Highlights: #187 – Zach Weinersmith on how researching his book turned him from a space optimist into a “space bastard”
May 28, 2024
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Zach Weinersmith discusses his transition from a space optimist to a 'space bastard', covering topics like the history of space exploration, the challenges of space settlement, effects of space on human bodies, ethics of having babies in space, and a roadmap for settling space.
Space settlement may not lead to economic prosperity due to high costs and practical challenges.
Human bodies face significant health challenges in space, requiring specialized systems for sustainability.
Deep dives
A Potted History of Space Exploration
The evolution of space exploration is traced back to the late 19th century when the possibility of achieving orbit became evident due to advancements in propellant technology. Initially, space endeavors were amateur and experimental, with a surge in interest post-World War II, notably driven by the success of the V2 rocket developed by Wernher von Braun. The space race ensued, leading to milestones like the launch of Sputnik in 1957 and subsequent cost reductions in space travel, notably with the efforts of private company SpaceX.
Why Space Settlement Might Not Lead to Wealth
Potential ideas like space-based solar power or asteroid mining for resources are evaluated for their economic viability in space settlement. While concepts like space-based solar panels offer theoretical benefits like constant sunlight and increased energy output, the high costs of transporting and maintaining such systems present practical challenges. Similarly, the feasibility of mining resources from asteroids is limited by the distance, composition, and complexity of extracting valuable materials from space.
Challenges of Human Bodies in Space
The podcast delves into the physiological impact of space on the human body, highlighting the detrimental effects of prolonged exposure to microgravity and space radiation. Issues such as bone density loss, muscle degradation, and fluid shifts pose significant health challenges for astronauts in long-duration space missions. Furthermore, the unique environmental factors in space, like high CO2 levels and lack of gravitational heat dissipation, require specialized systems to maintain human health and sustainability in space settlements.
These aren't necessarily the most important, or even most entertaining parts of the interview — and if you enjoy this, we strongly recommend checking out the full episode: