October 24, 2024 • 22 mins
This epsidsode provides a comprehensive exploration of the science behind space travel, flowing through four main areas: how rockets function (including propulsion and launch mechanics), the principles of orbital mechanics and space navigation, the complexities of keeping humans alive in space (covering life support systems, food, and waste management), and recent technological advances in the field (such as reusable rockets, ion propulsion, and AI in space missions). The piece maintains a narrative flow without bullet points or headers, connecting these topics through clear transitions while keeping focus on the scientific and engineering challenges of space exploration.
This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI
This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Hey everyone, and welcome back. Ready for another deep dive. Today,
(00:04):
we're tackling something that's well, kind of out of this world.
We're talking about the science behind space travel.
Speaker 2 (00:10):
Yeah, it's always captured the imagination, hasn't it.
Speaker 1 (00:13):
Absolutely. It's just mind blowing to think about humans leaving
Earth and exploring the vastness of space. But before we
get lost in the wonder.
Speaker 2 (00:21):
Of it all, you got to understand the how, right.
Speaker 1 (00:24):
Exactly the science and engineering that make this incredible feet possible.
So where do we even begin?
Speaker 2 (00:30):
Well, I think a good starting point is like the
very basics. How do we even get those massive rockets
off the ground?
Speaker 1 (00:35):
Yeah, it's not like hopping on a plane, right, So
what's the secret sauce.
Speaker 2 (00:39):
It all boils down to physics, good old Newton's third law.
You know that whole for every action there's an equal
and opposite reaction thing.
Speaker 1 (00:45):
Oh right, I remember that from high school physics, I think,
But how does that actually apply to launching a rocket?
Speaker 2 (00:52):
Okay, so picture this. The rocket engine is blasting out
hot gas with crazy force through the nozzle.
Speaker 1 (00:59):
That's the action, Okay, I'm picturing it. Lots of fire
and noise.
Speaker 2 (01:02):
Exactly, Now the reaction to that is the rocket being
pushed upward with the same amount of force boom lift off.
Speaker 1 (01:09):
So it's like a controlled explosion propelling the rocket skyward.
Speaker 2 (01:13):
You got it. That's rocket propulsion and a nutshell, most
rockets today use chemical propulsion, where fuel and an oxidizer
mixed together they create this super powerful combustion that blasts
out the back.
Speaker 1 (01:25):
Ah. That makes sense. But I've always wondered, like, how
much of a rocket is actually fuel? It seems like
it must be a lot.
Speaker 2 (01:32):
Oh, you're right to think that. It's a staggering amount. Actually,
somewhere between eighty five percent and ninety percent of a
rocket's total weight is just propellant.
Speaker 1 (01:41):
Wow, that's crazy. So it's mostly fuel tank with a
tiny spacecraft on top.
Speaker 2 (01:45):
Pretty much, that's a kind of fuel power you need
to break free from Earth's gravity. And it kind of
explains why those multi stage rockets are so.
Speaker 1 (01:52):
Important, right, multi sage rockets. Yeah, I know they have
something to do with efficiency, but can you break it
down for me?
Speaker 2 (01:57):
Sure? Think of it this way. You wouldn't carry a
bunch of empty suitcases around on a trip, would you.
Speaker 1 (02:03):
Nope, definitely not packing light.
Speaker 2 (02:05):
Is key exactly. It's the same idea with rockets. As
the rocket climbs higher, it sheds those empty fuel stages,
it gets lighter, making the whole journey way more efficient.
Speaker 1 (02:14):
So each stage has a job, and once it's done, poof,
it's gone pretty much.
Speaker 2 (02:18):
And that shedding way is what lets the rocket reach
those incredible speeds and altitudes.
Speaker 1 (02:23):
Makes sense, So we've got a rocket blasting off, shedding
stages as it goes. But let's say we've made it
past Earth's pull, We're not just shooting straight up into space. Right,
there's that whole concept of achieving orbit. What exactly does
that evolve?
Speaker 2 (02:37):
You're right, just getting to space is only half the battle.
To actually stay up there, you got to achieve this
delicate balance. It's between like your forward momentum and Earth's
gravity constantly pulling you back down.
Speaker 1 (02:50):
So you're kind of like falling towards Earth, but also
moving forward so fast that you just keep missing it.
Speaker 2 (02:54):
Uh huh, Yeah, that's a good way to put it.
That continuous free fall what we call it orbit.
Speaker 1 (02:58):
Ah Okay, I think I get it. But to achieve
that stable orbit around Earth, how fast are we talking?
Speaker 2 (03:05):
Buckle up? Because we're talking about a mind blowing speed
of roughly seventeen thousand, five hundred miles per hour.
Speaker 1 (03:11):
Whoa seventeen thousand, five hundred miles per hour. That's insane.
It's hard to even wrap my head around that kind
of speed. It seems like such a delicate dance between
going fast enough and not being pulled back in by gravity.
Speaker 2 (03:22):
It really is. And that's where you know, the geniuses
like Kepler and Newton come in. They figured out those
laws of orbital mechanics. Using those laws, we can actually
calculate those precise trajectories needed to reach different destinations in space.
Speaker 1 (03:36):
So it's not just brute force with rockets. It's also
understanding the physics, the math, the delicate balance of these
incredible forces exactly.
Speaker 2 (03:44):
And sometimes we can even like use those forces to
our advantage. You've probably heard of things like gravity assists.
Speaker 1 (03:51):
Oh yeah, gravity assists. That sounds kind of sci fi,
to be honest, how does that even work?
Speaker 2 (03:55):
It's pretty amazing. We can actually use the gravity of
planets and even moons to give au space craft a
speed boost.
Speaker 1 (04:01):
Really, but how.
Speaker 2 (04:03):
Imagine it like a cosmic billiards game? Right, the spacecraft
gets pulled in by a planet's gravity and then flung
out the other side with a bunch of extra speed.
It's a free energy boost.
Speaker 1 (04:13):
Whoa, that's mind blowing. I know the Voyager spacecraft use
that trick to travel the outer Solar System, didn't it.
Speaker 2 (04:19):
Absolutely? Voyager use gravity assists from both Jupiter and Saturn.
It's what helped it keep going, eventually reaching interstellar space.
Speaker 1 (04:27):
Crazy, right, It's incredible. It's like we're using the universe
itself to help us explore it. But let's switch gears
a little. We've talked about getting to space, but staying
alive up there is another challenge entirely.
