Name: Space Shuttle Flight 118 (STS-117) Post Flight Presentation @NationalSpaceSociety
Uploaded: 2024-10-21T08:17:00-05:00
Duration: 8 min 17 s
Description: Space Shuttle Flight 118 (STS-117) Post Flight Presentation

Space Shuttle Flight 118 (STS-117) Post Flight Presentation

National Space Society 2024-10-21 | Space Shuttle Flight 118 (STS-117) Post Flight Presentation

NSS Space Forum - Scaling New Heights: Delivering Power to the Space Elevator Climbers

National Space Society 2024-10-18 | ...

spUN Debates - High School Level - Live from ISDC 2024, LA

National Space Society 2024-09-30 | spUN Debates - Resolution: Space Development would best be performed by autonomous AI and Robotic Systems.

Robert Zubrin, The New World on Mars: What We Can Create on the Red Planet, an NSS Space Forum

National Space Society 2024-08-30 | National Space Society Space Forum, Aug 29, 2024, The New World on Mars: What We Can Create on the Red Planet

With

Dr. Robert Zubrin
President, The Mars Society
Astronautical Engineer and Author
Founder, Pioneer Astronautics

View this National Space Society (NSS) Space Forum for an opportunity to dive into a bold, new vision for humanity on Mars. Hear from Dr. Robert Zubrin, one of the most influential voices in space settlement, as he presents insights from his new book, "The New World on Mars: What We Can Create on the Red Planet." Dr. Zubrin, who revolutionized our thinking about Mars with his classic "The Case for Mars," is back with a detailed and actionable plan for establishing a sustainable human presence on the Red Planet.

In this forum, Dr. Zubrin lays out the technological breakthroughs, economic strategies, and political commitments required to turn the dream of Mars settlement into reality. Dr. Zubrin provides a compelling case for why Mars should be humanity’s next great adventure. From the first steps of reaching Mars to harnessing its resources and building thriving cities, he explores the full scope of what it takes to create a new world. You’ll also learn about the incredible scientific discoveries and cultural innovations that could emerge from a Mars settlement—ushering in a new era of human civilization.

Dr. Zubrin, in making the case, draws on his deep expertise and passion for space exploration as he offers this positive view for the long-term survival of humanity; suggesting a new frontier that could inspire innovation, drive economic growth, and safeguard the human race from potential global catastrophes.

Enjoy this exciting and informative space forum that offers an inspiring and thought-provoking vision of expanding our human boundaries and settling Mars.

Dr. Robert Zubrin is the President of the Mars Society and a veteran astronautical engineer. In 1996 he founded Pioneer Astronautics, an aerospace R&D company he led for twenty-seven years, successfully executing more than seventy programs for NASA, the USAF, and the Department of Energy until selling the firm in 2023. Prior to founding Pioneer Astronautics, Dr. Zubrin worked as a senior engineer at Martin Marietta and Lockheed Martin, as well as in areas of nuclear power plant safety, radiation protection, and thermonuclear fusion research. He holds a master’s degree in Aeronautics and a PhD in Nuclear Engineering from the University of Washington.

Dr. Zubrin is a Fellow of the British Interplanetary Society, a former Chair of the Executive Committee of the National Space Society and holds twenty patents. He is the author of more than two hundred published technical and non-technical papers in the field of space development and settlement, and twelve books, including the Case for Mars: The Plan to Settle the Red Planet and Why We Must, now in its 25th anniversary edition; and the recently published The New World on Mars: What We Can Create on the Red Planet. He lives with is wife Hope, a retired science teacher, in Golden, Colorado.

Bringing Columbia Home with Michael Leinbach and Jonathan Ward - An NSS Space Forum

National Space Society 2024-08-30 | National Space Society Space Forum, Aug 15, 2024

Bringing Columbia Home: The Untold Story of a Lost Space Shuttle and Her Crew

With

Michael Leinbach, Former Space Shuttle Launch Director and Author

Jonathan Ward, Space Historian, Author and Enrichment Lecturer

Hear the inspiring story of the extraordinary efforts to recover the remains of the Space Shuttle Columbia and her crew after the tragic accident on February 1, 2003. In their book, "Bringing Columbia Home: The Untold Story of a Lost Space Shuttle and Her Crew," co-authors Michael Leinbach and Jonathan Ward chronicle the tragic loss of the Space Shuttle Columbia during its STS-107 mission and the massive recovery effort that ensued, involving thousands of people from NASA, the FBI, local law enforcement, and volunteers.

The Space Shuttle Columbia disintegrated upon reentry into the Earth's atmosphere, killing all seven astronauts on board. The disaster was caused by damage to the shuttle's left wing leading edge, which occurred during launch when a piece of foam insulation from the external tank struck the wing, creating a breach that allowed hot gases to penetrate and weaken the internal structure, causing the shuttle to break apart.

During the space forum, Mike and Jonathan describe the details of the search that covered more than 2,000 square miles across Texas and Louisiana, where debris was scattered. They will share personal stories from those involved in the recovery, highlighting their dedication, resilience, and the strong sense of community and teamwork. As with most tragedies that involve the interplay between human activities and technology, Mike and Jonathan will also reflect on the lessons learned from the Columbia disaster, both in terms of technical and organizational changes at NASA that led to improvements in shuttle and spaceflight safety.

Thank you for watching this important space forum that looks back on a national space tragedy while providing an inspirational message of honoring both the crew of STS-107 and the story of those who “Brought Columbia Home.”

Mike Leinbach was the final Shuttle Launch Director at NASA’s John F. Kennedy Space Center (KSC), Florida. He was responsible for overall shuttle launch countdown policy, planning, and execution activities in the last eleven years of the program. Mike’s NASA career began in 1984 when he joined the agency as a structural engineer. He quickly rose through the ranks, initially leading design efforts for critical launch pad systems. By 1988, he became a NASA Test Director, overseeing daily operations at the Kennedy Space Center's Launch Complex.

In 1991 Mike was named Shuttle Test Director, conducting the terminal countdown and launch of seventeen shuttle missions. In August 2000 he became the Launch Director and led the Launch Team for all Shuttle missions from then to the end of the program in 2011, serving as the person to give the final “Go!” for launch.

In 2003, following the tragic breakup of Space Shuttle Columbia, Mike led the initial debris recovery efforts in Texas and Louisiana. He spearheaded the Columbia Reconstruction Team, which meticulously analyzed the collected debris to determine the cause of the accident. His innovative suggestion to loan the debris to academic institutions has contributed to the development of safer spacecraft. Following his retirement from NASA in November 2011, Mike transitioned to overseeing human space operations for United Launch Alliance ((ULA), where he helped to integrate ULA ‘s Atlas V rocket with Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft as part of NASA’s Commercial Crew program.

Mike collaborated with author Jonathan Ward on the project "Bringing Columbia Home," which chronicles the recovery efforts and legacy of the Columbia disaster. This project underscores his commitment to honoring the memory of the Columbia crew and advancing the field of space exploration. His many service awards include the Presidential Rank Award, NASA’s Exceptional Service Medal, and NASA’s Medal for Outstanding Leadership.

Jonathan Ward is the author of four space history books, a cruise ship astronomer and enrichment speaker, and an avid astrophotographer. Jonathan’s most recent book, “Through the Glass Ceiling to the Stars,” was written in collaboration with astronaut Eileen Collins, the first American woman to pilot and command space missions. Jonathan and Eileen have given book signings and presentations about Collins’ life and spaceflight missions at regional and national conferences across the US. A feature-length documentary “Spacewoman,” based on the book and produced by Haviland Digital, is scheduled for release in 2025.

Jonathan is a Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society and a NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador. Jonathan spends about half the year at sea as a space exploration lecturer and astronomer on ocean cruises. In the past two years he has been featured on Viking, Cunard, Atlas, Silversea, Celebrity, and Oceania voyages.

National Space Society Town Hall - NSS Senior Leadership Open House

National Space Society 2024-07-26 | National Space Society Town Hall, July 18, 2024, NSS Senior Leadership Open House
with
Karlton Johnson, Chief Executive Officer, Chairman, Board of Governors
Isaac Arthur, President
Dale Skran, Senior Vice President, Chief Operating Officer

Welcome to a special National Space Society Town Hall Open House featuring our senior leadership with Karlton Johnson, NSS Chief Executive Officer and BoG Chairman, Isaac Arthur, NSS President, and Dale Skran, NSS Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. Gain insights into our recent accomplishments, current challenges, and exciting future programs and plans. Discover the key issues facing space advocacy organizations and the strategies we are employing to advance our mission of space exploration, development and settlement. Enjoy an exciting, fun, and informative discussion with these accomplished and dynamic individuals who have dedicated their expertise and passion to make humanity a spacefaring civilization.

Karlton Johnson (Col, USAF-Retired) is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Space Society and Chairman of the Society’s Board of Governors (BoG). As the senior executive overseeing a variety of business operations and objectives, he shapes major strategic decisions regarding the NSS’s direction, leads our c-suite cadre, and steers the organization towards successful outcomes. In the latter capacity, he serves as the primary spokesperson for the Board of Governors, provides overall leadership to enhance board effectiveness and performance, and fosters board cooperation in support of the Society’s goals.

Karlton is a senior executive leader with over 36 years of subject matter experience in strategic leadership, partnership creation, mission assurance, and the development of emerging space markets. He brings extensive corporate board experience and has advised internationally to drive large-scale program initiatives from requirements to full implementation.

His distinguished career in the Air Force included senior leadership roles where he oversaw strategic operations and communications technologies essential to national security. In the private sector, Karlton is influential towards enabling the growth of space market expansion opportunities for Fortune 500 firms. Additionally, he successfully engages with Congressional leaders to garner support for various space-related legislative initiatives and advocates for commercial and civil space programs, space traffic management, planetary defense, and space economic development advancements.

Isaac Arthur is the creator of the wildly successful Science & Futurism with Isaac Arthur, an award-winning weekly science education and entertainment show with more than 780,000 subscribers and over 700 episodes on YouTube. The show covers a wide range of futuristic concepts including space technology, development, and exploration, and focuses on how humanity or other hypothetical advanced civilizations may behave logistically, technologically, and socially, both in the near and distant future, under the understood laws of science. Isaac is also a regular guest on a variety of news and entertainment shows ranging from online productions to national radio shows, and he consults on science fiction books and video games.

Isaac attended Kent State University majoring in physics and graduating top of his class at age 20 and served in the United States Army during the Iraq war. When not working on his show, Isaac serves as the chair of the Ashtabula, Ohio Board of Elections under the Ohio Secretary of State. Isaac was elected NSS President in April 2023. He serves as the public face of NSS, promoting its mission and providing strategic guidance for the organization.

Dale Skran worked 17 years with Bell Labs (AT&T, Lucent Technologies) and continued his career at several companies including Ascend Communications (VP of Enterprise Engineering), Sonus Networks (Director of Engineering), and CMWare (Founder, CEO, COO, and VP of Engineering). He was also a negotiator/manager at the UN (International Telecommunication Union) where he led the development of international Internet standards for video conferencing and voice services (VoIP).

Dale has written dozens of NSS blog posts and has written many articles in Ad Astra magazine as well as other space related mediums such as The Space Review and Space News. Dale currently holds the following NSS leadership positions: Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Co-Chair of the Bylaws Committee, Co-Chair of the Strategic Planning Committee, and At-large Board Member. Additionally, he is a member of the Diversity Committee, the Club for the Future team, and the Space Settlement Advocacy Committee. In the past he has served as NSS Executive Vice President, Chair of the Policy Committee, and CEO.

National Space Society Space Forum - Cybersecurity in Space: Now and in the Future

National Space Society 2024-07-16 | National Space Society Space Forum, Thursday, July 11, 2024
Cybersecurity in Space: Now and in the Future

Bryce Meyer
Software Engineering/Cybersecurity Professional
NSS Space Ambassador

In today's world, our increasing reliance on space-based technologies makes the protection of space assets and personnel more critical than ever. Space systems, including satellites, space stations, and crewed spacecraft, face significant cybersecurity challenges. These risks can compromise networking, imagery, mission effectiveness, and the safety of both people and property in space.

