Dr. Loren Acton, Research Professor of Physics in the Dept. of Physics at Montana State University, was the guest for this Space Show program. Dr. Acton was a payload specialist on Challenger 8 so after a brief discussion regarding his membership in the American Association for the Advancement of Science and the intelligent design subject, we discussed what it was like being an astronaut. We covered lots of topics from training, to space sickness, his mission and research, transformative experiences, looking back at Earth, being able to tell others about the experience, and more. We also talked about solar research, what it is, how important it is, solar radiation in space, on the Moon, and here on Earth. Dr. Acton spoke extensively about the human spirit for manned space flight and why it was so important. Also, how to teach and convey this importance to people of all ages, especially in our schools. He then separated scientific missions from the manned missions and nurturing the human spirit. This is an extremely important conversation and you will not want to miss it! We also discussed going back to the Moon, how NASA is doing it, NASA administration, public space programs, the budget, and politics, plus the importance of space tourism and private space commerce. This is a program you will not want to miss. For follow up questions or comments to Dr. Acton, please send them to drspace@thespaceshow.com and I will forward them to him.