Space Shuttle Flight 12 (STS-41D) Post Flight Presentation National Space Society 2011-05-26 | Space Shuttle Flight 12 (STS-41D) Post Flight Presentation, narrated by the astronauts (20 minutes). Launch: August 30, 1984. Crew: Henry Hartsfield, Michael Coats, Steven Hawley, Richard Mullane, Judith Resnick, Charles Walker. Vehicle: Discovery. See the Space Shuttle Video Library on the National Space Society website:space.nss.org/space-shuttle-video-libraryThis video is created by NASA and is free of copyright.
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 NetworkThe "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 AsteroidsJonathan Dagle Technologist, Futurist, and StrategistNSS Policy Chair and Planetary Defense Policy ManagerSaving 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 ForumThursday, April 20, 2023THE NEW GUYS: The Historic Class of Astronauts That Broke Barriers and Changed the Face of Space TravelMeredith Bagby, Author, Partner - Big Swing ProductionsIn 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, March 9, 2023, Connecting the Space Curious to the Space Serious - Christina Korp 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 KorpChristina KorpAstronaut WranglerFounder of Space For a Better WorldPresident of Purpose EntertainmentSpace 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 - February 9, 2023, The Past 200 Years of Space Tourism, with Bill Bradshaw National Space Society 2023-02-11 | National Space Society Space Forum, February 9, 2023 The Past 200 Years of Space TourismBill 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 CommitteeJanuary 26, 2023Since 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.* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *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. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *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 ProgramFeaturing 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 SessionEnjoy this comprehensive review of the next phase in opening space for development and settlement. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *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 StudiesModerated by Jim Plaxco, President, NSS Chapter, Chicago Society for Space StudiesDecember 8, 2022In 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) missionLarry 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 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
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. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *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. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *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 - October 13, 2022 - A Conversation with Astronaut Scott Altman 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 FederalSpace Shuttle CommanderUSN 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.* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *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 WithOlivia Gamez HolzhausOluseye Soyode-JohnsonBrandon SeifertKalle Vähä-JaakkolaStephan ReckieSpace 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.* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *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 ForumThursday, September 15, 2022Automated Psychotherapy in Space:Protecting Mental Health in Orbit and Deep SpaceLogan Smith, M.S.Clinical Psychology Doctoral StudentOklahoma State UniversityWhen 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 ForumThursday, August 11, 2022Direct Fusion Drive for Space Power and PropulsionWith Dr. Christopher GaleaResearch Scientist at Princeton Satellite SystemsAs 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 AgeA National Space Society Space ForumWith Special Guest: Lori GarverFounder of Earthrise AllianceAerospace Business Executive, Policy Analyst and Thought LeaderFormer National Space Society Executive DirectorFormer NASA Deputy AdministratorThe 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.* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *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 MovieSacL5 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.
NSS Space Forum, June 16, 2022 - Becoming Off-Worldly: Preparing for Your Spaceflight Journey National Space Society 2022-06-28 | National Space Society Space Forum, Thursday, June 16, 2022 Becoming Off-Worldly: Preparing for Your Future Spaceflight JourneyWith Special Guest Laura ForczykOwner – AstralyticalResearcher, Consultant and Author In this new era of commercial spaceflight, now is your opportunity to become off-worldly. Join this space forum to hear from Laura Forczyk, author of the new book Becoming Off-Worldly: Learning from Astronauts to Prepare for Your Spaceflight Journey. Laura will explore lessons learned from experienced astronauts about what surprised them about their time off-Earth, hear how future private astronauts are preparing for their trips to space, and you will get the inside scoop on lesser-known spaceflight training and preparations. The commercial space industry is opening up spaceflight to allow more humans than ever before to fly off-Earth. Through interviews with experienced astronauts from around the world, early commercial space industry pioneers, and future private astronauts, Laura explores the personal perspectives of preparing for and experiencing spaceflight. Don’t miss this informative and fun space forum to learn from Laura how to prepare for your future spaceflight and your opportunity to become off-worldly.* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *Laura Forczyk is the owner of space consulting firm Astralytical specializing in space science, industry, and policy, and offering space career coaching services. She earned a B.S. degree in astrophysics from the Florida Institute of Technology and an M.S. degree in astrophysics from the University of Alabama in Huntsville. Prior to forming her own company, she ran the Florida office of a startup working to establish parabolic and suborbital flights at the Kennedy Space Center.She has also worked as a scientific analyst for a nonprofit facilitating over 50 experiments on the ISS for the benefit of life on Earth. She has researched astrophysics and planetary science at three NASA centers, flown two parabolic “Zero G” campaigns, conducted geological research in a meteor crater, and earned National Aerospace Training and Research (NASTAR) suborbital astronaut wings in ground training. She is the author of Rise of the Space Age Millennials and the recently published Becoming Off-Worldly.
NSS Town Hall, May 26, 2022 - National Space Society Chapters Annual Awards Ceremony National Space Society 2022-06-28 | Congratulations to the winning chapters. The National Space Society supports a global network of chapters that provide a voice for space in their community. A chapter of the National Space Society is a group of space enthusiasts who have joined together for purposes of camaraderie, education, local activism via outreach activities, and possible political activity.A chapter:-Holds meetings, private or open to the public-Sponsors exhibits and information booths as various venues, such as malls, conventions, libraries, etc.-Educates their members and the public by bringing in speakers to meetings-Provides speakers–maybe a speaker’s bureau–on a variety of Space Settlement & exploration topics to various local organizations, schools, civic groups, etc.-Appears on radio and TV shows as “local Space experts”-Visits, calls or writes letters to local Congressional representatives-Teaches courses (continuing education, etc.).-Co-sponsors Scouting Explorer Posts, Young SEDS Chapters or other youth groups.-Operates a chapter website, hosts chats, a Facebook page, or other electronic media for space information.-Studies or researches space topics or concepts.-Hosts seminars, star parties, or other events-Provides speakers and support for local schools.-Organizes or sponsors competitions dealing with space art, design, engineering, etc.-Works in conjunction with other chapters or local organizations on special projects or celebrations: World Space Week, Moon Day, Yuri’s Night, conventions, etc.-Raises funds via awards, rebates when recruiting new NSS members, and other methods allowed by their local government.
