Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum has a podcast! Based on our hit YouTube and PBS series of the same name, the Behind the Wings podcast will cover everything from aviation history to the future of space exploration with thought leaders and experts in the industry. This one’s going to be cool!
The podcast Behind the Wings is created by Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum™. The podcast and the artwork on this page are embedded on this page using the public podcast feed (RSS).
Astrophysicist and professor, Dame Jocelyn Bell Burnell reflects on how she helped change astronomy forever.
In this episode, learn more about how a peculiar signal from space led Jocelyn to a groundbreaking discovery. She discusses her aerospace journey, building a radio telescope, discovering pulsars, and the 1974 Nobel Prize controversy. This one is going to be cool!
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Secretary of the United States Air Force Frank Kendall discusses AI's impact on modern air warfare.
In this episode, we're switching things up and going to the Pentagon to bring you a special in-depth conversation on artificial intelligence in military aviation. Secretary Kendall discusses AI’s evolving role in U.S. air power, collaborative combat aircraft, technology breakthroughs, and ethical concerns. This one is going to be cool!
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National Museum of WWII Aviation Curator Gene Pfeffer discusses why winning the air war was pivotal to D-Day's success.
In this episode, we’ll dive into the planning and execution of air operations, the aircraft that supported the massive assault, the continued aerial support for troops after Operation Overlord, and its lasting legacy and impact on aviation. June 6, 2024, marked the 80th anniversary of D-Day and gave us the opportunity to learn more about one of the most important battles of WWII. This one is going to be cool!
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Miss America 2024, Madison Marsh, discusses the crossroads of pageantry and the military.
In this episode, Madi takes us through her groundbreaking journey as the first active-duty officer to earn the Miss America title. She shares insights into her pilot training, attending the United States Air Force Academy, cancer research, starting a non-profit, and how a military background has influenced her career. This one is going to be cool!
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How the world's largest aircraft, Stratolaunch Roc, is paving the way for repeatable hypersonic testing.
Welcome to the final part of our bonus podcast miniseries on the making of Behind the Wings PBS Season 6!
In this episode, Director Cray Novick and Host Tracy LaTourrette discuss behind-the-scenes stories while filming with Stratolaunch at the Mojave Air and Space Port. Join us as we talk about the history of hypersonics, building the Stratolaunch Roc, the Talon-A test vehicle, the Hadley rocket engine, and flying this twin-fuselage aircraft. This one is going to be cool!
Check out the new season on PBS or at our YouTube channel. We can't wait to show you what we've been working on!
Our regularly scheduled podcast series will return on 12/2/24 with an interview with Madison Marsh, the first active-duty Air Force Officer to be crowned Ms. America. Thanks for joining us!
Full Season Premiere Schedule:
PBS
Episode 1 - AI in Military Aviation: November 7, 2024, 7:30 p.m. MT
Episode 2 - Collaborative Combat Aircraft: November 7, 2024, 8:00 p.m. MT
Episode 3 - The Super Guppy: November 14, 2024, 7:30 p.m. MT
Episode 4 - Hypersonic Flight Testing: November 14, 2024, 8:00 p.m. MT
Episode 1 - AI in Military Aviation: November 7, 2024, 7:30 p.m. MT
Episode 2 - Collaborative Combat Aircraft: November 14, 2024, 7:30 p.m. MT
Episode 3 - The Super Guppy: November 21, 2024, 7:30 p.m. MT
Episode 4 - Hypersonic Flight Testing: November 28, 2024, 7:30 p.m. MTyou
How a seemingly impossible idea helped America win the space race.
Welcome to part 3 of our 4-part bonus podcast miniseries on the making of Behind the Wings PBS Season 6!
In this episode, Director Cray Novick and Host Tracy LaTourrette discuss behind-the-scenes stories while filming the legendary Super Guppy in El Paso, Texas. Join us as we talk about the space race, building the Super Guppy, the similarities this aircraft has with Frankenstein, and watching the odd airplane fly. This one is going to be cool!
Check out the new season on PBS or at our YouTube channel. We can't wait to show you what we've been working on!
Full Season Premiere Schedule:
PBS
Episode 1 - AI in Military Aviation: November 7, 2024, 7:30 p.m. MT
Episode 2 - Collaborative Combat Aircraft: November 7, 2024, 8:00 p.m. MT
Episode 3 - The Super Guppy: November 14, 2024, 7:30 p.m. MT
Episode 4 - Hypersonic Flight Testing: November 14, 2024, 8:00 p.m. MT
Episode 1 - AI in Military Aviation: November 7, 2024, 7:30 p.m. MT
Episode 2 - Collaborative Combat Aircraft: November 14, 2024, 7:30 p.m. MT
Episode 3 - The Super Guppy: November 21, 2024, 7:30 p.m. MT
Episode 4 - Hypersonic Flight Testing: November 28, 2024, 7:30 p.m. MT
The ethics of deploying AI in Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA), are weighed against the risks of falling behind technologically.
Welcome to part 2 of our 4-part bonus podcast miniseries on the making of Behind the Wings PBS Season 6!
