Whether you work in the Space industry or dreamed about becoming an astronaut as a kid, we all have some sort of a connection to Space.
Space enthusiast, Ben Gamble, brings you a weekly podcast all about Space. Although Ben currently works in events and hospitality, he has always had an interest in the Space industry. As a preliminary jump into the Space world, Ben created this podcast to explore what goes on in the industry with the dream of launching his own Space tech company later in life.
Ben hopes to connect people of all ages and encourage them to get involved in Space. AstroBen will be a podcast to empower Space enthusiasts, as well as discussing difficult topics. From rockstars to CEO's, astronomers to actors, expect to hear from diverse perspectives all with the shared obsession with the stars!
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Building Humanity's Interplanetary Future with Skyler Chan of GRU Space
Season 2 · Episode 121
Wednesday, April 8, 2026 • Duration 34:35
Explore the bold vision of Skyler Chan, founder and CEO of GRU Space, as he shares insights into creating humanity's first hotel on the moon, harnessing lunar resources, and pioneering space infrastructure. Discover how pragmatic engineering, strategic partnerships, and a focus on making space accessible are shaping the future.
In this episode:
Skyler's motivation to make humanity interplanetary and the significance of the lunar hotel project
The meaning behind "GRU" — Galactic Resource Utilization Space Inc.
ISRU (In-Situ Resource Utilization): Using lunar regolith to make bricks and building materials
Technical challenges of lunar brick-making and operational vs technological hurdles
The long-term vision: From lunar hotels to lunar cities and Mars habitats
Designing sustainable habitats against lunar radiation, vacuum, temperature swings, and dust
Collaboration with space agencies like Artemis and industry partners
The importance of practical, incremental steps to establish a lunar economy
The role of the lunar environment in resource extraction success
Building infrastructure for planetary settlement: hotels, robotics, mining, and resource chains
Addressing risks and safety in lunar habitat design
The inspiration from space pioneers like Chris Hadfield and Elon Musk
The influence of San Francisco's innovation ecosystem on GRU Space
Skyler's advice for young entrepreneurs eager to break into space
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction to Skyler Chan and GRU Space's mission 01:07 - The origin of the name "GRU" and space resource utilization 02:04 - The concept of lunar bricks and in-situ resource utilization 03:01 - Technical challenges in lunar brick-making and control systems 03:57 - The operational vs technological hurdles in lunar missions 04:37 - Long-term visions: Moon hotels, lunar cities, and Mars habitats 05:36 - Designing sustainable lunar habitats with radiation shielding 06:33 - The importance of off-world habitation systems 07:03 - Expansion beyond hotels to lunar infrastructure and resource industries 08:07 - Space tourism and resource valuation in space vs Earth 09:04 - The experience-driven design of lunar hotels 09:48 - Early inflatable lunar habitats and future modular expansions 10:18 - Long-term habitat safety features and radiation shielding 11:16 - Potential partnerships with lunar launch programs like Artemis 11:36 - How Artemis program fits into GRU Space's timeline 12:44 - The philosophical perspective on Earth borders and space peace 13:05 - The role of Y Combinator and Nvidia Inception in GRU Space's growth 14:24 - Skyler's youth and background in space training 15:04 - His lifelong obsession with space and early influences 16:17 - Mentors like Chris Hadfield and Elon Musk as inspiration 17:44 - The impact of Elon Musk on space innovation and inspiration 18:43 - Space's unifying role and societal inspiration 19:12 - Balancing big visions with realistic engineering steps 20:18 - Prioritizing first principles and de-risking lunar technology 21:42 - Overcoming lunar environmental hazards and safety considerations 22:55 - Collaboration within the space industry ecosystem 23:37 - Managing lunar hazards: vacuum, radiation, dust, temperature 25:04 - Strategies for lunar resource utilization and infrastructure 27:15 - The pragmatic approach: focusing on what is necessary for economic viability 28:13 - The concept of the "wedge" to kick-start lunar exploration 29:12 - The importance of providing human-centric experiences 30:11 - Final words of advice to aspiring space entrepreneurs 30:59 - Skyler's perspective on trusting your intuition and decision-making 33:23 - Wrap-up and upcoming milestones for GRU Space 33:59 - Final encouragement: Look up at the stars, not down at your phones
The Journey to the Stars: An Interview with Astronaut Aspirant Alyssa Carson
Season 2 · Episode 120
Thursday, March 26, 2026 • Duration 34:31
Explore the inspiring story of Alyssa Carson, a passionate space enthusiast aiming to become an astronaut and destined for Mars. From childhood curiosity to citizen science and space education, Alyssa shares her journey, insights into space missions like Artemis, and practical advice for the next generation.
