Science Friday
Trump’s Nominee For NASA Administrator Meets Congress
Apr 14, 2025
Join Flora Lichtman and Senior Producer Charles Bergquist as they dive into the Senate hearing featuring Jared Isaacman, Trump's NASA nominee. Isaacman champions a dual approach for lunar and Mars missions, sparking debate among lawmakers. The conversation also touches on the challenges of funding ambitious space goals. Additionally, learn about innovative developments in de-extinction science and groundbreaking rapid testing for bird flu. The duo even discusses how mind wandering might surprisingly boost learning!
15:01
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Quick takeaways
- Jared Isaacman, Trump's nominee for NASA, emphasizes the agency's ability to pursue both lunar and Mars missions simultaneously despite funding constraints.
- Concerns arise regarding the authenticity of genetically modified gray wolves claimed to be de-extinct direwolves, amidst skepticism from the scientific community.
Deep dives
NASA's Priorities Under New Leadership
During a recent confirmation hearing for Jared Isaacman, President Trump's nominee to lead NASA, he emphasized a shift in focus towards sending manned missions to Mars. Isaacman, a non-traditional candidate without a background in NASA or government, highlighted Mars as a top priority, diverging from the established Artemis program that advocates a moon-first approach. Senators expressed concerns about how NASA could balance these ambitious goals given current funding and legal mandates that prioritize lunar exploration. Isaacman assured that he would adhere to existing laws but hinted that NASA could pursue both missions simultaneously, suggesting a potential re-evaluation of the agency's trajectory.
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