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Space Power Discussions

Space Power Discussions

by School of Advanced Air and Space Studies

Courses Government

Space Barons

This episode of Space Power Discussions explores The Space Barons by Christian Davenport, examining how entrepreneurs like Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos reshaped space access. SAASS students connect commercial competition, innovation, and ambition to national security, highlighting implications for military space strategy, partnerships, and the evolving space domain. 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.

Season 1

Space Power Discussions: Introduction

In this first episode of Space Power Discussions, course faculty Wendy Whitman Cobb, Derrick Frazier, and Paige Reed introduce the students behind the mic as they launch a limited series from the School of Advanced Air and Space Power's (SAASS) Space Power course. Learn about the course's focus, the school’s mission, and how space-focused book discussions shape tomorrow’s strategic thinkers and leaders.

Episode 2: Apollo in the Age of Aquarius

This episode of Space Power Discussions dives into Apollo in the Age of Aquarius by Neil Maher. Students explore how social movements of the 1960s shaped NASA’s Apollo program, revealing the political and cultural forces behind space exploration—and offering lessons for understanding space power in today’s dynamic strategic 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.

Episode 3: Escaping Gravity

In this episode of Space Power Discussions, students analyze Escaping Gravity by Lori Garver, former NASA Deputy Administrator. They examine her push for space policy reform, commercial partnerships, and innovation within NASA—highlighting the book’s relevance to modern space strategy and the evolving relationship between government and the private space sector. 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.

Episode 4: GPS Declassified

This episode of Space Power Discussions explores GPS Declassified by Richard Easton and Eric Frazier. Students trace the origins and development of GPS, revealing its military roots, technological breakthroughs, and global impact. The discussion highlights how GPS became a cornerstone of space power and a vital tool in modern warfare and society. 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.

Episode 5: Meaning and Value of Spaceflight

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.

Episode 6: Politics of Space Security

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.

Episode 7: Privatizing Peace

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.

Episode 8: Red Moon Rising

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.

Episode 9: Reentry

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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