Bruce Betts

Mentioned in 5 analyzed podcast episodes across 1 show

Chief Scientist at The Planetary Society, an organization focused on space exploration and astronomy education. Betts is an author of a 15-book space education series for children and an expert in SETI and planetary defense. He regularly contributes to Planetary Radio's "What's Up" segment, discussing topics ranging from orbital mechanics to meteorite science.

Appears On

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

Episode Appearances

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science · Apr 8, 2026

Artemis II launches to the Moon

“Discusses lunar science discoveries since Apollo era and what's up segment on Moon observations”

Artemis II Mission Architecture and Crew SelectionEuropean Service Module Integration and International PartnershipsOrion Spacecraft Environmental Control and Life Support Systems

View Analysis

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science · Apr 1, 2026

Artemis II’s AVATAR and a sungrazing comet

“Provides observing guidance for Comet MAPS and discusses SLS rocket propellant specifications”

Organ-on-chip technology and tissue engineeringPersonalized medicine and precision healthDeep space radiation effects on human biology

View Analysis

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science · Feb 25, 2026

Did an impact trigger cryovolcanism on Umbriel?

“Chief scientist at The Planetary Society; discussed tidal heating and orbital resonance in 'What's Up' segment”

Cryovolcanism on icy moonsOrbital resonance and tidal heatingImpact crater morphology and thermal inference

View Analysis

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science · Feb 20, 2026

Book Club Edition: Planetary Society Chief Scientist Bruce Betts’ latest for kids

“Chief Scientist of the Planetary Society; author of 15-book space education series; SETI and planetary defense expert”

Children's Science Education and STEM LiteracyPlanetary Defense and Near-Earth Asteroid DetectionSearch for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI)

View Analysis

Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science · Feb 11, 2026

Where did Earth’s water come from? Clues hidden in Apollo Moon dust

“Chief scientist for The Planetary Society; provided What's Up segment on Allende meteorite”

Lunar regolith composition and impact vaporization processesOxygen isotope geochemistry and triple isotope frameworksEarth's water origin and delivery mechanisms

View Analysis