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Standing just feet away from the iconic countdown clock, Shaw describes the “overstimulating” atmosphere at the launch site

broadcaster Gerry Kelly speaks with Irish scientist and space enthusiast Dr. Niamh Shaw, who is reporting live from the Kennedy Space Center. The pair discusses the historic significance of the Artemis II mission, which marks humanity’s return to lunar exploration after more than five decades.

A Historic Milestone

Standing just feet away from the iconic countdown clock, Shaw describes the “overstimulating” atmosphere at the launch site. She emphasizes the profound importance of this mission: for the first time in history, a woman (Christina Koch) and a Canadian astronaut will journey to the moon. Shaw reflects on how “seeing is being,” noting that having a woman on the mission will inspire future generations of girls to pursue careers in the science sector.

Bridging the Past and Present

The conversation is steeped in personal history. Kelly recalls watching the 1969 Apollo 11 moonwalk as an eight-year-old with his father on a black-and-white television. Similarly, Shaw credits her own father’s work and encouragement for her path into science. They acknowledge a shared local pride, both being from County Louth, and discuss the contributions of other Irish figures to lunar science, such as Frank Byrne’s work on landing algorithms.

Technological Evolution vs. Human Resilience

Shaw highlights the staggering technological leap since 1972. While the Apollo missions relied on computing power less advanced than a modern digital watch, Artemis II utilizes the highly sophisticated Orion capsule (featuring a European-built service module). Despite these advances, Shaw points out that the fundamental human challenges remain unchanged:

Living in a cramped “tin can” the size of a camper van.

The lack of gravity, fresh water, and natural oxygen.

The inherent danger of the launch and reentry phases.

The interview concludes with a sense of collective anticipation for the 11:24 PM (Irish time) blast-off, celebrating a new chapter in our species’ connection to the moon.