STARS Launch Pod
STARS Launch Pod is a podcast that explores the intersection of space technology and life sciences. Each episode uncovers how scientists, researchers, and innovators are building space tech to transform lives both in space and on Earth - overcoming challenges, pushing boundaries, and collaborating to make the cosmos more accessible and sustainable for humanity. Whether you’re a scientist, engineer, researcher, or future innovator, STARS Launch Pod brings you the stories that are propelling us forward - one Launch at a time. Hosted by Susan Wise.
Episodes
Discover how cutting-edge space research—from cancer treatments and artificial retinas to fiber-optic breakthroughs—is transforming life here on Earth. Ryan Reeves, Technical Director of Research & Innovation at the International Space Station National Laboratory shares behind-the-scenes stories, surprising discoveries, and a look at what’s next after the ISS.
In this episode of Stars Launch Pod, host Susan Wise sits down with Troy Morris, co founder and CEO of KMI, to explore how his team is building the “tow truck for space.” From tackling orbital debris to demonstrating groundbreaking capture technology aboard the International Space Station, Troy shares the journey, challenges, and aha moments behind developing a sustainable future in orbit. Tune in for innovation, inspiration, and a...
Dr. Danny Hawkins, founder of Danny’s Rocket Ranch and Space Camp Hall of Fame inductee, shares how his love for teaching, salsa, and space exploration sparked a mission to inspire the next generation. From classroom lessons to launching a salsa brand that funds scholarships, his journey proves that creativity and persistence can fuel both dreams and discovery.
Join host Susan Wise as she sits down with Dr. Thomas F. Lang, Professor Emeritus at UCSF, whose groundbreaking research with NASA has transformed our understanding of how space travel affects bone health. From the first studies aboard the International Space Station to cutting-edge AI imaging today, Dr. Lang shares fascinating insights on osteoporosis, astronaut fitness, and the “aha” moments that changed space medicine. Discover ...
Join host Susan Wise as she talks with Dr. Gordon Roesler, former DARPA leader and president of Robots in Space, about the groundbreaking technology that allows satellites to repair, refuel, and even upgrade themselves in orbit. Discover how robotic servicing is transforming the future of space and why persistence is key to innovation among the stars.
Join host Susan Wise on Stars Launch Pod as she sits down with NASA’s Brian Campbell, Senior Earth Science Specialist, to explore groundbreaking satellite missions, student-driven discoveries, and what it takes to turn failure into success. From tracking melting ice sheets to mapping billions of trees, discover how NASA data—and curious young minds—are shaping our understanding of Earth.
Join host Susan Wise and Lori McAlister, Director of Membership at Star Sciences, as they dive into the exciting new tools, resources, and innovations helping researchers across the globe connect and accelerate their work. From AI research navigation to the Collaborate Café and inspiring stories from the SmallSat Education Conference at Kennedy Space Center, this episode celebrates innovation, STEM, and the bright future of space e...
Join host Susan Wise as she talks with Dr. Gary Stutte—‘space farmer,’ scientist, and CEO of SyNRGE—about growing food beyond Earth, recycling human waste into life support, and how space farming innovations are transforming agriculture here on Earth.
Join Nobel Prize–winning astrophysicist John Mather as he shares the groundbreaking science behind the James Webb Space Telescope, the mysteries of cosmic origins, and bold new ideas for discovering Earth-like planets beyond our solar system.
“Bringing Space Science Back to Earth”
Join host Susan Wise as she talks with Dr. David Pollock, founder of Star Sciences, about how innovations from space research are transforming life on Earth. From zero-gravity stem cell breakthroughs to the future of skincare and collaboration in space technology, this inspiring conversation explores how we can connect, collaborate, and accelerate the next frontier—both in orbit and at home.
From middle school CubeSats to international conferences, Kevin Simmons is empowering the next generation of aerospace innovators. Hear how students as young as 11 are designing satellites, presenting papers worldwide, and proving that passion beats age every time.
NASA Earth scientist Compton Tucker to shares how cutting-edge satellite technology is transforming our understanding of forests, climate, and the future of our planet. From mapping 10 billion trees to uncovering the secrets of photosynthesis from space, this conversation will inspire you to look at Earth—and trees—in a whole new way.
Aerospace engineer Serge Iakymov shares life at NASA’s Mars Desert Research Station, analog missions, and the dream of becoming an astronaut.
Discover how the Colorado Air and Spaceport is pioneering the future of aviation and commercial spaceflight, blending a busy general aviation hub with cutting-edge aerospace innovation.
Can humans survive on Mars? Dr. Amy Williams shares NASA rover secrets, life’ possibilities, and the future of space exploration. g91ly859xMzauppNrIdo
From NASA-inspired bioreactors to skincare breakthroughs, Dr. Malav Trivedi reveals how Zero Gravity Sciences is harnessing microgravity technology to unlock the hidden power of plant stem cells—revolutionizing beauty, nutrition, and agriculture here on Earth.
Anna Lee Fisher: First Mom in Space on Her Journey, Shuttle Missions, and Inspiring Future Explorers
Blast off with NASA legend Anna Lee Fisher—the first mom in space—as she shares her trailblazing journey from ER doctor to astronaut, her historic mission retrieving satellites, and her timeless advice to dream big and never let go of the stars.
From launching squid into space to engineering microbes that could recycle plastics and make medicine on-demand, Dr. Jamie Foster reveals how space biology is unlocking the keys to human survival beyond Earth—and sparking innovations that can transform life back home.
From farm fields in New Mexico to NASA’s crop chambers, Jacob “Pepper Seed” Torres shares how he helped grow the first chile peppers in space, sparked a global “Space Chile” challenge, and is now inspiring the next generation to plant the future of food on the Moon and Mars.
From “robo-puppies” that swarm mines on Earth to autonomous machines building cities on the Moon and Mars, Offworld CEO Jim Keravala reveals how touchless mining, treasure-bot refineries, and swarms of intelligent robots are revolutionizing industry—and laying the foundation for humanity’s off-world future.
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