Speaker 2 (04:38):
Yeah, that's a whole other ballgame.
Speaker 1 (04:39):
So let's dive into the world of life support systems.
Speaker 2 (04:42):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (04:42):
I mean, it's got to be way more complicated than
just bringing in oxygen tank right, Oh.
Speaker 2 (04:46):
For sure, It's not just about breathing. Space is a
pretty hostile place for us humans. No breathable air, crazy
temperature swings, and you're constantly bombarded with radiation.
Speaker 1 (04:56):
Yikes. Sounds rough. So what do we do create a
mini Earth inside a spaceship? Yeah?
Speaker 2 (05:04):
Pretty much. We have to replicate all those essential elements
that we take for granted down here, and you know,
the International Space Station is a great example of how
far we've come in doing that.
Speaker 1 (05:13):
I can imagine. What are some of the key elements
that go into designing a life support system for space?
Speaker 2 (05:20):
Okay, well, the absolute essentials oxygen to breathe and getting
rid of that carbon dioxide Up on the ISS. They
use a clever process called electrolysis. Basically, they split water
into its components oxygen and hydrogen.
Speaker 1 (05:34):
Oh wow, so we're making breathable air and space. That's incredible.
But what about the water itself? You can't just like
pack enough water for a whole mission right now.
Speaker 2 (05:43):
Water is a precious commodity up there, So get ready
for They recycle everything, and I mean everything, even well urine.
Speaker 1 (05:50):
Wait, hold on, they recycle urine. How is that even possible?
Speaker 2 (05:53):
Through some very advanced filtration and purification systems, they turn
wastewater back into drinkable water. Pretty amazing.
Speaker 1 (05:59):
Huh yeah, amazing and kind of gross. Not sure I'd
be down to drink recycled here.
Speaker 2 (06:03):
And it's a testament to human ingenuity though. But it's
not just air and water we got to worry about.
There's also food. You can't live on those space food
pouches forever.
Speaker 1 (06:13):
Yeah, I've always wondered about that. What are the options
for giving astronauts more sustainable food sources, especially on long missions.
Speaker 2 (06:21):
We've come a long way from the days of just
tubes of food paste. Astronauts now get more diverse, more
nutritious food, And for those super long missions, we're looking
into space farming.
Speaker 1 (06:32):
Wait, really growing food and space.
Speaker 2 (06:35):
Yep, it's not just sci fi anymore. There are experiments
happening right now on the ISS testing different ways to
grow plants in microgravity.
Speaker 1 (06:43):
I bet it's way more complicated than just planting a
seed and adding water. Huh. What about waste management that
must be tricky in a closed environment like a spacecraft.
Speaker 2 (06:51):
Absolutely right now, they dehydrate and store most of the
solid waste. Liquid waste, as we've discussed, gets recycled. But
for those longsions way longer, will need even more innovative solutions.
Speaker 1 (07:04):
Yeah, makes sense. What kind of solutions are scientists thinking about?
Speaker 2 (07:07):
Imagine like biotreatment systems that can actually break down the
waste and turn it into fertilizer, like for those space
grown crops.
Speaker 1 (07:15):
Wow, so it's all about creating this closed loop system
where nothing goes to waste exactly. That's a pretty amazing
vision for the future of space travel. But even with
all of these incredible systems, the thought of being stuck
in a spacecraft for months or even years kind of
freaks me out. I mean, it's going to take a
toll on you mentally, right, Oh, for sure.
Speaker 2 (07:35):
We can't forget about the psychological side of all this
long duration missions. Those have a huge impact on astronauts.
It's something that's often overlooked, but it's super important.
Speaker 1 (07:44):
Yeah, it's not just about keeping your body alive, it's
got to be about keeping your mind healthy too. So
what are some of the challenges astronauts face mentally on
these missions.
Speaker 2 (07:54):
Well, first off, you got to think about the isolation
being stuck in a small space far away from everything
and everyone you know, and on top of that, you're
acutely aware of all the risks involved. It's got to
be tough.
Speaker 1 (08:06):
Yeah, I can't even imagine the mental strength it takes
to handle that kind of isolation and stress. What kind
of psychological challenges do astronauts face.
Speaker 2 (08:16):
Hmmm, Well, that isolation and confinement, those can lead to
feelings of loneliness, anxiety, depression, all that stuff. And then
there's the lack of natural light cycles that messes with
your sleep and that throws off your mood even more.
Plus they're constantly under pressure performing those complex tasks you know,
in a high risk environment that leads to fatigue, burnout.
Speaker 1 (08:37):
All that it sounds incredibly demanding, both physically and mentally.
Are there any like strategies or anything being developed to
address these psychological challenges to make sure the astronauts are
okay up there?
Speaker 2 (08:49):
Yeah, there's a lot of research going on and it's
actually pretty fascinating stuff. One approach is to create like
a more supportive environment within the spacecraft itself.
Speaker 1 (08:58):
So what does that look like practically speaking?
Speaker 2 (09:00):
Well, think about adding natural elements into the design, like
having simulated daylight cycles, or even virtual windows that show
calming nature scenes, or even playing around with virtual reality experiences,
so astronauts can you escape the confines of the ship
at least virtually they can immerse themselves in familiar environments.
Speaker 1 (09:21):
Ah, that's cool, like a virtual vacation to help with
the isolation. I could see how that would be helpful.
Anything else they're looking into.
Speaker 2 (09:28):
We're also working on personalized support systems like AI companions
that can offer emotional support, have conversations, even do some
cognitive behavioral therapy techniques.
Speaker 1 (09:38):
Well. AI companions sounds super futuristic, Yeah, but I guess
in a situation where you have limited human contact, having
a personalized AI could be really beneficial, right.
Speaker 2 (09:48):
It shows how we can use tech to solve these
unique challenges of space travel, and it really emphasizes how
important psychology is to making these missions successful.
Speaker 1 (09:57):
It's not just.
Speaker 2 (09:58):
About keeping them alive, it's about keeping them mentally healthy
so they can actually thrive in those crazy conditions.
Speaker 1 (10:03):
It's like we're pushing the boundaries of human resilience at
the same time we're pushing the boundaries of space travel.
Speaking of pushing boundaries, I think it's time we talk
about some of the new tech that's changing how we
access and explore space, things like reusable rockets, ion propulsion,
and how AI is becoming a bigger and bigger player.
