientific results with the public and outlined his work on planetary defense, including efforts to detect near-Earth objects and the creation of the Planetary Defense Office. Jim discussed the success of their kinetic impact project and its potential for hitting larger targets. David asked about public engagement, to which Jim responded that while he appears frequently in media, more outreach is needed, especially internationally where many countries lack aerospace education. Jim explained his work in metaverse education, having taught 5,000 students globally, and emphasized the importance of public understanding in science communication. The discussion then shifted to NASA’s risk management approach, with Jim advocating for more frequent SLS rocket launches to build expertise and reduce costs, noting that SLS can deliver 20 metric tons to Mars compared to 2 metric tons with current rockets. Jim presented research on space weather and the heliosphere, explaining how Earth is transitioning from the local interstellar cloud to the G-cloud within a thousand years. He discussed the structure of the heliosphere, including its croissant-like shape and the importance of understanding cosmic weather as humans move through different galactic regions. Jim also highlighted the Sun’s galactic center Lagrange point at 3.8 light years, explaining how this area could capture rogue planets and other objects passing through it. Jim explained that the solar system is transitioning from one galactic cloud into the denser G-cloud, which will cause the heliosphere to shrink to 5-10 AU and potentially trigger cosmic weather changes similar to those that may have caused Snowball Earth events millions of years ago. He discussed how advanced civilizations might use the minimum gravity region near the sun’s L1 point as a strategic location for interstellar observation and travel, as it provides a stable orbit point that saves fuel while allowing observation of the solar system. Jim emphasized the need to study this region to understand potential hazards to Earth and develop gravity maps for future interstellar travel. Jim discussed the concept of Lagrange points in space, particularly focusing on how they could serve as meeting points for different civilizations and as locations where interstellar dust accumulates. He explained that this accumulated dust could be used as a resource through in-situ resource utilization, containing various materials including silicon, graphite, and radioactive elements. David reflected on the complexity of space exploration as an endless puzzle, to which Jim responded by explaining how science involves studying the nature of things through mathematical frameworks and laws, while acknowledging that new concepts like dark matter demonstrate how much remains unknown. The group discussed how scientific understanding evolves over time, with Jim sharing examples of Einstein’s changing views on black holes and how newer theories build upon and modify previous ones. Marshall and John contributed insights about mathematical developments in physics, including Lagrange points and the correspondence principle where newer laws can approximate older ones. The discussion concluded with Jim reflecting on how science fiction has predicted real scientific advancements in his lifetime, from Star Trek’s vision of space travel to current exoplanet discoveries and the potential for life on rogue planets. L1 Point Calculation Discussion The group discussed Jim’s calculation of the L1 point at 3.8 light years from the sun, which included dark matter models from a peer-reviewed paper. Jim explained that if objects are found orbiting in circular patterns rather than moving through the galaxy, it would confirm the real solar L1 location. The conversation then shifted to personal beliefs about religion and science, with Jim sharing his perspective as an Episcopalian who finds faith provides peace despite not believing the Bible word-for-word. The group discussed dark matter, with John clarifying that gravitational effects lead to the inference of dark matter rather than the other way around. Jim explained that while dark matter must interact gravitationally, its exact particle nature remains unknown. The conversation then shifted to the G-Cloud, where Jim described how Earth might be affected by entering a denser cloud in 3,000 years, including potential changes to the heliosphere and increased space weather. Jim discussed the importance of understanding cosmic weather and its potential impact on exoplanets and Earth’s atmosphere, particularly referencing Mars’ lost atmosphere and historical space weather events like the Carrington event. He emphasized that scientists need to consider planets in the context of their galactic environment rather than isolating them from cosmic influences. Jim also mentioned his ongoing analysis of Mars data to better understand the effects of interstellar medium exposure on planetary environments. Jim shared his experience as a retired NASA scientist and discussed his current work in metaverse education, where he creates immersive experiences for students to explore space missions and lunar environments using Oculus headsets. He explained that NASA has developed the technology needed to land humans on Mars, specifically highlighting the Hypersonic Aeroshell and Inflatable Decelerator (HIAD) system that can deliver 20 metric tons of cargo and enable landing in a wider range of locations than current aeroshells. Jim outlined a step-by-step approach following Apollo’s incremental learning model, including testing mini-MAVs, cargo delivery, and eventually human missions, with the first cargo mission potentially launching in 2028 and human missions in 2043. 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 We use Zoom phone numbers for program participation. 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 4566 Zoom: George Tyson w/co-host John Jossy | Tuesday 28 Jul 2026 700PM PT Guests: George Tyson Zoom: George Tyson, fresh from ISDC, along with John Jossy, have news and updates for us Broadcast 4567: Hotel Mars MIT details to follow | Wednesday 29 Jul 2026 930AM PT Guests: John Batchelor , Dr. David Livingston Hotel Mars details to follow Broadcast 4568 Zoom: Dr. Logan Smith | Friday 31 Jul 2026 930AM PT Guests: Dr. Logan Smith Zoom: Dr. Logan Smith return. Details to follow. To listen & participate in this program email us for Zoom phone numbers & access before airtime. Broadcast 4569 Zoom: Lisa La Bonte | Sunday 02 Aug 2026 1200PM PT Guests: Lisa La Bonte Lisa La Bonte returns to The Space Show. Details to follow. To listen & participate in this program email us for Zoom phone numbers & access before airtime Get full access to The Space Show-One Giant Leap Foundation at doctorspace.substack.com/subscribe