In this episode:
● Alyssa shares her lifelong fascination with space and her earliest memories of curiosity about the cosmos
● The impact of space camp in shaping her passion and skills
● How her diverse experiences—water survival, zero G flights, pilot's license—prepare her for space
● The evolving goals of the space industry, including Artemis, Mars missions, and space tourism
● The importance of resilience, problem-solving, and staying adaptable in pursuit of space dreams
● Opportunities in astrobiology and microbiology related to Mars exploration
● Her perspectives on the future of space travel accessibility for ordinary people
● Tips and motivational words for young people dreaming of space careers
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction and Alyssa's space origin story
02:38 - The significance of space camp in her journey
05:42 - Building skills through diverse training experiences
09:28 - The interdisciplinary nature of astrobiology and microbiology
12:36 - Her studies at Florida Tech and focus on Mars exploration
16:15 - How "The Martian" movie aligns with her interests
17:27 - Moving into her PhD and future plans in space industry
Unlocking the UK Space Sector: Insights from John Abbott of Satellite Applications Catapult
Season 2 · Episode 119
Friday, March 13, 2026 • Duration 36:22
Discover how the UK is leveraging academia, government policy, and industry collaboration to grow its space ecosystem. Join John Abbott as he shares the story of Catapult's role, UK's ambitions, and practical advice for aspiring space entrepreneurs.
In this episode:
The purpose and impact of the UK's satellite applications catapult
The significance of UK launch capabilities and recent developments with Allbex
John's background in geospatial data and transition into the space sector
The UK government's industrial strategy and funding landscape for space
How UK companies are solving real problems and expanding internationally
The importance of customer focus versus grant dependency in scaling startups
Strategies for fostering resilient and ambitious founders
The role of international partnerships, like the Taiwan Space Agency MOU
Practical advice for future space entrepreneurs in the UK and beyond
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction to John Abbott and the UK's space industry context 02:00 - The purpose of the UK's satellite applications catapult 03:10 - Recent UK launch developments and Allbex exit 04:00 - John's geospatial and tech background explained 06:21 - UK's industrial strategy supporting space growth 08:00 - Key UK space companies and heritage 08:39 - Interlink with UK Space Agency and government programs 11:37 - Transition from traditional sectors into space entrepreneurship 13:14 - Why space is a sector of purpose and opportunity 15:52 - The importance of customer focus over grant-led projects 18:00 - Helping startups with a holistic approach: teams, market, funding 20:17 - UK ambition, government support, and international positioning 25:01 - Growing through international cooperation (Taiwan MOU) 28:16 - Balancing innovation with market needs at Catapult 31:00 - Assessing startup success factors: resilience, team, market 33:10 - The evolving space economy and reducing entry barriers 35:09 - Advice for future space founders and key takeaways
Resources & Links: Connect with John Abbott: Follow and learn more:
Dan Hart: Exploring Space Innovation
Season 2 · Episode 118
Monday, March 2, 2026 • Duration 40:12
Exploring Space Innovation with Dan Hart
Join us in this episode as Dan Hart shares his incredible journey from childhood curiosity to leading transformative space ventures. Discover the lessons learned from rocket failures, the evolving industry landscape, and the future of space exploration.
