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Meet Maleha Khan, an MEng in Spacecraft Engineering, Pilot, and Educator passionate about international collaboration and inspiring the next generation in the space industry.
Born in Pakistan and raised in the UK, Maleha’s journey from aspiring pilot to space engineer is a testament to resilience and determination.
In this episode, she shares her experiences overcoming challenges, the importance of global cooperation in space exploration, and her mission to empower young women to pursue their dreams.
Maleha works at the UK Space Agency, contributing to wider Agency goals in future space missions and collaboration with other organisations such as the European Space Agency and NASA. With a master’s degree in spacecraft engineering from the University of Southampton, she taught rocket propulsion in Saudi Arabia, inspiring top female students in space science. As a licensed pilot, she combines her love for flying with her passion for space.
In this episode, you’ll discover:• Maleha’s journey into aerospace engineering and becoming a pilot
• The importance of global cooperation in space exploration
• Empowering women in STEM and the space industry
• How space technology impacts our daily lives
• Using space to address Earth’s challenges
Quote:
“I want young women who look like me to feel like they can do it too.” — Maleha KhanEpisode Links:
• Connect with Maleha on LinkedIn
• Maleha on Instagram
• Learn more about the UK Space Agency
• Explore the University of Southampton’s Aeronautics and Astronautics
• Check out the Red Arrows
• UK National Space Centre
Credits:Production by CxS Partners LTD
Executive Producer: Toby Goodman
Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner
Artwork: Ryan Field
Find your place in the business of space: https://interastra.space -
Meet Christy McFerren, an experienced Human Resources (HR) and Operations professional with a proven track record in developing and elevating HR and Marketing departments through strong collaboration with all levels of management and key stakeholders. Currently serving as the Human Resources Manager at Virginia Tech Applied Research Corporation (VT-ARC), Christy brings a unique perspective to the space industry by bridging people, innovation, and the future of space exploration. In this episode, she shares her inspiring journey and her passion for empowering the next generation of women leaders.
Christy has supported various industries, including Federal Government agencies like the General Services Administration (GSA) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Commercial Real Estate, Wastewater Management, and Fairfax County Public Schools. At VT-ARC, she leads HR initiatives, ensuring people have the resources and tools they need to succeed. Her work intersects with the space realm through VT-ARC’s partnership intermediary agreement with the Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR), supporting STEM education and technology marketing initiatives.
In this episode, you’ll discover:• Christy’s path to HR leadership
• Empowering women in space
• HR’s evolving role in innovation
• Bridging diverse skills for space
• Inspiring future generations
Quote:
“I want our daughters growing up today to understand that whatever they want to be is within their grasp.” — Christy McFerrenEpisode Links:
• Connect with Christy on LinkedIn
• Visit VT-ARC
Credits:Production by CxS Partners LTD
Executive Producer: Toby Goodman
Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner
Artwork: Ryan Field
Recorded on location in Virginia, USA with thanks to Nomono’s Sound Capsule
Find your place in the business of space: https://interastra.space -
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Renee Wynn, former NASA CIO, brings a wealth of knowledge to the discussion of space industry’s multifaceted nature.
She navigates through the critical roles that data science, IT, and cybersecurity play in the expanse beyond our atmosphere.
Wynn’s experience offers a deep dive into the integration of technology in space operations, emphasizing the importance of cybersecurity and debris management to ensure the sustainability of space endeavors.
In this episode, Renee shares her insights on the vast opportunities space offers to diverse professions and the necessity for collaborative efforts to foster peaceful and profitable use of this frontier.
As someone who has transitioned from environmental policy to the realm of IT at NASA, her journey epitomizes the cross-disciplinary nature of space industry roles, highlighting the scope for contribution from virtually any professional background.
In this episode you'll discover:
• The expansive opportunities for a diverse range of professions in the space industry, from data scientists to lawyers.
• Insights into global government collaboration for sustainable space business, emphasizing peaceful operations and risk mitigation.
• The essential role of cybersecurity and space debris management in the growing space economy.
