In this episode we discuss the news around NASA’s SpaceX Crew-2 mission, the second rotational flight to the ISS which launched in late April 2021. We also feature an interview with European Space Agency's astronaut, Thomas Pesquet, where we are fortunate to have a pre-launch press conference Q&A with him and other Crew-2 astronauts. This episode will also discuss ESA’s quest to find new astronauts and open up space to people with disabilities.

0:00 Intro to Season 2 Episode 1
0:45 European Space Agency (ESA) & SpaceX News Updates
4:22 Shane Kimbrough & Thomas Pesquet Press Conference Questions Answered
6:37 Press Conference Bonus Question #1 for Thomas Pesquet
10:25 Bonus Question #2 for Thomas Pesquet
12:35 Bonus Question #3 for Thomas Pesquet
16:34 Closing Thoughts on ESA and the SpaceX Crew-2

Topics covered in this episode:

ESA PARASTRONAUT FEASIBILITY PROJECT
In a first for ESA and human spaceflight worldwide, ESA is looking for individual(s) who are psychologically, cognitively, technically and professionally qualified to be an astronaut, but have a physical disability that would normally prevent them from being selected due to the requirements imposed by the use of current space hardware. For more information visit https://www.esa.int/About_Us/Careers_at_ESA/ESA_Astronaut_Selection/Parastronaut_feasibility_project

NASA SPACEX CREW-2 MISSION
NASA and its international partners have assigned crew members for Crew-2, which will be the second operational SpaceX Crew Dragon flight to the International Space Station as part of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program.

NASA astronauts Shane Kimbrough and Megan McArthur will serve as spacecraft commander and pilot, respectively, for the mission. JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) astronaut Akihiko Hoshide and ESA (European Space Agency) astronaut Thomas Pesquet will join as mission specialists.

Crew-2 is targeted to launch in spring 2021. The Crew-2 astronauts will remain aboard the space station for approximately six months as expedition crew members, along with three crewmates who will launch via a Russian Soyuz spacecraft. The increase of the full space station crew complement to seven members – over the previous six – will allow NASA to effectively double the amount of science that can be conducted in space. For more information visit https://www.nasa.gov/commercialcrew

Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!
Start for FREE

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.