Home > 2021 ASCEND > Program
Program
ASCEND is a mission
Explore the full program — featuring nearly 600 speakers — and start plotting your trajectory to 2021 ASCEND! Looking for specific technical content, such as the Hypersonics’ program? View the detailed agenda/technical program.
Explore the full program now with new speakers and session details for the Macro and Meta sessions being added as they are confirmed.
Macro/Meta Schedule
All times are Pacific Standard Time
Looking for the Hypersonics' technical program? Click the link below and filter by topic:
Detailed Agenda/Technical Program0800 - 0900 hrs
ONLINE EVERYWHERE
META-1: The State of the Space Industry
Join AIAA Executive Director Dan Dumbacher and ASCEND Executive Producer Rob Meyerson, along with select leaders from the space sector, for a look back on the past year and look forward to what's to come.
0915 - 1245 hrs
Micro Sessions
0800 – 0900 hrs
ONLINE EVERYWHERE
META-2: The Space Economy – Post COVID-19
There is both good news and bad news in describing the space economy and COVID impacts. We’ve seen a massive increase in space funding, record-breaking satellite deployments, and many firsts. We also have seen a pandemic-driven slowdown in aviation and maritime activities, the energy industry’s use of satellite telecom, and knock-on impacts on major defense contractors. Panelists will cover the state of manufacturing, services, launch, and new technology, inventorying the effects of COVID-19 across all space sectors.
0915 – 1015 hrs
Fireside Chat: Ben Gilbert and Rob Meyerson
Join Ben Gilbert and Rob Meyerson, Executive Producer of ASCEND, for a discussion about the growing space economy, transformational technologies, and what makes a space company “investible.”
1030 – 1130 hrs
The New Paradigm: Navigating the Post-Pandemic Aerospace Workforce
With the recent reinvigoration of the space domain over the last 10 years, the aerospace workforce has been growing and changing exponentially. COVID-19 has presented a roadblock on the promising direction of our field, with the ramifications to early and mid-career professionals still being determined. How has finding a job or moving careers changed in the new realm of online interactions and social distancing? How will new methods of job searching and personal interaction persist into the next decade? How do we make meaningful connections and work relations with people we may never see beyond a computer screen? Join us for a discussion on the post-pandemic aerospace workforce and how to leverage the new workplace environment to best jump-start your career.
PANELIST
Elaine Petro
Consultant, Assistant Professor, Sibley School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering,
Cornell University
0800 – 0900 hrs
ONLINE EVERYWHERE
META-3: Space as a Critical Infrastructure
Terrestrial logistics systems are the backbone of the global economy and the seedbed for new markets. For example, the shipping container revolutionized the transport of goods and gave rise to globalization of trade. There is no in-space logistics infrastructure today, but the technology is there to create one. Such an infrastructure is required to facilitate the flow of commodities (fuel, components, etc.) enabling a transformation to serviceable and sustainable space systems to meet the challenges of the 21st century.
MODERATOR
Jay Santee
Vice President, Strategic Space Operations, Defense Systems Group, The Aerospace Corporation
PANELIST
Brig. Gen. John Olson
Mobilization Assistant to the Chief of Space Operations (CSO/MA), U.S. Space Force
PANELIST
Olivier de Weck
Apollo Program Professor of Astronautics and Professor of Engineering Systems, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
PANELIST
Tom Wilson
Vice President and General Manager, Strategic Space Systems Division, Northrop Grumman
0915 – 1245 hrs
Micro Sessions
Detailed Information on Sessions and Program https://ascend.aiaa.org/
0500 - 0615 hrs
LIVE IN LAS VEGAS + ONLINE + DC
SPEC-11: Accelerating Space Exploration Through Global Cooperation*
The International Panel will have National Agency Leaders from around the world discussing how their capabilities are advancing knowledge for humanity, how these advancements are being applied to problems and post COVID challenges across the globe, how they’re partnering across the spectrum with other national agencies, commercial entities, and private companies, and what they’re investing in for the future.
