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Small Steps, Giant Leaps

NASA’s technical workforce put boots on the Moon, tire tracks on Mars, and the first reusable spacecraft in orbit around Earth. Learn what’s next as they build missions that redefine the future with amazing discoveries and remarkable innovations.

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Episode 176Jun 24, 2026

Small Steps, Giant Leaps: Episode 176: Calibrating Satellite Image Data

Before scientists can use those satellite imagery for research, the data must be carefully calibrated to ensure measurements are accurate and consistent over time. Julia Barsi, NASA calibration scientist, explains.

Season 1Episode 175Jun 10, 2026

Small Steps, Giant Leaps: Episode 175: Space Nuclear Propulsion

Space nuclear power and propulsion engineering could play a key role in sending robots and humans to deep space, enabling faster and farther journeys.

Episode 174May 27, 2026

Small Steps, Giant Leaps: Episode 174: Test Like You Fly

The “test like you fly” approach is an engineering philosophy that means testing hardware, software, and flight operations as close to reality as possible. Erika Alvarez, deputy director of NASA's Space Systems Department, explains.

Episode 173May 13, 2026

Small Steps, Giant Leaps: Episode 173: Soft Skills for Tough Missions

So-called “soft skills” like good teamwork and communication can become just as valuable as technical skills to advance exploration.