As we embrace new technologies like artificial intelligence and witness the growing presence of factories, power systems, and humans in space, the stakes are higher than ever. The economic and national security impact of potential cybersecurity breaches is profound.

Enjoy this insightful NSS Space Forum featuring NSS Space Ambassador Bryce Myers, a recognized expert in software engineering and cybersecurity. Bryce delves into the current and future risks, best practices, and cutting-edge tools for space cybersecurity. Gain valuable insights into safeguarding our space future. Whether you're a space enthusiast, professional, or just curious about the topic, this space forum is for you!

Bryce L. Meyer has a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering, an M.S. in Computer Science/Software Engineering, and a M.S. in Biology. In addition to being an NSS Space Ambassador for Space Agriculture and a past NSS Board Member, he also has a day job in Software Engineering/Cybersecurity working with complex space and aerospace systems, and a night job teaching and researching Cybersecurity and AI with Franciscan University of Steubenville. Bryce has several cybersecurity and software engineering publications, and is an Associate Fellow with AIAA, and Senior Member of IEEE.

NSS Space Forum, Wally Funk: Higher, Faster, Longer with Loretta Hall

National Space Society 2024-06-27 | National Space Society Space Forum, June 20, 2024
Wally Funk: Higher, Faster, Longer
With
Loretta Hall
Author and Researcher
NSS Space Ambassador

Watch this NSS Space Forum for an inspiring presentation by NSS Space Ambassador Loretta Hall as she delves into the remarkable life of Wally Funk, a trailblazer in aviation and space exploration. In 1961, thirteen highly skilled female pilots, later known as the Mercury 13, passed the same rigorous physical exams as the Mercury astronauts. Despite their qualifications, they were not given the opportunity to join NASA's human spaceflight program. Among these pioneering women was the youngest member, Wally Funk, who refused to accept this denial of her dreams.

For the next six decades, Wally Funk demonstrated extraordinary perseverance and determination, continuously preparing herself and seeking chances to reach space. Along the way, she shattered numerous barriers in aviation, becoming a symbol of creative perseverance and unyielding positivity.

Loretta Hall narrates the compelling story of Wally Funk's ongoing pursuit of her spacefaring dreams, her achievements in aviation, and her ultimate triumph with her flight on Blue Origin’s New Shepard launch vehicle on July 20, 2021. This presentation is an engaging and motivational session, celebrating the spirit of a woman who epitomizes the essence of reaching "higher, faster, longer." Enjoy this opportunity to learn about a true icon in aerospace history and be inspired by her journey of persistence and success.

Loretta Hall is the author of six nonfiction books about human involvement in space travel. She collaborated with Wally Funk to write the memoir of the youngest member of the Mercury 13, who completed her 60-year quest for spaceflight with Blue Origin in July 2021 at the age of 82. Loretta has been an NSS Space Ambassador since 2012 and has served on the Phase II Space Ambassadors Subcommittee since 2017.

NSS Space Forum, Experiencing the Moon at the Kennedy Space Center with Dr. Kirby Runyon, PhD

National Space Society 2024-06-27 | National Space Society Space Forum, June 13, 2024
Experiencing the Moon at the Kennedy Space Center
With
Dr. Kirby Runyon, PhD
Planetary Geology Research Scientist
CEO, Planex.Space

The Space Coast has been the launchpad for countless astronauts and lunar spacecraft. But what happens after they embark on their journey to the Moon? Join us for an enthralling space forum with planetary geologist, exploration architect, and NSS member Dr. Kirby Runyon as he delves into the Kennedy Space Center's pivotal role in lunar exploration. Think the Moon is just a lifeless rock in space where we've "been there, done that?" Think again!

Dr. Runyon takes you on a captivating journey, painting a vivid portrait of the Moon as an active planet, bustling with secrets waiting to be uncovered. Learn how innovative collaborations between people and machines are pushing the boundaries of lunar exploration. But this presentation is more than just science; it's about the human spirit of adventure and discovery. Explore not just the technical aspects but also the emotional and experiential journey of those who dare to explore the Moon. Enjoy this informative space forum.

Dr. Kirby Runyon is a planetary geology research scientist with the NASA-sponsored Planetary Science Institute and also the CEO of his Space Edutourism company, Planetary Experience (Planex.Space). He is also a Zero-gravity coach, having participated in almost two-dozen parabolic flights. A life-long space enthusiast, Kirby loves sharing his amazement, awe, and wonder of the cosmos with any who will listen. Not content to simply learn about the cosmos, he seeks to experience the cosmos through space-themed adventure tourism. He lives in Baltimore, MD.

NSS Space Forum A Launch Directors Perspective with NASA Launch Director Bob Sieck

National Space Society 2024-06-27 | National Space Society Space Forum, May 9, 2024
A Launch Director’s Perspective
With
Bob Sieck
Space Shuttle Launch Director (Ret)
NASA Kennedy Space Center

"Go for Launch." When listening to the countdown for a rocket launch, those are the words we eagerly await as we brace for the mighty roar and blinding light of engine ignition. Spoken by the launch director, it is the final affirmation that the countdown is proceeding, and the rocket will soon depart Earth. But have you ever wondered about what goes on behind the scenes as the launch director, working with a team of skilled experts, makes that final decision?

Join us for a very special space forum to hear "The Launch Director’s Perspective" from retired Space Shuttle Launch Director Bob Sieck. During his illustrious career at NASA, Bob served as the launch director for more than 50 space shuttle missions. In his presentation, Bob unravels the essence of what it takes to become a launch director. He discusses the rigorous training, the years of experience, and the unwavering commitment to safety that define the role.

While the Space Coast has witnessed an increase in the number of overall rocket launches in the past few years, still rare are the launches that carry precious human cargo. As Bob illustrates, launching rockets destined to carry human lives amplifies the stakes to an entirely new level, requiring additional measures to ensure the safety and well-being of astronauts embarking on the ultimate journey.

Drawing from his own experiences, Bob vividly describes the intricate dance between technology, teamwork, and tenacity that underpins every human spaceflight mission. He shares anecdotes of tense countdowns, last-minute adjustments, and the collective exhilaration that accompanies each successful liftoff. Yet, woven into his narrative is a sobering reminder of the inherent risks of space exploration.

We all hold admiration for the men and women who dedicate their lives to the pursuit of space exploration. Bob’s presentation leaves us with a positive view of the spirit that drives this quest to explore the cosmos and the efforts of these talented and dedicated individuals who make it possible. Enjoy this exciting space forum!

Bob Sieck graduated from the University of Virginia with an Electrical Engineering degree in 1960. He served three years in the U.S. Air Force, attaining the rank of first lieutenant. While in the Air Force, he worked as a meteorologist and was involved in the activation of the LGM-25C Titan II weapon system. After leaving the Air Force, Bob joined NASA at KSC in 1964 as a spacecraft systems engineer for the Gemini and Apollo programs. After Apollo he was transferred to the Space Shuttle program where he was Launch Director for 52 space shuttle missions before retiring in 1999 as KSC Director of Shuttle Processing. After retirement he has served on many NASA review boards and is currently a member of the NASA Advisory Council and the SpaceX Safety Panel.

He has been a board member, advisor ,trustee, and volunteer in many nonprofit organizations, including Habitat for Humanity, the Astronauts Memorial Foundation, the National Space Club, the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation, the NASA Alumni League, and the American Space Museum. Bob enjoys his children and five grandchildren who all live in his local area. Along with volunteer work, he enjoys SCUBA diving, sports cars, and ballroom dancing.

spUN Debates - High School Level - Live from ISDC 2024, LA

National Space Society 2024-05-27 | spUN Debates - Resolution: Space Development would best be performed by autonomous AI and Robotic Systems.

NSS | Engineering the Future with Isaac Arthur and Brian McManus

National Space Society 2024-05-26 | Join us for a thrilling panel with Isaac Arthur of Science & Futurism with Isaac Arthur and Brian McManus of Real Engineering

spUN Debates - University Level - Live from ISDC 2024, LA

National Space Society 2024-05-26 | spUN Debates - Resolution: The international community must establish regulations for space-based solar power to mitigate potential hazards.

Space Solar Power Student Competition - Live from ISDC 2024, LA

National Space Society 2024-05-24 | Space Solar Power Student Competition - Live from ISDC 2024, LA

Sponsored by Space Canada

From Campus to the Cosmos: The EagleCam Adventure - An NSS Space Forum

National Space Society 2024-05-04 | National Space Society Space Forum
May 2, 2024
From Campus to the Cosmos: The EagleCam Adventure
With Vikas Patel, Undergraduate Student, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, 2023 Astronaut Scholar

Join us for an informative space forum to learn about an ambitious student-led project aiming to capture the first lunar landing selfie. In 2019, Intuitive Machines (IM) co-founder and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) alumnus Steve Altemus challenged ERAU students to engineer this out-of-this-world selfie. It was a challenge eagerly accepted by both students and faculty alike. The result? The EagleCam, a student-built satellite camera designed to capture the first-ever third-person images of a spacecraft landing on the Moon. EagleCam flew aboard IM’s Nova-C lunar lander named Odysseus, which successfully touched down on the Moon on February 24.

The goal was for the EagleCam to be ejected from Odysseus about 30 meters above the Moon's surface, free-fall to the lunar surface, and then capture the lander's descent and touchdown. However, due to last-minute complications with the lander, the decision was made to keep the EagleCam attached to the lander during the landing. While the EagleCam did successfully land on the Moon, it unfortunately was unable to capture the images as intended.

EagleCam was designed and built by ERAU students, ranging from first-year undergraduates to doctoral candidates, under the guidance of faculty advisors. Vikas Patel, an aerospace engineering student and one of the team leaders shares his perspective on this historic project. Vikas discusses the design efforts as well as how the students monitored the flight from their own mission control. The ERAU students’ work also garnered the attention of Jared Isaacman, who will command the upcoming Polaris Dawn mission. This student team is currently working on project LLAMAS (Literally Looking At More Astronauts in Space), a camera that will capture the first civilian extravehicular activity (EVA) on the Polaris Dawn mission later this year. Vikas describes the project and provides an update on the current progress.

Vikas Patel, a Jacksonville, Florida native, has excelled both on and off of Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University’s Daytona Beach Campus. He is currently pursuing his B.S. in Aerospace Engineering with an anticipated graduation date of December 2024. During the summer of 2023, he worked as a flight simulation intern at Lockheed Martin in Sunnyvale, California, and in the summer of 2022, he was an engineering intern with the U.S. Navy at Cape Canaveral, Florida.

On campus, he served as the lead flight test engineer for the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics’ (AIAA) Design Build Fly international engineering competition, helping the team win top honors. He has also conducted research in the Space Technologies Lab at Embry‑Riddle where he was on the design team for the EagleCam, which flew on Intuitive Machines’ Odysseus spacecraft which landed on the Moon in Feb. He is now leading battery testing for the LLAMAS project, which is a camera system that aims to capture images and video of the first commercial spacewalk planned for the Polaris Dawn mission.

Vikas, an NSS student member was selected as a 2023 Astronaut Scholar by the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation, one of 68 scholars from 46 universities across the nation awarded a $15,000 scholarship. Vikas plans to continue to graduate school and focus his research in the areas of guidance navigation control or launch operations. He also has his student pilot’s license and hopes to continue his flight training part-time, while in school. His ultimate goal is joining the astronaut program and conducting research in space.

National Space Society Town Hall - Preview of the 2024 International Space Development Conference

National Space Society 2024-04-23 | The National Space Society invites you to watch our Town Hall held on Thursday, April 11, 2024, "A Preview of the 2024 NSS International Space Development Conference (ISDC): No Limits"

With

Aggie Kobrin, ISDC 2024 Organizer and Director of Publications
Rod Pyle, ISDC 2024 Organizer and Editor-In-Chief, Ad Astra Magazine
Tony Paustian, ISDC 2024 Chair and Vice-President, Marketing

Embark on humanity’s greatest adventure at the 42nd annual International Space Development Conference (ISDC) in Los Angeles, taking place at the Sheraton Gateway Hotel from May 23 to 26. This NSS Town Hall previews the 2024 ISDC, featuring a stellar lineup of speakers including space shuttle astronauts, NASA engineers and scientists, leading space technologists, researchers, space entrepreneurs, educators, and space advocates.

