Putting The Ace Back Into Space. Host Matthew Russell's critically acclaimed fun and factual show about all things SPACE. New episode every week with a deep dive into the latest hot space topics. With regular Interviews and discussions with the worlds top space experts. From how rockets fly to how blackholes work and everything in-between.
1 hr 0 min
A little later than planned, here’s our conversation with astrophysicist and author Dr Jillian M. Scudder about her new book The Universe: A Graphic Guide, illustrated by Lily Fossett. We talk dark matter, , Cosmic Noon, and the challenge of explaining the entire universe without losing the wonder. The second October Episode to follow shortly. Image Credits: Ohio State University and Lily Fossett
1 hr 18 min
Matt interviews ESA astronaut John McFall: Paralympian, surgeon and the first astronaut with a Paralympic medal to be cleared for a long-duration space mission. They talk astronaut training, the science and engineering of making spaceflight accessible, and what John’s journey could mean for the future of human spaceflight. Plus, Matt and Leddra talk eclipses, why totality is quite unlike anything else, and their trip to Mallorca to witness the spectacular total solar eclipse of August 2026
1 hr 18 min
In this episode, Matt chat with Rob Coppinger about the his new book on British spaceplanes HOTOL and Skylon. Matt is also joined by Leddra as they share their experiences of the Smithsonian Starstruck Immersive Experience in London and sample some classic astronaut ice cream. https://amzn.eu/d/04jUkGHP https://linktr.ee/interplanetary
The newest 50 of 334 episodes
1 hr 0 min
A little later than planned, here’s our conversation with astrophysicist and author Dr Jillian M. Scudder about her new book The Universe: A Graphic Guide, illustrated by Lily Fossett. We talk dark matter, , Cosmic Noon, and the challenge of explaining the entire universe without losing the wonder. The second October Episode to follow shortly. Image Credits: Ohio State University and Lily Fossett
1 hr 18 min
Matt interviews ESA astronaut John McFall: Paralympian, surgeon and the first astronaut with a Paralympic medal to be cleared for a long-duration space mission. They talk astronaut training, the science and engineering of making spaceflight accessible, and what John’s journey could mean for the future of human spaceflight. Plus, Matt and Leddra talk eclipses, why totality is quite unlike anything else, and their trip to Mallorca to witness the spectacular total solar eclipse of August 2026
1 hr 18 min
In this episode, Matt chat with Rob Coppinger about the his new book on British spaceplanes HOTOL and Skylon. Matt is also joined by Leddra as they share their experiences of the Smithsonian Starstruck Immersive Experience in London and sample some classic astronaut ice cream. https://amzn.eu/d/04jUkGHP https://linktr.ee/interplanetary
1 hr 4 min
In this episode of The Interplanetary Podcast, I'm joined by ay new co-host, singer-songwriter Leddra Chapman, as we tackle one of the most mind-bending ideas in all of science: special relativity. From the speed of light and the nature of causality to time dilation, the ether, and Einstein's revolutionary insight into space and time, we follow the story that changed our understanding of reality. And, as always, I can't resist ending with a slightly outrageous thought experiment of my own.
1 hr 1 min
Former NASA food scientist Ryan Dowdy PhD joins Matt to explore how Artemis program is reshaping the future of human nutrition, from feeding astronauts on the ISS to the Moon and beyond to powering first responders here on Earth.
1 hr 26 min
As Artemis II returns humans from around the Moon, Matt is joined by astrophysicist Emma Chapman who makes the case for exploring the universe without going anywhere by listening to the cosmos through radio waves.