• How NASA embraces arts and design, including how Origami-inspired technology, is essential to space innovation.
• Renee’s personal narrative on transitioning careers and the value of inviting unexpected talent into the space sector.
• A strategic approach for entrepreneurs and businesses considering the space industry, focusing on problem-solving and innovative partnerships.
Quote:
“You're operating with everyone else up there, including what space throws at you. Operate accordingly, deal with your risks, and then I'd ask everybody to invite somebody to the game that you would least expect.” - Renee WynnEpisode Links
Follow Renee on LinkedIn
NASA
Listen to The Heart of a Public Servant with Renee Wynn
on ‘Kathy Sullivan Explores…’ Now part of the Inter Astra Podcast Network
Credits:
Production by CxS Partners LTD
Executive Producer: Toby Goodman
Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner
Artwork: Ryan Field
Join the #1 community creating equitable access to the business of space.
https://interastra.space/
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Meet Sarah Pousho, CEO of Space Bridge Partners, a trailblazer connecting private capital with space missions focused on exploration, science, and education. With a background in global licensing and a lifelong passion for space, Sarah brings a unique perspective to the industry. In this episode, she shares her journey from the consumer products world to leading a company that bridges the funding gap for non-commercial space missions. Tune in to discover how Sarah is opening doors for new entrants in the space sector and why she believes there’s a place for everyone in this exciting field.
Sarah leads Space Bridge Partners, an organization dedicated to securing funding for space missions organized by nonprofits, universities, and small civil space agencies that lack large budgets. By connecting wealthy philanthropists, brand sponsorships, and media licensing opportunities, she helps bring groundbreaking missions to life that might otherwise remain grounded.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
• Sarah’s journey from global licensing to the space sector.
• How Space Bridge Partners supports science missions through private funding.
• The critical role of “space outsiders” in building a thriving space ecosystem.
• Sarah’s tips for newcomers looking to break into the space industry.
• The exciting future of mission-focused partnerships and exploration.
Quote:
“You'd be surprised how many people that you might know are actually already in the space sector or helping the space sector or space adjacent. ”- Sarah PoushoEpisode Links:
Check out Space Bridge Partners
Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn
Credits:
Production by CxS Partners LTD
Executive Producer: Toby Goodman
Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner
Artwork: Ryan Field
Find your place in the business of space: https://interastra.space -
Dayna Steele is a Rock Radio Hall of Famer who made an unexpected transition to the world of… Space retail!
In this episode, Dayna shares her journey from being a radio DJ to creating TheSpaceStore.com, the first NASA e-commerce operation.
Her story highlights the power of listening and embracing serendipitous moments.
Listen in as Dayna recounts her unexpected journey into NASA through her marriage to a NASA pilot and, how it led to building a business around space merchandise.
Along the way, she became an aerospace executive and a passionate advocate for the benefits of space technology in everyday life.
Dayna illustrates how space influences our daily lives, from communication devices to medical breakthroughs, encouraging listeners to keep exploring the boundless possibilities in the business of space.
In this episode, you'll discover:
How Dayna transitioned from rock radio to founding TheSpaceStore.com.The role of NASA merchandise in popular culture and the business of space.Dayna's experience as an aerospace executive and her unique perspective on the space industry.Common misconceptions about space exploration and the actual benefits derived from space technologies.Dayna's outlook on the future of space exploration and why dreaming big is crucial.Quote:
"When it comes to the business of space, the biggest misconception is that your tax dollars are being wasted. The reality is that even a minuscule amount of taxes dedicated to space does a tremendous amount of good." - Dayna SteeleEpisode Links:
Connect with Dayna Steele on LinkedIn
Follow Dayna Steele on Instagram
Follow Dayna Steele on Facebook
Follow Dayna Steele on X
Follow Dayna Steele on Tic-Tok
Find Dayna Steele on YouTube
See where TheSpaceStore.com is today
Listen to Dayna's interview in conversation with Astronaut Kathy Sullivan on 'Kathy Sullivan Explores...'
Get more from Dayna (books, rock 'n' roll, podcasts, play...)