Themed “No Limits,” this four-day conference will delve into various aspects of space exploration, development, and settlement. Explore topics such as Moon and Mars exploration and settlement, deep space exploration, innovative technology, the impact of science fiction on space technology and commercialization, planetary defense, living in space, space solar power, space debris, space law and policy, and more. The focus will be on the business and technology necessary to drive further advancements in space exploration. Confirmed ISDC speakers include:

José Hernández
Former NASA Astronaut,
Engineer and Author

CDR Susan Kilrain (USN-Retired)
Former NASA Astronaut
Engineer and Author

Dr. Alan Stern
Associate Vice President
Southwest Research Institute

Dr. Pascal Lee
Co-founder and Chairman
The Mars Institute

Rob Manning
Chief Engineer
Jet Propulsion Laboratory – NASA/Caltech

Janet Ivey
CEO and Host, Janet’s Planet
NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador

Join Aggie, Rod, and Tony as they provide a sneak peek into the ISDC’s sessions, presenters, and the behind-the-scenes organization of this thrilling event! To learn more about ISDC 2024, go to isdc.nss.org/.

National Space Society Space Forum - Navigating the Florida Space Coast Rocket Landscape

National Space Society 2024-03-17 | National Space Society Space Forum - March 14, 2024 - Navigating the Florida Space Coast Rocket Landscape

With Special Guest
Laura Forczyk
Founder and Executive Director – Astralytical
Researcher, Consultant and Author

In 2023, Florida's Space Coast witnessed a spectacular display of seventy-two launches from the Kennedy Space Center/Cape Canaveral Space Force Station (KSC/CCSFS) launch complexes. SpaceX led the charge with sixty-eight launches, complemented by three from United Launch Alliance (ULA) and one from Relativity Space. 2024 promises to be even more exciting as two new rockets are entering the mix.

ULA’s Vulcan rocket made a successful debut on January 8, 2024 with its first launch, and it will replace both of ULA's existing heavy lift launch systems (Atlas V and Delta IV Heavy) due to their retirement. Blue Origin also plans to launch its towering New Glenn rocket, a 320 ft heavy lift marvel, later this year. The New Glenn, with its reusable first stage and oversized 7 meter fairing, will no doubt intensify the interest in the perceived competition between Blue Origin and SpaceX.

Enjoy this insightful space forum where Laura Forczyk, founder and executive director of Astralytical, an Atlanta-based space consulting firm, provides an up-to-date overview of space-related developments on the Space Coast. Gain insights into what 2024 holds and delve into the intriguing dynamics of the so-called Blue Origin – SpaceX "competition" and the true objectives of these NewSpace pioneers. Don't miss this chance to explore the dynamic and ever-changing rocket landscape on the Space Coast.

Laura Forczyk is the founder and executive director of space consulting firm Astralytical specializing in space science, industry, and policy, and offering space career coaching services. As a space career coach, Laura has guided countless individuals globally towards achieving their dream jobs in space. Laura is the author of space books "Rise of the Space Age Millennials" (2020) and "Becoming Off-Worldly" (2022). Her third book is on the horizon, focusing on the democratization of human spaceflight for people of all bodies.

Before launching Astralytical, she led the Florida branch of an international startup aiming to pioneer parabolic and suborbital flights at Kennedy Space Center. Laura’s experience also includes serving as a scientific analyst for the International Space Station National Laboratory, overseeing 50+ experiments for Earth's betterment.

Her space journey has spanned multiple milestones: from researching astrophysics at three NASA centers, experiencing two "Zero-G" flights, studying geological formations in a meteor crater, to earning her suborbital astronaut wings through National Aerospace Training and Research's (NASTAR) ground training. Laura is a six-time U.S. Space Camp alumna, a NASA Academy alumna, a former NASA Student Ambassador, and a previous NASA Graduate Student Researchers Program fellow.

Laura’s academic background includes a B.S. in astrophysics from Florida Institute of Technology and an M.S. in astrophysics from the University of Alabama in Huntsville. Laura conducted doctoral research at the University of Central Florida and delved into the dynamics of regolith on celestial bodies.

National Space Society Space Forum - March 7, 2024 - Maximizing Your Solar Eclipse Experience

National Space Society 2024-03-08 | Maximizing Your Solar Eclipse Experience
Jim Plaxco
President, Chicago Society for Space Studies
NSS Space Ambassador

Are you ready for an astronomical adventure? The "Great North American Eclipse," that will occur on April 8, 2024, will trace a narrow path of totality across 13 U.S. states. The solar eclipse will begin over the South Pacific Ocean and cross North America, passing over Mexico, the United States, and Canada. It will start on Mexico's Pacific coast and move through the United States from Texas to Maine, then continue through the maritime provinces of Canada. The duration of totality can vary widely within the same city, with some cities only partially within the path of totality. Skywatchers along the path of totality will experience up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds of total darkness.

Whether you are in the path of totality, or along the fringes of the eclipse, this space forum provides you with the background you need to ensure you can get the most out of this rare celestial event. Jim Plaxco, President of the Chicago Society for Space Studies and an NSS Space Ambassador, talks on the history and science of eclipses and discusses the upcoming eclipse and observing options.

Jim’s presentation touches on the following topics:

• An introductory history to solar eclipses
• Noteworthy features of a solar eclipse
• The science associated with solar eclipses
• The geometry behind solar eclipses
• Viewing the April total eclipse
• Eclipse viewing options
• Sources for further information

Embrace the celestial wonders and make this solar eclipse a moment to remember! Enjoy this informative and timely space forum.

Note: The next total solar eclipse will occur on August 12, 2026 and pass through the Arctic, Greenland, Iceland, and Spain. The next total solar eclipse in the contiguous United States will occur on August 23, 2044, but it will only touch three states - Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota.

Jim Plaxco is a digital artist and computing professional who has been a space activist since the mid-80’s when he became a member of the National Space Institute. He has served as the Director of Information Systems for the National Space Society. He is also the Webmaster, a Director, and President of the Chicago Society for Space Studies. Mr. Plaxco also created the CSSS Speakers Bureau. He additionally serves as a NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador, a National Space Society Space Ambassador, and the National Space Society Space Ambassador’s Economics Subject Matter Expert.

Mr. Plaxco has previously served as both a director and a Vice President of the National Space Society and as both a Director and a Vice President of the Planetary Studies Foundation. He has been a judge in a variety of space art contests, including art contests sponsored by NASA. He also served as the manager of the Enterprise in Space Orbiter Design Contest and as the National Space Society Space Settlement Art Contest.

NSS Space Forum - February 8, 2024 - Hollywood Goes to Space with Danica Vallone

National Space Society 2024-02-17 | National Space Society Space Forum, February 8, 2024

Hollywood Goes to Space

With Special Guest

Danica Vallone
Founder and CEO
Red Hen Industries

Movies have long been a medium for storytelling and entertainment. For space enthusiasts, a popular genre for us is space movies, which depict exploration and discovery beyond our Earth. Whether these movies have been fact based or science fiction, they face challenges in accurately representing the science and technology involved in space exploration while at the same time meeting our own audience expectations. While filmmakers strive to create a sense of realism, they must also cater to the dramatic effect necessary for an engaging cinematic experience.

In this informative and entertaining Space Forum, Danica Vallone will explore “Space in the Movies.” In her presentation, Danica will examine the complex relationship between entertainment, hard science, messy politics, and the court of public opinion -- viewed through the lens of our media consumption; past and present.

Several of the questions she will answer include:

• Why can't Hollywood just get it right?
• How do we balance the obligations of truth telling vs storytelling?
• By how much should we be willing to suspend our disbelief?
• What can we do to lead the wider public to engage more deeply in a way that resonates and inspires?

Space movies have the power to inspire and shape public perception. Enjoy this space forum as you learn about the challenges filmmakers have in striking the balance between SciFi & SciFact!

Danica Vallone is founder and CEO of Red Hen Industries, a Los Angeles based design and fabrication firm for film, retail, and large scale experiential activations. In recent years, Red Hen’s rapid prototyping abilities have crossed industries into health and aerospace fields. Danica also serves as Executive Creative Director of Global Effects, the largest and longest standing industry leader in space-related costumes, props, and set pieces. She currently holds a Design Residency at UCSD’s Design Lab, with an emphasis in Bionics and Human Resilience.

NSS Space Forum - November 30, 2023 - Is Space Development Best Left to AI-Enhanced Robots?

National Space Society 2024-02-17 | National Space Society Space Forum, November 30, 2023

Debate Proposition: Space Development is Best Left to AI-Enhanced Robots

Enjoy this very special space forum featuring the NSS Space Ambassadors Stevan Akerley, Bryce Meyer and Jim Plaxco as they debate the proposition “Space Development is best left to AI-Enhanced Robots.” Space development is at the forefront of the National Space Society’s mission and vision. How to best make that happen is an open question that will consume policy makers, scientists, engineers, space industry leaders and even ethicists in the years to come as we move closer to achieving these goals.

This debate centers on the idea that leveraging AI in robotic systems is more effective and efficient than human-led space exploration and development. We know that robotic exploration of the solar system and the planets has been very successful, and that robots have proven they can endure the harsh conditions of space and execute complex tasks at lower risk and cost than human exploration. But we also know that they cannot replace the role of human intuition, creativity and adaptability needed for space exploration and settlement. The Space Ambassadors explore these issues and engage in a give-and-take exchange of ideas and arguments in support of or opposition to the proposition.

Stevan Akerley is a retired aerospace engineer from Pratt & Whitney, UTC (now RTX), with 40 years of manufacturing and engineering experience with automated N/C equipment and measurement sensor systems in manufacturing applications. He also has experience in precision manufacturing, machine measurement, CAD CAM software development, quality assurance, and tool and equipment design. Stevan was involved in project and program management on multiple engine programs. He holds an AA degree in liberal arts, a BS degree in industrial technology, and an MBA degree in Management Information Systems and International Business. He also holds a Computer Information Technology Certificate from Central Connecticut State University and is currently serving as a Space Ambassador and a member of the Board of Directors with the National Space Society.

Bryce Meyer is an experienced engineer and on his own time develops and designs farms for space settlement, focusing on mass flow and energy use. He has a graduate degrees in engineering and biology, and very practical experience working on Earth farms. He is writing a textbook on the topic of space farms, in addition to numerous publications in AIAA and NSS conferences and journals, and Children’s STEM books on Space Settlement. He lives in Missouri and is part of the St. Louis Space Frontier Chapter of NSS, and chair of the Space Settlement Technical Committee of AIAA.

Jim Plaxco is a digital artist and computing professional who has been a space activist since the mid-80’s when he became a member of the National Space Institute. He has served as the Director of Information Systems for the National Space Society. He is also the Webmaster, a Director, and President of the Chicago Society for Space Studies. Mr. Plaxco also created the CSSS Speakers Bureau. He additionally serves as a NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador, a National Space Society Space Ambassador, and the National Space Society Space Ambassador’s Economics Subject Matter Expert. Mr. Plaxco has previously served as both a director and a Vice President of the National Space Society and as both a Director and a Vice President of the Planetary Studies Foundation. He has been a judge in a variety of space art contests, including art contests sponsored by NASA. He also served as the manager of the Enterprise in Space Orbiter Design Contest and as the National Space Society Space Settlement Art Contest.