In this episode, Director Cray Novick and Host Tracy LaTourrette continue their conversation about AI in the military, with a specific focus on AI-piloted aircraft. Join us as we talk about building CCAs, how they could change the air battlefield, the ethics of AI in warfare, and flying alongside "the most loyal wingman". This one is going to be cool!
Check out the new season on PBS or at our YouTube channel beginning November 7. We can't wait to show you what we've been working on!
Full Season Premiere Schedule:
PBS
Episode 1 - AI in Military Aviation: November 7, 2024, 7:30 p.m. MT
Episode 2 - Collaborative Combat Aircraft: November 7, 2024, 8:00 p.m. MT
Episode 3 - The Super Guppy: November 14, 2024, 7:30 p.m. MT
Episode 4 - Hypersonic Flight Testing: November 14, 2024, 8:00 p.m. MT
Episode 1 - AI in Military Aviation: November 7, 2024, 7:30 p.m. MT
Episode 2 - Collaborative Combat Aircraft: November 14, 2024, 7:30 p.m. MT
Episode 3 - The Super Guppy: November 21, 2024, 7:30 p.m. MT
Episode 4 - Hypersonic Flight Testing: November 28, 2024, 7:30 p.m. MT
How testing and simulations advance AI pilot agents from the lab to the field.
Welcome to part 1 of our 4-part bonus podcast miniseries on the making of Behind the Wings PBS Season 6!
In this episode, Director Cray Novick and Host Tracy LaTourrette discuss behind-the-scenes stories while filming around the U.S. to learn more about AI in military aviation. Join us as we discuss the history of AI, the AI arms race, flying simulators, and being at the crossroads of ethics and speed. This one is going to be cool!
Check out the new season on PBS or at our YouTube channel beginning November 7. We can't wait to show you what we've been working on!
Full Season Premiere Schedule:
PBS
Episode 1 - AI in Military Aviation: November 7, 2024, 7:30 p.m. MT
Episode 2 - Collaborative Combat Aircraft: November 7, 2024, 8:00 p.m. MT
Episode 3 - The Super Guppy: November 14, 2024, 7:30 p.m. MT
Episode 4 - Hypersonic Flight Testing: November 14, 2024, 8:00 p.m. MT
Episode 1 - AI in Military Aviation: November 7, 2024, 7:30 p.m. MT
Episode 2 - Collaborative Combat Aircraft: November 14, 2024, 7:30 p.m. MT
Episode 3 - The Super Guppy: November 21, 2024, 7:30 p.m. MT
Episode 4 - Hypersonic Flight Testing: November 28, 2024, 7:30 p.m. MT
We are excited to announce our special four-part miniseries featuring stories from the making of our newest Behind the Wings PBS season! Director Cray Novick and Host Tracy LaTourrette discuss AI in Military Aviation, Collaborative Combat Aircraft, The Super Guppy, and Hypersonic Flight Testing. Join us to hear inside tales you won't find anywhere else. This is going to be cool!
New episodes come out every Thursday, starting October 31. Also, check out the new season on PBS or at our YouTube channel beginning November 7. We can't wait to show you what we've been working on!
Our regular podcast episodes will take a mid-season break while these air and return on November 25.
EA-6B Pilot Matthew Maher and Electronic Countermeasures Officer Ethan Williams dive deep into the world of electronic warfare with a spotlight on the legendary EA-6B Prowler.
In this episode, our guests take us back into the cockpit, explore the complex jamming systems that helped protect air and ground crews, landing on a pitching aircraft carrier, and multi-aircraft missions. We also answer several audience questions about the Prowler. After all, we do this all for you! This one is going to be cool!
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STScI Education and Outreach Scientist Dr. Chris Britt discusses time traveling to the origins of the universe with The James Webb Space Telescope.
In this episode, Chris tells us about processing JWST's data into breathtaking images, groundbreaking discoveries, how stars are formed, black holes, and the telescope's future. This one is going to be cool!
This episode will follow up on our previous conversation about building the JWST, so if you missed that, check out episode 14!
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Science communicator and influencer The Space Gal, a.k.a. Emily Calandrelli, discusses using art as a tool to encourage STEAM literacy.
In this episode, Emily tells us about her aerospace journey, exploding foam and making science fun as a host on educational programs, the opportunity to go to space, and how she uses children’s books and social media to inspire and educate future aerospace generations. This one is going to be cool!
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Former NASA astronaut Tom Jones discusses installing the first laboratory module on the International Space Station.
Welcome to Season 5 of the Behind the Wings podcast! In this episode, hear stories about flying the B-52, working as a NASA mission specialist on four Space Shuttle missions, life in space, and what it's like to go on a spacewalk. This one is going to be cool!
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Season 5 of the Behind the Wings Podcast is back this September with 10 new episodes! Hear from astronaut Tom Jones, adventures from flying and operating the EA-6B Prowler, and from TV host and author Emily Calandrelli a.k.a. The Space Gal. We've got some incredible stories and guests coming up!
New episodes come out every other Monday, starting September 9. Subscribe wherever you listen, because we've got a lot to explore! Trust us, you don't want to miss it.
In the meantime, check out our past episodes!
Learn more at WingsMuseum.org/podcast
Former F-18 and Blue Angels pilot, Scott Kartvedt, takes us behind the scenes of flying in Top Gun: Maverick.