Credits:
Production by CxS Partners LTD
Executive Producer: Toby Goodman
Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner
Artwork: Ryan Field
Join our journey into the world of education and space: https://interastra.space -
Meet Kaci Heins, the Executive Director of the Limitless Space Institute.
With a passion for education, Kaci works to inspire students and teachers to explore space sciences and imagine a future beyond our solar system.
Raised in rural Illinois, Kaci’s career transformed when she discovered space education.
Today, she creates educational programs that equip teachers with resources to inspire future explorers. Her work connects students globally to the vast possibilities in space, fostering a diverse and engaged future workforce.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
• How Kaci’s journey into space began with an educator’s reluctance and curiosity.
• The Limitless Space Institute’s mission and global education initiatives.
• The value of space education in inspiring future leaders and innovators.
• Kaci’s collaborations in Brazil and Nigeria to ignite student interest.
Quote:
“Space is just so cool, and it’s so neat to be a part of something bigger than yourself.”- Kaci HeinsEpisode Links:
Connect with Kaci Heins on LinkedIn
Limitless Space Institute Website
Credits:
Production by CxS Partners LTD
Executive Producer: Toby Goodman
Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner
Artwork: Ryan Field
Find your place in the business of space: https://interastra.space -
Meet Janet Ivey, CEO and founder of Janet’s Planet, an educational company dedicated to bringing the wonders of space and science to children.
For over 25 years, Janet has captivated young minds through her TV programs, live shows, and educational camps, using her creative background in theater, music, and communication to make science fun and accessible. As a passionate advocate for space education, Janet is also the Director of Education at Explore Mars, where she plays a key role in shaping the future of space exploration through outreach and engagement.
Growing up in a small town in Tennessee, Janet’s journey has been driven by her belief in the power of curiosity, creativity, and dreaming big. In this episode, she shares her mission to inspire the next generation of space enthusiasts, empowering kids to explore their potential through science, space, and imagination.
Perfect for parents and teachers, this episode will give you plenty of inspiration to share with your kids and spark their interest in space!
In this episode, you’ll discover:• Janet’s journey from entertainment to space education.
• How space exploration can ignite curiosity and inspire kids.
• The importance of using creativity to teach science.
• Stories of perseverance, mentorship, and the importance of dreaming big.
• Janet’s vision for how kids today will shape the future of space.
Quote:
“The chances of you being you as you are… is 1 in 400 quadrillion. And yet, here you are. So what will you do with this one wild and wondrous life?” - Janet IveyEpisode Links:
• Janet’s Planet Website
• Janet on LinkedIn
• Janet’s Planet on Facebook
• Janet’s Planet on YouTube
Credits:
Production by CxS Partners LTD
Executive Producer: Toby Goodman
Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner
Artwork: Ryan Field
Find your place in the business of space: https://interastra.space -
Meet Kirsten Whittingham, the President of Max Space, a company committed to lowering the cost of doing business in space through innovative ‘expandable’ habitation modules.
Kirsten’s journey from a space-obsessed child in rural Tennessee to leading a company at the forefront of space habitation reflects her relentless dedication and passion for the space industry.
With an aerospace engineering degree and experience as a flight controller at NASA for both the Space Shuttle and the International Space Station, Kirsten brings invaluable insights into the future of space exploration and the role of cost-effective solutions in expanding humanity’s reach into space.
In this episode, you’ll discover:• Kirsten’s journey from space camp to NASA.
• The significance of Max Space’s modular habitats.
• Challenges women face in a male-dominated industry.
• How space technologies benefit everyday life on Earth.
• Plans for Max Space’s 2026 mission with SpaceX.
Quote:
“We can’t limit ourselves with what we think can be accomplished… we need people who can innovate, who can come up with these big, maybe crazy ideas, and work with a team to figure out how to make it work.”- Kirsten WhittinghamEpisode Links:
• Connect with Kirsten Whittingham on LinkedIn
• Follow Max Space on LinkedIn
• Explore Max Space
• Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University
• Raytheon (now RTX)
• Redwire Space (Made in Space)
• Axiom Space
• NASA
Credits:
Production by CxS Partners LTD
Executive Producer: Toby Goodman
Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner
Artwork: Ryan Field
Find your place in the business of space: https://interastra.space -
Today we’re republishing an epiosde with Dr Dorit Donoviel, Executive Director of the NASA-funded Translational Research Institute for Space Health at Baylor College of Medicine.