NSS Space Forum - Space Analog for the Moon and Mars (SAM) at Biosphere 2, Kai Staats & Trent Tresch National Space Society 2022-06-27 | National Space Society Space Forum, May 19, 2022 Space Analog for the Moon and Mars (SAM): How Research at Biosphere 2 Will Prepare Astronauts for Actual MissionsSAM is a Space Analog for the Moon and Mars. Currently under construction, this hi-fidelity Mars habitat analog is located at the renowned University of Arizona Biosphere 2. As with analogs before, SAM helps us prepare for the challenges of living and working away from our home world, on the Moon and Mars.By isolating research teams in a hermetically sealed space for varied periods of time SAM provides a unique, powerful environment in which to conduct a multitude of studies. These include mechanical and plant-based life support, plant biology, bioregeneration, food studies, haptics and tool use while encumbered by a pressure suit; EVA, rover, and drone field exploration; the challenges of isolation and interpersonal engagement and music, writing, photography and film.SAM construction is being led by University of Arizona Biosphere 2 Director of Research Kai Staats while Trent Tresch develops the new Center for Human Space Exploration (ChaSE), both in concert with senior staff at Biosphere 2, the University of Arizona’s Controlled Environment Agriculture Center, Paragon Space Development Corporation, and NASA.SAM is a return to the origin of the iconic Biosphere 2 and a look to the future as we prepare to become an interplanetary species. In this space forum, Kai and Trent take you inside the SAM development. You will also hear about the design criteria, what researchers expect to learn by living and working in SAM and how this will prepare astronauts for future space missions. This session is moderated by Anita Gale, NSS Chief Executive Officer. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *Kai Staats is a veteran developer of platforms for research and science education. He was co-founder and CEO of the world-renowned Yellow Dog Linux (YDL) operating system. YDL was used extensively in DOE, NASA, and university research across a spectrum of sciences. Kai wrote the machine learning algorithm Karoo GP which is used at LIGO for black hole and supernovae detection; and was principal designer of the Mt. Meru Astronomical Observatory in Tanzania, the first of its kind in East Africa. Funded by the National Geographic Society, Kai leads development of SIMOC, a research-grade computer simulation and educational interface that enables citizen scientists to explore the complexity of a human habitat on Mars. Now, Kai and his team are constructing SAM, a hi-fidelity, hermetically sealed Mars habitat analog with greenhouse, living quarters, airlock, and half acre Mars yard located at the iconic Biosphere 2. Trent Tresch works in bridging the gap between traditional aerospace and new-space innovation. Starting his career in aeronautical education, he developed underwater Neutral Buoyancy programs. While working on more in-depth commercial astronautics trainings he began to build the next generation of accessible pressure suits and life support systems with Smith Aerospace Garments. This led him to high altitude crewed balloon flight tests and oversight of pressure suit operations. He currently resides at the University of Arizona’s Biosphere 2 where he is co-developing the Center for Human Space Exploration.
spUN Debates, High School Tournament Final National Space Society 2022-05-28 | ISDC 2022 Showcases Student DebatesBy Rutuja Pilgar, NSS Education Team, Frances Dellutri, NSS Director of EducationNSS is dedicated to people working and living in space to better humanity. The NSS ISDC event hosted special sessions and workshops on multiple space development areas. The spUN Debate Program was part of the special sessions. The spUN Debates (space policy and UNiversalization) presses debaters to argue space topics in developing space with a consideration of Universalization. On May 28, 2022 the hybrid High School spUN Debate Tournament Final and the University Pilot Debates were held. Both sets of debates were live-streamed to NSS Facebook and NSS Youtube. View them now at the links below. The High School Debate had teams join virtually from their home countries. In each team, students from various countries cooperated to act as one. The newly launched University Pilot Program invited the debate teams from Howard University and Georgetown University (both located in Washington, D.C) to participate in the University Pilot spUN debate. The university and high school teams debated the same resolution. The University teams switched sides for a second round. The 2022 spUN resolution was “Private sector investment in Lunar space development will better serve humanity over public sector investment.” The 2022 NSS spUN Debate program is very appreciative of the support of the Students for the Exploration and Development of Space.