In this episode hear behind-the-scenes stories of how some of the most realistic flying scenes are made. Scott tells us about his time in the Navy, flying as a Blue Angel and on the Patriots Jet team, and "dogfighting" with a helicopter while filming. This one is going to be cool!
Episode 40 marks the end of Season 4 of the Behind the Wings Podcast. We'll be taking a short break and will be back later this year for Season 5.
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In 1996, astronaut Tom Henricks became the first Space Shuttle pilot/commander to log 1,000 hours in space.
Tom tells us about his time as an F-4 pilot and F-16 test pilot, astronaut training, flying four Space Shuttle missions including two as a commander, and the challenges of flying at Mach 25. This one is going to be cool!
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From aggressor training to the F-15, the United States military addressed several shortcomings after the Vietnam War.
Today, we are excited to speak with a retired F-4 and F-15 fighter pilot, Colonel Dick Anderegg. In this episode, Dick tells us about his time in Vietnam, the mistakes the US air military made during the war, the lessons learned along the way, and the changes that sprung from them. There is a lot to learn in this episode!
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For Mental Health Awareness Month, we explore the critical challenges pilots face while suffering from mental health issues and discuss possible individual and organizational solutions.
Our guests are United Airlines Pilot, Troy Merritt, and Neurologist and Aircrew Brain Health Researcher, Dr. William "Billy" Hoffman. Troy discusses his personal experience of grounding himself due to mental health issues and explains the pilot mental health paradox. Dr. Hoffman draws on his research and medical experience with mental health in aviation to help us understand the efforts being made by researchers and the broader aviation community to bridge the gap for pilots and the industry as a whole. There is a lot to learn in this episode!
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Explore the evolution of cabin safety and learn how it could save your life.
Today, we are excited to talk with retired Cabin Safety Specialist, and Wings Over the Rockies Volunteer, Denisekaren "DK" Deaderick. DK has been in this field for over 40 years and was the first Black woman to hold the position of FAA Cabin Safety Inspector. In this episode, we learn what exactly cabin safety is, how it has changed alongside advancements in technology, and how new regulations and rules are shaping the industry today. This one is going to be cool!
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Today, in celebration of National Volunteer Month, we are excited to speak with Wings Over the Rockies volunteer, Phil Mentesana.
Phil shares personal stories about his time as an Electronic Warfare Officer on the B-52, flying the F-4 in Vietnam, and his time as a captain for United Airlines. He has many firsts in his career including being a part of the first B-52 missions to engage in combat during Operation Arc Light in Vietnam, leading Operation Linebacker I in the F-4, and so much more. This one is going to be cool!
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A first-of-its-kind virtual reality spacewalk experience.
Space Explorers: THE INFINITE is a captivating immersive journey inspired by NASA missions aboard the International Space Station. Join us as we hear from creator Félix Lajeunesse who tells us how THE INFINITE project got started, how they filmed and created this experience, working with astronauts, and the unique challenges they faced making virtual reality content on the International Space Station. This one is going to be cool!
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In celebration of Women's History Month, dive into the story of the first female Air Force pilots and their roles during World War II.
Today's episode tells us about the lives and history of The Women Airforce Service Pilots, or WASP. The WASP helped the United States domestic war effort by ferrying aircraft, towing targets for live anti-aircraft gun practice, simulating strafing missions, transporting cargo, and so much more. Plus, hear a special story about the first two women to fly the B-29 Superfortress. This one is going to be cool!
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Fly to all fifty states in this in-depth conversation about a record-breaking flight and airplane.
Today, we are excited to speak with world-record-holding pilot, Michael Combs. Michael tells us about his death-defying moment, his record-breaking flight to all fifty states, and why you should never give up on your dreams. We will also hear about his light sport aircraft, Hope One, which is living out retirement in Wings Museum. This one is going to be cool!
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The first Black astronaut candidate talks about his experiences with the astronaut program in this in-depth conversation about his pioneering space journey.
Welcome to Season 4 of Behind the Wings, which means 10 new episodes coming your way! It’s February, and in celebration of Black History Month, we are excited to speak with the first Black astronaut candidate, Ed Dwight Jr. In 1961, just 3 years after NASA started, our guest was making waves as a test pilot in aviation and training to be one of the first astronauts. Ed talks about his incredible journey, his time in the Air Force and the space program, and how, in an instant, the dream of space flight was taken away.
Ed’s resume reads: Air Force Test Pilot, America’s First Black Astronaut Candidate, IBM Computer Systems Engineer, Aviation Consultant, Restaurateur, Real Estate Developer, Construction Entrepreneur, and Sculpture Artist. There's a lot to learn in this episode!
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The Behind the Wings Podcast is back this February with Season 4 and 10 new episodes! Hear from Ed Dwight Jr, the first Black astronaut candidate, world record holder Michael Combs, and dive into topics like The Mental Health Pilot Parodox and the history of The Women Airfare Service Pilots (WASP).
New episodes come out every other Monday, starting February 19th. Subscribe wherever you listen, because we've got a lot to explore!
You can find the Behind the Wings podcast wherever you listen. For past episodes and show notes visit: WingsMuseum.org/podcast.