June 28, 20261 hr 30 min

The Space Show Present Dr. Deana Weibel and the Ultra View from Space.

The Space Show featured Dr. Dina Weibel discussing her book “The UltraView Effect: What We Can Learn From Astronauts About Awe, Humility, and Exploring the Unknown.” Weibel, an anthropologist of religion, shared her research on astronauts’ experiences looking at stars and deep space, which she calls the “ultra-view effect” - a more existential and awe-inspiring experience compared to the traditional “overview effect” of seeing Earth from space. The discussion covered how astronauts describe seeing vast star fields with no atmospheric interference, the psychological impact of contemplating the vastness of the universe, and how this experience often leads to increased humility and curiosity rather than the “Kumbaya” perspective sometimes associated with the overview effect. Weibel also mentioned her upcoming project with her husband Glenn Swanson and John Lomberg on the 50th anniversary of the Voyager Golden Record, which will be published in August 2027. Detailed Summary: Our discussion with Dr. Weibel began with a quick revie of Deana’s previous research on the “ultra view effect” and discussed her current project about the Voyager Golden Record (two of them), which she is working on with her husband and John Lomberg for a UK publisher. I did introduce Deana as a returning guest plus John Jossy and I did a quick Ultra View review with her. Dr. Deana Weibel, an anthropologist of religion, proceeded to discuss her research on astronauts’ experiences in space and introduced her book “The UltraView Effect” which explores awe and humility in space exploration. She explained her anthropological research methods, including participant observation and interviews, and shared how astronauts describe transformative experiences like the overview effect and lunar overview effect. Deana described how these space experiences parallel religious experiences she studied in her previous research on pilgrimage. 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 We use Zoom phone numbers for program participation. 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 4556: Zoom: Open Lines Discussion | Sunday 28 Jun 2026 1200PM PT Guests: Dr. David Livingston Zoom: A full Open Lines discussion. Join us with Zoom phone numbers. Email drspace before airtime for the numbers Get full access to The Space Show-One Giant Leap Foundation at doctorspace.substack.com/subscribe

June 24, 20261 hr 31 min

The Space Show Presents Robert "Hoot" Gibson, Retired Astronaut, combat pilot and author the award winning new book "Space Ace: A Combat Pilot's Journey from Vietnam to Beyond Earth."