Speaker 2 (10:22):
Oh yeah, those are game changers for sure. For a
long time, space travel was super expensive. It was basically
limited to just government agencies. But now companies like SpaceX
and Blue Origin are changing that with reusable rocket technology.
Speaker 1 (10:36):
It's incredible to see those rockets land back on Earth
after launching into space. It feels like science fiction becoming reality.
How does reusability change things for space exploration?
Speaker 2 (10:47):
Well, the biggest thing is the cost. The savings are huge.
By landing and reusing those rocket boosters, you don't have
to build a new one for every mission. That makes
it going to space way cheaper, which opens up tons
of opportunities for more free launches, more scientific research, maybe
even more commercial space tourism someday.
Speaker 1 (11:04):
So it's like the difference between buying a brand new
car every time you drive somewhere versus just filling up
your tank with gas.
Speaker 2 (11:11):
Uh huh, Yeah, that's a great analogy. And then you
have ion propulsion. Now that's a total game changer for
those really long missions.
Speaker 1 (11:18):
Oh yeah, ion propulsion it's different from those chemical rockets
we talked about earlier. Right, How did that work again? Right?
Speaker 2 (11:24):
So, instead of burning fuel like in a regular rocket,
ion engines use electricity. It accelerates charged particles, these things
called ions to create thrust. It's actually way more fuel
efficient than those traditional rockets, but the thrust it produces
is a lot less powerful.
Speaker 1 (11:41):
So it's more about slow and steady acceleration over time,
not that initial burst of power. What's the advantage of
using ion propulsion.
Speaker 2 (11:49):
Well, think about those deep space missions, the ones where
you got to cover crazy distances and it takes a
long time. Ion propulsion lets you slowly build up to
some pretty impressive speeds and you do it very efficiently.
It's kind of like the Tortoise and the hair story.
Slow and steady wins the race, especially in space.
Speaker 1 (12:05):
I like that it's a gentler, more efficient way to
journey through space. It really makes you think about how
different types of missions need different approaches exactly.
Speaker 2 (12:14):
And speaking of different approaches, we've got to talk about
AI and how it's playing a bigger role in space travel.
Speaker 1 (12:20):
Oh yeah, AI. I've heard that it's being integrated into
more and more spacecraft. Yeah, what kind of things is
AI being used for? In space exploration?
Speaker 2 (12:28):
AI is handling a lot of different tasks now, like
running navigation and control systems, analyzing all that data coming in,
and even carrying out autonomous robotic emissions. It's like having
a super smart copilot on board.
Speaker 1 (12:41):
So are we talking about spacecraft that can think for
themselves in a way?
Speaker 2 (12:45):
Yeah, AI can help spacecraft make decisions on their own,
you know, adjust their course, even conduct those science experiments
without any input from us down here. And that's super
important for missions to far off planets where communication is delayed.
You can't really control things in real time from Earth.
Speaker 1 (13:00):
That's crazy to think about AI powered spacecraft exploring the
universe on their own. It feels like a whole new
era of space exploration. But with all this advanced tech,
there must be new challenges that come up, right, What
are some of the obstacles that we're facing as we
keep pushing further into space.
Speaker 2 (13:19):
One of the biggest challenges is, well, it's kind of ironic.
We've made all this progress, but we've also created this
growing problem of space debris. It's like a cosmic junkyard
up there with all those old satellites, rocket parts and
pieces from past missions.
Speaker 1 (13:33):
I can't imagine space being cluttered. What are the risks
of all this.
Speaker 2 (13:37):
Space junt It's a big safety hazard for future missions.
Even tiny bits of debris can cause serious damage if
they hit a spacecraft at those super high speeds. It's
like a minefield up there. We got to figure out
how to deal with it.
Speaker 1 (13:48):
It's a good reminder that our actions in space have consequences,
even when we're doing amazing things like exploring. We got
to be responsible. So what can we do about the
space debris problem.
Speaker 2 (14:00):
There are a few things we're looking at. We could
develop tech to actively remove that debris from orbit, or
we could set up some stricter rules for how we
get rid of old satellites. It's a tough problem that
needs international cooperation and some creative solutions.
Speaker 1 (14:15):
Yeah, that makes sense. It really highlights the need to
be responsible as we venture further into space. It's not
just about the thrill of exploration. It's about sustainability and safety.
Speaker 2 (14:25):
Too, exactly. And another thing we're facing is the need
for better energy sources, especially for those missions that go
deep into space. Solar panels work great near Earth where
there's plenty of sunlight, but further out we need something else.
Speaker 1 (14:40):
What kind of energy sources are they considering for those
deep space voyages.
Speaker 2 (14:44):
Well, some scientists are looking into nuclear fission reactors or
even more advanced solar tech that can capture more of
that sunlight. There's even the possibility of fusion power someday.
Now that would be a game changer.
Speaker 1 (14:56):
It sounds like the quest for new energy is a
common theme both here on Earth and as we explore space.
But even with all these technological advancements, we can't forget
about the human element of it all. We've talked about
the psychological side, but what about the physical effects that
space travel has on the human body.
Speaker 2 (15:14):
That's where the field of space medicine comes in. We're
learning more and more about how microgravity, radiation, and other
unique aspects of space. You know, how they all affect
our bodies.
Speaker 1 (15:24):
I bet it's a pretty complex field. What are they
focusing on in space medicine?
Speaker 2 (15:29):
One of the biggest areas is understanding how long term
exposure to microgravity affects the body.
Speaker 1 (15:34):
Right, because our bodies are so used to Earth's gravity,
what happens when you take that away for.
Speaker 2 (15:38):
A long time, without gravity constantly pulling on us, Our
bodies start to change. Some of it's interesting, but some
of it is definitely a challenge. Muscles can weaken, bones
lose density. Even your cardiovascular system is affected.
Speaker 1 (15:51):
So it's like your body is constantly working to fight
against those changes just to stay functional in this zero
gravity environment exactly.
Speaker 2 (15:59):
That's why those astronauts up on the ISS have to
exercise so much they got to mimic the effects of
gravity somehow to stay healthy.
Speaker 1 (16:06):
It's like they're training for an environment that's unlike anything
we experience on Earth. What about radiation exposure. I know
that's a big concern, especially as we start thinking about
longer missions beyond Earth's protective magnetic field.
Speaker 2 (16:20):
It's a huge concern. Space is full of different types
of radiation, some of it is pretty harmful.
Speaker 1 (16:26):
So what are the risks from radiation in space?