An American MiG-23 pilot reveals long-held secrets in this in-depth conversation about a declassified program, Constant Peg.
On today's show, we’ll meet John Mann who flew in the first-of-its-kind adversary training program, Constant Peg, and take a deep dive into some of the most popular questions we got from you, our listeners. Established in 1977, this top-secret program aimed to train American pilots against the very same MiGs they may one day see in combat. Mann was an instructor who flew the MiG-21 and 23, and co-host John Barry flew in the program as a trainee. This one is going to be cool!
If you missed Part One, check that out on Wings Over the Rockies YouTube channel: America's Secret MiG-23s | Behind the Wings - YouTube.
Episode 30 marks the end of Season 3 of the Behind the Wings Podcast. We'll be taking a short break and will be back in the new year for Season 4.
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This episode will dive into the history of some of the world’s first astronomers, exploring how their knowledge has been passed down for more than 60,000 years. We are going to the southern hemisphere to learn about Australia’s Indigenous astronomy, and the impact it has on our world today.
Our guest today is Peter Swanton! Peter is a Gamilaraay man from Mackay, Queensland, an astrophysics graduate, and cultural astronomer. He is actively involved in Indigenous astronomy, outreach, and research, and has a passion for the challenging yet critical subject of dark sky preservation. Peter will highlight the scientific importance of Indigenous star knowledge and the challenges and opportunities in preserving that history.
Join us as we hear the stories of Australia’s Indigenous Peoples, why constellations and star clusters are so impactful, and how issues like light pollution threaten the very field of astronomy itself. There is a LOT to learn in this episode!
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The Tuskegee Airmen were an experiment by the US Army Air Corps to determine whether Black pilots could handle military flying. It turns out they could! But the Tuskegee Airmen fought a second battle – one against racial discrimination.
With an impressive combat record and war accomplishments, the success of the Tuskegee Airmen helped influence then-President Harry Truman's decision to desegregate the armed forces in 1948.
Our Guests today are Bill Shepard and Col. James Harvey. Bill is the former Vice President of Education for the Commemorative Air Force (CAF), and former CAF Red Tail Squadron Leader. On today’s show, he explores with us the path that led him to proudly fly the P-51C Mustang for the CAF Red Tail Squadron. We will also hear from Col. James Harvey who was a Tuskegee Airman, and his personal journey as one of the first Black Aviators in the US military.
From Bill's journey with aviation, to the history of the Tuskegee Airmen, there’s a LOT to explore in this one!
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This episode will dive into the cutting-edge realm of AI in aviation, with a particular focus on its military applications. From autonomous wingmen drones to predictive maintenance, we will explore the opportunities and risks of AI as it transforms the landscape of aerial warfare.
Our guest today is Col Tucker Hamilton, callsign “Cinco”. As the Chief of AI test and operations for the USAF, Col Hamilton is at the cutting edge of researching, testing, and implementing artificial intelligence in the realm of military aviation. Col. Hamilton began his career as an operational F-15C pilot, supporting Red Flag exorcises, and real-world Operation Noble Eagle missions, at times escorting Air Force One and the U.S. President. He served as a Chief Instructor, Test Pilot, and has more than 2,000 flying hours in the F-35, F-15, F-18, F-16, A-10, and more than 20 additional aircraft. Is there anything he hasn’t done? We’re about to find out!
Join us as we unravel the intricate web of AI technologies shaping the future of aviation, while gaining unique perspectives from a seasoned military leader at the forefront of this transformative field. There’s a LOT to explore!
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On today’s show we’re getting an inside look at the design, testing and manufacturing processes at Honeybee Robotics, as they build a key component for the Orion Spacecraft, and a new lunar drill.
Don your bunny suits, because we are excited to bring you inside a clean-room and experience first-hand how space hardware is made from prototype through manufacturing! Tune in to hear from Andrew Maurer and Isabel King of Honeybee, as we get a behind the scenes tour at their production facility in Longmont, CO. THIS is going to be cool!
We’ve explored the Artemis program on the show before, if you missed those episodes go back and give a listen to episode 10 to hear from an Orion spacecraft engineer, and episode 21 as we compare Apollo and Artemis with former NASA Astronaut Harrison Schmitt, and historian Dr. Teasel Harmony-Muir.
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This episode will dive into the world of hypersonic flight, and how new methods of heat management could help usher in a new era for high-speed flight. Join us as we look through the lens of a heat management company, Reaction Engines who is pushing the limits of technology in engines, to enable the next generation of hypersonic flight.
Hypersonic flight refers to speeds of more than five times the speed of sound, or Mach 5. Once you start talking about hypersonic speeds, there are lots of challenges that come into play from propulsion limitations to materials that can withstand high temperatures, economic feasibility, communications, physics, and more. Adam Dissel, President of Reaction Engines, helps us dive into many of these topics today, to get a better sense of the state of hypersonic flight, and where the cutting-edge of aerospace is headed.
Be sure to strap in, because there is a LOT to learn in this high-speed episode!
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Explore the pivotal role of aviation in the Vietnam War alongside former USAF Chief of Staff General Ron R. Fogleman (Ret).
