This Week in Space 166: Live From the Swamps, ISDC 2025

Release Date: June 20, 2025
Host: Rod Pyle and Tarek Malik
Location: International Space Development Conference (ISDC) in Orlando, Florida
Podcast Network: TWiT.tv

Live from ISDC 2025

Rod Pyle and Tarek Malik kick off Episode 166 by welcoming listeners live from the bustling International Space Development Conference (ISDC) in Orlando, Florida. With an audience of thousands attending the event, the hosts set the stage for a dynamic and informative discussion on current space developments.

• Rod Pyle: "This week, we are coming to you mostly live from the National Space Society's International Space Development Conference in blustery Orlando, Florida..." [03:13]

SpaceX Starship Explosion

A significant portion of the episode delves into the recent explosive failure of SpaceX’s tenth Starship test. Rod and Tarek analyze the possible causes, focusing on the Composite Overwrapped Pressure Vessel (COPV) failure, which led to the rocket's catastrophic explosion on the test stand.

• Tarek Malik: "They think that the rocket exploded before they were able to do the test." [07:34]
• Rod Pyle: "This looks like a nuclear bomb." [08:18]

The discussion highlights the challenges SpaceX faces with iterative testing and the pressures of meeting ambitious timelines set by NASA for lunar missions.

Discovery of Missing Baryonic Matter

The hosts shift gears to discuss groundbreaking studies published in Nature and Science, announcing the discovery of missing baryonic matter in the universe. Contrary to dark matter, which remains elusive, this discovery pertains to regular matter that was previously undetectable due to its distribution across vast cosmic structures.

• Tarek Malik: "This cosmic web that reveals like the larger structure of the universe. So it's a piece in the puzzle..." [16:18]
• Rod Pyle: "You heard it first here from Tarek Malik, who clearly passed ninth grade science." [16:57]

They explore the implications of this discovery for understanding the universe's formation and evolution, emphasizing its significance in astrophysical research.

Black Hole Modeling and AI

Rod and Tarek examine a contentious topic involving the use of artificial intelligence in modeling black holes. They reference comments by Nobel laureate Reinhard Genzel, who raises concerns about AI's ability to accurately interpret noisy scientific data without human oversight.

• Rod Pyle: "Because they're both relative." [04:28]
• Tarek Malik: "The AI robot thing, we're going to call it Ultron for now..." [17:42]
• Tarek Malik: "Is it accurate to the black hole, or to all of the extra noise and junk?" [19:02]

The conversation underscores the debate within the scientific community about the reliability and ethical considerations of relying on AI for critical research.

Blue Origin’s Upcoming Crew Launch

A highlight of the episode is the announcement of Blue Origin's next New Shepard launch scheduled for June 21, 2025. The crew comprises private citizens, including a married couple and other non-professional astronauts, marking another milestone in commercial space travel.

• Tarek Malik: "Blue Origin's next New Shepard launch is going to lift off." [20:03]
• Rod Pyle: "If you had a choice... Blue Origin's a real rocket." [22:27]

Rod and Tarek humorously discuss the high costs associated with these private flights, estimating prices between $500,000 to $600,000, and ponder the feasibility for average individuals to afford such experiences.

Astronaut Communication with Families

Responding to listener questions, the hosts elaborate on how astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS) maintain communication with their families. They explain the use of Internet Protocol (IP) phones, email, and social media platforms that facilitate real-time interactions despite the distances.

• Rod Pyle: "Use Internet?" [36:14]
• Tarek Malik: "They have, like, weekly time built in... to call people." [37:57]
• Tarek Malik: "John Grunsfeld calling into car talk..." [38:14]

This segment highlights the technological advancements that enable astronauts to stay connected, enhancing their well-being during extended missions.

Audience Questions and Interactive Segment

The podcast features an engaging Q&A session where listeners pose questions ranging from budget-friendly space camp alternatives to the feasibility of simulated space experiences. Rod and Tarek offer practical advice and share personal anecdotes, fostering a community-driven atmosphere.

• Listener Matt Schultz: "Envious, our Space Camp visits, wants to know how to do something like that on a budget." [29:03]
• Rod Pyle: "You went once in '84... it's been about five years since I've went." [30:08]

Additionally, humorous exchanges about space jokes and personal experiences with spacesuits add a lighthearted touch to the episode.

• Rod Pyle: "Why were Time and Space invited to the family reunion?" [04:25]

Blue Origin vs. SpaceX and Future of NASA Missions

A detailed discussion ensues about the competition between major aerospace companies like Blue Origin and SpaceX, especially in light of recent setbacks with the Starship program. The hosts speculate on NASA's reliance on these private firms to meet upcoming lunar mission deadlines and contemplate the potential roles of other players like New Glenn and Vulcan.

• Tarek Malik: "They changed a lot all at one time. And then it failed and kept failing." [44:00]
• Rod Pyle: "So, Blue Origin's a real rocket... it's simpler." [23:30]
• Rod Pyle: "China will get there... before the end of October 2029." [75:44]

The conversation underscores the intricate interplay between private enterprise, government funding, and international competition in shaping the future of space exploration.

Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

As the episode nears its conclusion, Rod and Tarek reflect on the various topics covered, reiterate the importance of ongoing dialogue in the space community, and encourage listeners to stay engaged through multiple platforms.

• Rod Pyle: "Thank you, audience of hundreds, percentage of hundreds. And thank you out there in podcast land..." [74:23]
• Tarek Malik: "That's right. We got a new season of Fortnite Festival..." [82:36]

They sign off by promoting their presence across various social media channels and inviting listeners to subscribe and support the podcast through the Twit Network.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Rod Pyle: "This looks like a nuclear bomb." [08:18]
• Tarek Malik: "This my favorite swan monster, how are you today, sir?" [02:53]
• Rod Pyle: "Why were Time and Space invited to the family reunion?" [04:25]
• Tarek Malik: "Because it was 'relative'." [04:29]
• Rod Pyle: "Because they always talk about how everything's expanding, but nothing ever comes together." [05:59]
• Tarek Malik: "They have to hit a button... to exercise your muscles." [34:22]
• Rod Pyle: "Why don't you just build new ones?" [61:00]

Conclusion

Episode 166 of "This Week in Space" offers a comprehensive overview of pivotal events and developments in the space industry, enriched by the hosts' insightful analysis and interactive segments. From the challenges faced by SpaceX’s Starship program to the exhilarating advancements in private space travel with Blue Origin, the episode serves as an essential listen for space enthusiasts seeking to stay informed about the rapidly evolving cosmos.