Dorit brings over two decades of experience in leading biomedical research to advance human health in space. With a robust publication record and a background in drug discovery and project management, Dorit steers innovative efforts to transition solutions from research to space operations.
In this episode, she unravels the physiological and psychological challenges of space travel and discusses pioneering approaches to maintain astronaut health beyond Earth’s orbit.
You’ll hear about Dorit's groundbreaking research, spanning from the impact of microgravity on human physiology to the intricate challenges of space radiation. With her expertise, we explore the complex interplay between the human body and the harsh environment of space, uncovering the necessity for resilience and adaptability in space.
In this episode you'll discover:
• Insights on how space acts as a laboratory for understanding human adaptation to extreme environments.
• The profound physiological effects of microgravity on the human body and the innovative strategies to mitigate them.
• The role of radiation in space travel, the limits of current protection methods, and the exciting potential of biological solutions for radiation defense.
• The psychological and interpersonal challenges of long-duration space missions and the importance of mental health for astronaut crews.
• The evolving landscape of space travel with commercial spaceflight's rise, enabling more countries to participate in space exploration.
Quote:
"We've been in a proxy war with Russia for over a year, and yet, we collaborate in space... those relationships are strong. So as long as you keep the door open and there's dialogue, there's hope. Space should bring us together as a species, rather than divide us." - Dorit DonovielEpisode Links:
Connect with Dorit on LinkedIn
TRISH at Baylor College of Medicine
NASA
Credits:
Production by CxS Partners LTD
Executive Producer: Toby Goodman
Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner
Artwork: Ryan Field
Join the #1 community for equitable access to the business of space:
https://interastra.space/
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Meet Agnieszka Lukaszczyk, founder and CEO of High Altitude Consulting, a company dedicated to shaping space policy, Earth observation, and space security.
With deep experience in the space sector, Agnieszka has held pivotal roles, including Senior Director for European Affairs at Planet Labs and Senior Director at the Secure World Foundation. She has been a key figure in organizations such as the European Commission, where she led policy efforts related to space, and the United Nations, where she served as a space policy consultant.
Growing up in the Polish mountains, Agnieszka’s journey took a surprising turn when she entered the space industry by chance. Moving to the United States at 12 and later working for the Space Generation Advisory Council, she has become a leading expert in space security, an advocate for youth and women’s representation in the space sector.
In this episode, you’ll discover:• How Agnieszka’s unexpected entry into space policy shaped her career.
• The importance of perseverance in a male-dominated industry.
• How global challenges like climate change benefit from space technology.
• Why collaboration is crucial in solving Earth’s environmental issues.
• Agnieszka’s vision for more inclusive and impactful space policies.
Quote:
“I didn’t come from a scientific or technical background… I came into space purely by accident, and it just became a passion.”- Agnieszka LukaszczykEpisode Links:
• Connect with Agnieszka Lukaszczyk on LinkedIn
• Agnieszka Lukaszczyk on Facebook
• Agnieszka Lukaszczyk on X
• Explore the Space Generation Advisory Council (SGAC)
• Discover more about Planet Labs
Credits:
Production by CxS Partners LTD
Executive Producer: Toby Goodman
Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner
Artwork: Ryan Field
Find your place in the business of space: https://interastra.space -
Today we're republishing an episode we recorded at South By Southwest in Austin, Texas earlier this year.
Anousheh Ansari, CEO of XPRIZE Foundation is a trailblazer in space exploration. In 2006 she self-funded a trip to the International Space Station (ISS) where she spent 9 days performing a series of experiments on behalf of the European Space Agency.
Today she spearheads some of the most innovative space competitions in the world.