Join us as we talk with Ron Fogleman, who takes us along his personal journey to becoming Chief of Staff and helps us uncover the strategic importance of aircraft during the Vietnam War. Ron has over 8,500 hours of flight time, including 315 combat missions where he logged 806 hours. During one of those missions, he was shot down while flying the F-100 Super Sabre and was rescued by clinging to the side of an AH-1 Cobra. Ron retired as Chief of Staff in 1997, after 34 years in the Air Force. He shares with us his pathway to becoming Chief of Staff, lessons he’s learned from the cockpit, and insight about aviation during the Vietnam War. THIS is going to be cool!
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This episode will dive into the world of orbital infrastructure – both the challenges and opportunities - through the lens of an on-orbit spacecraft refueling company, Orbit Fab, who aims to create gas stations in space.
Join us as we talk with Adam Harris, the Chief Commercial Officer at Orbit Fab, who gives us insight on the state of LEO (low earth orbit), orbital infrastructure, and explains how on-orbit refueling could be a key part of enabling this new era in space activity more sustainably and efficiently.
Orbital refueling is not a new idea, but as space technology, and the cost of launch has come down, the possibility for this type of service at scale is closer to reality than ever before. This is going to be cool!
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This episode will dive into the story of Kim “KC” Campbell, one of the few pilots ever to land the Fairchild Republic A-10 Thunderbolt II “Warthog” manually. Kim is a graduate from the United States Air Force Academy. She has flown 1,800 hours in the A-10 Warthog and more than 100 combat missions including in Iraq and Afghanistan. In 2003, Kim received the Distinguished Flying Cross for Heroism, as she skillfully recovered her battle-damaged aircraft following an intense close air support mission in Baghdad. Campbell has since retired from the Air Force and now is a guest professor, speaker, and bestselling author. She shares with us her pathway to becoming an A-10 pilot, and lessons she’s learned from the cockpit. THIS is going to be cool!
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The Behind the Wings Podcast is back for Season 3!
This episode delves into the legacy of the iconic Apollo program and its profound influence on NASA's ambitious Artemis Program. In celebration of the 54th anniversary of Apollo 11 and the Apollo Program, we’ve got an exciting two-part conversation for today’s episode.
Our esteemed guests, Dr. Teasel Muir Harmony, curator of the Apollo Collection at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, and NASA Astronaut Harrison Schmitt, who walked on the moon during Apollo 17 help us unravel the significance of Apollo's groundbreaking achievements, the scientific discoveries made, its political significance, and the lasting impact on human space exploration. Discover how the Apollo program paved the way for Artemis, fueling our dreams of returning to the moon and exploring even further into the cosmos.
There is a LOT to learn in this episode! Pack your bags, or at least your spacesuits, as we are taking one giant leap back to the moon. THIS one is going to be cool!
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Calling all aviation lovers, space nerds, history buffs, and futurists – The Behind the Wings® Podcast is back for Season 3! Ready or not, strap in, because we have 10 great episodes coming up. It’s time to Go... Behind the Wings!
We’ve got a lot to explore – stories about how history shapes aviation today, trailblazers in space, and up-close looks at iconic aircraft of the past, present and future. New episodes are published every other Monday, starting on July 17th, 2023.
You can find the Behind the Wings podcast wherever you listen. For past episodes and show notes visit: WingsMuseum.org/podcast
We’ll see you next time on Behind the Wings!
What is it about Colorado?
Coloradans have had a major impact across every aspect of aviation and space exploration.
Our state produced the first American flying ace, the first civilian helicopter ambulance service, and the first female airline pilot. We’ve grown astronauts and executives, entrepreneurs and visionaries, and the aerospace industry has brought hundreds of thousands of jobs and hundreds of billions of dollars into our state’s economy. In fact, Colorado has the nation’s second largest aerospace economy, and aviation is the fastest-growing industry segment in the Denver area.
Aerospace research and technology developed in Colorado’s schools and labs is out there exploring other planets—and a lot of it finds its way into products you use every day.
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This episode will dive into the story of Tracy "JackieO" LaTourrette, Colorado’s first lady fighter pilot. LaTourrette graduated from the United States Air Force Academy before women were even authorized to fly combat aircraft. After working in the back of an AWACS airfract, she moved to a window seat, becoming one of the first female fighter pilots in the Air Force and flew the F-16 Fighting Falcon, earning numerous accolades for her skill and leadership.
LaTourrette flew direct Presidential protection missions and in a classified location for Operation Iraqi Freedom. "JackieO" is known for breaking barriers, from the sound barrier to beyond. This one’s going to be cool!
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Gain insight into the newest branch of the U.S. military- the Space Force.
In this episode, we explore the creation and operations of the Space Force, the newest branch of the United States military. From its roots as a small office within the Air Force to its current status as a fully-fledged branch, we delve into the challenges and successes of the Space Force as it works to defend and protect American interests in space.
Our guest, Colonel Marcus Jackson, is the Commander of Space Base Delta 2, headquartered at Buckley Space Force Base, Colorado. As commander, he leads an 857-member team providing Base Operating Support to more than 757 military, Department of Defense civilians and contractor personnel serving at 14 operating locations world-wide, executing critical United States Space Force Missile Warning and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance missions. In addition, SBD2 hosts 6 wings (or equivalents) and 92 tenant organizations as well as supporting over 14,000 base personnel and a 98,000-retiree population.