NSS Space Forum - 2023 Space Year in Review with Larry Boyle

National Space Society 2024-01-07 | National Space Society Space Forum
Thursday, December 14, 2023
2023 Space Year in Review

With Special Guest Larry Boyle, Vice President, Chicago Society for Space Studies

And moderated by Jim Plaxco, President, Chicago Society for Space Studies

In the 2023 Space Year in Review presentation, Chicago Society for Space Studies (CSSS) VP Larry Boyle provides an overview of the major space activities that occurred around the world during 2023. Some of the major space events of 2023 are:

• The James Webb Space Telescope continues to send back incredible images and unexpected discoveries about our universe
• Relativity Space launched the Terran 1, a two-stage small-lift launch vehicle using 3D printing processes and methane and oxygen propellant (March)
• The SpaceX Starship made its maiden test flight but the result was a “rapid unscheduled disassembly” (April)
• The private Japanese moon lander Hakuto-R, built by ispace, crashed in late April during its milestone landing attempt
• Continued launching by China of missions to the Tiangong space station
• The ESA launched the Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer (April)
• The last Ariane V was launched making way for the Ariane VI (July)
• The ESA launched the Euclid Space Telescope (July)
• The Chandrayaan-3 successfully landed on the Moon making India the first nation to successfully land a spacecraft in the lunar south pole (Aug)
• Russia launched its first moon mission in 47 years, the Luna-25 spacecraft, unfortunately it spun out of control and crashed into the Moon (Aug)
• NASA’s Osiris-Rex Mission collected rock and dust from asteroid Bennu and brought it back to Earth (Sept)
• NASA launched the Psyche mission, a journey to explore a unique metal-rich asteroid orbiting the Sun between Mars and Jupiter (Oct)
• The second Starship successfully lifted off and achieved a number of major milestones (Nov)
• SpaceX is approaching 100 launches in 2023 and the total worldwide is almost 200 launches, a remarkable year for rockets

Enjoy this comprehensive review of an amazing year in space!

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Larry Boyle was the President of the CSSS between 1989 and 2002. He is now a Vice-President. The CSSS started in 1977. Larry was a reference librarian at the Franklin Park Public Library. This allowed him to research the events in the world's space programs very easily. He is now retired. Larry has been interested in the space program since childhood. He went to the Kennedy Space Center to watch the Apollo 17 launch to the Moon in 1972. He has been to a space shuttle launch as well. Larry received his Library Degree at Rosary College and a BS from Loyola University in Chicago. Larry’s hallmark presentation has been his “Space: The Year in Review” program which he has been giving since 1979.

Jim Plaxco is a digital artist and computing professional who has been a space activist since the mid-80’s when he became a member of the National Space Institute. He has served as the Director of Information Systems for the National Space Society. He is also the Webmaster, a Director, and President of the Chicago Society for Space Studies. Mr. Plaxco also created the CSSS Speakers Bureau. He additionally serves as a NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador, a National Space Society Space Ambassador, the National Space Society Space Ambassador’s Economics Subject Matter Expert. Mr. Plaxco has previously served as both a director and a Vice President of the National Space Society and as both a Director and a Vice President of the Planetary Studies Foundation. He has been a judge in a variety of space art contests, including art contests sponsored by NASA. He also served as the manager of the Enterprise in Space Orbiter Design Contest and the National Space Society Space Settlement Art Contest.

Space Settlement Summit 2023 - Closing Remarks by NSS Pres. Isaac Arthur

National Space Society 2023-10-30 | Closing remarks by National Space Society President Isaac Arthur at the 2023 annual Space Settlement Summit hosted at the Thunderbird School of Global Management at Arizona State University. The 2023 Summit focused on commercial development and marketing of space.

Learn more about the National Space Society: space.nss.org

NSS Space Forum - Chasing New Horizons: A Conversation with Dr. Alan Stern, October 19, 2023

National Space Society 2023-10-20 | NSS Space Forum - Chasing New Horizons: A Conversation with Dr. Alan Stern, October 19, 2023

Dr. Alan Stern
Planetary Scientist and Principal Investigator
New Horizons Program

After almost ten years and more than three billion miles traveled, the New Horizons spacecraft passed within 7800 miles of Pluto’s surface on July 14, 2015. The NASA New Horizons spacecraft was designed to explore Pluto and its moon, Charon, as well as other objects in the Kuiper Belt, a region of the solar system beyond Neptune. Led by Planetary Scientist and Principal Investigator Dr. Alan Stern, the New Horizons mission objectives were to gather data about Pluto, its five known moons, and study the region of the solar system where they reside.

Watch this space forum to hear from Dr. Stern as he discusses the many starts and stops to get the program approved by NASA, the spacecraft development and ultimately the mission itself and the results. The New Horizons mission has been considered a remarkable success, shedding light on the previously mysterious Pluto and expanding our knowledge of the outer reaches of the solar system. Still operating today, New Horizons received a mission extension to explore additional Kuiper belt objects (KBOs) and is returning new knowledge and extraordinary science. But a recent decision by NASA to cut New Horizon’s funding, that was just rescinded, has focused new attention on the program.

The conversation with Dr. Stern touches on this aspect and also covers the successful NSS effort to persuade NASA to restore funding. NSS Executive Vice President Hoyt Davidson, who led the NSS change.org petition effort, joins the discussion and shares the status and what comes next. Enjoy this first-hand account from Dr. Stern that takes you behind the scenes of one of the most successful deep-space robotic missions in NASA’s history.

Dr. Alan Stern is an aerospace executive and planetary scientist with
experience on 29 space mission teams, 14 for which he played a principal
investigator role. Among those, he is the leader of NASA’s New Horizons, the first mission to explore Pluto and the Kuiper Belt—making the farthest
exploration of worlds in history. In 2007 and 2008, he directed NASA’s entire
$6B science program from Washington, DC. Dr. Stern currently serves as an executive in both the Southwest Research Institute (SwRI), a large US research and development house, and World View, a near-space ballooning company. He is a former board chair of the Commercial Spaceflight Federation and KinetX. He is a current board member of Voyager Space Holdings.

Dr. Stern is a member of the US National Science Board, has twice been named to the Time-100, and has published over 500 peer reviewed scientific papers. He is an experienced commercial pilot and has also conducted numerous research missions from NASA F-18s and other high-performance USAF, NASA, and commercial jet aircraft. As the principal investigator of an SwRI commercial suborbital research project, he expects to fly his first suborbital research space mission by 2024. In 2020, NASA selected him to fly as a crew member aboard a second Virgin Galactic suborbital space mission, also expected in the near future. In July 2022, he dove to explore the RMS Titanic in a submersible.

NSS Space Forum - The Sew Sisters: The Untold Story of NASA Seamstresses, October 12, 2023

National Space Society 2023-10-20 | The Sew Sisters: The Untold Story of NASA Seamstresses

Jean Wright
Sew Sister
Space Journalist and Photographer at SpaceUpClose.com
USA Aerospace Composite Tech (Retired)

The Sew Sisters were a group of 18 NASA seamstresses who were highly skilled professionals who played a critical role in the design, construction and maintenance of the space shuttle’s thermal protection system. Like many of the hundreds of thousands of people who have contributed to space shuttle program, they toiled in anonymity. Yet their skill, dedication, and commitment to quality were essential to ensuring the orbiters and the astronauts were protected from the heat of atmospheric reentry.

Watch this space forum to hear from Jean Wright, a member the Sew Sisters, and the untold story of how these amazing seamstresses crafted the space shuttle’s thermal blankets, mostly by hand, with incredible precision and skill. In a conversational format, Jean shares the inspiring story of how she turned her passion for space and sewing into career that contributed to the success of the space shuttle program. Jean also shares stories from her newly released book, "Sew Sister: The Untold Story of Jean Wright and NASA's Seamstresses." Enjoy this fascinating and inspiring space forum that introduces you to a new area of space technology that was previously untold.

Jean Wright was an Aerospace Composite Tech for United Space Alliance (USA) - the prime contractor for NASA’s Space Shuttle Processing. As one of 18 women, she and her co-workers, who dubbed their group, “The Sew Sisters,” were responsible for fabrication, assembly, disassembly, installation and repair of Thermal Protection System (TPS) hardware. Jean worked on the Endeavour, Atlantis and Discovery space shuttle missions. She also worked on test parachutes and aft-skirt blankets for the Orion spacecraft.

Now retired, Jean remains involved with NASA as a docent for the Shuttle Atlantis exhibit at the Kennedy Space Center. She is a member of NASA’s Speakers Bureau, representing the organization at civic, professional, educational and public events. Jean educates guests at the KSC Visitor Complex on all things space and does launch support and VIP tours as needed. Jean is currently part of the media, photographing launches as a team member for the space blog, “Space Up-close.”

One of the biggest thrills of her life was being asked by Mark Armstrong to cut and prepare for auction, pieces of historic fabric from the Wright Brothers 1903 Flyer that his father, Neil Armstrong, carried to the Moon! Today, Jean sews custom face masks and apparel--space themed and otherwise. A hardcover picture book about Jean's life was published this fall. Entitled “Sew Sister: The Untold Story of Jean Wright and NASA's Seamstresses” (Tilbury House Publishers October 3, 2023), it is written and illustrated by Elise Matich.

NSS Space Forum - NASA New Technologies: On-Orbit Servicing and Manufacturing with James Tomaka

National Space Society 2023-09-17 | National Space Society Space Forum
Thursday, Sept 14, 2023
NASA New Technologies: On-Orbit Servicing and Manufacturing
With James Tomaka, Mission Systems Engineer, Goddard Space Flight Center

Although servicing of satellites has been theoretically considered since the early days of spaceflight, progress has been slow. However, in recent years, government and private industry is pursuing a more sustainable future in space.

In the past three decades, some of the most extraordinary successes in space exploration involved in-orbit repair and construction. Five servicing missions to the Hubble Space Telescope and countless spacewalks to assemble the International Space Station required astronauts to conduct activities outside the confines of their vehicle. Going forward, the next generation of space activities and construction can involve robotics to refuel satellites, perform orbit relocation, or building large structures in space and on the Moon.

Government entities and commercial industry are entering the fray to develop the necessary technologies for the nascent in-orbit servicing industry. Jim’s presentation covers NASA’s original 1960s concepts for satellite servicing through the Hubble Space Telescope. Jim then discusses NASA’s newest technologies to perform servicing missions robotically and provides a preview of the OSAM-1 mission which will, for the first time ever, robotically refuel a U.S. government satellite not designed to be serviced. Enjoy this informative space forum which will introduce you to technologies necessary for a sustained future in space.

James Tomaka is a mission systems engineer on NASA’s On-orbit Assembly and Manufacturing-1 (OSAM-1) mission scheduled to launch in 2026. OSAM-1 is part of NASA's Exploration and In-space Services projects division, which develops groundbreaking, more sustainable technologies to service spacecraft and pioneer in-space assembly and manufacturing. Jim is assigned to the Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFFC) in Greenbelt MD and is employed by Science Applications International Corp (SAIC) as a senior principal systems engineer.

Jim previously worked for NASA’s Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS) program as an RF engineer for 25 years. His communications systems relayed data from the Hubble Space Telescope and for over 120 Space Shuttle missions. Other experiences included working in the Optics Department at White Sands Missile Range (WSMR) supporting a broad range of customers including the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) and Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). His career started out at the Holloman High Speed Test Track in the timing/telemetry section collecting data from rocket sled tests.

Jim is a graduate of New Mexico State University in Las Cruces NM. He obtained a Bachelor of Science in Electronics and Computer Engineering and a Masters Certificate in Systems Engineering. Jim is also a board member with the International Space Hall of Fame Foundation supporting the New Mexico Museum of Space History in Alamogordo, NM. To unwind, Jim is an avid amateur astronomer (Astro-photographer) and performs outreach in southern New Mexico and west Texas parks and schools, encouraging the next generation of space explorers and engineers.

NSS Space Forum - The Space Fair and Instabase with Dr. Doug Plata

National Space Society 2023-07-15 | National Space Society Space Forum , Thursday, July 13, 2023, The Space Fair and Instabase

Dr. Doug Plata, Physician, President and Founder of the Space Development Network

The "Plan for Sustainable Space Development" is the plan proposed by the Space Development Network for the initial development of space. It has similarities to the NSS Roadmap, but it is focused on the near term, what is probable, and a specific timetable. Doug’s presentation focuses on two aspects, The Space Fair and Instabase.

The Space Fair is comprised of the exhibits which were displayed at ISDC 2023 in Frisco, Texas and which filled a conference room, much to the delight and enjoyment of the attendees. The Space Fair is divided into 15 categories and Doug will review the sections as they provide an interesting summary of the plan.

Following that introduction to the plan, Doug explores their proposed concept for the initial permanent bases on the moon and Mars. This "Instabase" would be designed to house the very historic, initial permanent crew of eight. Doug explains why they believe that inflatables make the best sense not only for the initial permanent base, but also for the initial phase of the international bases on the moon and Mars. They could use very large, 100 ton inflatables delivered via Starship. Doug systematically goes through the various modules of the InstaBase and then describes the scenario for the initial permanent crew.

