An Unknown Future Where We Can Thrive w/ Jan Wörner #49

In This Episode

Join us as David Goldsmith welcomes Jan Werner, the former Director General of the European Space Agency and current President of the National Academy of Science and Engineering. In this enlightening conversation, Jan shares profound insights on the evolution of space exploration and the necessity of redefining our approach to the cosmos.

Jan emphasizes the importance of asking "why" in space endeavors, advocating for a shift from merely following political directives to understanding the true purpose behind our missions. He recounts his journey from civil engineering to leading significant space initiatives, highlighting the need for collaboration across nations and industries.

The discussion takes an unexpected turn as Jan reflects on the challenges of space debris and the necessity for ethical responsibility in space activities. He proposes innovative solutions for sustainable practices in space, including in-orbit recycling and debris removal strategies, underscoring their implications for future generations.

Ultimately, this episode connects Jan's insights to broader societal implications, urging listeners to consider how our actions today can shape a thriving future in both space and on Earth.

Episode Outlines

• Introduction to Jan Werner and his background in civil engineering and aerospace.
• The significance of asking "why" in space exploration.
• Jan's journey from academia to leadership in aerospace.
• The role of politics in shaping institutional space agendas.
• Challenges faced by space agencies in balancing innovation with regulation.
• The impact of space exploration on Earth’s sustainable development goals.
• Discussion on space debris and its implications for future missions.
• Innovative solutions for debris removal and in-orbit servicing.
• The concept of a Moon Village as a model for international cooperation.
• Closing thoughts on leadership, ethics, and creating a thriving future in space.

Biography of the Guest

Jan Werner is the President of the National Academy of Science and Engineering and previously served as the Director General of the European Space Agency (ESA). With a background in civil engineering, Jan has held various prestigious positions, including Chairman of the Executive Board at the German Aerospace Center (DLR).

Throughout his career, Jan has championed international collaboration in space exploration and has been instrumental in advancing significant projects aimed at sustainability and innovation. His educational credentials include a degree in civil engineering, complemented by extensive experience in both academia and industry.

Jan is known for his thought leadership on topics such as space debris management and ethical responsibilities in aerospace activities. He is actively involved in initiatives like the Moon Village Association, promoting cooperative efforts among nations to establish a sustainable human presence on the Moon.

The themes in today’s episode are just the beginning. Dive deeper into innovation, interconnected thinking, and paradigm-shifting ideas at  www.projectmoonhut.org—where the future is being built.