Her work emphasizes that advancements in space directly benefit life on Earth, from improving global communications to aiding climate change research.
In this episode, Anousheh highlights the vital role of competitions in driving innovation and the impact of these breakthroughs on everyday life.
She delves into how XPRIZE’s challenges have transcended traditional boundaries, encouraging creative solutions to some of humanity’s most pressing issues. You’ll hear about her vision of a future where space is not just a realm for astronauts but a canvas for entrepreneurs, educators, and dreamers from all walks of life. Anousheh’s story is a testament to the idea that the business of space is ripe with opportunities for all, shaping a more equitable and prosperous future.
In this episode, you'll discover:
• Anousheh's journey from Iranian roots to space.
• How telecom success led to sponsoring space exploration.
• XPRIZE's role in catalyzing space innovations for Earth and beyond.
• The significance of space technology in daily Earth life.
• How space technologies enhance our understanding of Earth and aid in solving global challenges.
• Opportunities for multidisciplinary involvement in the evolving space economy.
Quote:
" The future of space is about building businesses, whether it's in orbit or whether it's on the surface of the moon. These businesses require resources other than just the astronauts”
- Anousheh Ansari
Episode Links:
Follow Inter Astra on LinkedIn
Connect with Anousheh Ansari on LinkedIn
XPRIZE
SxSW
European Space Agency
International Space Station (ISS)
📖 Read Anousheh's book My Dream of Stars: From Daughter of Iran to Space Pioneer by Anousheh Ansari with Homer Hickam
🎧 Listen to Anousheh Ansari and Lauren Worley’s panel at South by Southwest 2024
‘The Business of Space: From Industry to Economy HERE
Credits:
Production by CxS...
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Grant Blaisdell is the CEO and co-founder of Copernic Space, a company building the digital marketplace for the new space economy.
With a unique background influenced by his family’s legacy in both the space and tech sectors, Grant is focused on how we can democratize space assets and enable greater participation in the space market.
From his early days in Southern California to living in post-communist Poland, Grant’s journey reflects his passion for creating innovative business models that empower space ventures. He shares insights into the challenges of building a commercial platform that connects space entrepreneurs, companies, and investors worldwide, providing them with the liquidity and support needed to push forward groundbreaking technologies and solutions.
In this episode, you’ll discover:• How Grant’s upbringing shaped his entrepreneurial journey in space.
• The mission and vision behind Copernic Space and its role in the new space economy.
• The challenges and misconceptions of building a space marketplace.
• The importance of creating liquidity and ownership opportunities for space assets.
• How the 2024 Moon mission will redefine space commercialization.
Quote:
“You build your own reality in space. It’s quite an open market… So my thing is, don’t be scared. Don’t feel the imposter syndrome about it and create your own brand in space.”- Grant BlaisdellEpisode Links:
• Connect with Grant Blaisdell on LinkedIn
• Explore Copernic Space
Credits:
Production by CxS Partners LTD
Executive Producer: Toby Goodman
Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner
Artwork: Ryan Field
Find your place in the business of space: https://interastra.space -
Dr. Shawna Pandya is an astronaut, physician, and research scientist who has dedicated her career to advancing space medicine and biomedical sciences.
As an astronaut with the International Institute For Astronautical Sciences, Shawna is actively involved in pioneering research missions on suborbital flights, focusing on the biomedical and fluid physics domains.
Her work is at the cutting edge of space health, exploring how space can serve as the next great research laboratory for humanity’s most pressing health challenges.
Growing up in Canada, inspired by the achievements of trailblazing astronauts like Dr. Roberta Bondar, Shawna charted a path that combined her love for space, science, and medicine. Her journey reflects a commitment to making space accessible and relevant to all, advocating for the inclusion of diverse talents and new avenues in the evolving space industry.
In this episode, you’ll discover:• How Shawna’s childhood dreams led her to a career in space medicine.
• The importance of space missions in advancing biomedical sciences.
• Insights into the ongoing research at the International Institute For Astronautical Sciences.
• The challenges and opportunities in making space accessible to broader communities.
