JPL x SpaceX | NXT in Space: Episode 4

The next generation of space exploration won't be built by any one organization alone. As NASA, JPL, and commercial companies take on ever more ambitious missions, what does successful partnership really look like? In this episode of NXT in Space, join SpaceX’s Director of Dragon Human Spaceflight and NASA Science Julianna Scheiman and JPL Director for Flight Projects Jordan Evans for a conversation about public-private space partnerships, the challenges of launching flagship missions, the engineering breakthroughs driving the future of deep space exploration, and even their shared experience at Europa Clipper’s 2024 launch. Julianna Scheiman is the Director of NASA Science and Dragon Programs at SpaceX. A Dartmouth engineering alumna, she is a driving force behind making spaceflight more accessible and affordable. Julianna has spearheaded critical milestones – from overseeing SpaceX’s first dedicated NASA satellite mission (Jason-3) to managing high-profile launches like the Psyche spacecraft on a Falcon Heavy. Partnering directly with NASA to develop advanced mission capabilities, she is actively shaping the future of deep space exploration. Jordan Evans is the Director for Flight Projects at JPL, where he oversees the development of Earth-orbiting and deep space missions. Previously, he managed the historic Europa Clipper flagship mission from its early design phases through launch. He also led the engineering and operations team for the Curiosity rover – a massive undertaking that earned him the prestigious NASA Outstanding Leadership Medal for his critical role in safely landing the rover on the Martian surface. NXT in Space is a series from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory that brings together industry leaders, creatives, and futurists to explore how collaboration can accelerate innovation and push the boundaries of what’s possible. Watch the series: Source: