StarTalk Radio Episode Summary

Episode Title: Risk is Our Business with William Shatner & Scott Kelly
Release Date: March 18, 2025
Host: Neil deGrasse Tyson
Guests:

• William Shatner: Renowned actor best known for his role as Captain Kirk in Star Trek.
• Scott Kelly: NASA astronaut with extensive spaceflight experience, including a record-breaking 340-day mission aboard the International Space Station.

1. Setting the Stage: Voyage to Antarctica ([01:56])

The episode kicks off with William Shatner recounting his recent expedition to Antarctica aboard a cruise ship alongside NASA astronaut Scott Kelly. Shatner describes the journey as a perfect setting for a StarTalk episode, emphasizing the parallels between polar exploration and space exploration.

William Shatner ([01:56]): "This voyage, having just returned from Antarctica... risk is our business."

2. Understanding the Drake Passage ([04:04])

Scott Kelly provides a scientific overview of the Drake Passage, explaining its significance as a challenging part of the Southern Ocean where the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans converge. He details the extreme weather conditions, including towering swells that make the passage notoriously difficult to navigate.

Scott Kelly ([04:04]): "The Drake Passage is where the Pacific and the Atlantic Oceans meet... swells can get as high as 50ft."

3. Exploration: Humanity’s Innate Drive ([06:35])

The conversation delves into the essence of exploration. Shatner and Kelly discuss how exploration is embedded in human DNA, likening modern explorers to historical figures like Ernest Shackleton. Jasmine Wilson shares a personal anecdote about interacting with penguins in Antarctica, highlighting non-human forms of curiosity and exploration.

Jasmine Wilson ([07:49]): "We're in this arid land that's rife with life, but you can't see too much of it... the penguins are a big part of it, and it's exploration."

4. Spacecraft Design and Safety ([13:04])

Scott Kelly contrasts the Space Shuttle with the Russian Soyuz spacecraft, emphasizing the Shuttle’s versatility and the Soyuz’s reliability. They discuss the safety records of both vehicles, with Kelly highlighting the complexities and inherent risks involved in space travel.

Scott Kelly ([14:00]): "The Space Shuttle is one of the most diverse spacecraft we've ever built... it built an International Space Station."

5. Physiological Impacts of Space Travel ([24:10])

A significant portion of the discussion focuses on the physiological changes experienced by astronauts during long-duration space missions. Scott Kelly reveals that his time in space caused his heart to shrink by 25% and affected his telomeres, which are indicators of biological aging.

Scott Kelly ([27:10]): "After spending a year in space... my heart is smaller than it was when I went in there."

6. Risk Assessment in Exploration ([29:52])

The trio explores the concept of risk in exploration. Kelly rates his acceptable risk threshold for space missions at around 10%, reflecting a balance between ambition and safety. Shatner challenges the notion by questioning whether reducing risks diminishes the essence of exploration.

William Shatner ([32:31]): "If you know that much about where you're going and it can be done in the safety and comfort of a luxury ship, then is it really exploration if the risks have been reduced?"

7. Historical Perspectives and Modern Parallels ([36:37])

The conversation draws parallels between early explorers like those who traversed to the New World and modern astronauts heading to Mars. They discuss the enduring human spirit of exploration despite inherent dangers, highlighting how each generation builds upon the sacrifices and discoveries of the previous.

William Shatner ([36:37]): "Is that really exploration if the risks have been reduced?"

8. Personal Reflections and Anecdotes ([48:43])

In a lighter moment, Shatner shares a humorous experiment about resisting an itch while in a metaphorical 'spacesuit,' emphasizing the mental fortitude required in extreme situations. This segment adds a personal touch, showcasing the guests' ability to blend humor with serious topics.

William Shatner ([51:14]): "I have found. I did the experiment, at least on myself. Right."

9. Science vs. Pop Culture ([53:05])

Scott Kelly addresses a Twitter debate sparked by a Top Gun movie scene, where he clarifies the realistic outcomes of high-speed ejection from aircraft based on his firsthand experience. This exchange underscores the importance of scientific accuracy in popular media.

Scott Kelly ([53:05]): "At Mach 10.5... your body would splatter like a chainmail glove swatting a worm."

10. Final Thoughts: The Spirit of Exploration ([58:17])

As the episode wraps up, William Shatner shares heartfelt praise for Scott Kelly and Jasmine Wilson, highlighting their curiosity and enthusiasm as infectious traits that inspire others. The discussion reinforces the central theme that embracing risk is integral to the spirit of exploration.

William Shatner ([58:17]): "Your enthusiasm, your boyish curiosity... it is contagious."

Key Takeaways:

• Risk and Exploration: Both historical and modern explorers, including astronauts, embrace significant risks to push the boundaries of human achievement.
• Physiological Challenges: Extended space missions have profound effects on the human body, offering valuable insights but also posing risks.
• Science in Pop Culture: Accurate scientific representation is crucial in media portrayals to inspire and educate the public effectively.
• Human Spirit: The innate drive to explore, despite dangers, is a defining characteristic of humanity, continuously shaping our journey into the unknown.

Notable Quotes:

• Scott Kelly ([27:10]): "After spending a year in space... my heart is smaller than it was when I went in there."
• William Shatner ([32:31]): "If you know that much about where you're going and it can be done in the safety and comfort of a luxury ship, then is it really exploration if the risks have been reduced?"
• William Shatner ([58:17]): "Your enthusiasm, your boyish curiosity... it is contagious."

This episode of StarTalk Radio masterfully intertwines personal experiences with scientific discourse, offering listeners a comprehensive exploration of risk, physiology, and the relentless human pursuit of discovery. Whether you're a fan of space exploration, pop culture, or simply intrigued by the complexities of venturing into the unknown, this episode provides valuable insights and engaging conversations that resonate long after the final word.