From Shuttle to Summit: The Secret Diplomacy of Space – Charles Bolden

How Space Became a Tool of Diplomacy

What does space exploration have to do with global diplomacy?

In this episode of Talking Foreign Affairs, host Adil Cader sits down with Charles Bolden, former NASA Administrator and veteran astronaut, for a rare look into how science has shaped international cooperation at the highest levels.

From commanding shuttle missions to leading NASA during one of its most politically complex periods, Bolden reflects on how space became a channel for peacebuilding — particularly between the United States and Russia. He shares gripping stories from space and beyond, including efforts to preserve ISS cooperation even as political relations back on Earth grew tense.

This conversation unpacks the quiet power of science diplomacy, why space still matters in foreign affairs, and how global collaboration is possible even in divided times.

A must-listen for anyone curious about the intersection of exploration, leadership, and diplomacy.

Tune in, share it with a friend, and explore more episodes in the Talking Foreign Affairs series — where world leaders and changemakers share the stories behind the headlines.