Speaker 2 (16:29):
Well, exposure to radiation can damage yourselves, It can increase
your risk of cancer, and it can lead to a
whole bunch of other health problems.
Speaker 1 (16:36):
That sounds scary. How do we protect astronauts from all
this radiation?
Speaker 2 (16:41):
Scientists are working on a few different things. One is
developing special shielding materials that can be built into the
spacecraft to block some of that radiation. Another is designing
new space suits that offer more protection when astronauts are
outside the spacecraft. And they're even researching medications that could
help lessen the damage from radiation.
Speaker 1 (16:59):
It sounds like there's no easy answer. It's going to
take a lot of research and innovation. To keep astronauts
safe from radiation. It's a reminder that space travel is
risky even as we make all these amazing advances.
Speaker 2 (17:12):
That's true. It's this constant balancing act between pushing those
technological limits and understanding the limits of our own human bodies.
It's a constant learning process as we try to venture
further into the universe.
Speaker 1 (17:24):
It's a pretty amazing journey figuring out how to make
space travel possible and facing all these new challenges head on.
It makes you wonder what the future holds for space travel.
What kind of exciting advancements are just around the corner.
What's going to allow us to go even further?
Speaker 2 (17:38):
Oh, the future of space travel, it's looking pretty amazing.
One thing that has scientists really excited is the development
of these things called closed loop life support systems.
Speaker 1 (17:46):
Closed loop life support systems, those sound pretty intense. What
are we talking about here?
Speaker 2 (17:52):
Well, the idea is to create like little ecosystems within
the spacecraft, you know, where almost everything gets recycled, air, water,
even way.
Speaker 1 (18:00):
Whoa, So it's like creating a self sustaining bubble in space.
How would that even work?
Speaker 2 (18:05):
Imagine this? You have plants growing on the spacecraft providing
food and oxygen, and then any waste gets broken down
and reused as fertilizer to help those plants grow. The
goal is to rely less and less on supplies from Earth,
so longer missions, those become way more sustainable.
Speaker 1 (18:21):
That's a pretty wild vision. I like it. Are there
like specific technologies that are being developed to make these
closed loop systems actually happen?
Speaker 2 (18:29):
Oh yeah, definitely. They're designing buyer reactors that break down
waste efficiently. They're even looking at three D printed food
systems to give astronauts fresh, customized meals. It's like biology, engineering,
and tech all coming together.
Speaker 1 (18:42):
It sounds like we're moving away from those short trips
to space and towards like actually living there long term.
What about getting around? Are there any new propulsion systems
that could get us to places like Mars and beyond faster.
Speaker 2 (18:55):
One of the most promising areas is something called nuclear
thermal propulsion. It uses a nuclear reactor to heat up
propellant to crazy high temperatures that creates way more thrust
than those chemical rockets we talked about.
Speaker 1 (19:08):
Hold on, so we're talking about nuclear powered space ships.
What's the advantage of going nuclear It.
Speaker 2 (19:13):
Could cut travel times down significantly, like a trip to Mars.
It could be half as long, and it's more efficient,
so you can carry more stuff and do more ambitious missions.
Speaker 1 (19:22):
Wow, nuclear powered spacecraft. That's straight out of a sci
fi movie. Are there any concerns with using nuclear power
in space?
Speaker 2 (19:30):
There are definitely technical and safety challenges that we have
to figure out for sure, But the potential benefits are
so huge that research in this area is really picking up.
Speaker 1 (19:40):
Makes sense. It seems like big advancements sometimes require taking
some calculated risks. Right. It sounds like that journey to
Mars might be closer than we think. What about those
solar sales? Those always seem super futuristic to me? Are
those a real possibility?
Speaker 2 (19:54):
Solar sales? Those are a totally different approach to getting
around in space. They use the pressure from sunlight to
push the spacecraft forward, kind of like how the wind
pushes a sailboat. Now, the thrust is very gentle, but
it's constant, So a spacecraft powered by a solar sail
could theoretically reach some really impressive speeds over time.
Speaker 1 (20:16):
Wow, so it's literally riding sunbeams across the galaxy. That's incredible.
What are the advantages of using solar sales.
Speaker 2 (20:23):
Well, the big one is that they don't need any propellant,
which is perfect for long duration missions where carrying enough
fuel would be impossible. And they're also super lightweight and compact,
so they can be used for a bunch of different
types of missions.
Speaker 1 (20:35):
It sounds like there are so many different ways to
travel through space, each with their own pros and cons.
It's mind blowing. But as we get better at space travel,
as we develop this incredible tech and push further and
further out, it also raises some big questions right about
our role out there, about being responsible explorers in this
new frontier.
Speaker 2 (20:53):
Absolutely, as space travel becomes more accessible, as we do
more and more out there, we got to think about
the ethical implications of our acttions.
Speaker 1 (21:00):
Yeah, that makes sense. What are some of the ethical
things we should be thinking about as we explore and
use space.
Speaker 2 (21:06):
One of the biggest things is environmental responsibility. Like, if
we start mining asteroids for resources, we have to do
it carefully. We have to minimize our impact on the
space environment, and of course we've got to deal with
that growing problem of space debris. We have to come
up with sustainable ways to manage it.
Speaker 1 (21:23):
It's a good reminder that we have to protect the
space environment, just like we're trying to protect our own planet.
What about all the different countries and companies getting involved
in space. Is there a risk of conflict or competition
getting out of control?
Speaker 2 (21:37):
Definitely something to think about. Space is becoming more commercialized,
so we need to come together. We need clear guidelines,
international agreements, you know, to make sure that everything is
done responsibly and collaboratively, and we have to think about
who owns what out there, how we're going to share
those resources fairly.
Speaker 1 (21:54):
It sounds like the ethical side of space exploration is
just as complicated as all the simecience in tech behind it.
It's not just about going further, it's about doing it
the right way exactly.
Speaker 2 (22:05):
As we enter this new era of space travel, it's
really important to have these conversations, to ask these tough
questions to make sure we're acting responsibly as we explore
this amazing frontier.
Speaker 1 (22:16):
Well, this has been an incredible deep dive. We've talked
about so much, from the science and tech that makes
space travel possible to the ethical considerations as we venture
further into the Cosmos.
Speaker 2 (22:26):
It's been a pleasure sharing this journey with you, and
to all.