I Can Make a Difference... in Space National Space Society 2022-04-12 | Young people crave involvement in space exploration and development, and the National Space Society provides engagement opportunities that can light a fire in a young mind. Support the NSS today. space.nss.orgWhy Join NSS?space.nss.org/join-membership
NSS Space Forum - New and Innovative Views on Preventing Conflict and Enhancing Accountability National Space Society 2022-04-10 | Space Forum Thursday, April 7, 2022 Navigating an Increasingly Crowded Space: New and Innovative Views on Preventing Conflict and Enhancing AccountabilityWith Special GuestMichelle Hanlon NSS President and a Panel of NSS Legal Fellows Adam BrodkinBailey Cunningham Kevin DillonQuinn McKemeySmall satellite constellations, tourist flights, private space stations, multiple missions to the Moon – we are truly seeing and living the result of decades of hard work and advocacy by the National Space Society. But with this success comes responsibility. Our orbit is starting to get crowded, and the Moon is not far behind. Should we be worried about accountability? NSS President Michelle Hanlon will host a panel of young professionals who share their thoughts through the lens of their research on legal and policy aspects a variety of space activities. Panelists include: Adam Brodkin who is leading a new NSS project to build a coalition to advocate for orbital debris remediation; Bailey Cunningham, Chair of the NSS President’s Advisory Council who is writing a Master of Law thesis on protecting cultural heritage in outer space; Kevin Dillon who helped author the NSS presentation on legal frameworks to support space solar power which was delivered to the United Nations last week; and Quinn McKemey who has conducted extensive research on Unidentified Aerial Phenomenon. Join us for this informative panel session that demonstrates space exploration and settlement involves far more than engineering and technology. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *Adam Brodkin is a third-year law student at George Mason University Antonin Scalia Law School. He grew up in New Jersey with his younger brother and Russian immigrant parents. At Lehigh University, Adam received a BA in Economics and Environmental Studies, with a minor in Earth & Environmental Science. He then spent a year living in Israel-Palestine as a Yahel Social Change Fellow. While in law school, Adam interned at a federal agency’s personnel law group and at two small firms specializing in personal injury law and medical malpractice. His dream is to become a space lawyer working in rocket launch operations. Bailey Cunningham is pursuing an LL.M. in Air & Space Law at the University of Mississippi School of Law. Bailey received her Juris Doctor from the Florida State University College of Law in 2021. Prior to law school, Bailey attended the University of South Florida, where she majored in Political Science and minored in both Astronomy and Intelligence Studies. Bailey is a Senior Editor of the Journal of Space Law at the University of Mississippi and a former Legal Intern for the International Law Practice Group at NASA Headquarters. Bailey previously served as the Vice-Chair of the NSS International Committee and is currently the Chair of the NSS President’s Legal Advisory Council. Additionally, Bailey volunteers with For All Moonkind and serves as the Space Law Project Manager.Kevin Dillon is a Model Based Systems Engineer at Boeing where he blends passion and professional experience in designing, testing and analyzing flight control systems and subsystems for commercial and military aircraft platforms with system requirements development, system integration, real-time simulation and system verification and validation. He is skilled in system architecture design, requirement development, system integration and simulation to produce high quality software and hardware. In addition to earning a BS in Aerospace Engineering and Mechanical Engineering from the Missouri University of Science and Technology in 2013, Kevin earned a master’s degree in Systems Engineering from Southern Methodist University in 2015, and his JD from the Saint Louis University School of Law in August 2021.Quinn McKemey is enrolled in the University of Mississippi’s Graduate Certificate program in Air & Space Law and works full time as a Financial Planning & Analysis Analyst for LPL Financial, supporting the Client, Legal & Risk, and Human Capital departments. He earned his Master of Business Administration at the University of Mississippi in 2019 as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science in 2018. A lifelong enthusiast in human space activity, Quinn currently serves as a Legal Fellow for the National Space Society and co-founded orbital debris remediation advocacy platform Clean Orbit.
NSS Space Forum - Expanding Frontiers: Astropreneurship in South Texas with Fredrick Jenet National Space Society 2022-04-10 | Space ForumThursday, March 31, 2022Expanding Frontiers: Astropreneurship in South TexasWith Special GuestFredrick JenetFounder and Executive Director, Expanding Frontiers Founded by the team that brought the world’s largest radio telescope to the US-Mexico border and convinced SpaceX to make a new home at Boca Chica Beach, Expanding Frontiers creates innovative programs that are inspiring the next generation of space explorers and developers. In this presentation, Dr. Jenet will review several award winning initiatives that are driving the space development ecosystem in South Texas, including the Entrepreneur in Residence Apprenticeship Program that helps aspiring “Astropreneurs” build viable companies around NASA technologies, and the “Space Settlement Design Tournament,” a collaboration with Aerospace Education Competitions, which inspires local high school students to envision themselves as participating in the space industry. Don’t miss this informative presentation that will touch on the innovative ideas that are driving the NewSpace ecosystem. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *Fredrick Jenet, PhD, is an MIT/Caltech trained astrophysicist turned space entrepreneur with 25 years of space exploration and development experience. Dr. Jenet has secured over $50 million in funding for space related R&D. His research ranges from deep space exploration to characterizing orbital debris, with 50+ publications in refereed journals and popular articles such as “If Earth falls, will interstellar space travel be our salvation?” He created the “Arecibo Remote Command Center,” enabling students to make astrophysical discoveries with global impact, founded the first Center of Excellence in South Texas for space exploration, and created the UT STARGATE program, in collaboration with SpaceX, having technology development facilities located at the Boca Chica orbital launch facility. In addition, he is the CTO of Lunar Station, an MIT startup delivering intel and insights to lunar mission planners, and an investment advisor to Spaced Ventures, a space startup funding platform.