Enjoy this informative space forum that features the innovative concepts for habitation on the moon proposed by the Space Development Network. Doug also shares more about the Space Development Network and answers audience questions.

Doug Plata is a physician in Redlands, CA. He is the President and Founder of the Space Development Network, a free-to-join organization of space advocates networked to advance space development projects. Doug has served on multiple committees of different space advocacy organizations. He has made dozens of appearances and presentations at conferences and on the radio. He recently oversaw the completion of a full-scale Moon-Mars base mock-up named the InstaBase which is to be displayed during major Starship launches. His primary interest is the establishment of large, inflatable, and sustainable bases as the initial permanent bases on both the Moon and Mars.

NSS Space Forum - How Science Keeps Earth Safe from Hazardous Asteroids - Jonathan Dagle

National Space Society 2023-06-23 | National Space Society Space Forum
Thursday, June 22, 2023
How Science Keeps Earth Safe from Hazardous Asteroids
Jonathan Dagle
Technologist, Futurist, and Strategist
NSS Policy Chair and Planetary Defense Policy Manager

Saving Earth from asteroids is likely not high in most people’s thought processes. But the danger is real as there are about 1,000 asteroids a kilometer or more in diameter that cross Earth’s orbit (the path Earth takes around the Sun). It is estimated that about a third of these will eventually hit Earth. The most recent major hit occurred on 15 February 2013 when the Chelyabinsk meteor entered Earth’s atmosphere over Russia.

The asteroid was not detected before its atmospheric entry, in part because its source direction was close to the Sun. The blast from this asteroid’s shock wave broke windows nearly 60 miles away and caused about 1,500 people to be injured seriously enough to seek medical treatment. Had this asteroid struck a major population center the devastation would have been horrendous.

The reality is that if we don't do something, sooner or later Earth will be hit by an asteroid large enough to cause enormous destruction and even threaten life on Earth. The National Space Society has identified “Defending Earth: Protecting humanity from dangerous space objects” as one of its major goals. NSS is also working to urge Congress to address the threats of near-Earth objects. With the success of NASA’s DART (Double Asteroid Redirection Test) mission that changed the orbit of asteroid Dimorphous, more efforts are being made by NASA and other researchers to combat these threats, including the development of a telescope that will spot these asteroids before they find us.

Enjoy this exciting and informative space forum featuring Jonathan Dagle, the NSS Policy Chair and Planetary Defense Policy Manager. Jonathan provides an overview of the asteroid threat, how planetary defense works in practice, and what's on the horizon.

Jonathan Dagle is a technologist, futurist, and strategist. He helps organizations craft strategies and implement technologies to better achieve their goals. A retired Air Force officer with diverse, international experiences, Jon has served as a bombing range manager in Germany, an air combat operations planner, an aircrew instructor, strategist at Air Force “Checkmate,” and created the Air National Guard’s strategy division. He participated in several war-games, managed and participated in think tank research studies, and consulted on several Army War College studies.

Jonathan is the Policy Chair and Planetary Defense Policy Manager for the National Space Society. He is responsible for overseeing the development of NSS positions on legislation and other space matters. He also leads the development of planetary defense policy. He represents NSS as a board member of the Alliance for Space Development.

NSS Space Forum - The New Guys Astronaut Class with Meredith Bagby

National Space Society 2023-06-23 | National Space Society Space Forum
Thursday, April 20, 2023
THE NEW GUYS: The Historic Class of Astronauts That Broke Barriers and Changed the Face of Space Travel
Meredith Bagby, Author, Partner - Big Swing Productions

In 1978, NASA announced its first class of civilian astronauts, opening its ranks to candidates beyond white male fighter pilots. Among them were: the first American woman, African American, Asian American, Jewish person, mother, LGBTQ+ person, and married couple. Now, in "THE NEW GUYS: The Historic Class of Astronauts That Broke Barriers and Changed the Face of Space Travel," Meredith Bagby shares the never-before-told stories of “the new guys,” (a nickname given by their military predecessors), a class of pioneers who shattered glass ceilings, overcame racial barriers, and literally changed the face of space travel.

Meredith researched oral histories, congressional hearings, investigative reports, and had exclusive access to and the cooperation of three of the first American women in space—Kathy Sullivan, Anna Fisher, and Rhea Seddon—and tells their captivating story of the race to be the first woman in space. As well, Bagby shares the challenges of the first African American men to fly, Guy Bluford and Fred Gregory. The astronauts in the class of 1978, which also included the late Sally Ride, broke barriers, became iconic household names, and ushered in the shuttle program that remains the most difficult undertaking in the history of NASA. They tragically lost three of the twelve New Guys in the 1986 Challenger disaster, and faced the 2003 Columbia tragedy, forever altering the way humans think of space travel. The result is a remarkable story as nuanced and vibrant as its cast.

Running parallel to their story is the extraordinary four-decade-long history of the shuttle itself. Conceived in the 1960s, the space shuttle was an ambitious new vehicle that would launch like a rocket, haul like a truck, and land like a plane. It would be NASA’s most ambitious technical achievement. “The New Guys” pioneered the NASA’s Space Shuttle Program through its triumphs and tragedies, defining a generation of space travel and helping to build the dream of a new American century in space that brings all of the human race along. Meredith’s presentation highlights many of these behind the scenes aspects that occurred at a pivotal point in our nation’s space program. Enjoy this exciting and informative look back.

Meredith Bagby is a nonfiction writer and a partner at Big Swing Productions, a film and TV production company. Her previous books include "We’ve Got Issues, Rational Exuberance," and "The Annual Report of the United States of America." Bagby was a senior film development executive at DreamWorks SKG, a political reporter and producer for CNN, and a teaching fellow at Harvard’s Institute of Politics. Her education includes Columbia Law School and Harvard College.

2023 High School Virtual Debate

National Space Society 2023-05-29 | The National Space Society and its Education Team support the space policy and UNiversalization (spUN) Debate Program which brings students from around the world (both High School and University programs) to argue resolutions that consider space policy as people learn to live and work together in the development of space and universalization, allowing a method for cooperation.

The 2023 Virtual High School spUN Debates Program, a double elimination tournament, resulted in an outstanding final debate streamed from the 2023 NSS International Space Development Conference on May 27, 2023. The 2023 High School spUN debaters hailed from India, Peru, Romania, and Turkey. These outstanding debaters formed teams and heartily engaged in robust diverse cultural conversations while mastering challenges from their academic institutions, political upheaval, family needs, and time zones!

NSS Education is pleased to bring the fruits of the labors of the 2023 spUN debaters, coaches, judges, and organizers to you!

2023 Virtual University space policy and UNiversalization (spUN) Debates

National Space Society 2023-05-29 | The National Space Society hosted the second annual Virtual University space policy and UNiversalization (spUN) Debate Tournament which was streamed from the International Space Development Conference in Frisco, TX, May 27, 2023.

NSS Education supports the spUN Debate Program (for high school and university levels) which encompasses resolutions with space policy and UNiversalization and considers a variety of space settlement governance issues.

Students from around the world virtually come together to form teams to debate the pressing issues of living and working in space.

The 2023 Univ Virtual spUN Debate program facilitated team formations of students from Botswana, India, South Africa, and US, who juggled university commitments, time zones, and life’s challenges to form cohesive teams while being enriched with diverse cultural perspectives.

Space Solar Power: The Future is Here . . . an NSS Space Forum with Gary Barnhard and John Mankins

National Space Society 2023-05-17 | Held March 23, 2023. The concept of Space Based Solar Power (SBSP) has been around for many years and NSS, with one of its primary goals being “Clean Energy from Space: Enabling Everyone to Benefit from Space Solar Power” has been and the forefront of promoting the concept. Programs are now ongoing in Japan, China, the UK and ESA, while research continues in South Korea, Australia and elsewhere. In the US, there is no program as yet, however NASA is assessing space solar power and research for military applications is underway at the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL).

With all of these new efforts to advance the concept, this is the perfect time for our space forum to take another look at SBSP. In this informative discussion with these two leading SBSP experts, you will learn what SBSP is, how it works, including how it differs from solar collection methods on the Earth’s surface and the advantages. You will hear about SBSP applications and the newest technologies. And Mr. Barnhard and Mr. Mankins conclude by laying out a path forward to deploying operational SBSP systems that truly demonstrate “The Future is Here . . .”

Gary Barnhard, a self-described synergistic technological philanthropist, entrepreneur, and serial venture capitalist now serving as the President & CEO of Xtraordinary Innovative Space Partnerships, Inc. (XISP-Inc), a start-up company focused on Cislunar technology mission development work as well as Barnhard Associates, LLC, a systems engineering consulting firm and Internet Service Provider (Xisp.net). His recent Technology Development, Demonstration, and Deployment mission development work includes Space Solar Power. He received a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from the University of Maryland College Park in 1982, combining Aerospace Engineering, Materials Science with graduate work in science policy, solar physics, and artificial intelligence/knowledge-based systems. Gary is an Associate Fellow of the AIAA, a National Space Society (NSS) life member, prior CEO, prior Executive Director, NSS Board of Director’s member, and NSS Director of Strategic Relationships.

John C. Mankins is an entrepreneur and internationally recognized leader in technology, systems innovation and management. He is the Founder and President of Mankins Space Technology, Inc. and Artemis Innovation Management Solutions LLC, a Director of Solar Space Technologies, Pty. Ltd. He also serves as Vice President of the Moon Village Association and as a Dean and Professor at Kepler Space University. He served as Chief Technologist for Human Exploration and Development of Space at NASA and a lead for NASA’s Lunar Outpost team in 2003, and he has been recognized as the leading expert in the field of space solar power. John’s 25-year career at NASA and the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory ranged from flight projects and space mission operations to systems-level innovation and R&D. Mankins holds undergraduate (HMC) and graduate (UCLA) degrees in Physics and an MBA in Public Policy Analysis (The Drucker School). John is a member of the NSS Board of Directors.

NSS Space Forum - Connecting the Space Curious to the Space Serious - Christina Korp, March 9, 2023

National Space Society 2023-03-13 | National Space Society Space Forum, Thursday, March 9, 2023, Connecting the Space Curious to the Space Serious with Christina Korp

Christina Korp
Astronaut Wrangler
Founder of Space For a Better World
President of Purpose Entertainment

Space makes life better on Earth! A powerful statement that likely elicits debate on both sides. Christina Korp, through her work, has made it her mission to prove its validity. As she describes it, “Connecting the Space Curious to the Space Serious” is about educating through storytelling content, curated experiences, events, and educational partnerships. Using the awe and wonder of space exploration, she is working to inspire and educate people from all ages and walks of life about the ways that space technology can help save our planet.

Understanding the challenges of creating an awareness of the impact of space, Christina formed Space for a Better World in 2020. The goal is to work with a diverse group of organizations who are committed to solving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to promote sustainability, and raise awareness about the ways space tech can be and already is being used for good.

An important aspect of this program is to curate experiences with astronauts to give people a chance to experience the awe of our planet up close with those who have a unique perspective of seeing Earth from space. A strong emphasis is also attracting and inspiring young people through STEAM and STEM activations. In this space forum, Christina provides an engaging summary of the activities and programs she has developed to educate, inspire and demonstrate why “Space makes life better on Earth!” Watch this space forum to gain an added perspective on space exploration, development and settlement.

Christina Korp is known as the Astronaut Wrangler. She is an astronaut manager, space advisor, founder of SPACE For a Better World and the president of Purpose Entertainment. Previously she managed Apollo 11 astronaut Buzz Aldrin and launched his foundations – ShareSpace and the Aldrin Family Foundation. She produced the last five galas at KSC celebrating Apollo 11 and the Webby winning and Emmy nominated, Cycling Pathways to Mars VR experience.

In May of 2022 Christina produced the AIM HIGHER GALA at the Science Museum in London with 11 astronauts celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Apollo 16 and the 1st annual Space Oscars. She works with Apollo 16 moonwalker Charlie Duke, former astronauts Nicole Stott, Susan Kilrain, Inspiration4 Pilot Dr. Sian Proctor and the 1st Egyptian to go to space, Sara Sabry. Christina is passionate about promoting inclusivity and diversity in space and tech. She founded SPACE For a Better World to highlight the ways space benefits all life on Earth.