Speaker 1 (22:29):
Of you listening, we hope this deep dive has sparked
your curiosity and giving you a glimpse into the incredible
world of space exploration. As we continue to reach for
the stars, it's important to remember that it's not just
about the excitement of discovery. It's also about responsibility, sustainability,
and making sure we're taking care of this incredible universe
we're a part of. So keep looking up, keep exploring,
(22:53):
and we'll see you on our next deep dive.
Hey everyone, and welcome back. Ready for another deep dive. Today,
(00:04):
we're tackling something that's well, kind of out of this world.
We're talking about the science behind space travel.
Speaker 2 (00:10):
Yeah, it's always captured the imagination, hasn't it.
Speaker 1 (00:13):
Absolutely. It's just mind blowing to think about humans leaving
Earth and exploring the vastness of space. But before we
get lost in the wonder.
Speaker 2 (00:21):
Of it all, you got to understand the how, right.
Speaker 1 (00:24):
Exactly the science and engineering that make this incredible feet possible.
So where do we even begin?
Speaker 2 (00:30):
Well, I think a good starting point is like the
very basics. How do we even get those massive rockets
off the ground?
Speaker 1 (00:35):
Yeah, it's not like hopping on a plane, right, So
what's the secret sauce.
Speaker 2 (00:39):
It all boils down to physics, good old Newton's third law.
You know that whole for every action there's an equal
and opposite reaction thing.
Speaker 1 (00:45):
Oh right, I remember that from high school physics, I think,
But how does that actually apply to launching a rocket?
Speaker 2 (00:52):
Okay, so picture this. The rocket engine is blasting out
hot gas with crazy force through the nozzle.
Speaker 1 (00:59):
That's the action, Okay, I'm picturing it. Lots of fire
and noise.
Speaker 2 (01:02):
Exactly, Now the reaction to that is the rocket being
pushed upward with the same amount of force boom lift off.
Speaker 1 (01:09):
So it's like a controlled explosion propelling the rocket skyward.
Speaker 2 (01:13):
You got it. That's rocket propulsion and a nutshell, most
rockets today use chemical propulsion, where fuel and an oxidizer
mixed together they create this super powerful combustion that blasts
out the back.
Speaker 1 (01:25):
Ah. That makes sense. But I've always wondered, like, how
much of a rocket is actually fuel? It seems like
it must be a lot.
Speaker 2 (01:32):
Oh, you're right to think that. It's a staggering amount. Actually,
somewhere between eighty five percent and ninety percent of a
rocket's total weight is just propellant.
Speaker 1 (01:41):
Wow, that's crazy. So it's mostly fuel tank with a
tiny spacecraft on top.
Speaker 2 (01:45):
Pretty much, that's a kind of fuel power you need
to break free from Earth's gravity. And it kind of
explains why those multi stage rockets are so.
Speaker 1 (01:52):
Important, right, multi sage rockets. Yeah, I know they have
something to do with efficiency, but can you break it
down for me?
Speaker 2 (01:57):
Sure? Think of it this way. You wouldn't carry a
bunch of empty suitcases around on a trip, would you.
Speaker 1 (02:03):
Nope, definitely not packing light.
Speaker 2 (02:05):
Is key exactly. It's the same idea with rockets. As
the rocket climbs higher, it sheds those empty fuel stages,
it gets lighter, making the whole journey way more efficient.
Speaker 1 (02:14):
So each stage has a job, and once it's done, poof,
it's gone pretty much.
Speaker 2 (02:18):
And that shedding way is what lets the rocket reach
those incredible speeds and altitudes.
Speaker 1 (02:23):
Makes sense, So we've got a rocket blasting off, shedding
stages as it goes. But let's say we've made it
past Earth's pull, We're not just shooting straight up into space. Right,
there's that whole concept of achieving orbit. What exactly does
that evolve?
Speaker 2 (02:37):
You're right, just getting to space is only half the battle.
To actually stay up there, you got to achieve this
delicate balance. It's between like your forward momentum and Earth's
gravity constantly pulling you back down.
Speaker 1 (02:50):
So you're kind of like falling towards Earth, but also
moving forward so fast that you just keep missing it.
Speaker 2 (02:54):
Uh huh, Yeah, that's a good way to put it.
That continuous free fall what we call it orbit.
Speaker 1 (02:58):
Ah Okay, I think I get it. But to achieve
that stable orbit around Earth, how fast are we talking?
Speaker 2 (03:05):
Buckle up? Because we're talking about a mind blowing speed
of roughly seventeen thousand, five hundred miles per hour.
Speaker 1 (03:11):
Whoa seventeen thousand, five hundred miles per hour. That's insane.
It's hard to even wrap my head around that kind
of speed. It seems like such a delicate dance between
going fast enough and not being pulled back in by gravity.
Speaker 2 (03:22):
It really is. And that's where you know, the geniuses
like Kepler and Newton come in. They figured out those
laws of orbital mechanics. Using those laws, we can actually
calculate those precise trajectories needed to reach different destinations in space.
Speaker 1 (03:36):
So it's not just brute force with rockets. It's also
understanding the physics, the math, the delicate balance of these
incredible forces exactly.
Speaker 2 (03:44):
And sometimes we can even like use those forces to
our advantage. You've probably heard of things like gravity assists.
Speaker 1 (03:51):
Oh yeah, gravity assists. That sounds kind of sci fi,
to be honest, how does that even work?
Speaker 2 (03:55):
It's pretty amazing. We can actually use the gravity of
planets and even moons to give au space craft a
speed boost.
Speaker 1 (04:01):
Really, but how.
Speaker 2 (04:03):
Imagine it like a cosmic billiards game? Right, the spacecraft
gets pulled in by a planet's gravity and then flung
out the other side with a bunch of extra speed.
It's a free energy boost.
Speaker 1 (04:13):
Whoa, that's mind blowing. I know the Voyager spacecraft use
that trick to travel the outer Solar System, didn't it.
Speaker 2 (04:19):
Absolutely? Voyager use gravity assists from both Jupiter and Saturn.
It's what helped it keep going, eventually reaching interstellar space.
Speaker 1 (04:27):
Crazy, right, It's incredible. It's like we're using the universe
itself to help us explore it. But let's switch gears
a little. We've talked about getting to space, but staying
alive up there is another challenge entirely.
Speaker 2 (04:38):
Yeah, that's a whole other ballgame.
Speaker 1 (04:39):
So let's dive into the world of life support systems.
Speaker 2 (04:42):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (04:42):
I mean, it's got to be way more complicated than
just bringing in oxygen tank right, Oh.
