The Moon, Mars and the future of humanity — in a new episode of the "Russia Speaks" podcast

A new episode of the "Russia Speaks" podcast, "The Moon and Mars: Where Will We Live in 200 Years?", has been published on the National Centre RUSSIA website. The guest is Vladimir Surdin, Candidate of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Senior Researcher at the Sternberg Astronomical Institute of Moscow State University, astronomer and science communicator. Together with host Angelika Kiryan, he discussed the past, present and possible future of space exploration — from the first satellites and lunar missions to interstellar travel.

Vladimir Surdin explained why the heroic era of space exploration has gradually given way to routine work, although the significance of scientific discoveries has not diminished. The expert also discussed the Soviet breakthrough in space, Russia's current position in the industry and the prospects for private spaceflight. According to him, the development of new companies and technologies could give the industry fresh momentum, although large-scale space programmes still require state involvement.

The central topic of the conversation was the exploration of the Moon and Mars. Vladimir Surdin explained why the Moon could become an important stepping stone towards more distant expeditions and, at the same time, a "lifeboat" for Earth. The discussion covered reserves of water ice at the poles, protecting future colonists from radiation, lunar caves and the practical use of the Moon's resources. The astronomer noted that the first settlements would probably be located beneath the surface, where natural shelters could protect people from dangerous cosmic radiation.

The podcast is available to watch on the National Centre RUSSIA website.

The original "Russia Speaks" project continues the tradition of open conversations with scientists, researchers and representatives of different professional communities about knowledge, technology and ideas shaping the vision of the future.