*VIRTUAL ONLY
0730 - 0900 hrs
MACRO 1
Welcome
SPEAKER
Kari Byron
Producer and Television Personality, Mythbusters; Host, Crash Test World; Co-Founder, EXPLR Media
Building Worlds That Do Not Yet Exist
Have you ever wondered if we, as the greater collective, are thinking big enough for space? Discover the futures that don’t yet exist, how incredible creators and visionaries bring their ideas into reality, and the value that such efforts can bring to drive progress. Because if we can’t dream it, we can’t get there. Let’s explore together how to imagine untapped opportunities and turn those dreams into tangible images of the future as a catalyst for accelerating growth and delivering greater value for the space enterprise!
MODERATOR
Kari Byron
Producer and Television Personality, Mythbusters; Host, Crash Test World; Co-Founder, EXPLR Media
Visionaries from NASA: The Future of Deep Space Science and Exploration
NASA’s head of science, Thomas Zurbuchen (aka Dr. Z), and Ken Bowersox from deep space human exploration, take the stage to share the convergence of science, engineering, and commerce in the pursuit of new knowledge about our existence in the solar system. Zurbuchen and Bowersox will shine a spotlight on the interdependencies of the portfolios they manage, with a look ahead to the future of human-robotic exploration at the Moon and Mars.
Insights from Inspiration4
Just two months after the Inspiration4 Crew launched from historic launchpad 39A, Mission Commander Jared "Rook" Isaacman, Mission Pilot Dr. Sian "Leo" Proctor, and Mission Specialist Chris "Hanks" Sembroski share their experiences as the first all-civilian space crew.
MODERATOR
Kari Byron
Producer and Television Personality, Mythbusters; Host, Crash Test World; Co-Founder, EXPLR Media
SPEAKER
Chris Sembroski
Reliability Engineer, Rotary and Mission Systems, Lockheed Martin; and Mission Specialist, Inspiration4
0915 - 1015 hrs
META-4: Public–Private Partnerships: When One Shoe Doesn’t Fit All
Public–Private Partnerships (PPP) have been in use in the United States almost since the nation was founded and in aviation and space for decades – driving industry forward, introducing innovation, and reducing costs. At the same time, they are not a panacea and sometimes fail, leaving the government to step in to clean up the mess. NASA’s recent efforts to utilize PPPs for human spaceflight systems are modeled on success with the Commercial Crew and Cargo Program that benefitted from an existing launch market with well-established customer demand. Is this the appropriate model for PPPs under conditions of uncertain demand, in LEO or deep space? Are PPPs still a meaningful construct in those circumstances, or are the rules, incentives, and risk management approach governing the relationship more important? This session will go beyond the “PPP soundbite” to explore different models across various types of markets and incentives.
PANELIST
Henry Hertzfeld
Research Professor of Space Policy and International Affairs, Elliott School of International Affairs, George Washington University
PANELIST
Brig. Gen. John Olson
Mobilization Assistant to the Chief of Space Operations (CSO/MA), U.S. Space Force
0915 – 1015 hrs
META-5: Optimism for Earth
The user and producers of Earth observation data for climate and sustainability solutions are increasing rapidly. The data are being used to create increasing resilience to climate change. The panel will address why they are hopeful for the future by discussing major achievements in climate and sustainability solutions, and also how they see hope at all levels – within the community, government, international partnerships, industry, and even individually – acting, adapting, and inspiring. Although Earth faces serious natural resource and environmental challenges, the panelists see hope at all levels every day, and it will take a cross section of action through thousands of individuals to reverse course and create a healthier planet for the next generation.
PANELIST
Ved Chirayath
G. Unger Vetlesen Professor of Earth Sciences, Director, Aircraft Center for Earth Studies (ACES), University of Miami
PANELIST
Chelle Gentemann
Senior Scientist, Farallon Institute, and Co-Chair, National Academies’ Report on Open Source Software Policy Option for NASA Earth and Space Sciences
0915 – 1015 hrs
META-6: Space Domain Awareness: Preparing for the Future
Technology is advancing rapidly and can be employed to help solve some of the challenges of managing an increasingly crowded space domain. Industry is driving innovations that improve accuracy and timeliness of information, improving the potential of direct operator-to-operator coordination and collaboration about managing potential collisions. How can the state of the technology and the pace of the innovation inform norms of behavior and rules of engagement that operator/owners should adhere to and what is the government’s role?