In this episode:
Dan's early fascination with space and engineering sparked by tinkering with toys and curiosity
How a cold call to NASA's astronaut corps set him on a space career path
The transition from NASA and defense projects to leading Virgin Orbit
Lessons from Virgin Orbit's successes and setbacks, including the Cornwall launch failure
The shift from government-led to private industry-driven space missions
Insights into the future of space industry: commercialization, international cooperation, and scientific discovery
Dan's perspective on air launch systems and their niche applications
His current focus on space science advocacy, emerging technologies, and mentorship
Timestamps:
00:00 - Welcome and Dan Hart's journey into space exploration 01:07 - Inquisitiveness and early influences in space and engineering 02:23 - Cold calling NASA and beginning in the space shuttle program 03:44 - Industry's role in iconic space vehicles and innovations 05:28 - Shifts in space program management and private sector empowerment 06:56 - Scientific discoveries and the pursuit of life beyond Earth 08:13 - Early career at McDonnell Douglas and experience during Challenger 10:00 - Transition to missile defense and satellite systems 12:08 - Virgin Orbit inception, COVID challenges, and early launch attempts 14:02 - The Cornwall launch failure and lessons learned 17:01 - UK launch ventures and regulatory hurdles 18:58 - Market shifts towards national security and satellite launching 22:23 - Reflection on Virgin Orbit's setbacks and industry lessons 24:26 - The resilience of space startups and the importance of perseverance 28:21 - Future of air launch technology and niche applications 32:17 - Dan's current work on space science, policy, and emerging tech 36:39 - Final thoughts and advice for aspiring space entrepreneurs
Resources & Links: Connect with Dan Hart: Additional Notes:
Mamta Patal Nagaraja: Ex-NASA (24 years), currently free agent in STEM
Season 2 · Episode 117
Friday, May 9, 2025 • Duration 37:43
In Episode 117 of The Astro Ben Podcast, Ben sits down with Mamta Patel Nagaraja, former Associate Chief Scientist for Exploration and Applied Research at NASA, who recently left the agency amid its office closures in February 2025. Mamta reflects on her career leading biomedical and physical sciences for the ISS, Artemis, and commercial space missions, while sharing candid insights on NASA's challenges and opportunities in 2025. From streamlining science communication to navigating a toxic work environment, her story is one of resilience and reinvention. Now a free agent in STEM, Mamta discusses her future plans and offers some advice to the new NASA administration.
OUTLINE:
Here's approximate timestamps for the episode.
00:00 Intro to Mamta Patal Nagaraja
00:57 Mamta's passion for Space
03:20 Working for NASA
06:12 How to/can you quantify "is a mission worth it?"
08:30 NASA cuts and how it was done - the timing of Manta's departure from NASA
12:15 Jared Isaacmans involvement?
15:00 What is NASA's mission?
17:45 How to predict/predict other committed programs?
Marino Fragnito: Chief Commercial Officer and Launch Services Director at Avio
Season 2 · Episode 116
Wednesday, April 23, 2025 • Duration 33:25
This week on The Astro Ben Podcast, we dive into the world of space launches with Marino Fragnito, Avio's Chief Commercial Officer and Launch Services Director. Appointed in September 2024, Marino drives Avio's Vega C and Ariane 6 programs while navigating the competitive space market in March 2025. With a career spanning Airbus, Arianespace, and Thales Alenia Space, he shares insights on commercialising Vega, boosting Europe's launch capabilities, and tackling global competition. From sustainable propulsion to defense applications, this episode explores how Avio is shaping the future of space access.
OUTLINE:
Here's approximate timestamps for the episode.
00:53 Introducing Marino
01:56 Marino's interest in Space
04:50 Technical background
06:19 Avio
08:56 Vega C Program
13:34 Lack of European ambition?