Meeting assets for The Space Show Presents Robert “Hoot” Gibson, Tuesday, 6-23-26 Quick Summary: Tonight’s Space Show program featured Captain Robert “Hoot” Gibson, a former NASA astronaut and naval fighter pilot who flew five space shuttle missions and served as chief astronaut. Hoot discussed his career journey from Vietnam War combat missions in F-4 Phantom jets to becoming one of NASA’s most experienced shuttle pilots, including his secret classified mission where his shuttle sustained over 700 damaged tiles but successfully returned to Earth. He explained the technical details of shuttle operations, docking with the Mir space station, and his thoughts on why the space shuttle program was retired despite its potential for continued use. The discussion also covered Hoot’s post-NASA career flying for Southwest Airlines as a captain for 10 years, his current aviation activities including air racing, and his recent memoir “Space Ace” which has already won six awards. Detailed Summary: The meeting began with introductions of The Space Show Wisdom Team present for this program with Hoot. Tony, the publisher for Hoot’s book was also present with us for this program. Tony has also helped Hoot write his book “Space Ace.” Hoot then explained how he met Tony through a children’s book project, then he proceeded to describe his career progression from Navy fighter pilot to space shuttle commander, including his combat missions in Vietnam and his work with the F-14 Tomcat, then to NASA and then to South West Airlines. Hoot’s Space Ace book has won six awards since its release in March of this year. Hoot shared his experience flying combat air patrol over Saigon on April 30, 1975, during the final days of the Vietnam War, and described his subsequent training as an F-14 Tomcat instructor before applying to NASA in 1977. He explained how his extensive jet fighter experience made him feel unprepared when he first arrived at NASA, as he needed to learn basic space shuttle operations. When asked about his engagement orders during the Saigon embassy evacuation, Hoot confirmed they were cleared to fire, though they didn’t use their weapons due to fuel constraints. Hoot discussed his experience flying different space shuttles, explaining that while NASA aimed to make all shuttles identical, Columbia was built heavier at 7,000 pounds and had some unique features due to being the first shuttle. Hoot shared that he flew Challenger on his first mission, Columbia on his second, and Atlantis twice, but regretted not flying Discovery which would have allowed him to fly all five shuttles. When asked about shuttle landings, Hoot explained that his first landing as commander was an unplanned night landing at Edwards Air Force Base after weather prevented a Cape Canaveral landing, and he agreed with David that the space shuttle had significant life left despite NASA’s decision to retire them after the losses of Challenger and Columbia. This is only a partial program summary. 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 We use Zoom phone numbers for program participation. 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 4555 Zoom: Dr. Deana Weibel | Friday 26 Jun 2026 930AM PT Guests: Dr. Deana Weibel Zoom: Dr. Weibel returns to discuss her new book “The Ultraview Effect: What We Can Learn from Astronauts About Awe, Humility, and Exploring the Unknown,” Broadcast 4556: Zoom: Open Lines Discussion | Sunday 28 Jun 2026 1200PM PT Guests: Dr. David Livingston Zoom: A full Open Lines discussion. Join us with Zoom phone numbers. Email drspace before airtime for the numbers Get full access to The Space Show-One Giant Leap Foundation at doctorspace.substack.com/subscribe

June 21, 20261 hr 21 min

The Space Show presents Dr. Ryan Dowdy on NASA food for the Shuttle & Artemis Missions

The Space Show Presents Dr. Ryan Dowdy re ISS & Artemis Astronaut Food, May 15, 2026, Friday Quick Summary: The Space Show featured Dr. Ryan Dowdy, a former NASA ISS Food System Manager, discussing food in space and his commercial food company ReadyBar. Dowdy explained how NASA’s 20-person team in Houston produces all space food, with 60+ signatures required for each item due to government regulations. He detailed the challenges of providing nutrition for astronauts, including the need for 500-calorie meal replacement bars and the importance of fresh food for psychological well-being. The discussion covered topics like packaging limitations, radiation effects on food, and the potential for growing food in space. Dowdy also shared information about his company ReadyBar, which makes meal-replacement bars designed to replace an entire meal with 30 grams of protein and 15 grams of fiber for $5.99, currently sold online with plans to expand to retailers and Amazon. The conversation explored how commercial space companies are developing their own food systems and the need for continued R&D investment in space food technology. Detailed Summary: Ryan discussed the challenges and innovations in providing food for astronauts, particularly focusing on NASA’s ISS and Artemis missions. He explained how meal replacement bars became popular due to cost and packaging efficiency considerations, noting that 60% of food weight on the ISS was packaging that was discarded. Ryan described his work at NASA from 2016, where he helped update the food menu by adding more fish, fruits, and vegetables to address astronauts’ nutritional needs for omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. The discussion concluded with Ryan sharing how he initially became interested in space food science through a professor’s suggestion to directly ask NASA about their challenges rather than proposing solutions without understanding their needs. Ryan also discussed his experience as the ISS Food System Manager at NASA’s Space Food Systems Laboratory, explaining how food scientists create meals designed to last up to two years in space. He described the process of working with astronauts to taste and rank approximately 200 menu items, noting that while shrimp cocktail was a popular choice, the Russian crew preferred more soup in their meals, leading to food exchanges between the two teams. When asked about future food options for space missions, Ryan clarified that while no insects were consumed on the ISS during his tenure, there is potential for growing food in space, though current plant growth experiments like the Veggie system didn’t provide sufficient daily calories. He concluded that while space food systems aren’t ready for long-duration missions like Mars yet, continued research through initiatives like the Deep Space Food Challenge is necessary. 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 We use Zoom phone numbers for program participation. 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: Sunday, June 21: No Program For Father’s Day | Sunday 21 Jun 2026 1200PM PT Guests: Dr. David Livingston No program due to Father’s Day Get full access to The Space Show-One Giant Leap Foundation at doctorspace.substack.com/subscribe