58 min
Matt is joined by journalist and Orwell Prize winner Daniel Lavelle, author of Chasing Aliens: Faith and Conspiracy in the UFO Heartlands. Travelling across America’s UFO hotspots, to explore the strange world of UFO culture. The conversation dives into UAPs, government secrecy, the psychology of belief, and why the idea that we might not be alone in the universe continues to captivate millions. NEW BOOK April 30th - Chasing Aliens by Daniel Lavelle
1 hr 2 min
Matt is joined by Dhara Patel from the National Space Centre to explore Artemis II ; the first crewed mission around the Moon in over 50 years. They discuss Europe’s crucial role in the mission, the historic “firsts” represented by the Artemis crew. Matt also takes a quick look at the remarkable engineering heritage behind Orion’s propulsion system including Shuttle-era engines and chemical propellants whose story stretches back to Apollo.
31 min
In this episode, Matt unpacks what it really means when billionaires start shaping national space policy sometimes more directly than governments themselves. We talk about Jared Isaacman’s new NASA leadership tone, the fight over NASA budgets, and why institutions like NCAR suddenly found themselves accused of being “woke” simply for doing climate science. Along the way, we contrast all of that with the quieter, steadier side of exploration: ESA astronaut Sophie Adenot and her upcoming Crew-12 mission to the ISS and zoom out... way out ...to two of the most astonishing science stories of the year: an interstellar visitor from another solar system, and a runaway black hole leaving a trail of newborn stars behind it. Who is space really for? the richest voices in the room, or the public that funds the future? And why the answer matters not just for space, but for climate, science, democracy, and what kind of civilisation we want to become.
39 min
In episode 323, Matt sits down with filmmaker Mark Craig to talk about his new documentary Apollo 1 the film that revisits the story of Gus Grissom, Ed White, and Roger Chaffee, and the tragedy that reshaped NASA on the road to the Moon. Mark shares what drew him to the project, the moments that surprised him most during research, and why the Apollo 1 story still matters especially for audiences who know Apollo mainly through the later triumphs. APOLLO 1 is a Stopwatch / Haviland Digital 7T1 Films production (c) 2025 Find more about it here. https://www.facebook.com/Apollo1film/
1 hr 28 min
In this episode, Matt opens with forgotten space hero John Bevis’ birthday and a cosmic musing on relativistic dust, black holes, and the unimaginable energies hidden in tiny things. Then astrophysicist and author Ethan Siegel joins the show to discuss his new book, The Grand Cosmic Story, a sweeping journey from the birth of the cosmos to the emergence of life and intelligence. Together they explore the importance of critical thinking, evidence, and scientific honesty in an age when misinformation moves faster than light itself.
1 hr 7 min
In this episode, Matt is joined by acclaimed science writer Brian Clegg to explore the dazzling world of the multiverse. Brian unpacks the science and speculation behind one of physics’ most mind-bending ideas. Together, they discuss why the multiverse has captivated scientists and storytellers alike, the fine line between science and philosophy, and what it all means for our place in the cosmos. Brian Clegg is expanding our minds and what’s possible in his upcoming title The Multiverse: When One Universe Isn’t Enough (23rd October 2025).
1 hr 22 min
Andy Saunders joins Matt to talk about his new book Gemini and Mercury Remastered. We dig into the forgotten missions that paved the way for Apollo, the astonishing images he’s restored from NASA’s archives, and the human dramas behind them from blown hatches to dangerous spacewalks.
54 min
Matt and Jamie dive headfirst into the cosmic foam to explore the Bubble Universe, the mind-bending idea that our universe might be just one of countless “bubbles” in a vast multiverse. From the physics of cosmic inflation and the mysteries of the cosmic microwave background, to the philosophical head-scratchers of infinite realities, they mix hard science, playful analogies, and a touch of pop culture chaos.