• Shawna’s vision for the future of space health and its impact on terrestrial medicine.
Quote:
“You blink and suddenly there are 4 new avenues that we never even imagined were possible. And so even if there was historically no role for you or no path for you within space and human spaceflight, I encourage you to create your own trajectory.”- Dr. Shawna PandyaEpisode Links:
• ShawnaPandya.com
• Dr. Shawna Pandya on LinkedIn
• Dr. Shawna Pandya on Facebook
• Dr. Shawna Pandya on Insta
• Dr. Shawna Pandya on X
• The International Institute For Astronautical Sciences
• NASA’s Johnson Space Center (JSC)
• Canadian Space Agency (CSA)
• Virgin Galactic
Credits:
Production by CxS Partners LTD
Executive Producer: Toby Goodman
Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner
Artwork: Ryan Field
Find your place in the business of space: https://interastra.space -
Meet Anastasia Medvedeva, a communicator marketer, and journalist. Born with a curiosity and passion for storytelling, Anastasia, also known as Stacy, has carved out a unique niche in the space industry.
She wears many hats, from organizing global Yuri’s Night events to consulting for space companies on translating complex space concepts into relatable narratives.
Anastasia’s journey is one of curiosity and perseverance.
Growing up in Russia, she was surrounded by a rich space heritage but struggled to find her place in the industry.
Through her work, she aims to make space more inclusive and accessible, advocating for the involvement of artists, designers, and communicators in a field traditionally dominated by engineers and scientists.
In this episode, you’ll discover:• How Anastasia turned her love for storytelling into a space journalism career.
• The role of community building in the space industry.
• The importance of space architecture in future space missions.
• Insights into the challenges of working in a male-dominated industry.
• How she’s shaping the future of space through global events and education.
Quote:
“Unless you do the crazy, you’re not gonna be successful in space.” - Anastasia MedvedevaEpisode Links:• Connect with Anastasia Medvedeva on LinkedIn
• Explore Yuri’s Night
• International Astronautical Congress (IAC)
• Space Generation Advisory Council
• Association of Space Explorers
Credits:Production by CxS Partners LTD
Executive Producer: Toby Goodman
Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner
Artwork: Ryan Field
Find your place in the business of space: https://interastra.space -
Calling All Space-Curious!
The space industry is widening its horizons, from arts to sciences, at warp speed.
Every day private companies and international collaborations push the boundaries of exploration and technology.
This era of innovation is unlocking new possibilities for science, commerce, and human habitation beyond Earth. With such boundless opportunities, you might be asking yourself:
How can my current skills support the space industry?
What new expertise will propel me forward?
Who are the key players I need to connect with?In this free online virtual event, you’ll discover and participate alongside educators, students, industry, and space experts.
No matter where you are today we will show you what is possible and how your passions and skills fit into the space industry.
From there you’ll be better positioned to make more informed decisions on your next step.
Based on the unique format of the Inter Astra Retreats, we invite you to forge a unique path in the most exciting and inclusive era of space yet.
Meet Your HostsThe Inter Astra Institute, founded by The Charles F. Bolden Group, connects and draws from a world-class network of educators, business leaders, and space professionals to create access to the space industry with media, online, and in-person events.
Virginia Tech - Applied Research Corporation (VT-ARC) delivers tailored analysis, research, and engineering to address problems of national and global importance. Specializing in forming highly collaborative, trusted partnerships across government, industry, and academia.
COSMIC (Commercial Space Marketplace for Innovation and Collaboration) is the latest initiative from Space Systems Command’s newly rebranded and expanded Commercial Space Office (COMSO), which is focused on facilitating commercial technology and service transfer at the speed of need to enable “fight tonight” capabilities.
