Space Foundation News

The Space Foundation’s 29th National Space Symposium offered panel discussions, networking and programs specifically for young space professionals, age 35 and younger. One of the New Generation panels addressed the topic, A Fresh Take on Old Concepts: Reusable Launch Vehicles, Smallsats and Satellite Servicing. Panelists included: Sean Mahoney, chief operating officer, Masten Space Systems Andrew…

The Delivering Improved Space Capabilities and Effects for the Warfighter panel at the Space Symposium panel on April 9 was moderated by Gen. Howell Estes, III, USAF, Ret., president, Howell Estes & Associates, Inc., (pictured, left) and comprised Lt. Gen. David A. Deptula, USAF, Ret., president, The Deptula Group, and ADM Mark P. Fitzgerald, USN, Ret., president, Aragosto Global,…

Clayton Mowry, president, Arianespace, Inc., gave a brief overview of the launch business on April 9 at the 29th National Space Symposium. Mowry said that Arianespace has had 100 percent mission success over the last 10 years and now handles “almost half” of all satellites launched today.” Saying that,”these are exciting times for us in the…

Concentrating on the valuable role satellites play in disaster communications, the Space and Satcom – Redefining Disaster Management panel on April 9 was moderated by Susan J. Irwin, president, Euroconsult USA Inc. (pictured, left) and comprised: MAJ Linda Bozada, USA, chief, Theater SATCOM plans & programs, United States Pacific Command William (Bill) G. Connelly, vice president and general manager, ViaSat…

Maj. Gen. Jack Weinstein, USAF, director of air, space and cyberspace operations for Air Force Space Command, addressed a packed room of both military and civilian attendees at the Space Warfighters Luncheon, April 9, during the 29th National Space Symposium. The luncheon was sponsored by AGI. AGI Chief Executive Officer Paul Graziani gave the welcome remarks and AGI Vice…

The final Tuesday morning session of the 29th National Space Symposium, Pioneering Leadership and Economic Competitiveness, keyed off recent reports making recommendations for the future of NASA and the U.S. civil space program: the Space Foundation’s PIONEERING: Sustaining U.S. Leadership in Space and the National Research Council (NRC)’s NASA’s Strategic Direction and the Need for a National Consensus.…

Federal Aviation Administration Associate Administrator for Commercial Space Transportation George C. Nield, Ph.D., spoke Tuesday morning at the 29th National Space Symposium. Noting that private industry will be a key player in space transportation because of budget cuts, advances in technology, government policy support and the involvement of wealthy individuals, Nield said, “It does not take a government…

Gen. William L. Shelton, USAF, commander, Air Force Space Command (AFSPC), set the stage for the 29th National Space Symposium with remarks Tuesday morning. He highlighted potential hurdles in a budget-constraint environment and offered a way ahead. “There are people who believe that the status quo is adequate,” he said. “I certainly don’t know what intelligence they’re…

The Honorable C.A. “Dutch” Ruppersberger (D-MD), who spoke at April 8’s Cyber 1.3 session, opened the 29th National Space Symposium on April 9. Saying that he advocates for space awareness in Congress, Ruppersberger said, “We need to let people know how important space is in their everyday lives.” Ruppersberger said that “sequestration undermines our national security,” adding that “cutting a…

The 29th National Space Symposium was launched Monday night with a rousing performance by the band, Smash Mouth (pictured bottom center), and presentation of four of the Space Foundation’s top awards. Co-sponsored by Northrop Grumman, the upbeat event focused heavily on the importance of inspiring children, supporting education and aspiring to greater heights. The event…