National Space Society International Space Development Conference, May 27-29, Arlington VA National Space Society 2022-03-23 | On May 27-29, 2022, the NSS will hold its International Space Development Conference® in Arlington, Virginia. This return to the Washington, D.C. area marks our first live, in-person ISDC in three years, and it promises to be a showstopper. Confirmed speakers include: Kathy Lueders, Associate Administrator for Space Operations for NASA; Lori Garver, former NASA Deputy Administrator and CEO of the Earthrise Alliance; Peter Beck, President and CEO of Rocket Lab; James Green, former Chief Scientist at NASA; Pascal Lee, Director at the Mars Institute and planetary scientist at SETI; and Rick Mastracchio, Director of Strategy and Business Development for Northrop Grumman’s Human Exploration and Operations unit. Many more will join the lineup. Reservations are going fast—be sure to register and book your hotel room soon at our website. We can’t wait to see you in May in Arlington!Also special this year at ISDC will be the second annual Martine Rothblatt Space Settlement in Our Lifetime Business Plan Competition. Three finalists will present their NewSpace business plans to the audience and NSS Voyagers Circle members, competing for the top prize of $16,000. The submission deadline is March 15, 2022.isdc2022.nss.org
National Space Society International Space Development Conference, May 27-29, Arlington VA National Space Society 2022-03-23 | On May 27-29, 2022, the NSS will hold its International Space Development Conference® in Arlington, Virginia. This return to the Washington, D.C. area marks our first live, in-person ISDC in three years, and it promises to be a showstopper. Confirmed speakers include: Kathy Lueders, Associate Administrator for Space Operations for NASA; Lori Garver, former NASA Deputy Administrator and CEO of the Earthrise Alliance; Peter Beck, President and CEO of Rocket Lab; James Green, former Chief Scientist at NASA; Pascal Lee, Director at the Mars Institute and planetary scientist at SETI; and Rick Mastracchio, Director of Strategy and Business Development for Northrop Grumman’s Human Exploration and Operations unit. Many more will join the lineup. Reservations are going fast—be sure to register and book your hotel room soon at our website. We can’t wait to see you in May in Arlington!Also special this year at ISDC will be the second annual Martine Rothblatt Space Settlement in Our Lifetime Business Plan Competition. Three finalists will present their NewSpace business plans to the audience and NSS Voyagers Circle members, competing for the top prize of $16,000. The submission deadline is March 15, 2022.isdc2022.nss.org
NSS Space Forum - A Framework for Architecting the Future of Space with Gary Barnhard National Space Society 2022-03-11 | Thursday, March 10, 2022 The National Space Society and A Framework for Architecting the Future of SpaceWith Special GuestGary Barnhard NSS UN NGO Delegation Administrator & Technical RepresentativeDirector of Strategic RelationshipsAt-Large Member, NSS Board of DirectorsEvolving to a thriving, sustainable spacefaring society will entail a transdisciplinary fusion of architecture, engineering, and understanding. We must learn to wield the art of design, the application of science (a.k.a. technology), the orchestration systems engineering, and test the limits of our understanding to be the best stewards of Earth and our expanding habitat in space that we can be. In this presentation - “A Framework for Architecting the Future of Space,” Mr. Barnhard’s presentation begins with several postulates that will guide the framework:• Defending Earth against Asteroids and Comets• Space Development • Space SettlementsIt will touch the Arcs of Opportunity these areas offer as well as the work vectors needed to achieve them which includes: Technology Development, Demonstration, and Deployment. These arcs entail flows of people, material, energy, and information and the stakeholders include government, commercial, non-profit, educational organizations as well as individuals.A key factor is reducing the systems engineering to practice for the development of new space systems and this requires understanding the general problems before point designs. Mr. Barnhard’s talk will include a description of "Outcome Elements" necessary to provide the framework for space development. In the end, we must ensure that what we are architecting is mission-enabling, sustainable, and affordable to use.Mr. Barnhard presented this talk to the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) Scientific and Technical Subcommittee on Feb 16, 2022. Join us for this information space forum to hear about this innovative plan.Gary Barnhard is 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 virtual enterprise focused on Cislunar commercial Technology Development, Demonstration, and Deployment (TD**3) missions. He is a robotic, space, computer, and power systems engineer.He is an Associate Fellow of the AIAA and a National Space Society (NSS) life member, prior CEO, prior Executive Director, prior Administrator of the NSS United Nations NGO Delegation and Technical Representative, NSS Board of Directors member, and NSS Director of Strategic Relationships.space.nss.org
National Space Society International Space Development Conference, May 27-29, Arlington VA National Space Society 2022-02-25 | On May 27-29, 2022, the NSS will hold its International Space Development Conference® in Arlington, Virginia. This return to the Washington, D.C. area marks our first live, in-person ISDC in three years, and it promises to be a showstopper. Confirmed speakers include: Kathy Lueders, Associate Administrator for Space Operations for NASA; Lori Garver, former NASA Deputy Administrator and CEO of the Earthrise Alliance; Peter Beck, President and CEO of Rocket Lab; James Green, former Chief Scientist at NASA; Pascal Lee, Director at the Mars Institute and planetary scientist at SETI; and Rick Mastracchio, Director of Strategy and Business Development for Northrop Grumman’s Human Exploration and Operations unit. Many more will join the lineup. Reservations are going fast—be sure to register and book your hotel room soon at our website. We can’t wait to see you in May in Arlington!Also special this year at ISDC will be the second annual Martine Rothblatt Space Settlement in Our Time Business Plan Competition. Three finalists will present their NewSpace business plans to the audience and NSS jurists, competing for the top prize of $16,000. The submission deadline is March 15, 2022.isdc2022.nss.org
National Space Society Space Settlement Contest Now Open for Applications National Space Society 2022-02-07 | NSS Space Settlement ContestOur annual space settlement contest invites students to design an orbital space habitat. The contest, open for 6-12th grade students, was sponsored by the NASA Ames Research Center from 1994-2018 in conjunction with the National Space Society and since then is being sponsored by NSS. The single highest scoring team or individual attending ISDC will receive the Herman Rubin Award for $5,000.Apply here:space.nss.org/settlement/nasa/Contest/index.htmlMore about NSS:space.nss.org
