Podcasting Through Drake's Passage with William Shatner, Scott Kelly & Neil deGrasse Tyson

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What happens when you put Captain Kirk, a NASA astronaut, and Neil deGrasse Tyson on a ship to Antarctica? Find out in this special episode recorded on board with William Shatner and Scott Kelly. We discuss exploration — from braving the Drake Passage to surviving space travel — and what it means to boldly go where no one has gone before.

This episode of StarTalk, recorded live from Drake Passage during the Space2Sea Voyage of Legends to Antarctica, is presented in collaboration with FUTURE of SPACE.

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Scott shares stories of his time in space, the astronaut twin study, and his heart shrinking and growing back after his mission. Bill reflects on Star Trek’s influence during the space race and the unexpected cultural impact of the show. The conversation turns to the spirit of exploration — from Shackleton’s Antarctic expeditions to Felix Baumgartner’s stratospheric jump — and the thrill-seekers who push human limits.

The crew tackles the risk of exploration. Scott recounts preparing death letters for his family before missions and weighing the odds of survival. What does it feel like to come back from space? Bill reflects on his own brief trip to space and the finality of death. They dive into the concept of exploration — whether it’s crossing oceans, spacewalking, or pushing human physiology — and why some are willing to risk it all.

The episode wraps with a discussion on space exploration’s future, Star Trek’s lasting legacy, and a lighthearted Twitter spat between Neil and Scott. Plus, Neil shares his own rough ride in a centrifuge — with a surprising question from Bill.

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NOTE: StarTalk+ Patrons can listen to this entire episode commercial-free.

Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction: William Shatner & Scott Kelly
02:33 - The Spirit of Exploration
06:20 - Exploring in Star Trek
08:00 - Space Shuttles & Starships
19:12 - What is Exploration?
23:19 - In the Face of Danger
20:15 - The Role of Bravery
33:10 - The One-Way Trip to Mars
40:08 - Morality in Star Trek
44:22 - What if You Have an Itch in Your Space Suit
48:42 - Scott & Neil’s Twitter Beef
51:28 - Where Is the Universe Expanding To?
54:14 - Bill’s Journey After Star Trek
56:42 - Closing Thoughts


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Science meets pop culture on StarTalk! Astrophysicist & Hayden Planetarium director Neil deGrasse Tyson, his comic co-hosts, guest celebrities & scientists discuss astronomy, physics, and everything else about life in the universe. Keep Looking Up!

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