Voices From Orbit

Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode!Six space missions. Ten spacewalks. A career that began at the U.S. Naval Academy and ultimately reached the International Space Station.In this episode of Voices from Orbit, retired Navy CAPT Michael López-Alegría ’80 shares the experiences that shaped his journey from naval aviator to NASA astronaut and spaceflight leader. He takes listeners inside the intensity of launch, the breathtaking experience of walking in space, the challenges of living aboard the ISS and the teamwork required when something goes wrong hundreds of miles above Earth.He also reflects on the Academy lessons that stayed with him throughout his career, international cooperation in space and the expanding role of commercial spaceflight in opening the next chapter of exploration.Listen for a firsthand look at the experiences, people and decisions behind an extraordinary career in space.

Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode!Voices from Orbit sits down with retired NASA astronaut, naval officer, 2025 USNA Distinguished Graduate and U.S. Naval Academy graduate Sunita Williams ’87 for a conversation about leadership, exploration and a life dedicated to service. From her time as a Midshipman in Annapolis to commanding missions aboard the International Space Station, Williams shares the experiences that shaped an extraordinary career. Drawing on lessons learned in the Navy, in the cockpit and in space, she reflects on the value of teamwork, resilience and embracing challenges beyond your comfort zone. Williams also offers a firsthand look at the realities of spaceflight and the enduring impact of the Naval Academy on her professional journey. Don't miss this engaging conversation with one of the most accomplished astronauts of her generation and a proud alumna of the U.S. Naval Academy.

Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode!When NASA calls and says they can connect your podcast to the International Space Station (ISS), there is only one answer: Absolutely!Before the interview even began, U.S. Naval Academy alumnus and NASA astronaut CDR Jack Hathaway ’04, USN, greeted us with a flip in zero gravity, making it clear this would be anything but an ordinary podcast.And then came perhaps the most surreal moment of all: Jimmy DeButts' voice officially made it to space and was welcomed aboard the ISS.In this special episode of Voices From Orbit, Hathaway joins us live from orbit as part of Expeditions 74 and 75 to share what life is really like aboard the ISS. From watching Earth roll by 250 miles below to conducting groundbreaking research with 3D printers in microgravity and mastering the art of floating through the whole length of the station without touching a handrail, Hathaway offers a firsthand look at humanity's out-of-this-world frontier.He also reflects on the unique bond among Naval Academy graduates who have become astronauts and the lessons passed from one generation to the next.Some episodes need a long introduction. This one doesn't.It's a conversation with a fellow Naval Academy graduate living and working in space, complete with zero-gravity acrobatics, stories from orbit and a podcast interview beamed directly from the ISS.Trust us. This is a must-listen episode.

Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode!We sit down with CAPT Christopher Cassidy ’93, USN (Ret.), whose remarkable career has taken him from the U.S. Naval Academy to Navy SEAL teams, NASA, and ultimately the command of the International Space Station (ISS). Cassidy reflects on the experiences, challenges, and lessons that shaped his journey, sharing stories from spaceflight, military service, and leadership in some of the most demanding environments imaginable. From launching into orbit to living and working hundreds of miles above Earth, this conversation offers a fascinating look at exploration, resilience, and the enduring impact of a Naval Academy education. Join us for an inspiring discussion with one of the Academy’s most accomplished graduates as we continue our Voices from Orbit series celebrating USNA alumni who have ventured beyond our planet.

Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode!Given the choice between a lifeline on the moon or 8 ounces of fuel, Charlie Duke ’57 naturally chose the fuel. While the lifeline would’ve linked him to another astronaut on the moon in case of an emergency, that fuel could get them further on the lunar surface. Charlie dreamed of flying as a child in Lancaster, SC. He took his chances in the Air Force out of the Naval Academy and he threw caution to the wind for his moon walk. He was calculated risk taker who exemplifies the honor, courage and commitment values ingrained in Bancroft Hall. Charlie Duke was the youngest of 12 men to walk on the moon and one of three Naval Academy alumni in that exclusive club. We had the privilege to interview Charlie as the first guest of the Voices From Orbit podcast which launches on 4 August 2026. This monthly podcast, hosted by Shipmate Editor Jimmy DeButts, will feature moon walkers, Space Shuttle pilots, NASA administrators, commercial astronauts and the next generation of astronauts who will return to the moon and set the path for Mars landings. Join us for the premiere episode of Voices From Orbit as Charlie shares his incredible journey from small-town South Carolina to Annapolis to Air Force aviator to lunar module pilot for the Apollo 16 mission. Voices from Orbit is a podcast focusing on USNA alumni who are in the exclusive club of NASA astronauts. As the U.S. space program enters its next exciting phase-returning to the Moon and reaching Mars-there is growing demand to better understand what it will take to achieve these lofty goals and why USNA alumni are among the best suited to make them a reality.This monthly podcast will feature moon walkers, Space Shuttle pilots, NASA Administrators, commercial astronauts and the next generation of astronauts who will return to the moon and set the path for Mars landings.