1030 – 1130 hrs
META-7: Future of Space: GenX, GenY, and Millennials
This discussion brings together different generations and demographics to talk exploration, inspiration, and enabling our off-world future.
- What is inspirational about space to different generations today?
- How does the space ecosystem inspire future generations while keeping those already involved engaged?
- What are driving visions and motivations for the future?
- What does off-world future mean to different people?
- What one hard problem would you want to solve today?
1030 - 1130 hrs
META-8: On-Orbit Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing (OSAM): A Catalyst for Space Infrastructure
This panel will define “space infrastructure,” discuss how On-orbit Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing (OSAM) can enable it, and describe potential uses for that infrastructure. Panelists will discuss their vision for space infrastructure and how their organization would leverage it, as well as the steps needed to kick-start and evolve it.
MODERATOR
Debi Tomek
Senior Advisor, On-orbit Servicing, Assembly and Manufacturing, Space Technology Mission Directorate, NASA
PANELIST
Nick Jernigan
Product Manager, Orbital Outpost and Multi-Orbit Logistics,
Defense Innovation Unit (DIU)
PANELIST
Brig. Gen. John Olson
Mobilization Assistant to the Chief of Space Operations (CSO/MA), U.S. Space Force
1030 - 1130 hrs
META-9: The Emerging 5G Non-Terrestrial Connectivity Ecosystem
The recent emergence of high-throughput satellite constellations across orbits is vital – not only for commerce, but also for defense. A significant opportunity exists to move away from proprietary protocols with the associated vendor lock-in, lower volume suppliers, high systems integration costs, and higher total cost of ownership. A new approach to standards will benefit commercial and defense customers accelerating the development of a new hardware and software ecosystem for space communications that can securely leverage the supply and production scale of 5G. Learn about this exciting opportunity from industry and public sector stakeholders like Facebook, which is working with the Telecom Infra Project (TIP) to leverage 5G to reduce costs and massively improve capabilities beyond traditional DVB (Digital Video Broadcasting) protocols, and Lockheed Martin, which is establishing enduring non-terrestrial connectivity standards to make ubiquitous defense connectivity tangible.
SPEAKER
Johnathon Caldwell
Vice President, Business Innovation Transformation & Enterprise Excellence, Lockheed Martin Space
1145 – 1245 hrs
Lunch Plenary: Citizen Astronauts
Since Yuri Gagarin’s historic journey to outer space in 1961, fewer than 600 humans have followed his path to the heavens. It took nearly 20 years from Dennis Tito’s flight to the International Space Station to break down the barriers to routine citizen astronaut flights to space. A host of suborbital and orbital private commercial flights are happening in 2021, accelerating access to space for citizen astronauts who have yearned to experience the overview effect and see our planet in a whole new way. Citizen astronauts will share first-hand accounts of expectations, training, flight, and post-launch experiences. Spaceflight operators and citizen astronauts will discuss what the revolution means for the future commercial markets, astronaut training, private/space agency microgravity research, and expanding launch sites around the globe.
MODERATOR
Kari Byron
Producer and Television Personality, Mythbusters; Host, Crash Test World; Co-Founder, EXPLR Media
1530 – 1630 hrs
SPEC-10: Profiles in Space Innovation: Commercial Companies Taking Bold Steps Toward the Off-World Future
The future of space is already being shaped by well-known innovative companies on this planet. Hear from some of the top companies in the world about their efforts to push the boundaries of innovation with investments. What drew them into their space initiatives? What are they working to achieve? How could these efforts accelerate the space enterprise and deliver benefits to customers on Earth? How can other innovators and entrepreneurs take advantage of this new era of expanded access to space?
PANELIST
Clive N. Svendsen
Executive Director, Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai
1700 – 1830 hrs
Special Programming + Reception – Thompson Lecture and Founders Panel
The David W. Thompson Lecture in Space Commerce (45 Minutes)
The annual lecture recognizes a prominent industry leader or senior management team who has created or grown a space-related business and generated substantial economic benefits and market value. The award, sponsored and endowed by Orbital ATK Inc., commemorates the long and distinguished career of commercial space pioneer, David W. Thompson.
