Discussing NASA's role amidst the private space industry race, Laurie Leshin emphasizes exploring cosmos for humanity. Delving into Space X, Blue Origin, and Mars mission goals, they highlight deep space exploration beyond. The podcast touches on NASA's collaboration with private sector, innovative technologies at JPL, and the significance of Mars for human colonization.
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Quick takeaways
NASA focuses on space exploration for the greater good of humanity, distinct from profit-driven motives of private companies like Space X and Blue Origin.
Balancing innovation and risk aversion is crucial for NASA's success in deep space exploration, emphasizing the importance of creating environments conducive to experimental learning.
Deep dives
The Importance of NASA's Mission and Collaboration with Private Sector
NASA's mission extends beyond profit-driven goals and focuses on exploring space for the greater good of humanity. Director Lori Leshin emphasizes the significance of advancing NASA's mission amidst the rise of commercial space exploration by companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin. While private investment in space exploration offers new opportunities, NASA remains vital in exploring space for scientific and technological advancements.
Challenges Faced by NASA in Maintaining its Mission and Funding
Lori Leshin discusses the challenges NASA encounters in maintaining its vision and funding levels amidst changing public perceptions and governmental priorities. Despite NASA's valuable contributions to scientific exploration and global collaboration, funding issues have led to layoffs and impacted the organization's ability to pursue innovative missions.
The Need for Balancing Innovation and Risk Aversion at NASA
Noting the balance between innovation and risk aversion at NASA, Lori Leshin reflects on past successes and failures to navigate challenges effectively. While safety is paramount, embracing calculated risks and creating environments conducive to experimental learning is essential for NASA's future success in deep space exploration.
Fostering Collaborative and Diverse Teams for Innovation at JPL
Lori Leshin highlights the power of diverse and collaborative teams in fostering innovation at JPL, emphasizing the value of interdisciplinary collaboration and empowering individuals to contribute their expertise. By creating spaces that encourage creativity, problem-solving, and open communication, JPL aims to harness the magic of teamwork to drive groundbreaking discoveries.
As the private space industry races to colonize space for profit, where does NASA fit in to the equation?
Laurie Leshin is just the person to answer that question. She's the Director of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and the first female director in JPL's storied history. To her, NASA's future is defined by its mission — exploring the cosmos for the greater good of humankind.
Laurie and I discuss the role of Space X and Blue Origin in the new space age and why NASA should set its sights on Mars, and flying to even deeper space beyond.
This...is A Bit of Optimism.
To find out more about Laurie and her work, check out: