AI Insight
This Week In Space podcast Episode 227 features an interview with Michael Okuda, a key creative figure in the Star Trek franchise for 60 years, who has contributed to the visual design including the LCARS computer interface, alien languages, color schemes, and digital remastering of the original series. The episode also covers recent space news including China's planned 2028 Mars sample-return mission, the US military's first orbital maneuvering exercise, and the 25th anniversary of astronaut observations of the September 11 attacks from space.
Why it matters
This content provides insight into how fictional depictions of space technology in popular media are crafted and maintained for consistency, while also delivering updates on current space exploration developments from both national space programs and military space operations.
Understand the Science
On Episode 227 of This Week In Space, Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik are joined by Michael Okuda, who with wife and others have been central to the look, feel, and substance of the Star Trek universe.
Hold onto your phasers, but it’s been 60 years since Star Trek‘s debut, and the franchise is still going strong.
From the LCARS computer graphical system to alien languages to the designs and color schemes, and even the digital effects remastering of the original series, Mike has been the Cardinal of Canon when it comes to all things Trek. He has also been involved with many more space-related shows, books, and NASA projects. Join us for this very special episode.
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Space news of the week
- China on track to launch Mars sample-return mission in 2028: ‘If accurate, this represents a Sputnik moment’
- US military practices orbital dogfighting in 1st-ever ‘live fly’ exercise in space
- 25 years ago, a NASA astronaut witnessed the tragic 9/11 attacks from space. Here’s what he saw.
- Michael Okuda on X
- The Roddenberry Archive
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About This Week In Space
This Week in Space covers the new space age. Every Friday we take a deep dive into a fascinating topic. What’s happening with the new race to the moon and other planets? When will SpaceX really send people to Mars?
Join Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik from Space.com as they tackle those questions and more each week on Friday afternoons. You can subscribe today on your favorite podcatcher.