Moon: crashing rocket will create new crater – here's what we should worry about

Some people are outraged that human negligence will disfigure the Moon. But that’s not the main issue.

David Rothery, Professor of Planetary Geosciences, The Open University • conversation
Jan. 28, 2022 • ~7 min

How many satellites are orbiting Earth?

In the past decade, the number of satellites in orbit has skyrocketed thanks to tiny electronics and cheap launches. The crowded night sky is posing problems for astronomers and astronauts.

Supriya Chakrabarti, Professor of Physics, University of Massachusetts Lowell • conversation
Sept. 17, 2021 • ~6 min

James Webb Space Telescope: An astronomer on the team explains how to send a giant telescope to space – and why

The largest orbital telescope ever made will allow astronomers to study the atmospheres of alien planets, learn about how stars form in the Milky Way and peer into the farthest reaches of the universe.

Marcia Rieke, Regents Professor of Astronomy, University of Arizona • conversation
Sept. 15, 2021 • ~9 min

SpaceX Inspiration4 mission sent 4 people with minimal training into orbit – and brought space tourism closer to reality

The Inspiration4 mission sent four civilians to space for three days. Though still funded by a billionaire, the mission is a step forward in the nascent space tourism industry.

Wendy Whitman Cobb, Professor of Strategy and Security Studies, US Air Force School of Advanced Air and Space Studies • conversation
Sept. 10, 2021 • ~7 min

SpaceX Inspiration4 mission will send 4 people with minimal training into orbit – and bring space tourism closer to reality

The Inspiration4 mission is sending four civilians to space for three days. Though still funded by a billionaire, the mission is a step forward in the nascent space tourism industry.

Wendy Whitman Cobb, Professor of Strategy and Security Studies, US Air Force School of Advanced Air and Space Studies • conversation
Sept. 10, 2021 • ~7 min

Space travel for billionaires is the surprise topic with bipartisan American support – but not from Gen Z

According to a new poll, people across political and demographic lines think the private space race is good for the future but still just an ego trip for the billionaires involved.

Joseph Cabosky, Associate Professor of Public Relations, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill • conversation
Aug. 6, 2021 • ~7 min

When will the first baby be born in space?

In the coming decades, governments and private companies will set up permanent bases on the Moon and Mars. And at some point, the first galactic baby will be born.

Chris Impey, University Distinguished Professor of Astronomy, University of Arizona • conversation
May 21, 2021 • ~8 min

Space tourism is here – 20 years after the first stellar tourist, Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin plans to send civilians to space

The first space tourist left Earth 20 years ago aboard a Russian rocket. Now, private companies like Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin are offering trips to the stars for those who can pay.

Wendy Whitman Cobb, Professor of Strategy and Security Studies, US Air Force School of Advanced Air and Space Studies • conversation
May 7, 2021 • ~9 min

Space tourism – 20 years in the making – is finally ready for launch

The first space tourist left Earth 20 years ago aboard a Russian rocket. Now, private companies are on the cusp of offering trips off Earth for those who can pay.

Wendy Whitman Cobb, Professor of Strategy and Security Studies, US Air Force School of Advanced Air and Space Studies • conversation
April 28, 2021 • ~8 min

Mars: how scientists prevent Earth's microbes from contaminating other planets

The space laws designed to protect planets and moons from contamination.

Thomas Cheney, Lecturer of Space Governance, The Open University • conversation
Feb. 4, 2021 • ~8 min

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