June 20, 20261 hr 6 min

The Space Show Presents Andrew Rush, CEO of Star Catcher, Friday, 6-19-26

The Space Show Presents Andrew Rush of Star Catcher, Friday, 6-1926 Quick Summary: This Space Show program featured Andrew Rush, CEO of Star Catcher, discussing their development of an orbital energy grid using power beaming technology. Andrew explained how his network of satellites would collect solar energy and transmit it via laser beams to client satellites in low Earth orbit, enabling them to deliver significantly more power without requiring larger solar arrays or changes to the satellites’ orientation. The technology aims to address power constraints in space by delivering up to 100 kilowatts per power node, with plans to provide commercial service by the end of the decade. The discussion covered potential applications including orbital data centers, lunar power distribution, and extending the operational life of existing satellites, with Andrew noting they had raised $65 million in Series A funding and were actively hiring. Andrew Rush, CEO of Star Catcher, discussed the company’s efforts to create the first orbital energy grid through power beaming satellites. He explained that Star Catcher has developed a network of power beaming satellites using solar concentrators and multi-wavelength laser systems to deliver additional power to client satellites in low Earth orbit. Andrew reported significant progress, including over 40 letters of intent signed and 6-7 power purchase agreements, demonstrating strong market demand for the technology. He clarified that while each power node can deliver about 100 kilowatts of energy, the system is designed for one-to-many architecture with multiple beams, and as a U.S. company, they remain subject to ITAR regulations. Andrew explained that client satellites in the Star Catcher network don’t need to change their orientation to receive power from the system’s power nodes in low Earth orbit at 1500 kilometers altitude. He detailed how the power beaming uses near-infrared and visible wavelengths compatible with both silicon and gallium arsenide solar cells, with different requirements for each type of cell. Philip suggested using the infrastructure to help satellites escape the atmosphere more easily, potentially reducing launch costs, which Andrew acknowledged as a promising use case, particularly for electric propulsion systems. 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 We use Zoom phone numbers for program participation. 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 4552: Zoom: Andrew Rush, CEO of Star Catcher | Friday 19 Jun 2026 930AM PT Guests: Andrew Rush Zoom: Andrew Rush, CEO of Star Catcher updates us with new developments. See https://www.star-catcher.com Sunday, June 21: No Program For Father’s Day | Sunday 21 Jun 2026 1200PM PT Guests: Dr. David Livingston No program due to Father’s Day Get full access to The Space Show-One Giant Leap Foundation at doctorspace.substack.com/subscribe