THIS is going to be cool!
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Explore the topic of pilot pathways – how people navigate the path to becoming a pilot.
Our guests are Erika Armstrong and Val Blome. We will dive into Erika’s personal journey as outlined in her memoir “A Chick in the Cockpit”, where she shares her experiences as a woman in a male-dominated industry. The book provides a behind-the-scenes look at the aviation industry, including the challenges and joys of flying, the grueling training process, and the personal sacrifices necessary to succeed. Val Blome will also share her personal journey to becoming a pilot and provide insights into the larger trends she sees people encounter on their journey to becoming a pilot.
THIS is going to be cool!
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Meet the unlikely cast of characters who came together to reunite Col. James Randall with a piece of his past.
We will get into many topics today all connecting back to one long-lost helmet belonging to an F-105 pilot who went down during the Vietnam War. The helmet belonged to Retired Col. James Randall. Col. Randall was a proud member of the Tuskegee Airmen, who were some of the first Black aviators in the US military and helped to desegregate the US armed forces in 1948. They proved themselves as elite aviators with an impressive combat record and war accomplishments.
Col. Randall served 36 years in the U.S. Air Force, both on active duty and in the Reserves. Randall joined the Army Air Corps in 1945, flew 75 combat missions in the Korean War, and 44 in the Vietnam war. Col. Randall was a recipient of the Legion of Merit and the Purple Heart. His career as a fighter pilot, and his story is nothing short of remarkable.
Our guests include Essie Randall, Roberta Rollins, Gary "Paco" Gregg, and Chuck Stout. There is a LOT going on this episode, so stick with us. THIS one is going to be cool!
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There’s space for everybody.” But we know little about how differently-abled people will respond to low-gravity environments and the unique challenges that can arise in human space flight.
Mission: Astro Access - a crew of disabled scientists, aerospace professionals and artists based in America - is planning its second mission to explore how different people navigate space travel. What challenges arise, and surprisingly, what advantages might different abilities have?
Our guests today are Eric Ingram and Lindsay Yazzolino. Eric, a wheelchair user, and Lindsay who is blind are two of the crew members who set out to find answers to these questions on board Mission: Astro Access's parabolic flights where they experienced zero gravity, and gravity-simulating the moon and Mars.
On the mission, the ambassadors will explore questions like: How would you navigate if the lights went out on your spacecraft? How would you communicate if it's too loud to hear?
The experiments on Astro Access will benefit all future explorers, as the learnings are passed onto players in the space industry, making spacecraft and space stations safer, easier to navigate and adaptable to the diversity of humans who will one day visit, live and work in space.
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In this episode of Behind the Wings, we are talking about the James Webb Space Telescope! A next generation deep-space telescope that NASA launched in December 2021. It’s the most powerful telescope ever built, with the ability to see further and clearer into space than any previous telescope. It’s advanced design, sensors, and technology will allow it to time travel to some of the first galaxies that formed, learn about exoplanets that could be capable of supporting life.
We are joined by Lee Feinberg, the Optical Telescope Element Manager for the James Webb Space Telescope. Lee shares with us the fascinating story of how he became involved with the project and the challenges he and his team faced in developing the telescope. He discusses the cutting-edge technology being used in the construction of the James Webb Space Telescope and the groundbreaking science it will enable us to explore. Tune in to learn more about this exciting project and the impact it will have on our understanding of the universe.
There is a LOT to explore with this one, and the scientific research is only really just getting started. This one is going to be cool!
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Today, we are going deeper with a company called MissionGo who is using drones to do a variety of things from infrastructure inspections to medical and commercial cargo. Our guests are MissionGo President Chris Corgnati and Director of Flight Operations Ryan Henderson.
Last time on episode 4 we discussed drone soccer, and the regulatory challenges that this quickly growing industry faces as it takes on autonomous flight, air taxi services and more, so if you want a great introduction on drones go check that out.
Infrastructure inspections are certainly important, and I know a lot of companies are out there doing that and it is where many of them are able to make money today, but I’m really excited about the medical applications. In April 2019, MissionGo did the first-ever drone delivery of an organ transplant, and since then they have delivered everything from pizza, to blood, and life-saving medication.
We should probably say the pizza and organs are separate delivery packages right, but in all seriousness, this is such a cool and important use case that I think we’re going to see more and more.
Key Takeaways:
Support Behind the Wings by making a financial contribution to Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum’s Annual Fund! (wingsmuseum.org)
References:
Strap in folks, we are going to Space with a very special guest who blazed her own trail, defying the grip of Earth’s gravity, and breaking a glass ceiling into the cosmos. Our Guest today is Retired NASA Astronaut Eileen Collins.
Col. Collins has lived an amazing life, and though she has retired from the NASA astronaut program, her mission to share her story and inspire the next generation of explorers is far from over. Many of us can only dream of a career like hers - from her achievements as the first woman to command an American space mission and the first to pilot the space shuttle to her early years as one of the Air Force’s first female pilots.
Eileen is one of those pioneers who forever changed the trajectory of space exploration - this one's going to be cool!
