Podcast Summary: CyberWire Daily – "Science Fiction Meets Reality with Ronald D. Moore" [T-Minus Deep Space]

Release Date: November 29, 2024

In the latest episode of CyberWire Daily, hosted by Maria Varmazes of N2K Networks, listeners are treated to an insightful conversation with acclaimed science fiction writer and producer, Ron D. Moore. Known for his work on iconic series such as Star Trek: The Next Generation, Deep Space Nine, Battlestar Galactica, Outlander, and the Apple TV+ series For All Mankind, Moore delves deep into the symbiotic relationship between science fiction and real-world space advancements.

Introduction to Ronald D. Moore and His Influence

Maria Varmazes opens the discussion by sharing her personal admiration for Moore's work and the profound impact his storytelling has had on professionals within the space industry.

Maria Varmazes [01:40]: "Your work is the reason why I'm working in the field I'm working in today."

Moore reflects on his childhood inspirations, notably witnessing Neil Armstrong's moon landing, which ignited his passion for space and storytelling.

Ron D. Moore [04:06]: "I was a child of Apollo... Star Trek literally changed my life. It gave me an ethos, it gave me a political philosophy, it gave me a sense of what I wanted the future to be."

Exploring For All Mankind: An Alternate Space History

The conversation transitions to Moore’s current project, For All Mankind, an Apple TV+ series that reimagines the space race. Moore explains the show's premise as an alternate history where the Soviet Union succeeds in landing on the moon before the United States, sparking an intensified and perpetual space program.

Ron D. Moore [06:07]: "If the United States had lost the race to the moon, I thought it would have freaked people out and they would have doubled down on the space program in such a big way."

Moore emphasizes the show's foundation on real technological advancements and NASA's actual plans, ensuring authenticity by collaborating with technical consultants like Garrett Reisman, a former astronaut and Battlestar Galactica fan.

The Feedback Loop Between Science Fiction and Reality

Moore discusses the reciprocal relationship between science fiction and real-world space endeavors, highlighting how fictional narratives inspire actual technological and exploratory advancements.

Ron D. Moore [05:38]: "It's a conversation of past and present and a feedback loop of people inside and outside the space program..."

He remarks on the rekindled public interest in space, likening current reusable rocket advancements to the science fiction visuals he once thought were purely CGI.

Ron D. Moore [16:11]: "Reusable spacecraft, which was supposed to be the space shuttle... what's happening now... is moving much closer to that goal."

National Risk Tolerance and the Future of Space Exploration

When discussing national risk tolerance, Moore addresses the challenges NASA faces post-Apollo, including increased risk aversion following tragedies like the Apollo 1 fire.

Ron D. Moore [10:29]: "The Apollo 1 fire had really made NASA risk averse... we have elevated the concept of safety to such a height..."

He contemplates whether the modern spirit of bravery and adventure necessary for expansive space missions still exists, drawing parallels to the inspiring narratives he crafts in his shows.

Economic Elements in For All Mankind: Helium-3 and Beyond

Moore elaborates on the economic underpinnings within For All Mankind, particularly the significance of Helium-3 mining on the moon as a potential game-changer for Earth's energy economy.

Ron D. Moore [17:31]: "Helium 3 would be a big source for fusion. That could be the new gold rush."

He acknowledges the complexities and potential societal impacts, such as job displacement in traditional energy sectors, reflecting the show's nuanced portrayal of technological advancements.

Crafting Optimistic Narratives in Science Fiction

Contrasting the prevalent dystopian themes in science fiction, Moore champions optimism, drawing inspiration from Star Trek’s hopeful vision of the future.

Ron D. Moore [24:34]: "Star Trek is kind of the only one that says... there is a better future."

This optimistic stance informs his storytelling approach, aiming to inspire viewers and foster a positive outlook on humanity’s future in space.

Audience Engagement: Q&A Highlights

The episode features an engaging Q&A session with the audience, where Moore addresses various topics:

1. Authenticity in Portraying NASA and Aerospace Politics

   Ron D. Moore [39:17]: "We always had the scripts vetted by people who knew what the way these things really worked was. We wanted to have a sense of authenticity."

2. Economics of Television Production in Science Fiction

   Discussing the financial challenges within the TV industry, Moore underscores the enduring demand for entertainment despite shifting business models.

3. Positive Role of Science Fiction in Policymaking

   Moore acknowledges the potential of science fiction to influence positive policy directives, although he admits specific examples are limited.

4. Integration of Religion and Spirituality in Space Exploration

   Moore envisions a future where spiritual and religious practices continue to thrive in space, mirroring humanity’s enduring quest for meaning.

   Ron D. Moore [42:33]: "We will always be wrestling with [the big questions]. There will be churches on the moon, and shrines, and things that we will take with us."

Concluding Thoughts and Future Projects

As the discussion wraps up, Moore shares his excitement about his upcoming project—a television adaptation of the video game God of War for Amazon, marking his continued contribution to the science fiction genre.

Ron D. Moore [28:58]: "I just started a new deal at Sony Television... God of War is in development."

He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a vision for a better future, advocating for incremental progress towards ambitious space exploration goals.

Closing Remarks

Maria Varmazes concludes the episode by highlighting the impactful dialogue between science fiction and technological advancement, reinforcing the episode's theme of a hopeful and intertwined future.

Key Takeaways:

• Symbiotic Relationship: Science fiction both inspires and is inspired by real-world space exploration and technological advancements.

• Authenticity Matters: Accurate portrayal of space programs and technologies enhances the believability and impact of science fiction narratives.

• Optimism as a Narrative Tool: Crafting hopeful and positive futures can inspire real-world progress and societal ambition.

• Economic and Policy Implications: Science fiction can explore and influence economic structures and policy decisions related to space exploration and technology.

Notable Quotes:

• Ron D. Moore [04:06]: "Star Trek literally changed my life. It gave me an ethos, it gave me a political philosophy, it gave me a sense of what I wanted the future to be."

• Ron D. Moore [10:29]: "We've elevated the concept of safety to such a height that it's almost like, can we actually do anything with these kinds of requirements to do something that is inherently risky..."

• Ron D. Moore [24:34]: "Star Trek is kind of the only one that says... there is a better future."

This episode of CyberWire Daily masterfully bridges the realms of science fiction and real-world space exploration, offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of how visionary storytelling can shape and reflect humanity’s aspirations beyond Earth.