Racing to the Moon: How NASCAR Found Its Way into Space

This episode of The Logbook, our History of Motorsports series, provides a presentation by Dr. Mark D. Howell, discussing the 2023 partnership between Leidos and NASCAR to develop a next-generation lunar roving vehicle (LTV) for NASA's Artemis program. The collaboration leverages NASCAR's expertise in high-performance vehicles and quick maintenance, reflecting on the cultural and technological history of motorsports and space exploration. The presentation highlights NASA's previous lunar roving vehicles from the Apollo missions, addressing their design, functionality, and historical significance. Additionally, Leidos' corporate strategies, including diversity and inclusion initiatives, are discussed in relation to their efforts to secure the NASA contract. The presentation conveys the intersection of motorsports culture with aerospace innovation, aiming to secure a competitive edge in the privatized and commercialized space industry. ===== (Oo---x---oO) ===== 00:00 Meet Dr. Mark D Howell 01:02 NASCAR and Space Exploration 03:17 Leidos and NASCAR Partnership 06:28 Next Gen Car and Lunar Terrain Vehicle 12:46 Historical Context and NASA's LRV Program 24:43 Q&A Session 30:21 Closing Remarks and Sponsors ==================== The Motoring Podcast Network : Years of racing, wrenching and Motorsports experience brings together a top notch collection of knowledge, stories and information. #everyonehasastory #gtmbreakfix - motoringpodcast.net More Information: Visit Our Website Become a VIP at: Patreon Online Magazine: Gran Touring Follow us on Social: Instagram This episode is part of our HISTORY OF MOTORSPORTS SERIES and is sponsored in part by: The International Motor Racing Research Center (IMRRC), The Society of Automotive Historians (SAH), The Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Argetsinger Family - and was recorded in front of a live studio audience.