Episodes

  • Episode 12: War in Space
    May 16 2025

    In this episode of Space Power Discussions, students examine War in Space by Bleddyn Bowen. The book challenges myths about space conflict, emphasizing terrestrial politics and strategy. The discussion unpacks Bowen’s realist perspective, offering critical insights into how space warfare is shaped by Earth-bound power struggles, doctrine, and strategic competition.

    All views expressed in this series are the speaker's own and are not necessarily reflective of the Department of Defense, the US government, any affiliated organizations, or the countries of the international students participating.

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    31 mins
  • Episode 11: Test Gods
    May 16 2025

    In this episode of Space Power Discussions, students dive into Test Gods by Nicholas Schmidle, which chronicles the daring world of test pilots and Virgin Galactic’s quest for spaceflight. The discussion explores risk, innovation, and the human element behind commercial space ventures—and what it means for the future of space power.

    All views expressed in this series are the speaker's own and are not necessarily reflective of the Department of Defense, the US government, any affiliated organizations, or the countries of the international students participating.

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    32 mins
  • Episode 10: Space Barons
    May 16 2025

    In this episode of Space Power Discussions, students explore The Space Barons by Christian Davenport. The book profiles visionaries like Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos, tracing their rise in the commercial space sector. The discussion examines how private enterprise is reshaping space power, policy, and the future of space exploration and security.

    All views expressed in this series are the speaker's own and are not necessarily reflective of the Department of Defense, the US government, any affiliated organizations, or the countries of the international students participating.

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    27 mins
  • Episode 9: Reentry
    May 16 2025

    In this episode of Space Power Discussions, students discuss Reentry by Eric Berger, which chronicles SpaceX’s history after its first successful launch. The conversation explores the company’s bold vision, risk-taking culture, and impact on space policy and strategy. Berger’s account offers key insights into the commercialization of space and the evolution of space power.

    All views expressed in this series are the speaker's own and are not necessarily reflective of the Department of Defense, the US government, any affiliated organizations, or the countries of the international students participating.

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    27 mins
  • Episode 8: Red Moon Rising
    May 16 2025

    In this episode of Space Power Discussions, students analyze Red Moon Rising by Matthew Brzezinski. The book chronicles the early space race, revealing the geopolitical tension, ambition, and innovation behind Sputnik. The discussion highlights how Cold War dynamics shaped space competition—and what lessons they offer for today’s strategic space environment.

    All views expressed in this series are the speaker's own and are not necessarily reflective of the Department of Defense, the US government, any affiliated organizations, or the countries of the international students participating.

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    27 mins
  • Episode 7: Privatizing Peace
    May 16 2025

    This episode of Space Power Discussions explores Privatizing Peace by Wendy Whitman Cobb. Students discuss how the privatization of military functions influences modern conflict and security, with a focus on space. The conversation examines the risks and opportunities of commercial involvement in space operations and its impact on strategic stability.

    All views expressed in this series are the speaker's own and are not necessarily reflective of the Department of Defense, the US government, any affiliated organizations, or the countries of the international students participating.

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    29 mins
  • Episode 6: Politics of Space Security
    May 16 2025

    In this episode of Space Power Discussions, students explore The Politics of Space Security by James Clay Moltz. The conversation unpacks the evolution of international space policy, military competition, and arms control. Listeners gain insight into the geopolitical forces shaping space security and the strategic implications for today’s space power landscape.

    All views expressed in this series are the speaker's own and are not necessarily reflective of the Department of Defense, the US government, any affiliated organizations, or the countries of the international students participating.

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    33 mins
  • Episode 5: Meaning and Value of Spaceflight
    May 16 2025

    This episode of Space Power Discussions focuses on The Meaning and Value of Spaceflight by William Sims Bainbridge. Students explore Bainbridge’s sociological perspective on space exploration, examining its spiritual, cultural, and ideological significance. The discussion connects these themes to how public perception and societal values shape the trajectory of space power.

    All views expressed in this series are the speaker's own and are not necessarily reflective of the Department of Defense, the US government, any affiliated organizations, or the countries of the international students participating.

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    27 mins