Key Takeaways:
Support Behind the Wings by making a financial contribution to Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum’s Annual Fund! (wingsmuseum.org)
References:
The Civil Air Patrol (CAP) is a non-profit organization that serves as the civilian auxiliary of the USAF. Its membership includes everyone from younger cadets to their more senior members, totaling more than 56,000 volunteers across the US. The CAP started just 6 days before Pearl Harbor, and they served a unique, and relatively active role, patrolling the Atlantic coast during WWII. Today their mission includes youth mentorship, and aerial assistance with missions like search and rescue, fire monitoring and more.
In this episode we will dive into the unique history, and the work they are doing today. This one’s going to be cool!
Key Takeaways:
Support Behind the Wings by making a financial contribution to Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum’s Annual Fund! (wingsmuseum.org)
References:
Ready or not, strap in, because we have got 10 great episodes coming up for Season 2. It’s time to Go... Behind the Wings!
We’ve got a lot to explore – stories about how history shapes aviation today, trailblazers in space, and up-close looks at iconic aircraft of the past, present and future. There’s a lot of cool stories coming up in Season 2, so stick around.
You can find the Behind the Wings podcast wherever you listen. Episodes come out every two weeks – starting Monday Dec 5th with an awesome conversation about the fascinating history and unique mission today of the Civil Air Patrol. For past episodes and show notes visit: WingsMuseum.org/podcast
We’ll see you next time on Behind the Wings.
In today’s show, we’re going to go Behind the Wings of a cutting-edge space vehicle – The Orion Spacecraft, and the Artemis Missions - with Lockheed Martin systems engineer and Integration senior manager Kerry Timmons.
Kerry leads a team of engineers at Lockheed Martin, working on Orion’s vehicle requirements - from the advanced electrical systems to human integration for the Artemis I and II missions. With the Artemis program we’ll be able to explore uncharted parts of the moon, and learn more about what it takes to not only explore the moon but deep Space.
What an exciting time for human space flight. I remember as a kid the wonder of Apollo – In today's conversation that excitement is back!
Key Takeaways:
Use the code SEASON1 for 20% off a new membership at Wings: Become A Member | Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum (wingsmuseum.org)
Support Behind the Wings by making a financial contribution to Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum’s Annual Fund! (wingsmuseum.org)
References:
Today’s show is a conversation with Allissa Battocletti Noffke – a 'professor' of spacewalking! Allie works for the flight operations directorate at NASA’s Johnson Space Center – NASA’s center for human space flight based in Houston Texas - where she specializes in EVAs or Extra Vehicular Activities.
Most of her work has focused on the International Space Station. Whenever astronauts need to make a repair, or check on maintenance issues, they need to exit the station and go for a space walk. In this episode we explore what space walking is like, how astronauts train for EVAs and how important it is to make those extravehicular activities as safe as possible.
With these upcoming Artemis Missions to the moon, astronauts will soon be making new tracks in lunar regolith for the first time in about 50 years. We also discuss how moonwalking compares to space walking and what can we expect from the Artemis program. What a fascinating topic, and time to talk about spacewalking.
Key Takeaways:
Use the code SEASON1 for 20% off a new membership at Wings: Become A Member | Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum (wingsmuseum.org)
Support Behind the Wings by making a financial contribution to Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum’s Annual Fund! (wingsmuseum.org)
References:
We are all familiar with the name Amelia Earhart, but do we really know what she was like or what she believed in?
Today’s show is a conversation with Sammie Morris. Sammie is the Head Archivist at the Purdue University archives and special collections where they hold some of the most extensive collections on Amelia Earhart, one being donated by Amelia’s husband, George Palmer Putnam, himself. Amelia also worked with and taught at Purdue University just before her last flight.
We are going to discuss the interesting and radical life of legendary aviatrix, Amelia Earhart! She was the first woman and second person to fly solo across the Atlantic in 1932. Now, that was one of her most famous records, but she set so many more! Of course, a lot of us know her for her mysterious disappearance, but in this episode, we are going to dive deeper into the woman behind the mystery, how she blazed her own path in early aviation, and the legacy she left behind.
Key Takeaways:
Use the code SEASON1 for 20% off a new membership at Wings: Become A Member | Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum (wingsmuseum.org)
Support Behind the Wings by making a financial contribution to Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum’s Annual Fund! (wingsmuseum.org)
References:
Today’s show is a conversation with Robert Arnold, the grandson of Hap Arnold – the Father of the air force. Arnold urged an independent air arm which he lived to see authorized in 1947 – he started flying with the Signal Crops in what could be described as a ‘wild west’ era in aviation - setting altitude records, and in WWI was the first aerial observer to report his observations using Radio.
In WWII, he directed air activities for the nation's global war against Germany and Japan. Under him the air arm grew from 22,000 officers and men with 3,900 planes to nearly 2,500,000 men and 75,000 aircraft. An amazing accomplishment that shows how much was changing during this time, and Arnold’s influence on the development of air power.