Speaker 2 (04:46):
For sure, It's not just about breathing. Space is a
pretty hostile place for us humans. No breathable air, crazy
temperature swings, and you're constantly bombarded with radiation.
Speaker 1 (04:56):
Yikes. Sounds rough. So what do we do create a
mini Earth inside a spaceship? Yeah?
Speaker 2 (05:04):
Pretty much. We have to replicate all those essential elements
that we take for granted down here, and you know,
the International Space Station is a great example of how
far we've come in doing that.
Speaker 1 (05:13):
I can imagine. What are some of the key elements
that go into designing a life support system for space?
Speaker 2 (05:20):
Okay, well, the absolute essentials oxygen to breathe and getting
rid of that carbon dioxide Up on the ISS. They
use a clever process called electrolysis. Basically, they split water
into its components oxygen and hydrogen.
Speaker 1 (05:34):
Oh wow, so we're making breathable air and space. That's incredible.
But what about the water itself? You can't just like
pack enough water for a whole mission right now.
Speaker 2 (05:43):
Water is a precious commodity up there, So get ready
for They recycle everything, and I mean everything, even well urine.
Speaker 1 (05:50):
Wait, hold on, they recycle urine. How is that even possible?
Speaker 2 (05:53):
Through some very advanced filtration and purification systems, they turn
wastewater back into drinkable water. Pretty amazing.
Speaker 1 (05:59):
Huh yeah, amazing and kind of gross. Not sure I'd
be down to drink recycled here.
Speaker 2 (06:03):
And it's a testament to human ingenuity though. But it's
not just air and water we got to worry about.
There's also food. You can't live on those space food
pouches forever.
Speaker 1 (06:13):
Yeah, I've always wondered about that. What are the options
for giving astronauts more sustainable food sources, especially on long missions.
Speaker 2 (06:21):
We've come a long way from the days of just
tubes of food paste. Astronauts now get more diverse, more
nutritious food, And for those super long missions, we're looking
into space farming.
Speaker 1 (06:32):
Wait, really growing food and space.
Speaker 2 (06:35):
Yep, it's not just sci fi anymore. There are experiments
happening right now on the ISS testing different ways to
grow plants in microgravity.
Speaker 1 (06:43):
I bet it's way more complicated than just planting a
seed and adding water. Huh. What about waste management that
must be tricky in a closed environment like a spacecraft.
Speaker 2 (06:51):
Absolutely right now, they dehydrate and store most of the
solid waste. Liquid waste, as we've discussed, gets recycled. But
for those longsions way longer, will need even more innovative solutions.
Speaker 1 (07:04):
Yeah, makes sense. What kind of solutions are scientists thinking about?
Speaker 2 (07:07):
Imagine like biotreatment systems that can actually break down the
waste and turn it into fertilizer, like for those space
grown crops.
Speaker 1 (07:15):
Wow, so it's all about creating this closed loop system
where nothing goes to waste exactly. That's a pretty amazing
vision for the future of space travel. But even with
all of these incredible systems, the thought of being stuck
in a spacecraft for months or even years kind of
freaks me out. I mean, it's going to take a
toll on you mentally, right, Oh, for sure.
Speaker 2 (07:35):
We can't forget about the psychological side of all this
long duration missions. Those have a huge impact on astronauts.
It's something that's often overlooked, but it's super important.
Speaker 1 (07:44):
Yeah, it's not just about keeping your body alive, it's
got to be about keeping your mind healthy too. So
what are some of the challenges astronauts face mentally on
these missions.
Speaker 2 (07:54):
Well, first off, you got to think about the isolation
being stuck in a small space far away from everything
and everyone you know, and on top of that, you're
acutely aware of all the risks involved. It's got to
be tough.
Speaker 1 (08:06):
Yeah, I can't even imagine the mental strength it takes
to handle that kind of isolation and stress. What kind
of psychological challenges do astronauts face.
Speaker 2 (08:16):
Hmmm, Well, that isolation and confinement, those can lead to
feelings of loneliness, anxiety, depression, all that stuff. And then
there's the lack of natural light cycles that messes with
your sleep and that throws off your mood even more.
Plus they're constantly under pressure performing those complex tasks you know,
in a high risk environment that leads to fatigue, burnout.
Speaker 1 (08:37):
All that it sounds incredibly demanding, both physically and mentally.
Are there any like strategies or anything being developed to
address these psychological challenges to make sure the astronauts are
okay up there?
Speaker 2 (08:49):
Yeah, there's a lot of research going on and it's
actually pretty fascinating stuff. One approach is to create like
a more supportive environment within the spacecraft itself.
Speaker 1 (08:58):
So what does that look like practically speaking?
Speaker 2 (09:00):
Well, think about adding natural elements into the design, like
having simulated daylight cycles, or even virtual windows that show
calming nature scenes, or even playing around with virtual reality experiences,
so astronauts can you escape the confines of the ship
at least virtually they can immerse themselves in familiar environments.
Speaker 1 (09:21):
Ah, that's cool, like a virtual vacation to help with
the isolation. I could see how that would be helpful.
Anything else they're looking into.
Speaker 2 (09:28):
We're also working on personalized support systems like AI companions
that can offer emotional support, have conversations, even do some
cognitive behavioral therapy techniques.
Speaker 1 (09:38):
Well. AI companions sounds super futuristic, Yeah, but I guess
in a situation where you have limited human contact, having
a personalized AI could be really beneficial, right.
Speaker 2 (09:48):
It shows how we can use tech to solve these
unique challenges of space travel, and it really emphasizes how
important psychology is to making these missions successful.
Speaker 1 (09:57):
It's not just.
Speaker 2 (09:58):
About keeping them alive, it's about keeping them mentally healthy
so they can actually thrive in those crazy conditions.
Speaker 1 (10:03):
It's like we're pushing the boundaries of human resilience at
the same time we're pushing the boundaries of space travel.
Speaking of pushing boundaries, I think it's time we talk
about some of the new tech that's changing how we
access and explore space, things like reusable rockets, ion propulsion,
and how AI is becoming a bigger and bigger player.
Speaker 2 (10:22):
Oh yeah, those are game changers for sure. For a
long time, space travel was super expensive. It was basically
limited to just government agencies. But now companies like SpaceX
and Blue Origin are changing that with reusable rocket technology.
Speaker 1 (10:36):
It's incredible to see those rockets land back on Earth
after launching into space. It feels like science fiction becoming reality.