Birth of the Remote Sensing Industry
Founders Panel (45 Minutes)
Join Rob Meyerson, ASCEND Executive Producer, for our 3rd annual Founders Panel, an exploration of company origins, featuring the Thompson Lectureship award winner and several others.
1830 – 2000 hrs
Opening Reception
0800 – 0900 hrs
LIVE IN LAS VEGAS + ONLINE
MACRO-2: Arrival: Persevering into the Future
With over 100 operating and future missions, the NASA Science Mission Directorate relies on innovation with commercial and international partners, government agencies, and open science to foster a science community with voices and ideas from diverse and inclusive teams. Dr. Thaller, NASA colleagues, and partners join in a conversation about “Arrivals.” From Perseverance and Ingenuity to OSIRIS-REx and Lucy, we collectively bridge challenges and successes in technology, research, exploration, and discovery to achieve excellence through collaboration and teamwork. Together, we are inspired to think big, equip ourselves for the challenges, build the right team, and persevere.
0915 – 1015 hrs
META-10: Orbital Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing (OSAM): Future Customer: Technology Push-Pull
Imagine we are 7-10 years in the future, and the following conditions are present:
- OSAM 1, 2, and RSGS (Robotic Servicing of Geosynchronous Satellites) have successfully flown, along with other planned mission extension vehicle/mission robotic vehicle extension missions on the books
- Humans are utilizing Gateway and back on the moon’s surface
- Cislunar is an active destination
- Commercial LEO destination is well on its way to realization
- Most vehicles are now designed to be serviceable and cooperative servicing (open standards) have been adopted by the community
Given these conditions, where does the market go from here, and what are the next challenges? Customer push or pull? Technology push or pull?
PANELIST
Debi Tomek
Senior Advisor, On-orbit Servicing, Assembly and Manufacturing, Space Technology Mission Directorate, NASA
0915 – 1015 hrs
META-11: Sustainable Agriculture from Space
The dual challenges of a growing population and climate change has accelerated the need for advanced technologies that help us farm in a more sustainable way. More than ever, we need to find ways to use our resources, avoid overwatering, maximize production, and monitor our threatened species more efficiently. Explore how technologies like remote sensing, time and locations services, IoT, and satellite broadband can improve life on Earth, and also support the growth and development of our off-world future.
PANELIST
Catherine Nakalembe
Associate Research Professor, University of Maryland; Africa Program Director, NASA Harvest
0915 – 1015 hrs
META-12: Proliferated LEO: Managing Multiple Mega-Constellations
With multiple mega-constellations planned for LEO, not only from industry, but also DoD and other countries such as China, we are rapidly reaching the point where some decisions need to be made about rules of the road, best practices, and general management. The session will address the impacts of multiple mega-constellations and factors that should be considered as the community identifies solutions.
MODERATOR
Julie Van Kleeck
A&D Strategy Consultant; and former Vice President, Space and Launch, Aerojet Rocketdyne
PANELIST
Lark Howorth
Interagency Operations Liaison, Flight Operations Directorate, NASA Johnson Space Center
1030 – 1130 hrs
META-13: Artemis for Mars: Designing Lunar Systems for the Red Planet
Architects, mission planners, and scientists who are focused on the relatively near-term Artemis missions must build Mars concepts and systems into lunar operations. Approaches range from evolvable systems to analogous operations, to direct translations. This panel will dive into the connections that tie the moon to Mars – reducing risk, increasing affordability, and preparing for a robust lunar return – for a long-term moon-to-Mars campaign.
MODERATOR
Greg Chavers
Acting Deputy Associate Administrator, Systems Engineering and Integration, Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate, NASA
PANELIST
Tiffany Morgan
Deputy Director, Mars Exploration Program (MEP), Science Mission Directorate, NASA
PANELIST
Julie Robinson
Science & Utilization Lead, Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate, NASA
1030 – 1130 hrs
META-14: Sustainable Lunar Architecture Infrastructure Implications Roundtable
As we refocus the space community with “Space as a Service” and “OSAM as Infrastructure” and contemplate “Forward to the Moon and on to Mars,” ASCEND is a timely opportunity to gather and discuss the intersection of regular, sustainable lunar access with the infrastructure and suppliers that will support these emerging architectures. After a brief overview of a variety of sustainable human lander and lunar access missions to set the stage for a sustainable lunar presence, the community will break into small groups to discuss the implications for the infrastructure necessary to evolve to the future state by the end of the decade. Key insights from each table will be gathered and shared with the participants.