1 hr 7 min
Matt welcomes Dr. Saralyn Mark, a world-renowned leader in women's health, space medicine, and innovation in gender-specific design. Dr. Mark is an endocrinologist, geriatrician, and former Senior Policy Advisor at the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. She’s advised organizations such as NASA and the Department of Health and Human Services, and is the founder of iGIANT, a groundbreaking nonprofit accelerating gender-specific innovation across sectors, from health to space exploration. Dr. Mark is also the author of the fascinating book, Stellar Medicine: A Journey Through the Universe of Women’s Health, and today we’ll be exploring how insights from space can transform human health here on Earth, the importance of gender in space exploration, and much more. www.linktr.ee/Interplanetary Hosts: Matt Russell Music: Matt Russell / Iam7
1 hr 1 min
Matt welcomes Roman Chiporukha, co-founder and CEO of SpaceVIP, the concierge service that books everything from zero-g airplane jaunts to orbital stays aboard the ISS. Episode 317 invites you to imagine your next vacation above the Kármán line—and weigh whether the price tag is worth the view. Strap in for a conversation that spans luxury, logistics, and the future of off-world adventure
1 hr 17 min
Episode 316 of the Interplanetary Podcast kicks off with Matt tackling the unsettling news of NASA’s potential science funding cuts—raising concerns about the future of groundbreaking space research—and pondering whether SpaceX’s mighty Starship could become an over-budget behemoth or the key to humankind’s next giant leap. Then, Matt welcomes Steve Matier, CEO of Maritime Launch Services, who sheds light on Canada’s ambitious foray into commercial spaceflight. From building Spaceport Nova Scotia to launching the next wave of satellites, Steve shares how MLS is staking out its place in the rapidly growing space economy. It’s a thought-provoking deep dive into the business, engineering, and dream-chasing behind the new frontier of Canadian aerospace.
1 hr 21 min
After a rant about civil discourse and the need for truth in the space commnuity, Matt Chats with Alan Smale who writes alternate and twisted history, and hard SF. Hot Moon, his alternate-Apollo “technothriller with heart”, was launched back in July 2022, followed by sequel Radiant Sky, in November 2024. The Apollo Rising series will conclude with Burning Night, in late 2025.
1 hr 17 min
Matt chats with Stephen Thrum, a teacher at Windaroo Valley State High School in Logan QLD (Australia), whose career spans from professional model making to interning at NASA. and is a Space Settlement Design Coach—a role in which he has led teams of Australian school students to National and International victories over the past 16 years www.linktr.ee/Interplanetary Hosts: Matt Russell Music: Matt Russell / Iam7 -
1 hr 28 min
Matt chats with Tarek Waked, Founding Partner of Type One Ventures. Type One is an investment firm committed to developing a future civilization that is self-sufficient and interplanetary. The firm invests in space centric innovations. Matt Also www.linktr.ee/Interplanetary Hosts: Matt Russell Music: Matt Russell / Iam7
1 hr 1 min
Matt chats with Yanni Barghouty, CEO and co-founder of Cosmic Shielding Corporation (CSC). Yanni is creating radiation shielding technology to ensure that hardware can operate in space without degrading. www.linktr.ee/Interplanetary Hosts: Matt Russell Music: Matt Russell / Iam7 Twitter @interplanetypod
1 hr 19 min
Matt catches up with the crew from MSI-DFAT a company with over 60 years of combined engineering experience in spacecraft acoustic testing.
1 hr 5 min
Matt catches up with Ethan Siegel again to chat about the James Webb Space Telescope and his new book Infinite Cosmos on National Geographic.
1 hr 37 min
Matt is joined by Michelle Snyder and Jay Snyder to talk about their work with FREA the Foundation for Research of the Enzmann Archive. https://enzmannarchive.org/
49 min
Matt is joined by Pu Jian of Cailabs to talk about Space Laser Communications.
1 hr 2 min
Matt is joined by the esteemed Dr. Gerard Van Belle of the Lowell Observatory to discuss the imminent nova of T Coronae Borealis. Dive into the fascinating details of this stellar event and what it means for our understanding of cosmic phenomena. Don’t miss this stellar conversation as we explore the universe’s explosive wonders!