Eyewitness to Launch Operations: Space UpClose Inside the Fence at Kennedy Space Center National Space Society 2022-02-01 | Thursday, January 27, 2022 Eyewitness to Launch Operations: Highlights of 2021 and What’s Ahead With Special Guests Jean Wright and Dr. Ken Kremer of Space UpCloseRocket launches are a unique blend of technology and art. Harnessing the resources to propel these massive rockets to orbital velocity and beyond is a reflection of our engineering and technological prowess. And the successful result when those engines ignite and the rocket begins its ascent is a feast for the eyes and ears. The expanding rocket plume, the flame of the exhaust and the trail of the rocket create a work of art against the sky. Then you are hit by the sound of those rocket engines and you rejoice in the fact that you have witnessed something amazing and beautiful at the same time. It is why millions of people have traveled to the Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral since the dawn of the space age to be part of history and to experience a launch first-hand.For Jean Wright and Dr. Ken Kremer, being eyewitnesses to launches is a regular occurrence and they have been sharing their experiences with the general public through their amazing photographic images that convey the awe and majesty of a rocket launch. Jean and Ken are both long-time space and STEM professionals, and with their access to the launch sites, they have documented one of the most active launch years in recent memory in 2021 – via Space UpClose, their own space news website reporting on NASA & Space Exploration.Join Jean and Ken for this informative and exciting presentation as they share their photographic record of launches. You will hear their stories and impressions as they describe the photos and along with the sights and sounds of a launch. In addition, Jean and Ken will share some of the other sights from the Kennedy Space Center, including photos of the new SLS that is getting ready for launch in 2022. You will also see photos of other missions such as LUCY and Mars Perseverance/Ingenuity mosaics. 2022 promises to be another exciting and active year for launches and Jean and Ken will update us on what is coming up. And finally, they will share some insights and hints to aid your own experiences if you decide to visit the space coast and take in a launch. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *Jean Wright was an Aerospace Composite Tech for United Space Alliance - 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 has been asked to present at many prestigious events and has done many media interviews. Jean is also a Docent at the Space Shuttle Atlantis Exhibit, educating guests at the KSC Visitor Complex 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 UpClose.”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! Jean sews custom face masks and apparel- space themed and otherwise- available for sale.Dr. Ken Kremer is a research chemist, space/science journalist, photographer, speaker and founder/managing editor of Space UpClose website reporting up close on all things related to NASA and Space Exploration. Ken is based nearby the Kennedy Space Center in Titusville, FL., active in outreach and interviewed regularly on TV and radio about space topics at NBC, ABC, CBS, Fox, BBC, News Nation, Spectrum, ARD, TRT, I24 and more. Dr. Kremer lectures about both human spaceflight and robotic spaceflight – specializing in Mars. Ken has over 30 years’ experience in Research and Development in the Pharmaceutical and Life Sciences in academia and at Cyanamid, Wyeth and Pfizer. Ken received his PhD from the State University of New York in Stony Brook, NY and BA from New York University in New York City, and did postdoctoral research at the University of Bonn, Germany. Dr. Kremer holds 17 US Patents, has over 3 dozen scientific publications, witnessed over 200 rocket launches, written over 2000 space articles and has 14 published APODs – Astronomy Pictures of the Day. Ken also has a 2-decade career in space journalism and outreach.Ken was recently awarded NASA’s rarely given Curiosity medallion by NASA’s Chief Scientist for his science outreach efforts and Mars panoramas.Ken’s photos and Jean’s custom space apparel are available for sale to support their ad free space news website – Space UpClose
Dr. Paul Spudis Lecture: Future Scientific Exploration of the Moon National Space Society 2022-01-15 | Dr. Paul Spudis gives a lecture on the future scientific exploration of the Moon. The slides are available here:spudislunarresources.nss.org/moon101/moon_101_explore.pdf
Dr. Paul Spudis Lecture: Physiography and Geology of the Moon National Space Society 2022-01-15 | Dr. Paul Spudis gives a lecture on the physiography and geology of the Moon. The slides are available here:spudislunarresources.nss.org/moon101/moon_101_geology.pdf
Dr. Paul Spudis Lecture: Introduction to the Moon National Space Society 2022-01-15 | An introduction to the Moon by Dr. Paul Spudis. Slides available here:spudislunarresources.nss.org/moon101/moon_101_intro.pdf
NSS Space Forum, January 13, 2022: Webb Space Telescope: First Light Machine - Dr. H. Philip Stahl National Space Society 2022-01-14 | National Space Society and the Huntsville Alabama L5 (HAL5) Society present:The Webb Space Telescope: The First Light MachineJanuary 13, 2022With Special GuestDr. H. Philip StahlSenior Optical PhysicistNASA Marshall Space Flight CenterOn Christmas Day 2021, the Webb Space Telescope (WST) was launched from Arianespace's ELA-3 launch complex at Europe's Spaceport located near Kourou, French Guiana, on an Ariane 5 rocket. This was the beginning of its 29-day, million mile journey out to the second Lagrange point (L2). From L2 the WST will begin its 10-year mission to search for the first luminous objects of the Universe to help answer fundamental questions about how the Universe came to look like it does today, including formation of galaxies and protoplanetary systems.With a 6.5-meter diameter mirror, the WST is the world’s largest space telescope. Dr. Stahl will review the science objectives for the WST and how they drove the WST architecture, e.g. aperture, wavelength range, and operating temperature. In addition to a program status, Dr. Stahl’s presentation provides an overview of the WST’s primary mirror technology development and fabrication status. Take this opportunity to learn more about one of the most exciting and ambitious space science missions ever attempted. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *Dr. H. Philip Stahl is a Senior Optical Physicist at the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center where he is currently leading a study to mature mirror technologies for a new large aperture UV/Optical/IR telescope to replace Hubble. Previously, he was responsible for developing candidate primary mirror technologies for the WST. Dr. Stahl is a leading authority in optical metrology, optical engineering, and phase-measuring interferometry. Many of the world's largest telescopes have been made with the aid of high-speed and infrared phase-measuring Interferometers developed by him. He is a Fellow of SPIE and OSA and past ICO Vice President and was SPIE’s 2014 President. He earned his Ph.D. in Optical Science at the University of Arizona in 1985.
