#185 Scott "Kidd" Poteet - SpaceX Polaris Dawn Astronaut on Spacewalk, Moon Landing and Mars
Mar 24, 2025
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Scott "Kidd" Poteet, a retired U.S. Air Force lieutenant colonel and SpaceX astronaut, shares thrilling insights from his extensive military and space experiences. He discusses the complexities of human life support on the moon and Mars, and the intriguing conspiracy theories surrounding the moon landing. Poteet also reflects on overcoming motion sickness in flight training and the rigorous astronaut training for the Polaris Program. Listen in for captivating tales of his journey from fighter pilot to pioneering space explorer!
Scott Poteet transitioned from a distinguished military career in the U.S. Air Force to pioneering civilian spaceflight, emphasizing teamwork and mentorship.
His involvement in Inspiration4 showcased the integration of adventure and charity, highlighting the mission's partnership with St. Jude's to combat pediatric cancer.
Poteet detailed the innovations in developing an EVA suit, underscoring the importance of safety and mobility for spacewalks during missions.
Experiencing the overview effect profoundly changed Poteet's perspective on life, reinforcing the connection between exploration and humanity's shared responsibility.
He envisions a future where space travel becomes commonplace, facilitated by advancements in technology such as Starlink for improved communication during missions.
Deep dives
Introduction to Scott Poteet’s Background
Scott Poteet discusses his early life in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and New Hampshire, where he earned a bachelor's degree in outdoor education. He shares his transition into the U.S. Air Force as a lieutenant colonel, logging over 3,200 flight hours in various aircraft, including F-16s. His military career includes combat operations in notable missions supporting operations like Northern Watch and Joint Guardian. He also commanded the 64th Aggressor Squadron and served as a demonstration pilot for the Thunderbirds, showcasing his commitment to aviation.
Journey to Space and Inspiration4
Poteet recounts how he became involved with Inspiration4, the world's first all-civilian spaceflight mission organized by Jared Isaacman. He describes the rigorous training for the mission, which included securing a partnership with St. Jude Children's Research Hospital to raise funds for pediatric cancer. The mission, which aimed to have a significant positive impact on life on Earth while exploring space, utilized a crew selected through a mix of criteria, including a sweepstakes. Poteet emphasizes the blending of adventure, science, and charity that marked this unique endeavor.
Challenges of Space Training
During their training leading up to the mission, the crew faced various challenges, including developing a new EVA suit capable of functioning in space. Poteet highlights the innovative approach taken to create the suit, focusing on factors such as thermal protection and mobility. He explains the need for the suit to withstand harsh conditions while allowing astronauts to perform tasks outside the spacecraft. The team went through extensive testing and adaptations to ensure the suit met all requirements for safety and functionality.
The Significance of the Spacewalk
Scott Poteet details the preparation for the historic spacewalk during the Polaris Dawn mission. The crew had to coordinate closely to ensure safety while managing the complexities of the EVA. Poteet paints a vivid picture of the breathtaking view of Earth from space during the spacewalk, emphasizing the emotional weight of witnessing the planet from such a unique perspective. He notes the mission's goal to test the suit and procedures while conducting scientific research, embodying the spirit of exploration.
Experiencing the Overview Effect
Poteet reflects on the profound moment of experiencing the overview effect while in space, feeling both awe at the beauty of Earth and insignificance in the vastness of the universe. He describes the mesmerizing visuals of the planet, noting how they evoked reflections on life, purpose, and humanity's place in the cosmos. The experience shifted his perspective on existence and deepened his appreciation for life on Earth, reinforcing the connection between exploration and compassion. Poteet recognizes this transformative experience as a vital part of his journey in understanding his faith.
The Challenges of Returning to Earth
Discussing the return journey, Poteet outlines the processes involved in re-entry, which include managing high G-forces and ensuring the spacecraft's thermal protection systems are functioning. He explains the intense physical sensations during re-entry and the emotional anticipation of returning home. The rush of G-forces builds up, making it a physically demanding experience, as astronauts prepare for splashdown. Poteet describes the overwhelming relief felt upon safely landing, highlighting the moment as a culmination of the mission's risks and rewards.
Reflecting on Faith and Purpose
Throughout the interview, Poteet grapples with questions about faith, purpose, and the impact of experiences in combat and space. He speaks candidly about the internal struggles of reconciling his role in military service with the moral implications of taking lives. Poteet emphasizes the importance of introspection and faith in navigating the complexities of existence and decision-making. His reflections illustrate the intersection of spirituality and the human experience, emphasizing the search for meaning beyond earthly confines.
Legacy and Future of Space Exploration
Poteet envisions a future where space travel becomes more accessible to the general public, sensing a shift in how humanity relates to exploration. He believes that the current advancements in commercial spaceflight, exemplified by SpaceX, will pave the way for significant changes in ordinary people's experience of space. Poteet expresses hope that the next generation will grow up with the possibility of traveling to space as a common experience, similar to how air travel evolved. His enthusiasm for the legacy of space exploration reflects a strong belief in the potential for humanity’s growth and progress.
The Importance of Communication in Space
The conversation also covers the critical role of communication technologies like Starlink in future space missions. Poteet discusses how reliable communications will be essential for the success of long-duration space missions, particularly for manned flights to Mars. The challenges of establishing effective communication systems in space underscore the need to develop technology that can support astronauts on extended voyages. By optimizing connectivity, Poteet believes further advancements will be made in human space exploration, enhancing the overall mission success.
Concluding Thoughts on Personal Growth
Poteet’s reflections on his journey culminate in a heartfelt appreciation for the lessons learned from both his military and space experiences. He acknowledges the importance of resilience, teamwork, and adaptability, which are key themes that emerged throughout his life. His story illustrates how personal growth often comes from confronting challenges and remaining open to new experiences. Ultimately, Poteet's journey serves as an inspiring reminder of the potential for exploration and the pursuit of knowledge as essential elements of the human condition.
Scott “Kidd” Poteet is a retired U.S. Air Force lieutenant colonel and highly experienced pilot who served more than two decades in the military. Over the course of his Air Force career, he flew F-16s in multiple combat deployments and held roles in leadership and training, earning a reputation for his strong work ethic and focus on mission excellence. Poteet’s dedication to both teamwork and mentorship helped guide the next generation of pilots, showcasing his commitment to service and the advancement of aerospace.
Since retiring from active duty, Poteet has remained deeply involved in pioneering space initiatives and operational leadership. He served as the Mission Director for Inspiration4—SpaceX’s first all-civilian orbital mission—and continues his journey into human spaceflight as a pilot for the Polaris Dawn mission, part of the groundbreaking Polaris Program. Through these endeavors, he exemplifies a passion for pushing the boundaries of exploration and technology, reflecting both his military heritage and forward-thinking vision for space travel.
