I want to understand how the space sector works in multiple nations, but I am met with limitations because I am a foreign national. I see my friends who are also citizens also experience limitations, caused by defense department funding sources and government groups. How can the space sector truly become ethical and accessible if still today students and early careers are having to navigate barriers to obtain internships and jobs? I get to jump into the world of space sustainability and ethics by chatting with space explorer and sustainability and climate change PhD student Sahba El Shawa.

Sahba holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in mechanical engineering and a masters of science in space studies. She is a strong advocate for space equality and accessibility, in particular the decoupling of defense from space, which will help remove barriers that limit the participation of national and international students in the space sector. We dive into the work Sahba has completed during her PhD in space sustainability, and how she founded the Jordan Space Research Initiative to help Jordanians gain access to resources needed to join the space sector, and to provide opportunities for underrepresented communities  and raise awareness for Palestine’s in the space community.

If you would like to learn more about the show you can email us at thediariesofspaceexplorers@gmail.com.

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Host and creator: Gavin Tolometti

Music Credit: https://www.purple-planet.com