51 min
Matt chats with Dr. Eiman Jahangir who was recently selected by Web 3 group MoonDAO as there 2nd astronaut to fly on a future Blue Origin New Shepard flight. A crazy story of trying and trying to then win a lottery. www.linktr.ee/Interplanetary Hosts: Matt Russell Music: Matt Russell / Iam7 Twitter @interplanetypod
1 hr 15 min
Matt sits down with acclaimed author and journalist Adam Higginbotham to discuss his latest book, "Challenger: A True Story of Heroism and Disaster on the Edge of Space." This definitive account of the tragic space shuttle Challenger disaster takes us on a journey from the Apollo program through the investigation that followed the catastrophe. Adam shares the meticulous research to reveal the untold story of what really happened and why. We delve into the internal discussions between NASA and Morton Thiokol executives, the heroic efforts of whistleblowers, and the profound impact this disaster had on space exploration and public perception. Adam's masterful storytelling brings to life the human drama, fascinating science, and shocking political infighting that defined this pivotal moment in history. Whether you're a space enthusiast, a history buff, or simply curious about the Challenger disaster, this episode promises to be both enlightening and unforgettable. www.linktr.ee/Interplanetary Hosts: Matt Russell Music: Matt Russell / Iam7 Twitter @interplanetypod
48 min
Matt speaks with The CEO and co-founder of Arkisys, David Barnhart. Arkisys is a company developing future space expansion by engineering 'The Port', a primary center for technology hosting, satellite integration, assembly, and resupply.
1 hr 11 min
Episode 303: Space Oddities with Dr. Harry Cliff - Anomalies and New Frontiers in Physics Matt delves into the mysteries of the cosmos with Dr. Harry Cliff, particle physicist, science communicator, and author of the new book, "Space Oddities." We explore the fascinating anomalies challenging the very foundations of physics, Dr. Cliff shares insights from his work at CERN's Large Hadron Collider and his deep dive into the latest scientific enigmas. #SpaceOddities #ParticlePhysics #Cosmology #ScienceAnomalies #InterplanetaryPodcast
51 min
Matt is Joined by Chris Lintott to talk about Our Accidental Universe his new book out this month and some of the ideas contained within. Chris Lintott is a Professor of Astrophysics at the University of Oxford, where his research ranges from understanding how galaxies form and evolve, to predicting the properties of visiting interstellar asteroids. He is Principal Investigator of the Zooniverse citizen science platform. Lintott is best known as presenter of the BBC ‘Sky at Night’ program. In 2023, he was appointed the 39th Gresham Professor of Astronomy
56 min
Matt is Joined by cultural astronomer and Paleolithic researcher Bernie Taylor In this unusual and captivating episode, join us on a remarkable journey as we delve into the intricacies of ancient timekeeping and its deep connection to the natural world. Taylor takes us back to early 2001, recounting his research with Oregon Fish and Wildlife on salmon migration patterns. He unravels a fascinating story linking lunar cycles to salmon behavior, a knowledge long held by Native Americans but overlooked by modern science. This episode is not just about the biology of salmon; it's a profound exploration of how ancient peoples, from Native Americans to cave artists, synchronized their lives with the rhythms of the sun and moon. Discover the lost art of reading nature's clock and how our disconnection from the night sky since the Industrial Revolution has impacted our understanding of time. Bernie's insights offer a unique perspective on the intricate dance between celestial bodies and life on Earth, reminding us of the wisdom held by our ancestors and the importance of reconnecting with the natural world
59 min
In this landmark 300th episode of the Interplanetary Podcast, Matt is thrilled to welcome renowned space journalist Eric Berger from Ars Technica. Join us for an enlightening journey through the major space exploration milestones of 2023, as we delve into the year's most groundbreaking events and achievements. Eric, with his in-depth expertise, shares insights on the pivotal developments from global space agencies and private companies alike. We cover the stunning progress of SpaceX, including their ambitious Starship tests, and discuss the latest missions that continue to push the boundaries of our cosmic understanding. Not to be missed are the international feats from ESA, JAXA, and other key players, marking 2023 as a year of unparalleled advancements.