June 18, 20261 hr 23 min

Manuel Cuba Leads The Space Show Wisdom Team in an Open Discussion

Due to bandwidth issues, there is no Zoom video for this program. The audio is being archived here and on The Space Show website for this date, www.thespaceshow.com. The Space Show Present Manuel Cuba with The Space Show Team for a general discussion, Sunday, 6-14-26 Meeting Summary: The meeting was a space show discussion hosted by David Livingston, with participants including Manuel, Philip, GuySchumann, Marshall, John Jossy, and Sherry. The main guest Cesar from Peru was expected to join but experienced technical difficulties connecting from the airport, so the group decided to reschedule his full interview. The participants discussed various space-related topics including SpaceX’s recent IPO, the government’s UAP document release, ISDC conference experiences, and NASA’s Artemis III crew selection. GuySchumann provided updates on his work in drought mitigation using space-based predictive analytics, while the group also shared insights about recent space conferences and debated whether crew weight and mass considerations might factor into lunar mission planning. Detailed Summary Manuel shared his positive experience attending AIAA in Washington D.C., describing it as worth every penny despite the high cost. The group discussed the potential duration of an upcoming show, with Manuel indicating it should be between 60 and 90 minutes and mentioning that Caesar would have significant content to share. The conversation briefly touched on SpaceX’s recent IPO and the mixed opinions from the financial community regarding its economic prospects and future quarterly reporting requirements. The group discussed David’s having seen the Spielberg movie, “Disclosure Day,” which explores the concept of “Disclosure Day” regarding extraterrestrials. David reviewed the movie positively, noting it features good acting and innovative storytelling, though he personally doesn’t share Spielberg’s precise views on extraterrestrials nor how disclosure day will take place, assuming it ever does take place. . Guy Schumann discussed a follow-up conversation with Chris Bures from his last program appearance with us when a listener from Las Vegas, Chris, engaged him and his company about water supply and drought issues in Nevada and the west, where Chris had offered to connect him with municipal and state contacts but the response status remained unclear. Guy explained that while they don’t currently have direct municipal contacts in Las Vegas, they partner with a Florida-based company to provide flood modeling and risk assessments for counties in the US, though this partnership is currently focused on Florida rather than the Western states. Marshall raised concerns about weather pattern challenges in Oklahoma, specifically the need to manage both drought and sudden heavy rainfall during harvest season, which Guy acknowledged as a widespread issue affecting both European and US agriculture. The group discussed challenges in predicting and preparing for extreme weather events, with GuySchumann highlighting the difficulty of predicting short-acting events and staying within community budgets. Marshall shared that his brother-in-law could significantly increase crop output with just four months of weather prediction, leading to a discussion about seasonal forecasting improvements enabled by AI and space data. GuySchumann described the rapid technological development in extreme weather prediction over the past five years, noting that progress has accelerated to the point where conferences are overwhelming due to the pace of innovation. The Wisdom Team discussed SpaceX’s recent IPO, with Philip noting that many retail investors are making long-term bets on space exploration rather than seeking immediate returns. Marshall expressed caution about buying shares until next week, while David mentioned plans to purchase shares for his trust to benefit his children. Manuel recommended reading Robert Zimmerman’s blog post about the IPO, though David thought Zimmerman was overly optimistic. John Jossy observed that space stocks were down on Friday, with some speculation that investors were selling other space companies to buy SpaceX shares. We talked at length about SpaceX’s IPO and Elon Musk’s public approach to his companies. GuySchumann shared his perspective on Musk’s vision for space exploration and how it could inspire public investment, comparing it to the excitement around early personal computers. The discussion touched on how Musk’s public persona and rhetoric might change due to SEC oversight, with GuySchumann suggesting he would be more careful out of a sense of responsibility to shareholders. The conversation also covered the regulatory challenges Musk would face as a public company CEO and the potential for litigation, while Marshall noted that Shotwell appears to be the next person in line for leadership at SpaceX. Phil reported that his presentation about moon-based data centers went well at ISDC, with good audience engagement and questions. He also mentioned other notable speakers including David Dillon from Electromagnetic Launch who discussed quench gun technology, and presentations about Venus colonization and biological methods for making structural components in space. David expressed frustration about Blue Origin’s reluctance to participate in his show, noting that the company prefers controlled environments where they can restrict discussion topics rather than facing an unpredictable audience. The group discussed keynotes from a recent space conference, including presentations by Harrison Schmidt, Lindy Tompkins, and Bill Diamond of SETI. Manuel shared insights from his attendance at the conference, where he met with Space Tango and a South Korean pharmaceutical company to explore low Earth orbit life sciences facilities and potential research opportunities with the Department of War. The participants also briefly discussed the recent U.S. government’s UAP document release, noting that while it generated some media attention, it didn’t receive widespread public focus. The group discussed the upcoming Spacecom conference in January in Florida, which Manuel found interesting due to its focus on satellite communication and launch systems. They also discussed the timing of the next SpaceX Starship test flight, which is targeted for July 2026, with speculation about whether it might coincide with the July 4th holiday. The conversation then shifted to discussing Keith Cowling, who received a Pioneer Award from NSS despite controversy, and the upcoming NSS elections where several space show personalities are running for positions. The team mentioned NASA’s selection of an all-male crew for the Artemis III mission, with Phil proposing a theory that the heavier male astronauts were chosen for this low-orbit mission to maximize payload capacity, while future missions might favor lighter crew members including women. The discussion included technical considerations about weight, oxygen consumption, and space requirements for astronauts, with David sharing insights from his scuba diving experience about how weight and gender can affect mission planning. The conversation ended with plans to reschedule Cesar’s interview. 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 We use Zoom phone numbers for program participation. 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 4552: Zoom: Andrew Rush, CEO of Star Catcher | Friday 19 Jun 2026 930AM PT Guests: Andrew Rush Zoom: Andrew Rush, CEO of Star Catcher updates us with new developments. See https://www.star-catcher.com Sunday, June 21: No Program For Father’s Day | Sunday 21 Jun 2026 1200PM PT Guests: Dr. David Livingston No program due to Father’s Day Get full access to The Space Show-One Giant Leap Foundation at doctorspace.substack.com/subscribe