19:30 Reusability of rockets
21:20 AI
23:14 Geopolitics in Europe effecting the Space industry
Mark Sasson: Co-founder and CEO of Pinpoint Search Group (recruiting in the space industry)
Season 2 · Episode 115
Thursday, April 3, 2025 • Duration 33:22
This week on The Astro Ben Podcast, Ben sits down with Mark Sasson, co-founder and CEO of Pinpoint Search Group, as he launches Operation Voyager to tackle the space sector's talent gap in March 2025. From his roots in cybersecurity to his new frontier in space, Mark shares a compelling story of industry evolution, drawing parallels between these booming fields. We dive into proven strategies for attracting top talent, the unique hiring challenges facing space companies, and how to build effective recruiting processes in an industry still finding its footing.
OUTLINE:
Here's approximate timestamps for the episode.
00:00 Intro to Mark Sasson
01:09 Pinpoint getting into the Space Sector
03:01 Segments
03:58 Growth industries
05:12 Pinpoint
08:00 How Pinpoint works
09:40 Operation Voyager
11:00 Startups attracting top talent
14:06 Graduates entering the space force
18:30 Is space industry still mainly technical?
20:53 Remote work vs in real life
22:38 Company culture
25:00 Trends in keeping staff engaged
27:45 Soft skills for space industry candidates
30:00 Most exciting parts about space industries future
Jonathan McDowell: Astronomer and owner of Jonathan's Space Report
Season 2 · Episode 114
Friday, February 14, 2025 • Duration 35:57
In this week's episode of The Astro Ben Podcast (sponsored by SkyFi), we dive into the cosmos with the legendary Jonathan McDowell, an astronomer known for his extensive work in cataloging space objects and his invaluable contributions to the space community. Ben and Jonathan discuss his journey, the importance of space tracking, and his monumental effort to transition his private space library to the UK, for which he's currently seeking support through a GoFundMe campaign (link below). Tune in to learn about the significance of his work, the future of space cataloging, and how you can contribute to preserving space history!
00:52 Intro to Jonathan Mc Dowell and journey to Jonathan's Space Report
02:48 Educational foundation
04:57 Chandra X-ray Center (X-ray cousin of the Hubble!)
07:10 AI and effect on Astrophysics
08:45 Space tracking
10:58 UFO Misinterpretations
13:15 Most unusual item catalogued
15:16 Space Junk
17:09 Public Engagement
18:16 Favourite era of space history
22:14 Jonathans library
26:48 Moving the library!
27:47 Book recommendations
30:30 Space culture
Kate van Dam: Marine Corps attack helicopter pilot, now strategic leader in the space industry with SkyFi
Season 2 · Episode 113
Wednesday, February 5, 2025 • Duration 30:04
In this episode, sponsored by Sky Fi, Ben journeyed with Kate Van Dam from her days as a Marine Corps attack helicopter pilot to her current role leading strategy at SkyFi. They explore SkyFi's mission to democratise access to geospatial data, touching on the ethical implications, privacy concerns, and the revolutionary potential of this technology. Kate shared insights on how her military background shapes her strategic vision, how SkyFi navigates the evolving space industry landscape, and the role of AI and machine learning in transforming geospatial analysis. They also discussed upcoming SkyFi projects and the next frontier in commercial space technology. Kate also discusses "Austin 4 America" and tells people how to get free tickets!
Astronaut John " Danny " Olivas: Astronaut, Mission Assurance Expert, Author and Forensic Engineer
Season 2 · Episode 112
Wednesday, January 22, 2025 • Duration 36:11
In this episode of The Astro Ben Podcast, Ben speaks with astronaut and mission assurance expert Dr. John "Danny" Olivas from Intuitive Machines HQ. The conversation centers around the IM-2 Lunar Lander mission, set to land at the Moon's south pole in early 2025. Danny shares exclusive insights into the technology on board, including NASA's PRIME-1 drill, Nokia's Lunar Surface Communications System, and Intuitive Machines' Micro Nova Hopper.
The discussion also explores the critical role of engineering in lunar infrastructure, the challenges of operating in the Moon's extreme environment, and Danny's experiences as a NASA astronaut, including his iconic spacewalks and space shuttle repair missions.
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