50 min
Sustainable Horizons: SSC's Eco-Friendly Space Adventures Ever wondered about the environmental impact of shooting for the moon? This week's episode Matt is joined by Henrik Lampa, SSC's Head of Sustainability. Henrik's on a mission to turn space exploration green! We'll dive into how the Swedish Space Corporation is shaking things up in the cosmos by encouraging more eco-friendly rockets and sustainable space missions. Grab your space helmets and join us for our discussion about making the galaxy greener. This episode is for anyone who loves space, cares about the planet. Blast off with us into a more sustainable space future! 🚀🌍💫
40 min
In this episode of the Interplanetary Podcast, we venture beyond the earthly realm with Andrew Cohen, one of the creative maestros behind the hit BBC series 'The Planets'. Our conversation orbits around the release of The Folio Society edition of the companion book to the series, delving into the awe-inspiring narratives and stunning visual storytelling that brings the celestial ballet to life. Cohen shares a glimpse into the collaborative odyssey of translating cosmic wonders to the screen, the intertwining dance of science and art, and the quest for unveiling the mysteries of our vast cosmic neighborhood. The Folio Society edition of The Planets by Professor Brian Cox and Andrew Cohen, introduced by David A. Rothery, is exclusively available from foliosociety.com.
55 min
Join hosts Jamie and Matt as they delve deep into the cosmos, exploring the latest advancements and discoveries in space exploration.Episode 297, where we delve into the mesmerizing world of Lunar exploration and colonization! In this episode, we navigate through the Moon’s untapped potential, its allure for the human race, and the future prospects it holds for interplanetary living.
53 min
Join Matt and Jamie on this enlightening episode of the 'Interplanetary Podcast' as they delve into one of the universe's most enigmatic phenomena: dark energy. What is this mysterious force that's driving the accelerated expansion of our universe? We'll explore the latest theories, from quintessence to black holes, and discuss the groundbreaking discoveries that have shaped our understanding. Plus, we'll ponder the philosophical implications of a universe dominated by an unseen force. Whether you're a seasoned space enthusiast or just curious about the cosmos, this episode promises to expand your horizons. Tune in and let's journey through the dark side of the universe together!
42 min
Hosts: Jamie Franklin and Matt Russell Description: Join hosts Matt and Jamie as they dive into the enigmatic world of Dark Matter. This episode explores the history, theories, and ongoing research surrounding this elusive substance that makes up 26.8% of our universe. From Fritz Zwicky's initial observations to the latest space missions hunting for Dark Matter, we'll delve into the science and the scientists behind the quest to understand the unseen. We'll also look at Dark Matter's influence on popular culture and even share some cosmic poetry. Whether you're an astronomy enthusiast, a science fiction fan, or just curious about the cosmos, this episode is sure to intrigue and inspire. Tune in and let's journey together into the dark! Music: Matt Russell / Iam7 Cover Image: Midjourney Additional Narration: George Russell Twitter @interplanetypod
30 min
Join your hosts Matt and Jamie in this mini episode of the Interplanetary Podcast, as we voyage to the outer reaches of our solar system and beyond to uncover the enigmas of the Oort Cloud! This icy cloud of asteroids and comets, teetering on the edge of interstellar space, holds the answers to many questions about our solar system's formation and its cosmic interactions. In this episode, we'll be exploring the fascinating history of the Oort Cloud, discussing its namesake - Dutch astronomer Jan Oort, and revealing why this region of space is so vital for understanding our place in the galaxy. From explaining how the Oort Cloud could potentially harbor long-period comets, to exploring the complex gravitational influences of the Milky Way on this distant cloud, Matt and Jamie will guide you through an interstellar journey that's sure to captivate every space enthusiast. We'll also delve into a groundbreaking study, discussing the surprising link between the Oort Cloud, high-energy comets, and the formation of the Earth's continental crust. Plus, we'll ponder the broader implications of this research, and how it is shaping our view of Earth's interactions with cosmic forces. So buckle up for an astronomical adventure, as we journey through the mysteries and marvels of the Oort Cloud, and remember, the sky is not the limit! Hosts: Jamie Franklin and Matt Russell Music: Matt Russell / Iam7 Cover Image: Midjourney Additional Narration: George Russell Twitter @interplanetypod
48 min
In this week's episode of the Interplanetary Podcast, host Matthew Russell sits down with Jaime Green, a renowned science writer, essayist, and series editor of The Best American Science and Nature Writing. Jaime discusses her latest book, "The Possibility of Life," which dives into the captivating history of our understanding of extraterrestrial life and its potential locations in the cosmos.