June 12, 20261 hr 6 min

The Space Show Presents Chris Carberry, Friday, June 12, 2026

This was a Space Show program featuring Chris Carberry, co-founder and CEO of ExploreMars, discussing space policy, Mars exploration, and his new book “Future Spacefaring Society.” Chris explained that Explore Mars has always been agnostic on launch vehicle selection, supporting both SLS/Orion and Starship/Blue Origin developments while advocating for lunar missions that deliberately advance Mars capabilities. The discussion covered current NASA budget challenges, the need for entry descent and landing technology development, and the potential for human settlement on Mars in the 2030s through a hybrid approach combining NASA and private sector capabilities. Chris also promoted the upcoming Humans to Moon and Mars Summit in Houston, Texas, which will focus on topics like food systems, commercial space capabilities, and physical/mental health challenges for lunar and Martian missions. 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 4549 Zoom: Manuel Cuba & Cesar Santisteban | Sunday 14 Jun 2026 1200PM PT Guests: Manuel Cuba , Cesar Sa Santisteban Zoom: Manuel and Cesar or Peru space and more, Details to follow Get full access to The Space Show-One Giant Leap Foundation at doctorspace.substack.com/subscribe

June 12, 20261 hr 5 min

The Space Show Presents Rick Fisher on Space, National Security, China, Asia, Tuesday, June 9, 2026.