NSS Space Forum - The Past 200 Years of Space Tourism, with Bill Bradshaw, February 9, 2023

National Space Society 2023-02-11 | National Space Society Space Forum, February 9, 2023
The Past 200 Years of Space Tourism
Bill Bradshaw, Science Museum Professional (Retired)

The concept of “Space Tourism” is not new. From the moment we looked up at the night sky people have pondered what it would be like to travel into space. Our fascination with other worlds and how to get to them has been around for centuries. Yet, since Yuri Gagarin’s flight in 1961, only 640+ of our fellow citizens of Earth have ventured into space. Not a lot considering human spaceflight has been around for a little more than 60 years.

And up until recently space travel has been the province of governments and highly trained professionals. With the advent of “New Space” and the emergence of companies such as SpaceX, Blue Origin, Virgin Galactic, Axiom Space and others, that is changing. The idea of traveling into space not to do a job, but to just enjoy the view is on the cusp of creation. But how did that start?

Bill’s presentation takes a look back and focuses on that fascination through an historical ride that traces the idea of space tourism in popular culture and science. The business of tourism is not only the act of actually going in person, but also the vicarious joy of reading travel accounts, seeing them illustrated in art and cinema, and taking simulated rides to the moon and beyond.

Bill uses of a wide array of visuals to illustrate the history of space tourism. Enjoy this unique and fun look at how the concept of space tourism has evolved over the last two hundred years.

Bill Bradshaw was in the science museum field for 42 years during which he directed four science museum institutions. He has a life-long interest in space exploration and science fiction and teaches several courses on those subjects at the Furman University OLLI program. He is presently distributing his large collection of space toys and popular culture items to six institutions.

NSS Space Forum - Turning Orbital Trash into Space Treasure with Al Anzaldúa, NSS Policy Committee

National Space Society 2023-01-28 | NSS Space Forum - Turning Orbital Trash into Space Treasure with Al Anzaldúa, NSS Policy Committee
January 26, 2023

Since the launch of Sputnik in Oct 1957, the nations (and companies) of Earth have continually added to the collection of artificial satellites and other space vehicles in Earth orbit. In orbit now are communications, navigation, weather, Earth observation and science satellites as well as human occupied space stations. These human made space objects have greatly benefited life on Earth and added to our safety, our modern way of life and our understanding of the planet. But with this increasing reliance on space-based systems and the expected growth of satellites comes an increasing danger of orbital debris.

Spent rockets, obsolete satellites, and residual debris from collisions and other space mishaps pose a great danger for existing satellites as well as human occupied spacecraft and space stations. This danger will only grow as many countries of the world are creating or expanding their space activities.

In this timely space forum, Al Anzaldúa, provides a status on the current state of orbital debris and efforts to mitigate the problem. Al touches on a promising approach that is better than simply de-orbiting this debris, but recycling/reusing the satellite’s material or servicing the satellite to repair, extend, or even enhance its mission. There are clearly many political, legal, financial and technology issues involved. This informative space forum covers this critically important aspect of ensuring the safety of space exploration, development and settlement.

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Al Anzaldúa is a retired U.S. State Department diplomat and 37-year veteran of space advocacy. As a U.S. Foreign Service Officer, he carried out consular and science/environment work, primarily in Latin America, the Caribbean, and Washington D.C. He has served in various positions for the National Space Society, including Executive Vice President, Chair of the Policy Committee, Chair of the International Committee. He continues as a member of the Policy Committee, International Committee, and Board Director. Al has authored or co-authored 40 articles and papers on space-development, in The Space Review, The Reflector, Ad Astra, and other publications, including the 5th volume of the Aerospace Technology Working Group Book published by the Secure World Foundation, et al. As a member of the NSS Policy Committee, Al also co-authored NSS policy papers. He also has given presentations and exhibitions on space-related subjects in English and Spanish dating back to 1986.

NSS Space Forum - Vikram-S Rocket: A Discussion with the SKYROOT Staff

National Space Society 2023-01-25 | National Space Society Space Forum - Vikram-S Rocket: A Discussion with the SKYROOT Staff - Thursday, January 19, 2023

Skyroot Aerospace is the first privately held Indian rocket company to build and successfully complete a launch campaign, from the ground up, accomplishing the campaign from company inception in 2018 to a successful maiden launch on November 18th, 2022.

Skyroot’s success is one example of India’s vigorous space program. Through the establishment of intermediary organizations, the current administration is encouraging the private space sector to accelerate the innovative development of launchers and spacecraft. Skyroot Aerospace is focused on opening space for all, by pushing the boundaries of today's technology.

During this informative space forum, NSS Board of Directors Member Madhu Thangavelu leads a discussion with Sireesh Pallikonda, Business Development Lead for Skyroot Aerospace. They discuss the inspiration that led to the company creation, the challenges and the hurdles that the staff faced throughout the build, test and integration phases, and the activities that led to the successful first launch as well as the payloads on the maiden test flight of the Vikram-S. They also explore mission opportunities the future holds as SKYROOT evolves a stable of high-performance launchers for both domestic and global customers.

Enjoy this exciting space forum that reflects the international nature of space exploration, development and settlement.

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Sireesh Pallikonda is currently working with Skyroot Aerospace as Global Business Head. Skyroot is an award winning startup developing small satellite launch vehicles, including the Vikram series of space launch vehicles. Sireesh previously worked with Nutrihub, IIMR as a program manager for Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana. In 2014 he founded Waken India Network Pvt. Ltd., a social start-up for Profit Company allied in Swachh Bharat Mission and Digital India. Before starting his own enterprise, he worked with SES (Satellite operating company) as a business analyst. He also worked on a Mars mission project with NASA and Lockheed Martin. On the Mars-X mission, he worked on topics such as policy, economics, law, business and governance. Sireesh earned a Master’s degree in Space Management from the International Space University, a Master’s in International Business from the IESEG School of Management and a Master’s in Aerospace Design from IIT, Madras, India.

Madhu Thangavelu conducts the graduate Space Exploration Architecture Studio in the Department of Astronautical Engineering within the Viterbi School of Engineering and teaches Space Architecture in the School of Architecture at the University of Southern California. He is the author or coauthor of several publications relating to Space Architecture including a book – The Moon: Resources, Future Development and Settlement. Madhu is on the faculty of the International Space University, an international organization that trains space professionals around the globe. Madhu is an active member of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics and former Vice Chair of Education for the Los Angeles Section of the AIAA. He is on the board of directors of the National Space Society and the NSS Vice President for India region. Madhu is the North American coordinator of activities for the Moon Village Association based in Vienna, Austria.

NSS Space Forum - Commercial LEO Space Stations and the NASA Commercial LEO Destinations Program

National Space Society 2023-01-14 | Space Forum, January 12, 2023

Commercial LEO Space Stations and the NASA Commercial LEO Destinations Program

Featuring the NSS Space Ambassadors

NASA is supporting the development of commercial destinations in low-Earth orbit (LEO) to facilitate the creation of a cost-effective and robust commercial human spaceflight economy. Development and operation of commercial destinations in LEO is a key to achieving this goal. This special space forum, featuring the NSS Space Ambassadors, will provide a review of the NASA Commercial LEO Destinations Program and an overview of each of the four commercial partners: Axiom, Blue Origin, NanoRacks, and Northrop Grumman.

The detailed program includes the following topics:

• NASA Commercial LEO Destinations (CLD) Program by Jim Plaxco
• Axiom Space Station by Ken Ruffin
• Blue Origin Station by Vanessa Farsadaki
• NanoRacks Station by Mark Armstrong
• Northrop Grumman Station by Prathmesh Barapatre
• Question and Answer Session

Enjoy this comprehensive review of the next phase in opening space for development and settlement.

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Jim Plaxco is a digital artist and computing professional who has been a space activist since the mid-80’s when he became a member of the National Space Institute. He has served as the Director of Information Systems for the National Space Society. He is also the Webmaster, a Director, and President of the Chicago Society for Space Studies. Mr. Plaxco also created the CSSS Speakers Bureau. He additionally serves as a NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador, a National Space Society Space Ambassador, the National Space Society Space Ambassador’s Economics Subject Matter Expert. Mr. Plaxco has previously served as both a director and a Vice President of the National Space Society and as both a Director and a Vice President of the Planetary Studies Foundation.

Ken Ruffin is a Senior Environmental Engineer, with 30 years of air quality engineering experience. In 2010, Ken became an active member of the National Space Society of North Texas (NSS-NT) serving the Dallas-Ft. Worth (DFW) Metroplex and beyond. In 2011, Ken began creating and giving his presentations on space travel and space development. Ken also began serving as either the President or VP of NSS-NT that same year, and ever since. From 2014-2022, NSS-NT has earned the NSS Chapter of the Year Award (the #1 NSS Chapter in the World) five times.

Dr. Vanessa Farsadaki is the preeminent thought-leader towards advancing the discipline of Space Medicine. A proud American citizen of Greek descent and a Medical Doctor, Dr. V as she is known colloquially, is on-track to become Greece’s first-ever Astronaut in history. She is a scuba diver, a pilot in training and a skydiver. As the President and Managing Partner of Space Exploration Strategies LLC, Dr. V’s impressive bona fides include advanced degrees in Biology, Genetics, Astronomy, Astrophysics, and Business Leadership. She has authored and co-authored a plethora of articles advocating for advancements in her field of expertise, and her deep experiences with Radiation Exposure and Protection have made her a sought-after advisor on high-end programs of note for the gravitas she brings to the discussions. Additionally, her fluency in 18 languages is a testament to her ability to engage with a broad range of audiences as a keynote speaker at numerous venues.

Mark Armstrong is currently a deputy mission lead for Space Systems Command in Albuquerque, supporting prototype satellite programs. He has held several positions supporting DoD space programs since retiring from Army Space Command, ending a 26-year career which included deployment to Iraq. He has written several articles on space topics, and is a NSS Space Ambassador, as well as making presentations for the Space Force STEM to Space educational program. He is a member of the Space Force Association and is married to the artist Eloisa Armstrong.

Prathmesh Barapatre is the current President of National Space Society - Mumbai Chapter. He is also a certified Gravitational Science Communicator by LIGOIndia. He has a bachelor's in mechatronics engineering and attained his diploma in mechanical engineering. He has completed two electric vehicles from 2018 - 2020, and he's led as vice-president for the same year 2020. He has been working towards developing a foundation for the space industry by conducting diverse webinars, podcasts and activities that are not just limited to space enthusiasts, but also for general consumers. He has an interest in developing technologies for exploring the surface of other planets and water-based worlds. He is also the Executive Secretary for NSS Chapter Assembly along with being an NSS Space Ambassador. He has also been mentoring more than 500+ students in robotics under the K12 segment.

NSS Space Forum - 2022 Space Year in Review with Larry Boyle

National Space Society 2022-12-11 | National Space Society Space Forum -2022 Space Year in Review with Larry Boyle, Vice President, NSS Chapter, Chicago Society for Space Studies
Moderated by Jim Plaxco, President, NSS Chapter, Chicago Society for Space Studies
December 8, 2022

In the 2022 Space Year in Review presentation, Chicago Society for Space Studies (CSSS) VP Larry Boyle provides an overview of the major space activities that occurred around the world during 2022. In addition to covering global commercial space activities, the various national space programs of the United States, the European Space Agency (ESA), China, Russia, and others are addressed. Some of the major space events of 2022 are:

• The first science images and data from the James Webb Space Telescope
• The launch of the Axiom-1 mission with the first all-private crew to ISS aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket
• Continued launching by China of missions to complete the Tiangong space station
• The launch of NASA’s Capstone mission aboard a Rocket Lab Electron rocket
• The multiple delay and launch of the NASA Artemis 1 mission atop the Space Launch System (SLS)
• The launch of South Korea’s first moon mission – the Pathfinder Lunar Orbiter (KPLO), aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket
• A Juno mission flyby of Jupiter’s moon Europa
• Continued development and possible first orbital launch of the SpaceX Starship
• The successful impact and orbital alteration of the asteroid Dimorphos by the DART (Double Asteroid Redirection Test) mission

Larry Boyle was the President of the CSSS between 1989 and 2002. He is now a Vice-President. The CSSS started in 1977. Larry was a reference librarian at the Franklin Park Public Library. This allowed him to research the events in the world's space programs very easily. He is now retired. Larry has been interested in the space program since childhood. He went to the Kennedy Space Center to watch the Apollo 17 launch to the Moon in 1972. He has been to a space shuttle launch as well. Larry received his Library Degree at Rosary College and a BS from Loyola University in Chicago. Larry’s hallmark presentation has been his “Space: The Year in Review” program which he has been giving since 1979.

