Off-Nominal 216 - Golden Llama (with Eric Berger)
Oct 31, 2025
Eric Berger, Senior Space Editor at Ars Technica, dives into the competitive landscape of NASA leadership and the critical Artemis 3 lunar mission. He discusses the geopolitical importance of lunar exploration and the implications if the U.S. falls behind China. The conversation also touches on NASA's transparency issues, the potential streamlining of missions, and the dynamics of agency politics influencing the next NASA Administrator. Berger critiques both SpaceX and Blue Origin's media strategies while sharing insights on the future of lunar programming.
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Episode notes
SpaceX Update Was A Political Signal
- SpaceX publicly posted a progress recap to signal momentum on Starship HLS amid political pressure.
- Eric Berger notes payments and milestone completions suggest real work, but transparency remains unclear.
Press NASA For Consistent Transparency
- Start by demanding more transparency from NASA leadership before blaming contractors.
- Eric Berger urges regular press availability and technical briefings to restore confidence.
Simpler Mission Cuts Propellant Needs
- Simplifying the Artemis 3 mission architecture could cut propellant and launch needs.
- Speakers suggest docking or Orion exclusion might reduce refueling and launches needed for Starship HLS.