Key Takeaways:
Use the code SEASON1 for 20% off your Wings Membership! Become A Member
Support Behind the Wings by making a financial contribution to Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum’s Annual Fund! wingsmuseum.org/give
References:
Today’s show is a conversation with Jonna Doolittle, the granddaughter of James H. Doolittle – who shares great insights into the American military general and aviation pioneer. It was great to get the family insights from Jonna, and as always, the historical context. Doolittle won air races, was a test pilot, completing the first outside loop, something most people thought was impossible. In WWI he was active with the Signal Corps’ Aviation Section, but never saw combat. In WWII, Doolittle was chosen by Hap Arnold – the subject of our next episode, so stay tuned - to lead the planning of the first aerial raid on the Japanese mainland and retaliation for Pearl Harbor.
Key Takeaways:
Use the code SEASON1 for 20% off your Wings Membership! Become A Member
Support Behind the Wings by making a financial contribution to Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum’s Annual Fund! wingsmuseum.org/give
References:
Today’s show is a conversation with Steve Lindsey who is a former U.S. Air Force (USAF) pilot and NASA astronaut with more than 30 years of flight test experience. Today, he is VP of Strategy at Sierra Space where he leads design, development, testing and operational employment of the Dream Chaser® spacecraft, a modern, reusable, lifting-body space system for uncrewed and crewed transportation to low-Earth orbit. We have a Dream Chaser HL-20 mockup at Wings Museum – so it’s a great opportunity to go Behind the Wings of this cutting-edge spacecraft.
During his 15+ year tenure at NASA, Lindsey completed five space flights and logged more than 1,510 hours in space. He last served as chief of the astronaut corps, overseeing spacecraft development, crew selection and training and flight test/crew operations in support of the space shuttle, International Space Station (ISS) and Constellation Programs.
Steve Lindsey is also featured in our latest season 4 of Behind the Wings on PBS, live now on Rocky Mountain PBS and Wings Over the Rockies YouTube Channel – so you can see Steve and the dream chaser in action!
Key Takeaways:
Use the code SEASON1 for 20% off your Wings Membership! Become A Member
Support Behind the Wings by making a financial contribution to Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum’s Annual Fund! wingsmuseum.org/give
References:
This will be our first show with two guests – Kyle Sanders and Dawn Zoldi - and we’re talking drones! We’ll explore new E-Sports like drone soccer, artificial intelligence, the role of drones in combat, and the legal issues that arise with drone law.
Students are getting involved with drones at the high school level and even younger. There's so much opportunity with this growing field. U.S. Drone Soccer co-founder Kyle Sander discusses how drone sports get young people involved with building, and flying drones. But drones today extend past the soccer field into so many different industries. To learn more we spoke with Dawn Zoldi.
Dawn’s had a fascinating career spanning 25 years as a military attorney, an internationally recognized expert on un-crewed aircraft systems and advanced air mobility law and policy. She is founder of P3 Tech Consulting, and hosts the Dawn of Drones Podcast. From her experience as a military lawyer, to Electric Take off and Landing Vehicles, there's a lot to explore.
This one's going to be cool!
Use the code SEASON1 for 20% off your Wings Membership! Become A Member
Support Behind the Wings by making a financial contribution to Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum’s Annual Fund! wingsmuseum.org/give
References:
https://www.dronesoccer.us/
https://www.p3techconsulting.com/
https://pratt.duke.edu/faculty/missy-cummings
Today’s show is a conversation with Sharon Caples McDougle, a modern-day hidden figure, crew chief, and manager of the Space Shuttle Crew Escape Equipment Processing Department. She is the first Black woman to serve in those roles. She has had an amazing career and we’re going to dive into her journey.
Sharon is a former NASA spacesuit technician. She suited up Mae Jaemison, the first Black Woman to go to Space, worked on the SR-71 with pressure suits, and now tells her story in all kinds of ways – she authored a Children’s book “suit up with Shay” and we are happy to have her tell her story today on Behind the Wings! This was a really fun conversation.
Support Behind the Wings by making a financial contribution to Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum’s Annual Fund! wingsmuseum.org/give
Today’s show is a conversation with Mike Rabens who is president of the F-14 Tomcat Association – who’s mission, they say, is to to preserve the history of the greatest fighter jet the US Navy has ever flown. Membership is open to anyone who has flown, worked on, or just plain loves the F-14 aircraft.
Mike is graduate of the Navy Fighter Weapons School, Top Gun, a commander on US Naval Test Pilot School, with more than 4,700 flight hours in 58 aircraft, and more than 700 carrier landings. Today he is the Director of System Integration Test & Evaluation at Northrop Grumman— Sound familiar? It’s the same company that built his beloved Tomcat.
This one's going to be cool!
https://www.f-14association.com/
Support Behind the Wings by making a financial contribution to Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum’s Annual Fund! wingsmuseum.org/give
General Carl A. Spaatz was the first chief of staff of the U.S. Air Force and one of the most influential people in early U.S. Air Force History. Born in Boyertown, Penn. on June 28, 1891, Spaatz had a full career, beginning with the newly formed air corps and was one of the first military aviators in the U.S. Army. In this episode, we look at Spaatz' biography, but also what his story meant for the formation of the U.S. Air Force that we know today.
Support Behind the Wings by making a financial contribution to Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum’s Annual Fund! wingsmuseum.org/give
General Carl Spaatz National USAAF Museum (spaatzmuseum.org)
En liten tjänst av I'm With Friends. Finns även på engelska.