Those Space People

In this episode, we are Bridging the Gap with Cécile Deprez - a scientific researcher at DLR (German Aerospace Center). They work in the field of satellite positioning and specialize in next-generation GNSS. They are also an anti-imperialist intersectional LGBTQIA+ activist. Also a fellow member of the WIA-E and involved with several of its working groups. They also run a volunteer organization Sexisme Flop.

In this episode, we dive into the future of satellite navigation, explaining how optical inter-satellite links could make systems like Galileo more accurate, secure, and resilient. The conversation then shifts to Cécile's equally impactful work as an intersectional LGBTQIA+ activist, co-founder of employee resource groups at DLR, and advocate for creating more inclusive workplaces in the aerospace sector.

From unpacking the hidden applications of positioning and timing services in everyday life - from power grids to banking, to sharing hard-won lessons on calling out microaggressions, building allyship, and driving institutional change, Cécile offers both technical depth and deep personal insights into what it means to show up fully - as a researcher and as oneself in a highly technical field.

Chapters:
(00:00) - Introduction & Guest Welcome

(01:20) - What Is Next-Generation GNSS? The Kepler Concept

(04:33) - Surprising Applications of GNSS (Timing, Energy Grids, Finance)

(06:27) - How a GNSS Network Works (Space, Ground & User Segments)

(09:40) - Optical Inter-Satellite Links & Autonomous Navigation

(13:49) - Future Trends: Private Sector, Space Debris & European Independence

(17:11) - Building Employee Resource Groups at DLR

(17:22) - Cecile's First Day & the "Diversity Hire" Comment

(24:34) - Activism & Professional Reputation: Backlash and Recognition

(28:30) - The Role of Allyship & How to Find and Train Allies

(35:24) - Career Advice: Breaking Into GNSS

(37:11) - Advice for Advocates in Technical Institutions

This episode of "Thermal Lens" features Dr. Claire Bulgin, a Senior Research Scientist in Earth Observation at the University of Reading.
Claire takes us into the often-overlooked world of uncertainties in land surface temperature (LST) measurements and elaborates on the differences between error and uncertainty, the roles of accuracy, precision, and bias, and the challenges of calculating and communicating uncertainties. Claire breaks down how current satellite missions address these issues, the common sources of uncertainty, and what goes into building reliable uncertainty budgets.
We also discuss her recommendations for both satellite data providers and users on how to better provide, interpret, and apply uncertainty information. Whether you're working in climate services, agriculture, or environmental monitoring, this conversation is packed with insights into how uncertainty shapes our understanding of the Earth’s surface.
This episode is hosted by Jennifer Susan Adams, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Zurich and Rachana Mamidi, a Space Engineer & Podcaster based in Berlin.
Links to resources mentioned in the episode:
 The LST CCI project webpage - https://climate.esa.int/en/projects/land-surface-temperature/
LST CCI product user guide - https://admin.climate.esa.int/media/documents/LST-CCI-D4.3-PUG_-_i2r0_-_Product_User_Guide.pdf
Uncertainty budget document  - https://admin.climate.esa.int/media/documents/LST-CCI-D2.3-E3UB_-_i3r0_-_End-to-End_ECV_Uncertainty_Budget.pdf
For users with a strong mathematical background, the entire document will be accessible. For those less comfortable with mathematics, attention should be directed to the last three pages,  where the key examples are presented.
LST CCI Climate Assessment Report - https://admin.climate.esa.int/media/documents/LST_cci-D5.1-CAR_-_i3r0_-_Phase2_Climate_Assessment_Report.pdf
Chapters:
(00:00) - Intro

