What happens when two VLA workers get interviewed without warning in the parking lot of the VLA? Let's find out.

This was in the parking lot of the U.S. National Science Foundation Very Large Array without notice. After the hubbub of the open house had faded for the day, but right as people were starting to arrive for the Star Party and set up their telescopes, one of the workers telling people where to park yelled out, "hey, podcast guy! Can I be on your podcast?" After figuring out that he was only half joking, I surprised him by saying "yes."

It was recorded on my mobile phone. There was a lot of wind. It messed with the microphones on my phone and there are times when the conversation is hard to hear. I suggest headphones.

Warning, this was a pretty raw conversation. I debated editing out some of the edgier parts, but decided that not to. The conversation we had was the one you'll hear, including the swearing.

This is 27 minutes of real, raw conversation recorded in the parking lot of the VLA with Lorenzo Pina and Richard Harding. Two of the blue-collar workers who make it all happen.

You heard about Shane Baca in the previous episode, and now it's time to hear from Shane himself.

Pull up a chair to the campfire, grab a drink for our Ritual, and let's do a deep dive into what it takes to keep 27 (plus a spare) 240-ton radio telescope receiver dishes running, while also dealing with the grounds, the parking lot, pest removal, making sure the lights are on (of off, as need be), and the toilets are clean. Shane is the facilities manager of the VLA, and his story is more than you might think it is.

Shane's tributary of the Star River is one of pride and a deep belief that science doesn't happen without grease and railroad spikes. I think, after listening to him speak with me from the break room of the control building at the VLA in April, you'll agree.

Whether you are an experienced radio astronomer or a casual backyard stargazer, this conversation bridges the gap between the science we all hear about and the mechanics, welders, electricians, and plumbers that make it all happen.

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Topics & Keywords: Blue Collar, Shane Baca, VLA, radio frequency interference, time travel, Astrophotography, Astronomy Education, Science Communication

Hello, fellow Navigators! Pull up a chair next to the campfire for a quick mid-stream check-in. My day job has been an absolute mountain of work this week, so I am letting our next full-length episode drift just a tiny bit further down the stream to get the proper editing and polish it deserves, launching next Tuesday morning instead.

This quick teaser gives you a behind-the-scenes preview of my the next episode of my special series, Enchanted Frequencies, where we explore the universe through radio waves and invisible cosmic signals. And through my visit to the Land of Enchantment, New Mexico!

We'll look at the blue-collar heart of astronomy with Shane Baca, the facilities manager at the Very Large Array. Shane manages a crew of 65 mechanics, rail workers, and fabricators who roll up their sleeves to move massive 240-ton telescope dishes across the desert. I've even included a brief clip of our conversation to whet you appetite.

Remember that the Deep-Sky Hotline is always open at 855-DEEP-SKY (855-333-7759) if you want to leave a question or share your own stargazing rituals. If you want to join the crew, unlock our private Discord channels, and claim one of the few remaining limited-edition Enchanted Frequencies mission stickers, head over to astropotamus.com/support.

Until the next bend in the River, clear skies, and I will see you in the dark!