On this episode we speak with NASA Astronaut Don Pettit about his Astronaut Origin Story and the 'maker mentality'. Don is preparing for Expedition 71/72 which will launch to the International Space Station aboard a Soyux (MS-26) from Baikonur Cosmodrome later this year. We were grateful for the NASA teams for helping us set up time with Don to chat all-things space. Welcome our first Astronaut to the podcast!

Don Pettit's origin story encapsulates that of a Maker - always wondering if things can be done better and making things to adjust a long the way. From his early days in junkyards, his time as a Rookie Astronaut, and helping create the first off-world patented item (the Zero-G cup), Don has had an amazing career. We discuss what's to come on Expedition 71/72, how "the crew" is the most important aspect of human space travel, and what the future could hold for us in space.

Thank you to Don, Garrett, and the NASA teams for helping us make this happen!

Topics from the episode:

space, astronaut, spacecraft, mission, air conditioning, nasa, fly, invention, love, space station, solar panels, crew, space station, engineering, human beings

We'd love to know your thoughts and questions! 

Email us at todayinspacepodcast@gmail.com

SOURCES:

https://x.com/astro_Pettit
https://www.nasa.gov/people/donald-r-pettit/
https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/don-pettit-nasas-oldest-active-astronaut-is-going-back-to-space/
https://www.instagram.com/astro_pettit/

The 'Topics from the episode' above and the timestamps below for the episode were generated using AI (otter.ai) by processing the audio file.

Timestamps:
00:00 Astronaut origin stories and space exploration with Don Pettit.
04:42 Becoming an astronaut, emphasizing math, science, engineering skills.
09:25 Engineering, space travel, and the importance of teamwork.
13:49 Space station training, upgrades, and longevity.
21:03 Space training, effects of zero gravity, and return to Earth.
26:48 Adapting to extreme environments, invention of a cup for drinking in space
31:19 Teamwork and innovation in space exploration.

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Here's to building a fantastic future - and continued progress in Space (and humanity)!

Spread Love, Spread Science 
Alex G. Orphanos

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