PANELIST
Rick Mastracchio
Director, Strategy and Business Development, Human Exploration and Operations, Northrop Grumman
1030 – 1130 hrs
META-15: Tribal Colleges and Universities Working with MILO Space Science Institute
MILO Space Science Institute will share their vision of providing affordable access to great space science by leveraging, learning, and growing space science and technology capabilities with new perspectives from tribal colleges and universities. This session will feature case studies and experiences with Salish Kootenai College and Navajo Technical University.
PANELIST
Scott Smas
Member Engagement, MILO Space Science Institute / Program Manager, Arizona State University
1145 – 1245 hrs
Lunch Plenary: Investing in the Space Economy
Join Phil Ingle and a senior industry executive for a fireside chat about the space investment ecosystem. Ingle will highlight the key lessons from the ASCENDxSummit: Attracting Investors to your Space, which was held on 28 September. Key open questions will be addressed, as well as recommendations made to accelerate the growth of the space economy.
Lunch Plenary: von Kármán Lecture in Astronautics
The von Kármán Lecture in Astronautics Award recognizes an individual who has performed notably and distinguished themself technically in the field of astronautics.
Multi-Domain Convergence of Space and Near-Space
SPEAKER
David M. Van Wie
Head, Air and Missile Defense, Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory
1415 – 1500 hrs
SPEC-30: New Business Model for LEO Destinations
Sponsored by Blue Origin
The panel will examine how governments will be able to procure turnkey services aboard commercially-owned and operated low Earth orbit (LEO) destinations before the end of the decade. Commercial crew and cargo models have enabled governments to buy “space as a service” from commercial providers, upending traditional government contracting models, speeding innovation and the delivery essential capabilities. The group highlights the need for a predictable investment environment and procurement processes that will foster new markets and ensure the commercial viability of LEO destinations.
1415 – 1515 hrs
On-Orbit Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing (OSAM): A Catalyst for Space Infrastructure (Roundtable)
In this roundtable discussion participants will share their thoughts on space infrastructure, On-orbit Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing (OSAM), and how space infrastructure can change the paradigm for space operations in the future. This discussion will allow a better understanding of the perspectives, needs, and future uses of space infrastructure.
CO-MODERATOR
Debi Tomek
Senior Advisor, On-orbit Servicing, Assembly and Manufacturing, Space Technology Mission Directorate, NASA
1830 – 1930 hrs
Dinner Plenary: William H. Pickering Lecture
The William H. Pickering Lecture is named for the former NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory Director, to honor his initiation and leadership of America’s unmanned scientific space program, from Explorer I in 1958 through the development of the Viking orbiters and the Voyager outer planet and interstellar missions. The lecture is open to all attendees and the general public.
The Mars 2020 Perseverance rover mission landed on Mars on 18 February 2021 in Jezero crater. It was built to seek signs of ancient life and collect samples of rock and regolith for possible future return to Earth. Jezero crater is home to an ancient river delta and lakebed and has been identified as one of the best locations to search for signs of ancient microbial life if it ever formed on Mars. Perseverance carries a sample caching system that is the most complex robotic system ever delivered to another planet. It also carries six science instruments that are used to investigate regions and then select and acquire the best set of rocks for sample collection. In addition, there are technology demonstrations with challenging and key firsts. The MOXIE technology demo begins to pave the way for human exploration of Mars as a demonstration of extracting oxygen from the CO2 atmosphere. Another technology demonstration, the Ingenuity helicopter, was carried by Perseverance to perform the first ever flight on another planet.