NSS Space Forum, December 2, 2021: 2021 Space Year in Review with Larry Boyle National Space Society 2022-01-14 | In this informative presentation, Chicago Society for Space Studies Vice President Larry Boyle provides an overview of the global space activities that occurred during 2021. Jim Plaxco serves as moderator.2021 was one of the most impactful years in space, based on the breadth and scope of the missions, both human and robotic. Unlike the 1960s and 70s, space is no longer the providence of only two countries. The players have expanded to include many other counties as well as private companies all attempting to “take longer strides” in space.Worldwide spending on Space is estimated at over $ 446.88 billion a year. 72 nations have space programs and hundreds of private, for-profit, companies are working in outer space. Several nations have sent robotic probes to Mars. 2021 was the year of space tourism with the flights of Virgin Galactic, Blue Origin, and Inspiration4. The United States has a program, called Artemis, to return people to the Moon by 2025. And the Webb Space Telescope will be launching later in December. It’s been an exciting year and Larry will look at the highlights with some looking ahead to 2022. Don’t miss this comprehensive review of an amazing year in space.* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *Larry Boyle was the President of the Chicago Society for Space Studies between 1989 and 2002. He is now a Vice-President. The Society 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.
NSS Space Forum - NSS-MMAARS Space Health and Diet Contest Winners National Space Society 2021-11-06 | National Space Society Space Forum, Thursday, November 4, 2021 The NSS - MMAARS Space Health and Diet Contest:A Food and Nutrition Plan for a Space Flight to MarsWith Special GuestsZsuzsanna Benyo1st Place Contest WinnerSemmelweis University of Health SciencesKatarina Heyden2nd Place Contest WinnerCornell UniversityAfshin BeheshtiKBR-NASA Ames Research Center Contracting ScientistThe NSS - MMAARS Space Health and Diet Contest is aimed at addressing the known health barriers to space flight with food, diet, and even different eating patterns like intermittent fasting. Research conducted by NASA has revealed specific genetic, nutritional, and environmental factors bearing on these health issues. Accordingly, contestants were asked to submit a pre-flight diet, food, and intermittent fasting plan to address insulin resistance, one of the factors identified by NASA, and estimated to affect up to 88% of the population in countries dominated by high carbohydrate low fat eating patterns, aka the “SAD diet.”This space forum features the 1st and 2nd place winners who will be presenting their papers:Zsuzsanna Benyo, 1st Place Winner - “IF is not an “if”, but a MUST with Ketogenic-Mediterranean Diet to safeguard astronauts in deep-space missions” • Katarina Heyden, 2nd Place Winner - “A Balanced, Plant-Rich, and Time-Restricted Diet to Minimize Health Risks from Space and Improve Metabolic Health” NSS is also pleased to introduce the session with a presentation from Dr. Afshin Beheshti, KBR-NASA Ames Research Center Contracting Scientist, who will present “Mitochondrial Studies to Identify Prevention and Countermeasures to Space Flight Injury.”The program also features comments from Lynne Zielinski, NSS Vice President of Education and Outreach and member of the NSS Board of Directors; Bill Gardiner, NSS Space Health and Medicine Committee Chair; Loretta Hall, NSS Space Ambassador; Jerry McLaughlin, NSS Membership Committee; and Susan Ip-Jewell, MMAARS Analog Missions.This space forum complements our session on Space Farming and takes a look beyond the technical factors that will define long-duration space flight. Enjoy these informative presentations from two talented students and a NASA scientist who are studying these issues.Ms. Zsuzsanna Benyo is passionate about space nutrition and innovative food technology. As a B.Sc. student of Dietetics at the Semmelweis University of Health Sciences in Hungary, she has been studying cancer prevention and microbiome research. Previously, she has successfully obtained the certificate of Wageningen University from the Netherlands, in nutrition against cancer and cardiovascular diseases, metabolic health, malnutrition and overnutrition. Zsuzsanna also holds MA in Economics and Political Sciences. She has been an internationally acknowledged C-suite leader responsible for Communications and Public Affairs. She has been also on a Ketogenic – Mediterranean Diet combined with Intermittent Fasting since January 2021. She is a member of the Hungarian Association of Dietitians. Zsuzsanna is a native Hungarian, speaking English, German, French, and a little Russian. She is the mother of three children.Ms. Katarina Heyden is currently a Ph.D. candidate at Cornell University studying Molecular Nutrition, where her research is focused on vitamin B12 and folate metabolism. Originally from Rhode Island, Ms. Heyden attended Cornell University for her undergraduate education and was fascinated by the intersection of biochemistry and nutrition after going to a guest lecture by Dr. Scott Smith, the director of Nutritional Biochemistry Laboratory for NASA. She is interested in micronutrient metabolism, nutrigenomics, and space nutrition. Ms. Heyden aims to discover new ways to prevent and ameliorate disease by altering nutrient intake and minimizing the use of pharmaceuticals. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and listening to true crime podcasts.Dr. Beheshti earned a Ph.D. from Florida State University in physics and made a transition to cancer, systems biology, and radiation biology for his postdoctoral training. In 2014 he became an Assistant Professor at Tufts University School of Medicine where he continued his research as a systems biologist studying various aspects of cancer including microRNAs, aging and cancer, cancer drug targets, and development of novel immunotherapy. In April 2017, Dr. Beheshti joined KBR at NASA Ames Research Center to be part of the GeneLab project assisting with developing the platform. In addition, Dr. Beheshti also has his own grants where he is conducting research on how microRNAs will impact space biology and potential use for countermeasures to mitigate space radiation and microgravity. Lastly, Dr. Beheshti currently also holds a Visiting Researcher appointment at Broad Institute and is President of a non-profit working on COVID-19 called COVID-19 International Research Team.
