
Bob Crippen
Veteran NASA astronaut and pilot selected as pilot for STS-1; provides first-hand recollections of training, selection and the first shuttle launch preparations.
Top 3 podcasts with Bob Crippen
Ranked by the Snipd community

50 snips
Jul 28, 2025 • 46min
The Space Shuttle: 3. Glass rocket
In this riveting discussion, astronaut Bob Crippen, who flew on the inaugural space shuttle mission, and Neil Hutchinson, a flight director during STS-1, share their heart-pounding experiences aboard Columbia. They recount the tense moments of communication loss and concerns about damage to the shuttle's heat shield. The complexities of re-entry and the emotional strain of not knowing if crucial tiles were missing add to the suspense. Their firsthand accounts reveal the challenges of innovation and teamwork that defined a pivotal moment in space exploration.

24 snips
Jul 14, 2025 • 44min
The Space Shuttle: 1. The spaceplane
Bob Crippen, a pioneering NASA astronaut and test pilot, shares his thrilling experiences as the pilot of the first Space Shuttle mission. He discusses the innovative design and engineering challenges behind the shuttle, revealing insights into the complex teamwork at NASA that made history possible. Crippen reflects on the emotional high of launch day and the significance of the shuttle for future space exploration. His engaging stories capture the excitement of the era, showcasing both the struggles and triumphs of human ingenuity in the quest for space.

Sep 25, 2025 • 44min
Bonus. 13 Minutes Presents: The Space Shuttle
Bob Crippen, a veteran NASA astronaut and pilot of STS-1, shares his remarkable journey in shaping the future of space travel. He dives into the early days of the space shuttle program, revealing the excitement and challenges of launching the first shuttle. Crippen recounts the intense prelaunch atmosphere at Kennedy Space Center and the innovative techniques tested during team preparations. His firsthand insights illuminate the pivotal moments leading to the historic mission that aimed to make spaceflight routine.