Your Schedule11:00a-11:05a | Opening Address
Ché Bolden (Founder Inter Astra Institute)11:05a-11:50a | Opening Keynote
TBA12p-1:15pBreakout Session 1 | Interact & Participate
Institutional Needs in the Business of Space: Past, Present, and Future1:30p-3pBreakout Session 2 | Interact & ParticipatePresent and Future Community Needs in the Business of Space3:10p-4p | Closing Panel-Charles F. Bolden Jr.(4x Astronaut & Fmr. NASA Administrator)Joan Higginbotham(US NASA Astronaut)Ellen Stofan(Under Secretary for Science and Research at the Smithsonian / Fmr. NASA Chief Scientist)Robert LightfootPresident, Lockheed Martin SpaceDetailsWhen: August 28th 11a-4p EST
Where: This is an online/virtual event
(Zoom link provided).
Availability: Limited
This event is free of charge for those selected.
Apply Now
Applications Close August, 19th
Episode Links:
Apply Now
Credits: -
Jas Purewal is a research scientist in the UK and a pioneering figure in the world of analog space missions. Jas’s career journey, from an early fascination with space at the Kennedy Space Center to leading the largest analog space mission project globally, exemplifies the dynamic interplay between passion and innovation in the space industry.
Growing up in Warwickshire, Jas’s path was influenced by her British Asian heritage, with a strong emphasis on education and learning. Her work today bridges cultures and scientific disciplines, bringing together diverse teams to simulate and prepare for future space missions.
In this episode, you’ll discover:How Jas’s childhood visit to Kennedy Space Center inspired her space ambitions.A journey from astrophysics to leading analog space missions.The significance of analog missions in preparing for real-life space exploration.Insights into the largest analog space mission project.The challenges and rewards of promoting space science.
Quote:“I grew up in the Midlands in the UK in Warwickshire, and like many British Asians, my parents were huge proponents of learning, academia, all of that.” - JasEpisode Links:Connect with Jas Purewal on LinkedIn
Analog Astronaut Conference 2024
The World's Biggest Analog
The World’s Biggest Analog on LinkedIn
Instagram (@worlds_biggest_analog)
Instagram (@ukspacexplorer)
Habitat Marte on LinkedIn
Biosphere 2
Credits:Production by CxS Partners LTD
Executive Producer: Toby Goodman
Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner
Artwork: Ryan Field
Find your place in the business of space: https://interastra.space -
Lily Asongfac, is a champion for space awareness and development in Cameroon. She has spearheaded numerous initiatives to bring space science to the forefront in her community, aiming to inspire and educate young people about the potential of space technology.
Lily’s journey from a young enthusiast to a space advocate exemplifies her dedication to leveraging space for social and technological progress in Cameroon. She works to create educational opportunities and foster a space-conscious culture among the youth.
In this episode, you’ll discover:• Lily’s inspiration to pursue space education and advocacy.
• Her efforts in organizing space awareness programs in Cameroon.
• Challenges in promoting space science in a developing country.
• Visions the future of Cameroon’s participation in space.
• Projects and partnerships aimed at broadening Cameroonian space initiatives.
Quote:“From, a Cameroonian perspective… I hear a lot of people ask me, why do you love space so much? Why do you even work in this industry? And why are you encouraging more young people to get involved when we have, bad growth, but we do not have electricity.” - Lily AsongfacEpisode Links:Connect with Lily on LinkedIn
Connect with Lily on Facebook
Follow Lily on Instagram
Youths For Sustainable Space Development on LinkedIn
Aerospace Baby Project on Instagram
Credits:Production by CxS Partners LTD
Executive Producer: Toby Goodman
Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner
Artwork: Ryan Field
Find your place in the business of space: https://interastra.space -
Hailing from Hungary and now based in the UK, Viktoria Urban is making significant strides in the space industry.
A former beauty therapist turned journalist, she is the marketing and communications coordinator at Spaceflux Ltd.
Today, Viktoria is training to become a space psychologist.
Her studies focus on examining the psychological impacts of deep space missions on astronauts.
Viktoria’s dynamic and multifaceted career reflects her deep passion for space and is a great example of how the business of space is opening up.
In this episode, you’ll discover:• Viktoria’s transition from space journalism to becoming a figure in space communication and psychology.
• The critical importance of psychological assessments in space missions.
• Viktoria’s journey from post-socialist Hungary to participating in the UK’s space sector.