NSS Space Forum -Bryce Myer - Farming in Space for Future Space Settlement National Space Society 2021-11-05 | National Space Society Space Forum Thursday, October 28, 2021 Farming in Space for Future Space Settlements: Not just Glop and Salad!Bryce Meyer, Member, NSS Board of Directors, Engineer and Space Farmer Space settlements in orbit or even on the Moon are close enough in proximity to Earth that food supplies could still rely on transport from Earth. As space settlement moves outward, carrying enough food for a long-duration flight is just not feasible. Packaged food takes up space and more importantly would take a large portion of the weight of the spacecraft. One explored solution is space farming which would create a sustainable environment for the astronauts. The recycling of human wastes, water, and the air is critical for long distances that separate space settlements from Earth.While there are some strategies that might use a garden and hand-wave away the rest, better designs will include a variety of current technologies to make the mass flow loop possible, and provide a diverse menu of more than glop and salad! Meyer, an experienced Earth farmer, and engineer has been studying the design and concepts of space farms in order to develop solutions for space settlement. Don’t miss this informative and eye-opening session this adds a new dimension to what is needed to sustain space settlement. Bryce L. 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 degree 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 is chair of the Space Settlement Technical Committee of AIAA.
NSS Space Forum - 2021-10-21 - Astronaut Eileen Collins National Space Society 2021-10-25 | National Space Society Space Forum Thursday, October 21, 2021 Through the Glass Ceiling to the Stars: A Conversation with Col. Eileen Collins, USAF (retired), Space Shuttle Commander, USAF Test Pilot and Professional Speakerwith Special Guest Jonathan Ward, Author, Space Historian, and Astronomerand moderated by Dave Dressler, Director, NSS Information Systems and Conference Committee ChairEileen Collins made history in July 1999 when she became the first woman to command an American space mission, launching on Columbia for the STS-93 mission. That was one of many crowning achievements that confirmed Collins as an aviation and space pioneer. She was in the first class of women to earn pilot’s wings at Vance Air Force Base and was their first female instructor pilot. She was only the second woman admitted to the Air Force’s elite Test Pilot Program at Edwards Air Force Base.And NASA had such confidence in her skills as a leader and pilot that she was entrusted to command the first shuttle mission, STS-114, after the Columbia disaster, returning the US to spaceflight after a two-year hiatus in July 2005. Since retiring from the Air Force and NASA in 2006, she has served on numerous corporate boards and is an inspirational speaker about space exploration and leadership.In her new book, Through the Glass Ceiling to the Stars (Released 19 Oct 2021), Collins shares her amazing story; the challenges, the achievements, and her inspiring thoughts for the future of space and the next generation. Don’t miss this personal conversation with Collins as she highlights many aspects of her pioneering career and discusses what is next in space. She will be joined by Jonathan Ward, her coauthor who has written several other acclaimed books on space history. The session will be moderated by Dave Dressler after an introduction by NSS President Michelle Hanlon. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *Eileen M. Collins is a former astronaut and a retired USAF colonel. She has logged more than 6,751 hours in 30 different types of aircraft and has more than 872 hours in space. Collins entered the Air Force as an ROTC Distinguished Graduate after earning her B.S. degree from Syracuse University in 1978. Collins graduated from Air Force Undergraduate Pilot Training in 1979 and from the USAF Test Pilot School in 1990. Selected as an astronaut in 1990, she flew on four shuttle flights. She served as a pilot in 1995 aboard Discovery and for Atlantis in 1997. Collins became the first woman commander of a U.S. spacecraft on Columbia in 1999 and her final flight was as commander of Discovery in 2005, the “Return to Flight Mission” after the tragic loss of Columbia. Collins was inducted into the Astronaut Hall of Fame in 2013. She currently serves on several boards and advisory panels, is a professional speaker and an aerospace consultant. She is married with two children and lives in San Antonio, TX. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *Jonathan H. Ward is an author, a Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society, Solar System Ambassador for the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, a Resident Astronomer for Viking Ocean Cruises, and a speaker on space exploration topics. Ward enjoys telling stories of unsung heroes—everyday people who find themselves at historical crossroads or in extraordinary circumstances and who rise above adversity to achieve success against seemingly impossible odds. Ward coauthored Eileen Collins’ long-awaited memoir, Through the Glass Ceiling to the Stars: The Story of the First American Woman to Command a Space Mission. The book, published by Arcade Press, hit the shelves on October 19, 2021.His 2018 book, Bringing Columbia Home: The Untold Story of a Lost Space Shuttle and Her Crew, coauthored with former space shuttle launch director Michael Leinbach, earned many accolades and was recently optioned for development into a feature film. Ward lives in Greensboro, North Carolina with his wife Jane.* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *Dave Dressler's area of professional focus is space exploration and development. He works for the National Space Society as the Director of Information Systems. Dressler is also the Conferences Committee Chair for the society's annual International Space Development Conference (ISDC). Beyond his work, travel is his passion. He is an avid SCUBA diver, loves biking and hiking national parks, and would love to one day scale mountains on the moon. Dressler was previously the Technology Manager for San Diego County Office of Education, and a Network Analyst for Capistrano Unified School District. Dressler has an MBA from CSU San Marcos and lives in San Diego, California.NSS home page: space.nss.org
NSS Space Forum - Shuttle Mission Control Stories with Marianne Dyson National Space Society 2021-09-24 | In Shuttle Mission Control Stories, Marianne Dyson explains the organization and responsibilities of the flight control teams during early Space Shuttle flights. One of the first women to serve as a Flight Activities Officer in Mission Control (and currently serving as Mission Control historian for the Manned Spaceflight Operations Organization), Dyson shares her own excitement of being part of developing space operations procedures as well as some of the high-risk situations faced during flights, including the loss of a fuel cell during the second Space Shuttle flight and a massive rescheduling effort caused by crew space sickness on the third flight. More first-person stories of flight controllers are highlighted in her new book, "Shuttle Mission Control: Flight Controller Photos and Stories, 1981-1992." A personal account of her journey from a stargazing girl in Ohio to becoming half of the first married couple in Mission Control is detailed in her memoir, "A Passion for Space: Adventures of a Pioneering Female NASA Flight Controller." For more information about Dyson and her books, visit www.mariannedyson.comIn this talk, Marianne provides an insider’s view of the earliest days of the shuttle program and to how these dedicated flight controllers solved challenges from the mundane to the dangerous during those first flights. Marianne Dyson helps educate the public and inspire the next generation of space pioneers by sharing her experience as one of NASA’s first female flight controllers. Dyson’s children’s books (including two coauthored with Buzz Aldrin), science articles, and stories have been recognized with top awards by the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, the American Institute of Physics, the Analog Magazine Readers Poll, and the National Science Teachers Association best STEM Book Award. Dyson joined the L-5 Society in 1977 when she was a Congressional intern and has served as a chapter president, NSS Board member, VP of Public Affairs, Chaiman of the 1999 ISDC, managing editor of Ad Astra, and founder of the NSS Book Reviews section of the website. She currently serves on the NSS Board of Advisors, occasionally writes for Ad Astra and Analog magazines, speaks to anyone who will listen about space, and looks forward to celebrating the first women to reach the Moon.