Jim Plaxco is a digital artist and computing professional who has been a space activist since the mid-80’s when he became a member of the National Space Institute. He has served as the Director of Information Systems for the National Space Society. He is also the Webmaster, a Director, and President of the Chicago Society for Space Studies. Mr. Plaxco also created the CSSS Speakers Bureau. He additionally serves as a NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador, a National Space Society Space Ambassador, the National Space Society Space Ambassador’s Economics Subject Matter Expert. Mr. Plaxco has previously served as both a director and a Vice President of the National Space Society and as both a Director and a Vice President of the Planetary Studies Foundation. He has been a judge in a variety of space art contests, including art contests sponsored by NASA. He also served as the manager of the Enterprise in Space Orbiter Design Contest and the National Space Society Space Settlement Art Contest.

Dear Earth: Were Sorry for What Weve Done to You... — one-minute version 2022

National Space Society 2022-11-15 | The National Space Society presents the case for space solar power, the future of clean, safe, limitless energy for everyone.

Space solar power will harness the power of the sun in orbit and beam energy where it is most needed on Earth, eventually replacing fossil fuels and allowing our planet to once again become the pristine home we deserve.

For more information and to donate to this cause: go.nss.org/ssp

Dear Earth: Were Sorry for What Weve Done to You... — two-minute version 2022

Students for the Exploration and Development of Space (SEDS): A Conversation with SEDS-USA Leaders

National Space Society 2022-11-15 | National Space Society Space Forum
Thursday, November 10, 2022
Students for the Exploration and Development of Space (SEDS): A Conversation with SEDS-USA Leaders

The expansion of the commercial space industry, NASA’s recent successes with Perseverance, the Webb Space Telescope, the DART mission, and the plans to return to the Moon all point to a resurgence in demand for students interested in space careers. One such group, The Students for the Exploration and Development of Space (SEDS), is committed to fostering the development of diverse future leaders and contributors in this expanding space industry. SEDS is an international student organization whose purpose is to promote space exploration and development through educational and engineering projects.

SEDS was founded in 1980, primarily at MIT by Peter Diamandis, Scott Scharfman, Richard Sorkin, Robert D. Richards, and Todd B. Hawley. Today, thousands of students in branches around the world participate in projects and programs that prepare them for space careers. NSS has worked closely with SEDS over the years to foster this interest in space exploration and development and to expand our ability to reach the space leaders of tomorrow.

This special space forum cane live from the SEDS SpaceVision Conference in Chicago. SEDS-USA leaders Sara Alvarado, Audrey Scott, and Dominic Tanzillo spoke about SEDS history, programs and accomplishments over the years and their plans to engage students and expand their impact. They will provided a “who’s who” list of prominent space leaders who were once SEDS students. Enjoy this exciting and fun space forum where the NSS shared an evening with the space leaders of tomorrow.

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Sara Alvarado currently serves as the Chair of SEDS-USA. Sara will graduate with a master’s degree in Industrial Engineering from the University of Central Florida (UCF) in December. She received her B.S. in Industrial Engineering from UCF in 2019 and her B.A. in Economics from the University of South Florida in 2016. Sara is employed as an industrial engineer at Universal Orlando Resort. As the SEDS Chair, Sara has pursued her passion for space exploration and development while leading the organization in its efforts to expand its reach and impact in developing future leaders for the space industry.

Audrey Scott currently serves as the Vice Chair of SEDS-USA. Audrey is a third year UChicago student pursuing a B.S. in Astrophysics and a B.A. in Anthropology. She has more than 11 years of diverse work and volunteer experience ranging from entertainment to engineering. Audrey is a Brooke Owens Fellow for the Class of 2022 and is now working as a Systems Engineering Intern at Ball Aerospace. As the Vice Chair of SEDS, Audrey uses her plethora of experience to encourage out-of-the-box partnerships and projects to promote the space industry as an intersectional field with a variety of paths to entry.

Dominic Tanzillo currently serves at the SEDS-USA Chapter Expansion Manager. Dominic is a first-year medical student at Duke University with an interest in bioastronautics. Dominic was a double major at Duke University, receiving a Mathematics (B.S.) and Neuroscience (B.S.) in 2021. As a student, Dominic conducted research for NASA, the US Air Force, and the US Space Force. Dominic is firmly committed to expanding access to and diversity within the aerospace industry and encouraging more students to consider the field of bioastronautics. As part of these efforts, he is involved in science communications and created the Spherical Cows Podcast and the first student taught Major Open Online-Course to give students free and easily accessible introductions to the field of Space Medicine!

NSS Space Forum - From Fashion to Space: An Artist’s Adventures, A Conversation with James Vaughan

National Space Society 2022-11-15 | National Space Society Space Forum
Thursday, October 27, 2022
From Fashion to Space: An Artist’s Adventures, A Conversation with James Vaughan

Join us for the special conversation with James Vaughan, aerospace illustrator and primary cover artist for Ad Astra magazine. Ad Astra Editor-in-Chief Rod Pyle sits down to talk with Jim about his stunning work in illustrating the future of spaceflight, his career in Chicago's advertising and fashion industries, and what makes some of his landmark works stand out in a crowded field--and why everyone from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center to Lockheed Martin, to the NSS have engaged him to communicate their vision. Enjoy this informative and fun space forum with one of the most prominent space artists of today.

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James Vaughan was born in 1955 and grew-up in a picturesque small town in Ohio. His father was head of research for a nearby major corporation. His mother was an artist and poet. His interest in history and politics eventually led him to Chicago and a degree in journalism and photography. After several years of adventures as a photojournalist his focus shifted to studio commercial and fashion work.

Vaughan spent the next twenty-five years as a respected force in Chicago's advertising industry. Now James Vaughan has returned to his small town roots where he maintains studio facilities and does aerospace illustrative work for clients around the world. “This is the most important time for my work. Away from the demands and distraction of the big city, I can be even more creative.” he says.

Rod Pyle is an author, journalist, television producer, and Editor-in-Chief of Ad Astra magazine. He has written 20 nonfiction books on space history, exploration, and development, as well as 20th-century history. Titles include Space 2.0, Innovation the NASA Way, Blueprint for a Battlestar, Amazing Stories of the Space Age, First on the Moon, and Destination Mars. His most recent book is Technology Highlights for NASA’s JPL.

He has written extensively for JPL, Caltech, WIRED, Popular Science, Space.com, LiveScience, the World Economic Forum and the Library of Congress. Pyle hosts the This Week in Space podcast on the TWiT network and anchors a weekly segment on national radio. He has produced, directed, and written for The History Channel and Discovery Networks and recently acted as a consulting producer for National Geographic TV and Disney+ for the feature projects Apollo 11 and The Real Right Stuff. Pyle is a graduate of the Art Center College of Design and Stanford University.

NSS: Defending Earth from Near-Earth Objects (Asteroids)

National Space Society 2022-10-22 | The Earth is silently but continuously threatened by near-earth objects—asteroids—some of which we will not spot until it is too late.The National Space Society works tirelessly to urge Congress to address these potential Earth-wrecking objects, but much remains to be done. Congratulations to NASA and the DART mission team for your achievement in this area. You can make a donation to help protect our planet at go.nss.org/defendearth.

Dear Earth: Were Sorry for What Weve Done to You... — full version 2022

National Space Society 2022-10-22 | The National Space Society presents the case for space solar power, the future of clean, safe, limitless energy for everyone.

Space solar power will harness the power of the sun in orbit and beam energy where it is most needed on Earth, eventually replacing fossil fuels and allowing our planet to once again become the pristine home we deserve.

For more information and to donate to this cause: go.nss.org/ssp

NSS Space Forum - A Conversation with Astronaut Scott Altman, October 13, 2022

National Space Society 2022-10-21 | National Space Society Space Forum
Thursday, October 13, 2022
From Earth to Orbit to Industry: An Astronaut’s Journey
A Conversation with
Capt Scott Altman, USN (Retired)
President, Space Operating Group, ASRC Federal
Space Shuttle Commander
USN Test Pilot

Join us for a conversation with retired astronaut, Scott Altman, about his robust and notable career, including his experiences flying in the Navy, exploring space with NASA and leading missions for the Hubble Space Telescope. Scott shares details on the “crooked path” he took that led him to join the private sector after a 30-year career, and his current adventures as a president at ASRC Federal, where he and his team work alongside NASA to develop the next generation of technology in this new age of space travel. We discuss everything from NASA’s current Artemis mission vision to Scott’s vision for the future of space exploration, and even his stint as a stunt pilot for the acclaimed film “Top Gun.” Don’t miss Scott’s personal reflections as he highlights many aspects of his extraordinary flying career and discusses what is next in space.

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Scott Altman, President of the Space Operating Group for ASRC Federal, is responsible for the group’s financial and technical performance, providing leadership in setting and executing operating plans and delivering on commitments to NASA, Space Force, NOAA and Federal Aviation Administration customers.

Before joining the ASRC Federal in 2010, Scott had a distinguished career with NASA and the Navy. The former astronaut and 2018 astronaut Hall of Fame inductee is a veteran of four space flights, logging over 51 days in space and commanded the final two servicing missions of the Hubble Space Telescope. Scott also logged more than 7,000 hours in over 40 types of aircrafts, but still considers flying the F-14D over Iraq as his peak aviation experience.

Scott received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois and holds a master’s degree in aeronautical engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School. Scott is a retired Navy captain.

NSS Space Forum - Space is a Cool Place for Business - September 29, 2022

National Space Society 2022-10-02 | National Space Society Space Forum
Thursday, September 29th, 2022
Space is a Cool Place for Business – Panel Session
With
Olivia Gamez Holzhaus
Oluseye Soyode-Johnson
Brandon Seifert
Kalle Vähä-Jaakkola
Stephan Reckie

Space is open for business, and its future is going to be powered by “Astropreneurs.” In comparing today’s business access to space to how the expansion of the world wide web enabled new applications and revenue opportunities, space can do even more. From location-based GPS to mapping to asset tracking to Earth observation, space enriches us with vast tangible and intangible benefits. Space business models are being built around industries such as in-space manufacturing, clean energy technologies, life sciences, and space data. Our panel of leaders in the space industry share their journey and perspectives of space as a place of business, as well as how easier access to space benefits nearly every industry on our planet. The panelists discuss and share best practices for Space Entrepreneurship.

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Olivia Gamez Holzhaus is the Founder and CEO of Rhodium Scientific, a Houston-based biotechnology company, focused on facilitating quality assured biotech and biopharma testing and discovery in space. Ms. Holzhaus has positioned Rhodium as an official Commercial Services Provider to multiple national laboratories, including the ISS. She has led the creation and implementation of Rhodium’s Quality, Industry-Compatible (QuIC) Space Process ensuring industry-standard quality controls are incorporated into spaceflight ground and mission operations. Olivia has over 20 years in research and applied life science fields and has served in Scientist and Sr. Engineering positions with research organizations and Fortune 500 companies. She is on the Board of Advisors at Global Entrepreneurship Network-Space (GEN-Space), the International Space Safety Foundation (ISSF), the College of Science & Engineering at Texas State University (TSU), and the Generación STEM Workforce Advisory Council at TSU.

Oluseye Soyode-Johnson is invested in ecosystem-building and the bold application of space technology across Africa to increase its participation in global space innovation and commercial conversation. He is a founding member of the Ericsson-MTN Innovation Hub tasked with driving transformative products for the African TMT industry. He created the first Space venture accelerator for Nigeria that saw the winning startups funded by Meta’s African Deeptech accelerator. He is regularly called upon to mentor startups across Sub-Saharan Africa and Europe, and most recently mentored the maiden European Institute of Innovation for Sustainability (EIIS) Space Accelerator program and the African EO Investment program. He is a frequent technology speaker and guest lecturer including at the International Space University’s Space Studies Program (SSP17).

