Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science Podcast

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

The Planetary Society
Planetary Radio brings you the human adventure across our Solar System and beyond. We visit each week with the scientists, engineers, leaders, advocates, and astronauts who are taking us across the final frontier. Regular features raise your space IQ while they put a smile on your face. Join host Sarah Al-Ahmed and Planetary Society colleagues including Bill Nye the Science Guy and Bruce Betts as they dive deep into space science and exploration. The monthly Space Policy Edition takes you inside the DC beltway where the future of the US space program hangs in the balance. Visit planetary.org/radio for an episode guide and much more.
Space Policy Edition: What does NASA need with an economist?
Former NASA Chief Economist Akhil Rao explains why NASA needs economic expertise to navigate the complex—and often misunderstood—market forces that will determine the success or failure of its private partnerships.
Jun 6
1 hr 14 min
The dark age of NASA science? Analyzing the FY 2026 budget proposal
The Fiscal Year 2026 congressional budget justification for NASA could mark the beginning of a dark age for NASA science. We examine what’s at stake and how you can help advocate for NASA’s future.
Jun 4
59 min
Volcanic worlds across the Solar System
Explore volcanoes across the solar system, from lava flows on Venus to icy eruptions on Enceladus and methane activity on Eris, with highlights from past Planetary Radio interviews. Plus, Bruce Betts shares new Juno insights from Jupiter’s moon Io.
May 28
56 min
Space science under fire: Your questions answered
We tackle the biggest questions about NASA's value, space exploration, and why public investment matters. Join us for a Q&A with Casey Dreier and Ambre Trujillo, and a space policy update with Jack Kiraly.
May 21
59 min
Kosmos 482: The Soviet-era Venus probe that fell to Earth
A Soviet-era Venus probe, Kosmos 482, spent 53 years in Earth's orbit before crashing back to the planet. Seismologist Ben Fernando explains its history, reentry, and how seismic technology could help track space debris.
May 14
52 min
TOI-270 d: Unveiling the secrets of a sub-Neptune
Explore the atmosphere of TOI-270 d with planetary geochemist Chris Glein as he unravels the secrets of this distant sub-Neptune using JWST data and geochemical modeling.
May 7
59 min
Space Policy Edition: How NASA remembers—and forgets
No one person knows how to build a spaceship. What happens to NASA’s collective knowledge when thousands of employees lose their jobs?
May 2
1 hr 18 min
From backyard telescopes to global reach: AstroKobi and the power of short-form space videos
AstroKobi joins Sarah Al-Ahmed to explore the rise of a new generation of space communicators. Plus, updates on NASA’s science budget and the confirmation process for the next NASA administrator.
Apr 30
59 min
Celebrating 45 years of The Planetary Society at the Cosmic Shores Gala
Join us aboard the RMS Queen Mary as we celebrate 45 years of The Planetary Society at our Cosmic Shores Gala, featuring reflections from Bill Nye, Bethany Ehlmann, Jennifer Vaughn, and more.
Apr 23
59 min
Passback budget breakdown: A 47% cut to NASA science
NASA's science programs face a proposed 47%budget cut. We break down what's at risk and how you can take action to help protect space exploration.
Apr 16
59 min
Load more