NSS Town Hall: The NSS Policy Committee with Randy Gigante and Charles Ellzey National Space Society 2021-09-10 | For our September 9 Town Hall, NSS presented two leaders from our policy committee.As a grass-roots advocacy and educational organization, the National Space Society takes positions on space activities from NASA to industry to commercial and entrepreneurial spaceflight. Did you ever wonder how the decision is made to take a position on a particular issue? The National Space Society’s Policy Committee discusses, debates, and formulates the positions that the NSS takes to advance the cause of human beings living and working in communities beyond the Earth.These positions are reflected in formal position papers, letters to elected officials, press releases, web site content, and messages presented during one of grassroots visit to Congress that NSS supports, which include the February SEA Blitz, the March Storm, and the August Home District Blitz. Committee Chair Randy Gigante and Vice Chair Charles Ellzey will provide an “insider’s perspective” to how the committee operates and what the deliberations entail. They will also answer questions on current NSS positions and on the future of space exploration and settlement. Don’t miss this exciting and informative opportunity to see how this key NSS committee operates. Randy Gigante joined the National Space Society over 35 years ago and until recently has worked in the Commercial Space industry. He built the first three-axis stabilized spacecraft bus at Hughes Space and Communications and served as Program Manager for the first generation global Orbcomm LEO Constellation including both the satellites and ground systems in the 1990’s. After 2000, Randy worked as a Senior Program Manager at both SES and Intelsat, selling services on GEO communication satellites to major commercial and government customers.Randy is currently the Chair of the NSS Policy Committee and has served on the NSS Board of Directors as well. Randy is one of two NSS representatives to the Alliance for Space Development, and sits on the ASD Board of Directors. One of his major work areas is supporting the March Storm, and Fall Fury legislative blitzes.Charles is a young attorney, with considerable experience in both Aerospace Law and estate planning. His specialties include ITAR, international law, commercial transactions, commercial launch licensing and insurance, probate law and COVID-19 compliance. Charles began his legal career prior to law school as a small firm paralegal in Oxford, MS. Charles has worked for both the Mississippi Supreme Court and United Launch Alliance in addition to volunteering through the Elder Law Clinic and pro-bono initiative. These experiences provided him with a strong background in client relations, appellate practice and commercial space. He designed an internal ITAR audit mechanism for ULA, and also dictated company COVID-19 policy during the height of the pandemic, ensuring compliance across all states of operation with local, state, federal and OSHA laws. At the height of his law school tenure, Charles served as both the Managing Editor of the Journal of Space Law and Associate Article Editor for the Mississippi Law Journal concurrently. He has published pieces in both the Journal of Space Law and SpaceReview. Charles is a proud father to his young son Flint.
Space Forum - David Chudwin - I Was a Teenage Space Reporter: From Apollo 11 to Our Future in Space National Space Society 2021-08-20 | Thursday, August 19, 2021 I Was a Teenage Space Reporter: From Apollo 11 to Our Future in Space With Guest Speaker David Chudwin, Physician, Author and Teenage Space Reporter for Apollo 11How does a nineteen year-old college journalist get NASA press credentials for perhaps the greatest adventure in human history, the launch of Apollo 11 and the first lunar landing? David Chudwin was a reporter and an editor for The Michigan Daily, when he received NASA’s approval and he traveled to the Kennedy Space Center in July 1969 to witness and report on this historic mission. Chudwin was the only journalist with official NASA press credentials representing the college press and had extraordinary access to the astronauts, rocket scientists, launch pads, rockets, and control centers. In 2019 on the 50th anniversary of Apollo 11 — Chudwin told his story in a new book. It was a time to look back to celebrate that mission, and to look forward to our future in space. In this presentation, Chudwin will highlight two themes from the book, his own account of covering the first landing on the Moon in 1969, and lessons learned from the Apollo program and their relevance to future space activities. Don’t miss this personal first-hand account of Apollo 11 launch, plus the insights on the space program Chudwin brings from being an enthusiast since the dawn of the modern space-age. For more information about Chudwin and his book, visit http://davidchudwin.com. Dr. David Chudwin was born in Chicago in 1950. He developed an interest in space at the age of seven when Sputnik was launched in October, 1957. He began writing for his high school newspaper and continued as a reporter and an editor for "The Michigan Daily," the student-run newspaper at the University of Michigan. In 1969 he became the first college journalist to receive NASA press credentials for the Apollo 11 launch which he covered for the College Press Service and "The Daily." He wrote articles about the experience for "Spaceflight" and other journals. In 2019 his book “I Was a Teenage Space Reporter: From Apollo 11 to Our Future in Space” was released by LID Publishing. Chudwin appeared on CNN, ABC News, WGN TV, and BBC Radio in conjunction with the book and the 50th Anniversary of Apollo 11. Chudwin has also spoken to school groups and twice at Spacefest. Besides being a life-long space enthusiast, Chudwin is a medical doctor (allergy/immunology) who is still in part-time practice.