Brandon Seifert is a strategy expert with ten years of experience in commercializing advanced technologies and navigating growth-stage business dynamics in the space, nuclear, and quantum industries. At USNC, Brandon leads business development and external affairs for the Advanced Technologies division’s nuclear power and propulsion portfolio, ensuring constructive alignment between all revenue-generating, storytelling, and relationship-building activities. Across several different space and space-related startups, Brandon has served as a co-founder, an early-stage employee, and an advisor.

Kalle Vähä-Jaakkola is Captain & Co-founder of Space Nation. A former Finnish special forces military trainer and private sector educator with a love for humanity and space. Cool-headed with unstoppable resilience toward the vision of settling humanity into space to lift us all into Universal Citizens. Advisor to GEN Space, a global space entrepreneurship network.

Stephan Reckie is the Executive Director of Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN) Space, a universal network of ecosystems for Astropreneurs. He is the co-founder of Angelus Funding, a trust-based global angel network investing in innovative and impactful opportunities and is a World Business Angel Forum Senator and a member of the Global Business Angels Network. Stephan is a co-founding partner at Edge of Space, a company providing STEAM access to space. As the CEO of the non-profit Transform Poverty Global, he is focused on addressing global poverty along with climate change. Stephan serves on the board of directors of numerous impactful companies, including Spring Health India, and the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR), amongst others. He is an adjunct professor at the Daniels College of Business at the University of Denver, teaching graduate and undergraduate entrepreneurial presentation and sales skills.

NSS Space Forum - Automated Psychotherapy in Space - September 15, 2022

National Space Society 2022-10-02 | National Space Society Space Forum
Thursday, September 15, 2022
Automated Psychotherapy in Space:
Protecting Mental Health in Orbit and Deep Space
Logan Smith, M.S.
Clinical Psychology Doctoral Student
Oklahoma State University

When it comes to space exploration, development, and settlement, we spend a great deal of time focused on the science, engineering and technology needed to make it possible. Previous space forums have taken a wider view, exploring other aspects that have included law, medicine, nutrition, and even space farms. With this space forum, we will continue that approach by examining an area that does not receive a great deal of public attention.

Various behavioral and mental health issues have been reported by space crews for decades, with the overall number of mental health complications expected to be higher than is publicly known. The broad range of mental health complications encountered in space is expected to grow as people venture deeper into space.

Issues with privacy, dual relationships, and delayed communications make rendering effective psychological therapy difficult in a spaceflight environment, and nearly impossible in deep space. Automated psychotherapy offers a way to provide psychotherapy to astronauts both in deep space and low earth orbit. Though automated psychotherapy is growing in popularity on earth, little is known about its efficacy in space.
This space forum highlight the knowns and unknowns regarding this treatment modality for future deep space missions. We also take time to discuss other aspects of space psychology, such as unique hazards to mental health specific to spaceflight, special supportive measures that may be used in deep space, and other related topics.

Logan Smith is a Clinical Psychology Doctoral Candidate at Oklahoma State University where he studies suicide, provides psychological therapy, and teaches psychology to undergraduates. A native Floridian, Logan grew up with a passion for spaceflight, and has begun to blend his knowledge of psychology with his love for space by researching space psychology. Logan is a member of the Space Health Research Group and a member of the Association of Spaceflight Professionals. Additionally, Logan is the Program Manager for the Space Health Division of Shuttle, a space travel company.

NSS Town Hall - SpacEdge Education and NSS Career Center - August 25, 2022

National Space Society 2022-10-02 | NSS Town Halls are your opportunity to engage with the volunteer leaders on the Membership Committee and get updates on the status of current membership programs and benefits. This Town Hall features overviews of the SpacEdge Academy and the NSS Career Center.

SpacEdge Education is the educational arm of the National Space Society and has an amazing suite of opportunities for all ages. NSS Director of Education and NSS Board of Directors Member Frances Dellutri guides you through these intriguing programs, using the SpacEdge Academy as the free easily accessible backdrop that's been visited by over a million people in the last year. The education team is promoting space-science education, space issues, and the mission of NSS!

The NSS Career Center was started in 2021 to recognize the needs of members who are interested in pursuing careers in space. Whether you are an experienced professional seeking a new career opportunity or a recent graduate looking for an entry level position, the NSS Career Center offers you an opportunity to connect with space industry employers seeking talented candidates. NSS VP of Membership Burt Dicht provides an overview of the Career Center and does a demonstration on how to use it to explore the career opportunities. NSS is working to develop more career related resources to help our members achieve their space dreams.

NSS Space Forum - Direct Fusion Drive for Space Power and Propulsion with Dr. Christopher Galea

National Space Society 2022-08-20 | National Space Society Space Forum
Thursday, August 11, 2022
Direct Fusion Drive for Space Power and Propulsion
With Dr. Christopher Galea
Research Scientist at Princeton Satellite Systems

As Research Scientist at Princeton Satellite Systems (PSS), Dr. Galea is responsible for research & development on the Princeton Field-Reversed Configuration (PFRC) and power electronics for fusion reactors, which are projects supported by Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) Open Funding Solicitation (OPEN) and ARPA-E Galvanizing Advances in Market-aligned fusion for an Overabundance of Watts (GAMOW) grants, respectively. On the PFRC-2 experiment, he is currently operating and analyzing the x-ray silicon drift detector diagnostic for electron energy distribution measurements. He is also working on developing a plasma-circuit model for capturing key effects of surrounding plasma on the power electronics being developed under GAMOW.

At Princeton University, Dr. Galea conducted his dissertation work on “Coherent Microwave Scattering from Laser-Generated Plasma in External Magnetic Field and Weakly Ionized Plasma Environments”, the thesis of which he completed in July 2021. In his graduate research, he investigated the implementation of a laser- and microwave-based diagnostic technique, Radar REMPI (Resonance-Enhanced Multi-Photon Ionization), in novel environments relevant to plasma propulsion and remote sensing applications. A primary finding in his thesis was the discovery of magnetically induced depolarization of the microwaves when scattering from a small plasma in a magnetic field, which allows one to perform remote local vector magnetic field measurements.

space.nss.org/nss-space-forum-august-11-fusion-propulsion

NSS Space Forum - July 21, 2022 - Lori Garver - Escaping Gravity: My Quest to Transform NASA

National Space Society 2022-07-22 | Escaping Gravity: My Quest to Transform NASA and Launch a New Space Age

A National Space Society Space Forum
With Special Guest: Lori Garver
Founder of Earthrise Alliance
Aerospace Business Executive, Policy Analyst and Thought Leader
Former National Space Society Executive Director
Former NASA Deputy Administrator

The success of the NASA’s Commercial Crew Program (CCP), a partnership with private industry to develop and fly astronauts to LEO and the ISS was not pre-ordained. Transforming government can be a slow and difficult process. Lori Garver knows first-hand the challenges of breaking the “relentless momentum of the status quo.”

As the head of the NASA transition team for President-elect Obama and second-in-command at the space agency (2009-13), Garver advanced policies and funding for innovative programs that competed with traditional systems at the exact time the capabilities and resources of the private sector began to mature. In the process of instituting these changes, Garver encountered the ruthless behavior of powerful interests, including Congress, the aerospace industry, entrenched bureaucrats, and hero astronauts as they tried to protect their own control, profits, and mythology.

In her recently published book, Escaping Gravity, Lori Garver provides a personal account of how a handful of revolutionaries paved the way for a new era of transcendental change at NASA. Garver reveals previously unpublished conversations and insights on the epic battle that has transitioned space access to private interests for a fraction of the cost of previous NASA programs. From inside the space agency, Garver collaborated with key players such as Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and President Obama to usher in a more peaceful, inclusive, and meaningful space age, with the goal of creating innovative technologies that would bring down the cost of space transportation.

Join us for this very special space forum, as Garver will discuss her new book and share some of these very personal stories that put her at the forefront of ushering in a new era of human spaceflight and a blueprint for how to drive meaningful change to benefit us all on our home planet.

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Lori Garver is a renowned aerospace policy analyst, business executive and philanthropic founder, with experience leading innovative teams in government, non-profit and private sector organizations. Ms. Garver is the founder of Earthrise Alliance, an initiative to improve policy and technical solutions that utilize space data to address the climate crises. She is a Senior Fellow at the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs at Harvard’s Kennedy School, an Executive Residence at Bessemer Venture Partners, a Member of the Board of Hydrostat, and an Advisory Board Member at World View.

In previous positions, Ms. Garver served as the General Manager of the Air Line Pilots Association, the Deputy Administrator of NASA, and the Executive Director of the National Space Society. In 2020, Ms. Garver received the Lifetime Achievement Award for Women in Aerospace. Her memoir, Escaping Gravity: My Quest to Transform NASA and Launch a New Space Age, was released on June 21, 2022.

space.nss.org/nss-forum-july-21-lori-garver

NSS Space Forum - July 14, 2022 - Fast Solar Wind Sailing with Jeff Greason

National Space Society 2022-07-15 | NSS joined the HAL5 Huntsville chapter’s monthly meeting as they welcomed NSS Governor Jeff Greason who spoke on the use of solar wind for propulsion and explained the history and operating principles of this technology.

Awareness of the use of the solar wind for propulsion purposes is beginning to grow in the technical community. A technology developed under NASA Institute for Advanced Concepts (NIAC) sponsorship, the Plasma Magnet, offers a path to high-acceleration maneuvers in the solar wind, including fast transits to outer planets and to the Solar Gravitational Lens.

The AIAA Nuclear and Future Flight Propulsion Technical Committee has sponsored a conceptual design study of a demonstrator mission, JOVE. If flown, JOVE would provide the critical flight demonstration of this technology. The solar-powered spacecraft would weigh approximately 25 kilograms and would get to Jupiter in three weeks reaching an astounding 300 kilometers per second. Mr. Greason went over the key design challenges uncovered during the conceptual design, reviewed the current state, and discussed possible next steps.

Jeff Greason is an entrepreneur and innovator with 25 years of experience in the commercial space industry. He is the Chief Technologist of Electric Sky, developing long-range wireless power for propulsion and other purposes; and Chairman of the Tau Zero Foundation, developing advanced propulsion technologies for solar system and interstellar missions. He has been active in the development of commercial space regulation and served on the Presidential Augustine Commission in 2009. Jeff was a co-founder of XCOR Aerospace and served as CEO from 1999 to early 2015. Previously, he was the rocket engine team lead at Rotary Rocket and an engineering manager in chip technology development at Intel. He holds 28 U.S. patents and has recently published papers on novel space propulsion concepts. He is also a Governor of the National Space Society.

Breakfast on the Moon April 23, 2022 event celebrates Apollo 16 50th anniversary

National Space Society 2022-06-30 | "Breakfast on the Moon" Event Celebrates Apollo 16 via Space Archaeology Discussion and an Apollo 16 Home Movie

SacL5 society hosted and SacL5 President Joseph Bland moderated the Apollo 16 50th Anniversary Celebration of Breakfast on the Moon on Saturday, April 23, 2022. The event title's "breakfast" refers to the 7am California start time, chosen to accommodate international participants.

Lisa Westwood, registered professional archaeologist, and Beth O’Leary, Ph.D. archaeologist and pioneer in space archaeology, presented “Space Archaeology.” Their presentation focused on the Tranquility Base area, which the New Mexico Space Consortium and NASA funded for archaeological research.

Michelle Wilmot, Economic Development, Communications. and Public Affairs for the city of Kent, Washington, spearheaded the Washington state historic landmark status for the Apollo 15, 16, and 17 mission lunar rovers.

Michelle Hanlon, President of the NSS, Space Lawyer and Professor, and Cofounder of For All Moonkind, the only organization in the world focused on protecting cultural heritage in outer space, communicated current legal perspectives for preservation and protection of the Apollo landing sites for human heritage.

Fred Becker, Editor of the NSS Newsletter Downlink, then shared his original photos and recording from viewing the Apollo 16 launch.