How does reusability change things for space exploration?
Speaker 2 (10:47):
Well, the biggest thing is the cost. The savings are huge.
By landing and reusing those rocket boosters, you don't have
to build a new one for every mission. That makes
it going to space way cheaper, which opens up tons
of opportunities for more free launches, more scientific research, maybe
even more commercial space tourism someday.
Speaker 1 (11:04):
So it's like the difference between buying a brand new
car every time you drive somewhere versus just filling up
your tank with gas.
Speaker 2 (11:11):
Uh huh, Yeah, that's a great analogy. And then you
have ion propulsion. Now that's a total game changer for
those really long missions.
Speaker 1 (11:18):
Oh yeah, ion propulsion it's different from those chemical rockets
we talked about earlier. Right, How did that work again? Right?
Speaker 2 (11:24):
So, instead of burning fuel like in a regular rocket,
ion engines use electricity. It accelerates charged particles, these things
called ions to create thrust. It's actually way more fuel
efficient than those traditional rockets, but the thrust it produces
is a lot less powerful.
Speaker 1 (11:41):
So it's more about slow and steady acceleration over time,
not that initial burst of power. What's the advantage of
using ion propulsion.
Speaker 2 (11:49):
Well, think about those deep space missions, the ones where
you got to cover crazy distances and it takes a
long time. Ion propulsion lets you slowly build up to
some pretty impressive speeds and you do it very efficiently.
It's kind of like the Tortoise and the hair story.
Slow and steady wins the race, especially in space.
Speaker 1 (12:05):
I like that it's a gentler, more efficient way to
journey through space. It really makes you think about how
different types of missions need different approaches exactly.
Speaker 2 (12:14):
And speaking of different approaches, we've got to talk about
AI and how it's playing a bigger role in space travel.
Speaker 1 (12:20):
Oh yeah, AI. I've heard that it's being integrated into
more and more spacecraft. Yeah, what kind of things is
AI being used for? In space exploration?
Speaker 2 (12:28):
AI is handling a lot of different tasks now, like
running navigation and control systems, analyzing all that data coming in,
and even carrying out autonomous robotic emissions. It's like having
a super smart copilot on board.
Speaker 1 (12:41):
So are we talking about spacecraft that can think for
themselves in a way?
Speaker 2 (12:45):
Yeah, AI can help spacecraft make decisions on their own,
you know, adjust their course, even conduct those science experiments
without any input from us down here. And that's super
important for missions to far off planets where communication is delayed.
You can't really control things in real time from Earth.
Speaker 1 (13:00):
That's crazy to think about AI powered spacecraft exploring the
universe on their own. It feels like a whole new
era of space exploration. But with all this advanced tech,
there must be new challenges that come up, right, What
are some of the obstacles that we're facing as we
keep pushing further into space.
Speaker 2 (13:19):
One of the biggest challenges is, well, it's kind of ironic.
We've made all this progress, but we've also created this
growing problem of space debris. It's like a cosmic junkyard
up there with all those old satellites, rocket parts and
pieces from past missions.
Speaker 1 (13:33):
I can't imagine space being cluttered. What are the risks
of all this.
Speaker 2 (13:37):
Space junt It's a big safety hazard for future missions.
Even tiny bits of debris can cause serious damage if
they hit a spacecraft at those super high speeds. It's
like a minefield up there. We got to figure out
how to deal with it.
Speaker 1 (13:48):
It's a good reminder that our actions in space have consequences,
even when we're doing amazing things like exploring. We got
to be responsible. So what can we do about the
space debris problem.
Speaker 2 (14:00):
There are a few things we're looking at. We could
develop tech to actively remove that debris from orbit, or
we could set up some stricter rules for how we
get rid of old satellites. It's a tough problem that
needs international cooperation and some creative solutions.
Speaker 1 (14:15):
Yeah, that makes sense. It really highlights the need to
be responsible as we venture further into space. It's not
just about the thrill of exploration. It's about sustainability and safety.
Speaker 2 (14:25):
Too, exactly. And another thing we're facing is the need
for better energy sources, especially for those missions that go
deep into space. Solar panels work great near Earth where
there's plenty of sunlight, but further out we need something else.
Speaker 1 (14:40):
What kind of energy sources are they considering for those
deep space voyages.
Speaker 2 (14:44):
Well, some scientists are looking into nuclear fission reactors or
even more advanced solar tech that can capture more of
that sunlight. There's even the possibility of fusion power someday.
Now that would be a game changer.
Speaker 1 (14:56):
It sounds like the quest for new energy is a
common theme both here on Earth and as we explore space.
But even with all these technological advancements, we can't forget
about the human element of it all. We've talked about
the psychological side, but what about the physical effects that
space travel has on the human body.
Speaker 2 (15:14):
That's where the field of space medicine comes in. We're
learning more and more about how microgravity, radiation, and other
unique aspects of space. You know, how they all affect
our bodies.
Speaker 1 (15:24):
I bet it's a pretty complex field. What are they
focusing on in space medicine?
Speaker 2 (15:29):
One of the biggest areas is understanding how long term
exposure to microgravity affects the body.
Speaker 1 (15:34):
Right, because our bodies are so used to Earth's gravity,
what happens when you take that away for.
Speaker 2 (15:38):
A long time, without gravity constantly pulling on us, Our
bodies start to change. Some of it's interesting, but some
of it is definitely a challenge. Muscles can weaken, bones
lose density. Even your cardiovascular system is affected.
Speaker 1 (15:51):
So it's like your body is constantly working to fight
against those changes just to stay functional in this zero
gravity environment exactly.
Speaker 2 (15:59):
That's why those astronauts up on the ISS have to
exercise so much they got to mimic the effects of
gravity somehow to stay healthy.
Speaker 1 (16:06):
It's like they're training for an environment that's unlike anything
we experience on Earth. What about radiation exposure. I know
that's a big concern, especially as we start thinking about
longer missions beyond Earth's protective magnetic field.
Speaker 2 (16:20):
It's a huge concern. Space is full of different types
of radiation, some of it is pretty harmful.
Speaker 1 (16:26):
So what are the risks from radiation in space?
Speaker 2 (16:29):
Well, exposure to radiation can damage yourselves, It can increase
your risk of cancer, and it can lead to a
whole bunch of other health problems.
Speaker 1 (16:36):
That sounds scary. How do we protect astronauts from all
this radiation?
