How Do Satellites Work? | Neil deGrasse Tyson & Guests Explain...

Summary

The podcast episode titled "How Do Satellites Work?" features interviews with several experts in the space industry, including representatives from Raytheon Intelligence in Space and MIT Small Satellite Center. The discussions cover a range of topics related to satellites, including their propulsion systems, the cost of launching them into orbit, and the use of lasers for communication. The importance of cybersecurity measures is also emphasized, as well as the need for a broader view of hardware, software, and systems to build a system of systems. The episode also touches on the challenges of dealing with temperature changes in space and the importance of keeping batteries happy.

One guest speaker, Dr. Carrie Nugent, discusses her work on characterizing exoplanets using tools on board the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). She explains that the technology needed to effectively study Earth-like planets requires blocking out starlight to see around it, which is known as the firefly in the searchlight problem. Dr. Nugent also shares her vision for two advancements in satellite technology: space Wi-Fi and satellite filling stations.

Overall, the podcast episode provides insights into the technical and practical considerations involved in designing and launching satellites, as well as the business of space and the importance of obtaining data from space. The interviews highlight the constant evolution of technology and the need to keep up with current threats to deter and defend.