Interplanetary Podcast

#305 - Adam Higginbotham - Challenger

Interplanetary Podcast

Show Notes

Matt sits down with acclaimed author and journalist Adam Higginbotham to discuss his latest book, "Challenger: A True Story of Heroism and Disaster on the Edge of Space." This definitive account of the tragic space shuttle Challenger disaster takes us on a journey from the Apollo program through the investigation that followed the catastrophe.

Adam shares the meticulous research to reveal the untold story of what really happened and why. We delve into the internal discussions between NASA and Morton Thiokol executives, the heroic efforts of whistleblowers, and the profound impact this disaster had on space exploration and public perception.

Adam's masterful storytelling brings to life the human drama, fascinating science, and shocking political infighting that defined this pivotal moment in history. Whether you're a space enthusiast, a history buff, or simply curious about the Challenger disaster, this episode promises to be both enlightening and unforgettable.

www.linktr.ee/Interplanetary Hosts: Matt Russell

Music: Matt Russell / Iam7 Twitter @interplanetypod

More from Interplanetary Podcast

Oct 18, 2026

A little later than planned, here’s our conversation with astrophysicist and author Dr Jillian M. Scudder about her new book The Universe: A Graphic Guide, illustrated by Lily Fossett. We talk dark matter, , Cosmic Noon, and the challenge of explaining the entire universe without losing the wonder. The second October Episode to follow shortly. Image Credits: Ohio State University and Lily Fossett

Sep 19, 2026

Matt interviews ESA astronaut John McFall: Paralympian, surgeon and the first astronaut with a Paralympic medal to be cleared for a long-duration space mission. They talk astronaut training, the science and engineering of making spaceflight accessible, and what John’s journey could mean for the future of human spaceflight.

Jul 26, 2026

In this episode, Matt chat with Rob Coppinger about the his new book on British spaceplanes HOTOL and Skylon. Matt is also joined by Leddra as they share their experiences of the Smithsonian Starstruck Immersive Experience in London and sample some classic astronaut ice cream. https://amzn.eu/d/04jUkGHP https://linktr.ee/interplanetary

May 31, 2026

In this episode of The Interplanetary Podcast, I'm joined by ay new co-host, singer-songwriter Leddra Chapman, as we tackle one of the most mind-bending ideas in all of science: special relativity. From the speed of light and the nature of causality to time dilation, the ether, and Einstein's revolutionary insight into space and time, we follow the story that changed our understanding of reality. And, as always, I can't resist ending with a slightly outrageous thought experiment of my own.

Apr 30, 2026

Former NASA food scientist Ryan Dowdy PhD joins Matt to explore how Artemis program is reshaping the future of human nutrition, from feeding astronauts on the ISS to the Moon and beyond to powering first responders here on Earth.

See all episodes →