Gastropod Moon Rocks Wanted (guest episode)
Jan 28, 2025
Joe Gutheinz, a former NASA special agent, leads listeners through the thrilling world of moon rock intrigue. He recounts a bizarre ad that opened an investigation into missing moon rocks, revealing a history filled with scams and deception. With wit and insight, he describes undercover operations and the legal battles surrounding these celestial treasures. Gutheinz also highlights the educational importance of moon rocks, emphasizing their value in inspiring future generations and preserving a crucial part of space exploration history.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Joe's NASA Journey
Joe Goodhines worked at NASA's Office of Inspector General from 1990 to 2000, investigating various crimes involving NASA. He experienced a unique environment where wild alligators roamed near astronauts.
Moon Rocks as National Treasures
NASA considers moon rocks as national treasures, making it illegal to privately own these artifacts. This protects their historical and cultural significance.
The Scam of Selling Moon Rocks
In the 1970s, people began selling fake moon rocks, including a vacuum cleaner salesman claiming to have a moon rock for just $5. This illustrated the gullibility of buyers.