Monday Apr 14, 2025

IMAX in Space: Celebrating 40 Years, NASA Budget Cuts

Astronomy Daily | Space News: S04E89

In this episode of Astronomy Daily, host Steve Dunkley takes you on a fascinating journey through the latest developments in space exploration and astronomy. From the nostalgic reminiscence of the first IMAX film shot in space to the potential cuts in NASA's funding, this episode is filled with stories that will intrigue both space enthusiasts and casual listeners alike.

Highlights:

- Celebrating 40 Years of IMAX in Space: Join us as we revisit the groundbreaking IMAX film "The Dream Is Alive," which was shot aboard the space shuttle. Steve shares insights from astronaut Marcia Ivins and cinematographer James Nahouse, who reveal behind-the-scenes stories about this iconic film and its impact on public engagement with space exploration.

- NASA's Proposed Budget Cuts: Explore the concerning news surrounding the Trump administration's potential budget cuts to NASA, which could slash funding for vital science programs by nearly half. We discuss the implications of these cuts on ongoing and future missions, including the fate of the Nancy Chris Roman Space Telescope and the Voyager missions.

- Innovative Lunar Construction Materials: Discover the exciting research from the University of Texas at Dallas, which proposes using self-healing concrete, or bioconcrete, for building structures on the Moon. This innovative material, made with bacteria and lunar regolith, could revolutionize lunar habitats and support long-term human presence on the Moon and Mars.

- NASA and Roscosmos Extend Seat Barter Agreement: Learn about the renewed collaboration between NASA and Roscosmos, allowing for integrated crews on the International Space Station through 2027. This agreement ensures that astronauts from both agencies can work together, promoting international cooperation in space exploration.

For more cosmic updates, visit our website at astronomydaily.io (http://www.astronomydaily.io/) . Join our community on social media by searching for #AstroDailyPod on Facebook, X, YouTubeMusic, TikTok, and our new Instagram account! Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Thank you for tuning in. This is Steve signing off. Until next time, keep looking up and stay curious about the wonders of our universe.

00:00 - Welcome to Astronomy Daily

01:05 - 40 Years of IMAX in Space

10:30 - Proposed NASA budget cuts

17:00 - Self-healing concrete for lunar construction

22:15 - NASA and Roscosmos seat barter agreement

✍️ Episode References

IMAX in Space

[National Air and Space Museum]( https://airandspace.si.edu/ (https://airandspace.si.edu/) )

NASA Budget Cuts

[Ars Technica]( https://arstechnica.com/ (https://arstechnica.com/) )

Bioconcrete Research