The Space Show Presents Rick Fisher, Tuesday, June 9, 2026 Quick Summary The Space Show featured a discussion with national security consultant Rick Fisher about China’s space program and its implications for national security. Rick explained that space has become a major component of American global national security considerations, with China positioning itself either as a major antagonist or cooperative partner depending on Earth-based conflicts. He detailed China’s lunar program, including their Lanyue lunar lander and their manned capsule, while warning that Chinese dual-use systems on the moon could potentially extend Earth conflicts to lunar territory. The conversation covered China’s energy independence efforts through nuclear fission, space solar power, and fusion energy development, as well as their reusable rocket capabilities with 20-25 Chinese companies developing reusable launch vehicles similar to SpaceX’s approach. Rick also discussed the Artemis program’s goals of establishing a semi-permanent presence on the moon by 2036, requiring 79-81 space launches and approximately $30 billion in total investment. The discussion concluded with analysis of Taiwan’s potential response to Chinese aggression and the role of other Asian countries like India and Japan in balancing Chinese space ambitions. Detailed Summary David and Rick discussed the role of space in national security, particularly regarding China’s lunar program and its implications for Taiwan and the South China Sea. They also touched on UAPs (Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena), with John contributing insights about China’s interest in UAPs and the government’s handling of the topic. The conversation highlighted differing perspectives on the significance of UAPs and the potential motivations behind government secrecy regarding the subject. David, Rick, and John discussed concerns about Chinese influence and espionage in the United States, including allegations against politicians like Feinstein and a California politician. They questioned why such activities are tolerated despite being known. The conversation then shifted to SpaceX’s upcoming IPO and its performance. The conversation continued with the guest continuing to discuss China’s space program and its broader implications for national security. Rick discussed the increasing importance of space in American national security, particularly in relation to China’s space activities. He explained that space has become a determinant factor in global security, with both countries positioning themselves as either antagonists or cooperative partners. He praised President Trump’s focus on returning to the moon through the Artemis program as a way to deter conflict and secure American access to space. He noted that Trump’s second-term goal of establishing a permanent presence on the moon could help prevent conflicts not only on the moon but also in low Earth orbit and potentially on Earth. Rick was asked about China’s energy strategies and vulnerabilities, explaining that China’s reliance on oil passing through the Straits of Hormuz presents a strategic weakness. He detailed China’s multi-pronged energy approach including nuclear fission plants, space solar power research, and fusion energy development. When asked about space-based data centers, he indicated China is following the American trend with plans to launch such facilities in the near future, potentially on a large scale to support AI functions on Earth. The discussion was cut off before John’s question about potential lunar conflict could be addressed. Our guest discussed the potential risks and challenges associated with China’s lunar lander program, particularly regarding the Lanyue lunar lander and its propulsion stage, which could pose hazards to other lunar missions or bases. He highlighted the need for deconfliction and transparency from China regarding their lunar lander operations. Rick also mentioned the deployment of hopper drones by both the United States and China around the moon, noting the potential for these to be modified for combat purposes if tensions escalate on Earth. China’s potential space ambitions were brought to our attention, noting that if China were willing to use technology for political intimidation in low Earth orbit, they might extend similar activities to lunar or Martian environments. John suggested that getting to space first could provide an advantage in staking territorial claims. Dr. Kothari asked three questions about China’s plans: circumnavigating the moon with astronauts in 2027, deploying thorium molten salt reactors for terrestrial use, and developing reusable rockets. Rick acknowledged limited knowledge about China’s reactor plans but noted that China has 20-25 companies working on reusable space vehicles, with the potential for first stage recovery this year. Rick discussed China’s space launch vehicle developments, focusing on the Long March 12, Long March 10, and the proposed Long March 9. He explained that Long March 10 could become a popular reusable launch vehicle, while the three-stage Long March 9, if developed, would be the world’s most powerful space launch vehicle with a massive 19-meter payload fairing. Rick speculated that China might be developing the three-stage Long March 9 to avoid the complexity of low Earth orbit refueling required for Elon Musk’s Starship, though he acknowledged that many technical details about its feasibility remain unknown. Rick discussed the potential impact of China’s Long March 9 rocket on SpaceX’s Starship, noting that while the first stage would be reusable, it remained unclear whether China would pursue reusability for the second stage. When asked about credible resistance movements in China, Richard explained that while there is a will among some people to resist the government, the Chinese Communist Party effectively prevents such movements through extensive digital surveillance and control systems. He compared China’s digital surveillance capabilities to Iran’s and highlighted how Israel’s ability to take control of Iran’s digital systems and use them against the regime should serve as a warning to China about potential threats from Taiwan and Israel. Ajay asked Rick about Taiwanese opinions on potential reunification with China. Rick explained that while many Taiwanese benefit economically from China relations, over 90% of the population values their democratic freedoms and would not willing give them up to become part of a Chinese communist dictatorship. He noted that the Chinese Communist Party’s failure to acknowledge historical atrocities under Mao, including the deaths of 50-70 million people, undermines their historical appeals to Taiwanese people. Rick talked about the potential for Asian and oceanic countries like India and Australia to balance China’s space activities through collaboration with the United States and the Artemis program. He noted that as these countries develop their own heavy launch vehicles, they will gain more autonomy to pursue lunar and Mars programs independently of potential Chinese-American conflicts. Richard also praised NASA’s Artemis program revealed on March 23, which aims to establish a semi-permanent presence on the moon by 2036 through 79-81 space launches and $30 billion total investment, describing it as essential for winning the race to the moon and potentially deterring Chinese aggression. Our guest also discussed the relationship between China’s space program and the US, noting that while competition exists, cooperation could follow a similar path to Cold War-era US-Soviet relations. He expressed confidence that the Artemis program would continue regardless of political party in power, though funding levels might vary. Richard believed the program would maintain strategic importance in the Earth-Moon-Mars system and would only be disrupted by major global conflicts. The conversation ended with David thanking Rick for his participation and discussing upcoming shows featuring Chris Carberry from Explore Mars and guests from Peruvian satellite systems and Luxembourg. 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 4548: Zoom: Chris Carberry | Friday 12 Jun 2026 930AM PT Guests: Chris Carberry Zoom: Chris Carberry of Explore Mars, see discussion details on blog and Substack later this week. Broadcast 4549 Zoom: Manuel Cuba & Cesar Santisteban | Sunday 14 Jun 2026 1200PM PT Guests: Manuel Cuba , Cesar Sa Santisteban Zoom: Manuel and Cesar or Peru space and more, Details to follow Get full access to The Space Show-One Giant Leap Foundation at doctorspace.substack.com/subscribe