• Insights into the diverse career opportunities in the space industry.
• Where to meet like-minded space-curious people
Quote:“I was sitting at home, furloughed, bored. And, I thought I might as well look into studying something online. I found the Open University, and they had a course titled Astronomy and Planetary Science”.- Viktoria UrbanEpisode Links:• Learn more about Viktoria Urban on LinkedIn
• Discover Spaceflux Ltd Website
Credits:Production by CxS Partners LTD
Executive Producer: Toby Goodman
Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner
Artwork: Ryan Field
Find your place in the business of space: https://interastra.space -
Meet Elizabeth Kennick, President of Teachers In Space, a transformative initiative integrating real space science into classrooms across the United States and beyond.
Elizabeth’s journey from diverse careers in fashion and finance to pioneering space education exemplifies her dedication to making space accessible to educators and students alike.
Growing up near NASA centers, Elizabeth was inspired by the Apollo missions and envisioned herself among the stars. Her early career path took unexpected turns through fashion retail and Wall Street, where she honed her project management skills before a serendipitous encounter led her back to her first passion—space.
In this episode, you’ll discover:How Elizabeth’s childhood dreams evolved into leading Teachers In Space.The challenges and breakthroughs of integrating real space missions into classroom curriculums.The strategic approach to expanding Teachers In Space’s impact, offering unique educational payloads and flight experiment opportunities.Space education's profound influence on developing students' critical thinking and problem-solving skills.Future projects and aspirations to further democratize space education globally.
Quote:“We’re not just teaching the future, we’re doing it now.” - Elizabeth KennickEpisode Links:Teachers In Space WebsiteFollow Teachers In Space on FacebookConnect with Elizabeth Kennick on LinkedIn
Credits:Production by CxS Partners LTD
Executive Producer: Toby Goodman
Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner
Artwork: Ryan Field
Production by CxS Partners LTD
Join our journey into the world of education and space: https://interastra.space -
As the CEO of The Bolden Group and Chairman of the Inter Astra Institute a non-profit creating equitable access and opportunity to the business of space, Ché Bolden builds relationships between young stem workforce, small businesses, corporations, and governments around the globe to create access to the business of space.
A retired Marine, Ché has extensive experience at the executive level leading projects and teams at the governmental, national, and international level. He has decades of experience navigating complex problems and providing qualitative results.
In this episode, Ché Bolden shares his journey from aspiring fighter pilot to becoming a key player in the business of space. As the son of a four-time astronaut and former administrator of NASA, Charles F. Bolden, Ché speaks about growing up in the shadow of the shuttle era.
You’ll hear how being immersed in the remarkable NASA community around him, gained a unique perspective on the potential of space as a day-to-day reality for humankind and how he brings diverse voices to the table in the global business of space.
On This Episode You’ll Discover:
• The influence of Ché's NASA lineage on his career in aerospace and his vision for accessible space commerce.
• Defining experiences that pivoted Ché's focus from military service to the commercial space sector.
• Ché's take on the burgeoning role of private companies in space and their impact on global business opportunities.
• Insights into the Inter Astra Institute's mission under Ché's leadership, promoting diverse industry involvement.
• The significance of education and cross-industry collaboration in the new era of space business as envisioned by Ché.
• Influences from astronauts like Nyberg and Hurley on Ché's mission to foster a worldwide space community.
• The role of storytelling and connection in making the space industry relevant across various demographics.
Quote:
“Today, I focus on bringing the business of space to places it has not traditionally been seen as relevant. And the best way to go about that is to connect the different people from disparate areas and tell their story in a way that lets people see the possibilities”
- Ché Bolden
Episode Links:
Follow Inter Astra on LinkedIn
Connect with Ché Bolden on LinkedIn
Listen to Ché’s interview on Kathy Sullivan Explores…
'Creating Diverse and Inclusive Pathways to Space with Ché Bolden'
Credits:
Production by CxS Partners LTD
Executive Producer: Toby Goodman
Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner
Artwork: Ryan Field
Join the #1 community creating equitable access to the business of space.
https://interastra.space/
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