(01:07) - Episode Summary

(02:09) - Diving into Uncertainty and Error

(05:22) - Importance of Uncertainty in Data

(08:12) - Calculating Uncertainty Budgets

(12:59) - Lifecycle of Uncertainty in Satellite Data

(24:55) - Challenges in Computing Uncertainties

(28:18) - Educating Users on Uncertainty

(30:14) - European Space Agency's LST_CCI Project

(37:34) - Resources for Learning About Uncertainty

(39:21) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Those Space People, we sit down with Priyanka Rajkakati, Head of Special Projects at Vortex IO in Toulouse, France. With a background in aerospace engineering and systems engineering, and a passion for art, Priyanka leads groundbreaking projects like Europe's first flood forecasting system (WHYLD project). She discusses her multidisciplinary approach, combining satellite data with in-situ sensors, the challenges in flood prediction, and the vital role of art in scientific endeavors. Join us for an insightful conversation that bridges the gap between technology and society, and explore how artistic perspectives can enhance technological solutions.
Chapters 

(00:00) - Introduction to Priyanka Rajkakati

(00:48) - Vortex IO and Water Intelligence

(01:55) - The WHYLD Project: Europe's First Flood Forecasting System

(05:02) - Priyanka's Journey from Art to Science

(07:49) - Challenges in Flood Prediction

(14:37) - The Role of Art in Scientific Projects

(25:56) - Flood Impact and Personal Motivation

(29:41) - Challenges in Space and Flooding

(30:58) - Forming the Reveins Initiative

(32:03) - The Role of Art in Science and Technology

(34:58) - Exploring Space Sci-Fi

(43:37) - Art and Space Collaborations

(49:51) - Final Thoughts and Future Projects

In today's episode, we are "Bridging the Gap" with Vera Pinto - Policy Coordinator at the European Commission (Directorate General for Defense Industry and Space). The discussion covers Vera's diverse background in international relations, political science, and space policy, and her current role focusing on equality, diversity, inclusion, and the sustainability of the space sector. Vera shares insights into the skills and backgrounds needed in the aerospace industry, the importance of greening space activities, and the development of sustainable methodologies for the space sector in collaboration with industry stakeholders. The episode also explores the potential of AI in enhancing environmental sustainability and processing vast quantities of Earth observation data, and discusses the various career paths and opportunities within the European Commission for those interested in the space sector.
This episode is part of the "Bridging the Gap" series brought to you by Women in Aerospace Europe (WIA-Europe) and Those Space People, and ties into the theme of the WIA-Europe Symposium 2024. 
 
"Bridging the Gap" is a special series that spotlights inspirational figures from the aerospace industry talk about the current skills gap, and provides guidance on developing skills to future proof your career. So if you're looking to enter the aerospace industry or advancing into leadership roles, then this series is tailor made for you.

Chapters

(00:00) - Introduction to Bridging the Gap Series

(00:38) - Spotlight on Vera Pinto: A Diverse Career in Space Policy

(01:06) - The Multifaceted Role of a Policy and Equality Coordinator

(02:12) - Skills and Backgrounds Needed in the European Commission

(03:31) - Sustainability in the Space Sector: Challenges and Methodologies

(09:41) - The Future of Green Roles in the Space Industry

(14:41) - AI's Role in Enhancing Space Sustainability

(20:55) - Diverse Career Paths at the European Commission

(27:41) - Advice for Aspiring Space Industry Professionals

(32:21) - Closing Thoughts and Personal Anecdotes

In this podcast episode, Nithish Kumar, an aerospace engineer working with the VC firm Speciale Invest, shares his diverse experiences ranging from space education and outreach to entrepreneurship. Nithish recounts his proud yet failed passion project, ALINEA, which aimed to be a startup pitching platform inspired by Shark Tank, and how it marked a transformative period in his life during the COVID-19 pandemic. He delves into his transition from being deeply fascinated with space to exploring the business side of technology, leading to his current role at Speciale Invest. Nithish discusses the value of resilience, the transition from engineering to business, and how his early passion for space and podcasting played a pivotal role in defining his career trajectory.
Chapters

(00:00) - Welcome to Those Space People: Meet Nithish Kumar

(00:37) - The Story of ALINEA: A Failed Passion Project

(04:21) - From ALINEA's Lessons to Space Tech Investment

(05:12) - An Aerospace Engineer in the VC World

(08:53) - The Power of Networking in Venture Capital

(11:27) - A Journey Through Space Education and Outreach

(19:31) - The Unbounded Podcast: A Gateway to Space Tech Insights

(25:16) - The Resilience Required in Venture Capital