Speaker 2 (16:41):
Scientists are working on a few different things. One is
developing special shielding materials that can be built into the
spacecraft to block some of that radiation. Another is designing
new space suits that offer more protection when astronauts are
outside the spacecraft. And they're even researching medications that could
help lessen the damage from radiation.
Speaker 1 (16:59):
It sounds like there's no easy answer. It's going to
take a lot of research and innovation. To keep astronauts
safe from radiation. It's a reminder that space travel is
risky even as we make all these amazing advances.
Speaker 2 (17:12):
That's true. It's this constant balancing act between pushing those
technological limits and understanding the limits of our own human bodies.
It's a constant learning process as we try to venture
further into the universe.
Speaker 1 (17:24):
It's a pretty amazing journey figuring out how to make
space travel possible and facing all these new challenges head on.
It makes you wonder what the future holds for space travel.
What kind of exciting advancements are just around the corner.
What's going to allow us to go even further?
Speaker 2 (17:38):
Oh, the future of space travel, it's looking pretty amazing.
One thing that has scientists really excited is the development
of these things called closed loop life support systems.
Speaker 1 (17:46):
Closed loop life support systems, those sound pretty intense. What
are we talking about here?
Speaker 2 (17:52):
Well, the idea is to create like little ecosystems within
the spacecraft, you know, where almost everything gets recycled, air, water,
even way.
Speaker 1 (18:00):
Whoa, So it's like creating a self sustaining bubble in space.
How would that even work?
Speaker 2 (18:05):
Imagine this? You have plants growing on the spacecraft providing
food and oxygen, and then any waste gets broken down
and reused as fertilizer to help those plants grow. The
goal is to rely less and less on supplies from Earth,
so longer missions, those become way more sustainable.
Speaker 1 (18:21):
That's a pretty wild vision. I like it. Are there
like specific technologies that are being developed to make these
closed loop systems actually happen?
Speaker 2 (18:29):
Oh yeah, definitely. They're designing buyer reactors that break down
waste efficiently. They're even looking at three D printed food
systems to give astronauts fresh, customized meals. It's like biology, engineering,
and tech all coming together.
Speaker 1 (18:42):
It sounds like we're moving away from those short trips
to space and towards like actually living there long term.
What about getting around? Are there any new propulsion systems
that could get us to places like Mars and beyond faster.
Speaker 2 (18:55):
One of the most promising areas is something called nuclear
thermal propulsion. It uses a nuclear reactor to heat up
propellant to crazy high temperatures that creates way more thrust
than those chemical rockets we talked about.
Speaker 1 (19:08):
Hold on, so we're talking about nuclear powered space ships.
What's the advantage of going nuclear It.
Speaker 2 (19:13):
Could cut travel times down significantly, like a trip to Mars.
It could be half as long, and it's more efficient,
so you can carry more stuff and do more ambitious missions.
Speaker 1 (19:22):
Wow, nuclear powered spacecraft. That's straight out of a sci
fi movie. Are there any concerns with using nuclear power
in space?
Speaker 2 (19:30):
There are definitely technical and safety challenges that we have
to figure out for sure, But the potential benefits are
so huge that research in this area is really picking up.
Speaker 1 (19:40):
Makes sense. It seems like big advancements sometimes require taking
some calculated risks. Right. It sounds like that journey to
Mars might be closer than we think. What about those
solar sales? Those always seem super futuristic to me? Are
those a real possibility?
Speaker 2 (19:54):
Solar sales? Those are a totally different approach to getting
around in space. They use the pressure from sunlight to
push the spacecraft forward, kind of like how the wind
pushes a sailboat. Now, the thrust is very gentle, but
it's constant, So a spacecraft powered by a solar sail
could theoretically reach some really impressive speeds over time.
Speaker 1 (20:16):
Wow, so it's literally riding sunbeams across the galaxy. That's incredible.
What are the advantages of using solar sales.
Speaker 2 (20:23):
Well, the big one is that they don't need any propellant,
which is perfect for long duration missions where carrying enough
fuel would be impossible. And they're also super lightweight and compact,
so they can be used for a bunch of different
types of missions.
Speaker 1 (20:35):
It sounds like there are so many different ways to
travel through space, each with their own pros and cons.
It's mind blowing. But as we get better at space travel,
as we develop this incredible tech and push further and
further out, it also raises some big questions right about
our role out there, about being responsible explorers in this
new frontier.
Speaker 2 (20:53):
Absolutely, as space travel becomes more accessible, as we do
more and more out there, we got to think about
the ethical implications of our acttions.
Speaker 1 (21:00):
Yeah, that makes sense. What are some of the ethical
things we should be thinking about as we explore and
use space.
Speaker 2 (21:06):
One of the biggest things is environmental responsibility. Like, if
we start mining asteroids for resources, we have to do
it carefully. We have to minimize our impact on the
space environment, and of course we've got to deal with
that growing problem of space debris. We have to come
up with sustainable ways to manage it.
Speaker 1 (21:23):
It's a good reminder that we have to protect the
space environment, just like we're trying to protect our own planet.
What about all the different countries and companies getting involved
in space. Is there a risk of conflict or competition
getting out of control?
Speaker 2 (21:37):
Definitely something to think about. Space is becoming more commercialized,
so we need to come together. We need clear guidelines,
international agreements, you know, to make sure that everything is
done responsibly and collaboratively, and we have to think about
who owns what out there, how we're going to share
those resources fairly.
Speaker 1 (21:54):
It sounds like the ethical side of space exploration is
just as complicated as all the simecience in tech behind it.
It's not just about going further, it's about doing it
the right way exactly.
Speaker 2 (22:05):
As we enter this new era of space travel, it's
really important to have these conversations, to ask these tough
questions to make sure we're acting responsibly as we explore
this amazing frontier.
Speaker 1 (22:16):
Well, this has been an incredible deep dive. We've talked
about so much, from the science and tech that makes
space travel possible to the ethical considerations as we venture
further into the Cosmos.
Speaker 2 (22:26):
It's been a pleasure sharing this journey with you, and
to all.
Speaker 1 (22:29):
Of you listening, we hope this deep dive has sparked
your curiosity and giving you a glimpse into the incredible
world of space exploration. As we continue to reach for
the stars, it's important to remember that it's not just
about the excitement of discovery. It's also about responsibility, sustainability,
and making sure we're taking care of this incredible universe
we're a part of. So keep looking up, keep exploring,
(22:53):
and we'll see you on our next deep dive.
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