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Science Friday

Protesters ‘Stand Up For Science’ At Rallies Nationwide | Blue Ghost Lunar Lander

Mar 7, 2025
Kevin Scholtes, an engineer at Firefly Aerospace, shares insights into the groundbreaking challenges of developing the Blue Ghost lunar lander. Dr. Nicky Fox, a NASA administrator, elaborates on the scientific instruments aboard, aimed at probing lunar regolith and dust. Both guests highlight the significance of the lander's successful commercial moon landing, marking a new era in space exploration. They also address the growing political activism among scientists against recent government interference in science, reflecting an urgent call for defending scientific integrity.
27:55

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Recent political interference has galvanized scientists to advocate for science funding and defend equity and inclusion at rallies nationwide.
  • The successful landing of the Blue Ghost lunar lander highlights the growing role of commercial space entities in advancing scientific research and exploration.

Deep dives

Protests for Science

Recent rallies across the U.S. reflect rising concerns among scientists regarding the Trump administration's policies affecting scientific research and funding. These Stand Up for Science events aim to address perceived attacks on the scientific process and highlight the need for unity within the scientific community. Unlike the larger March for Science in 2017, which had widespread endorsements from major scientific organizations, this rally sees a more cautious response from these bodies, indicating a shift in the political climate. This apprehension raises questions about the future of science advocacy in an increasingly challenging environment for researchers.

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