42 min
George joins Matt to chat about Space Exploration. www.linktr.ee/Interplanetary and become a Patron or even a producer of the show. Hosts: George and Matt Russell Music: Matt Russell / Iam7 Cover Image: Midjourney Additional Narration: Polly Twitter @interplanetypod
47 min
Matt is joined by Olivier Witasse the @esa Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer (#JUICE) mission project scientist. www.linktr.ee/Interplanetary Hosts: Matt Russell Music: Matt Russell / Iam7 Cover Image: Mark McCaughrean Additional Narration: Brian Blessed Twitter @interplanetypod
46 min
Jamie Joins Matt once again to talk all about ESA's Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer (JUICE) www.linktr.ee/Interplanetary Hosts: Jamie Franklin and Matt Russell Music: Matt Russell / Iam7 Cover Image: Midjourney Additional Narration: George Russell Twitter @interplanetypod
38 min
Dr Bob joins Matt on a quick and special episode to chat with Dr Kevin Fong about his latest project 16 Sunsets. www.linktr.ee/Interplanetary Hosts: Dr Bob Hodges and Matt Russell Music: Matt Russell / Iam7 Cover Image: Kevin Fong Additional Narration: Polly Twitter @interplanetypod
55 min
Jamie Joins Matt once again to talk all about Mars. www.linktr.ee/Interplanetary Hosts: Jamie Franklin and Matt Russell Music: Matt Russell / Iam7 Cover Image: Midjourney Additional Narration: George Russell Twitter @interplanetypod
39 min
Jamie Joins Matt once again to talk all about Venus. www.Patreon.com/Interplanetary and become a Patron or even a producer of the show. www.linktr.ee/Interplanetary Hosts: Jamie Franklin and Matt Russell Music: Matt Russell / Iam7 Cover Image: Midjourney Additional Narration: Polly Twitter @interplanetypod
35 min
George joins Matt to chat about Space Exploration. www.Patreon.com/Interplanetary and become a Patron or even a producer of the show. www.linktr.ee/Interplanetary Hosts: George and Matt Russell Music: Matt Russell / Iam7 Cover Image: Midjourney Additional Narration: Polly Twitter @interplanetypod
35 min
Matt flies solo this week to bring a timely interview with Ibrahim Al Qasim of the UAE Space Agency. If you enjoy the show please go over to www.linktr.ee/Interplanetary and become a member on Patreon. Host: Matt Russell Music: Matt Russell
1 hr 23 min
Linn also Interviews fellow astronomer James Miley and tells Matt about her trip to ESO's Telescope facility in the Atacama Desert the largest optical-infrared observatory in the Southern Hemisphere.
1 hr 36 min
Matt is joined by Dr. Rebecca Smethurst a British astrophysicist, author, and YouTuber. Linn and Matt Chat about DART and Blackhoples and Birmingham. If you enjoy the show please go over to www.linktr.ee/Interplanetary and become a member on Patreon. Hosts: Linn Boldt-Christmas and Matt Russell Music: Matt Russell / Iam7 Cover Image: ESA/ESA/NASA
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