APM International Space Sector IN podcast, Human Factors: Preparing to ride on a rocket – insights from a reserve astronaut

🕑 17mins  

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Welcome to this special World Space Week edition of the Association for Project Management's International Space Sector Interest Network podcast. 

I'm Mark Heelis, Deputy Lead of the Network, and throughout World Space Week we're exploring this year's theme: "The Rocket Revolution." 

When most people hear the word "rocket", they think of launches, ambitious missions and incredible engineering. But behind every rocket is a team of people, a vision, and countless projects that transform what's possible into reality. 

We were delighted to be joined by someone who sits right at the heart of that future. 

Meganne Christian is a materials scientist, engineer and European Space Agency Reserve Astronaut. In 2022, she was selected by the European Space Agency from a field of more than 22,000 applicants, earning a place among Europe's next generation of astronauts. Since then, she has become an inspiring voice for science, exploration and the opportunities that space offers to all of us. 

Over the course of this podcast, we talked about Meganne's journey from engineering laboratories to astronaut training, what the new space age means for future generations, and why the human spirit of exploration remains as important today as it was during the earliest days of the space race. 

Whether you're a space enthusiast, a project professional, or simply curious about what the future holds beyond our planet, I think you'll find plenty to inspire you in this conversation. 

1. The human side of the Rocket Revolution
   World Space Week 2026 celebrates the "Rocket Revolution".
   When you think about that phrase, what does it mean to you as someone preparing for the possibility of future spaceflight?
   
   
2. The moment it became real 
   -Can you take us back to the moment you learned you had been selected as an ESA Reserve Astronaut?
   -What was going through your mind, and how did it change your view of the future?
   
   
3. From Materials Science to Space Exploration
   Your career began in materials science and engineering.
   How has that scientific background shaped the way you approach astronaut training and the challenges of human spaceflight?
   
   
4. Why humans still need to go to space
   At a time when robotic missions are becoming increasingly capable, what unique value do humans bring to space exploration?
   
   
5. Preparing for the unknown
   Astronauts are often asked to perform in unfamiliar and demanding situations. The same can be said for project and programme managers approaching complex projects.
   What have you learned about resilience, teamwork and decision-making that people can apply in their own careers?
   
   
6. Looking out the window
   Many astronauts describe seeing Earth from space as a life-changing experience.
   What do you think you would be most excited to observe or experience if you able first mission?
   
   
7. Inspiring the next generation
   If a young person listening today dreams of contributing to space exploration but doesn't think they fit the traditional image of an astronaut, what would you say to them?
   
   
8. The next giant leap
   Looking ahead 10–20 years, what developments in human spaceflight are you most excited about, and what role do you hope to play in that journey?
   
   
9. World Space Week 'Quick Fire Five'.  

As we celebrate World Space Week and this year's theme of the Rocket Revolution, it's a timely reminder that we're living through a remarkable period in human history. Access to space is expanding, new opportunities are emerging, and the next generation of explorers is already preparing to take us further than ever before. 

If you've enjoyed this episode, you'll find more World Space Week content from the APM International Space Sector Interest Network, including articles, insights and events exploring the people and projects shaping the future of space. 

Thank you for listening. If this conversation has sparked your curiosity, perhaps the next step is simply to keep asking questions, keep learning, and keep looking up.