Robert Wright's Nonzero NASA’s Plans for the Moon and Mars (Robert Wright & Joel Achenbach)
Jan 6, 2026
Joel Achenbach, a veteran journalist and author known for his in-depth reporting on science and space, shares insights on NASA's evolving landscape. He discusses the implications of Jared Isaacman's confirmation as NASA chief and the challenges of prioritizing human spaceflight over scientific missions. The duo reflects on the lag in human space expansion compared to robotic achievements, the reimagining of lunar missions, and the pivotal role of companies like SpaceX. Achenbach also tackles the skepticism surrounding UFO claims and the cultural myths that persist.
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Space Is Technically Successful But Less Ambitious
- Space activity today is booming in satellites and commercial launch even as grand human exploration lags behind expectations from the Apollo era.
- Joel Achenbach argues the space sector succeeded technically but not in making human expansion into the solar system routine.
New NASA Chief Is Unconventional But Supported
- Jared Isaacman brings private-sector energy and spaceflight experience to NASA but may not be a simple proxy for Elon Musk.
- Robert Wright says Isaacman is entrepreneurial, wealthy, and supported by many in the space community.
Policy Priorities Shift Toward Human Missions
- The Trump White House prioritized human spaceflight and Artemis while proposing steep cuts to NASA science.
- Wright contrasts political priorities that favor lunar human missions over planetary science budgets.
