StoryCorps Easier to Go to Mars
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Aug 12, 2025 Explore inspiring tales of daring individuals pushing boundaries, from pioneers of space exploration to deep-sea divers. Hear a heartfelt exchange between a NASA engineer and his brother reflecting on their roots in Gaza. Discover how community service transforms tragedy into purpose through environmental cleanup efforts. Enjoy anecdotes of resilience and friendship, showcasing how shared memories can uplift spirits. Celebrate the legacy of a diving club that has trained thousands, while inviting listeners to share their own stories.
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Rocket Sled Volunteer Who Helped Send Humans To Space
- Elton Yates volunteered for rocket-sled tests at 19 to help his family and advance human spaceflight.
- He rode more than 65 sleds and felt pride when crewed launches began.
Engineer Who Said 'Easier To Go To Mars'
- Loe Al-Basuni celebrated Ingenuity's first flights as part of the design team and felt like part of the Wright brothers' legacy.
- He contrasted the calculable journey to Mars with the blocked, unpredictable reality of traveling to Gaza.
Engineering vs. Geopolitics
- Technical problems like Mars flights are solvable through calculation and engineering.
- Political and humanitarian barriers, Loe notes, can be more intractable than engineering challenges.