In April 2021, Ingenuity took off from the surface of Mars as the first heavier-than-air, the first controlled, and the first powered aircraft to operate outside Earth’s atmosphere. Originally intended to execute up to five test flights within a small, pre-selected area, Ingenuity has since evolved into a unique mobility system capable of covering hundreds of meters of unexplored terrain in a single flight. Mars is an inhospitable environment for a helicopter, owing to factors such as extremely low atmospheric density, freezing temperatures, and lack of navigation aids, and the team had to overcome many obstacles to build a 1.8 kg vehicle capable of surviving and operating on Mars.
Jennifer Trosper will give an overview of the Mars 2020 Perseverance rover mission from development through operations and also include some initial scientific findings to date. Håvard Grip will discuss how Ingenuity graduated from a short-lived flight experiment into a fully operationalized reconnaissance platform.
SPEAKER
Håvard Fjær Grip
Chief Pilot and Flight Control Lead, Ingenuity Mars Helicopter, NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory
1930 – 2030 hrs
Beer with Engineers
0800 – 0900 hrs
LIVE IN LAS VEGAS + ONLINE
MACRO-3: Managing Space
Space domain awareness, space situational awareness, or space traffic management – no matter what terminology we apply the global space community is urgently aware of the need for increased insight, management, and coordination of the multitude of objects that are being launched and inserted into orbits around our planet. It’s a good problem to have, illustrating the continuing breadth and depth of human engagement in space. But it is a problem we have to address NOW. Debates are ongoing about roles, responsibilities, technical solutions, and governance models; however, what does success look like? After we have progressed through the “storming and norming” phase of any new activity what is the steady-state vision for managing a crowded, vibrant orbital ecosystem?
MODERATOR
Lauren Smith
Operations Manager, Ground Enterprise Systems Operating Unit, Space Systems Sector, Northrop Grumman
0915 – 1015 hrs
META-16: Next-Generation Space Habitats
As LEO commercialization moves from cautious early entrants to a burgeoning global effort, we will need space structures built at scale – for government labs, academic research, industry R&D, and space tourism. This diversity of needs calls for architectural flexibility and opens new opportunities for next-generation habitat design. How will we build the coming generations of space architecture – the modules, spaceships, and space stations that will ensconce our spacefaring species? Can we move beyond the 20th-century paradigm of cylindrical tubes in orbit to other structures that can protect, but also inspire, humanity for our future in the near and far reaches of space? This panel will discuss cutting-edge technology and systems ideas from the fields of space architecture, space structures design, extreme-environments construction, and iconic Earth-based architecture studios to chart a path toward humanity's centuries-old ambition of living in space habitats amongst the stars.
This panel builds on an inaugural 2020 ASCEND META session on “Space Structures at Scale” and is paired with an outcomes-focused workshop that will produce a detailed white paper and establish a special ASCEND working group in concert with the AIAA Space Architecture Technical Committee. We are modeling this after the Ensuring Economically Viable Lunar Settlements ASCENDxCo-Lab proceedings report developed in summer 2020.
0915 – 1015 hrs
META-17: Space for All: Challenges & Opportunities in Human Spaceflight
The definition of who is deemed healthy enough to go to space is changing. Between ESA's call for Parastronauts in the 2021–2022 selection campaign, the Inspiration4 campaign, and the rise of the commercial suborbital space sector, access to space is becoming increasingly democratized. Representatives from each of these sectors will talk about the opportunities and challenges that come with democratizing access to space.
PANELIST
Dorit Donoviel
Executive Director, Translational Research Institute for Space Health (TRISH)
PANELIST
Loretta Hall
Author, “Higher, Faster, Longer: My Life in Aviation” and “My Quest for Spaceflight” (Wally Funk's Memoir)
0915 – 1015 hrs
META-18: Space Domain Awareness – A Warfighters’ Perspective
In October 2019, Air Force Space Command directed the use of the term "space domain awareness" to reflect what was previously doctrinally known as "space situational awareness" to better reflect space as a distinct domain – and a warfighting domain, no less. Just as we have domain awareness to safely maneuver and protect our ships and aircraft, our forces need space domain awareness (SDA) to safely maneuver satellites. SDA also allows us to detect threats from adversaries in space so that we can protect and defend ourselves. SDA must be both predictive and current. The Unified Data Library (UDL), first developed in 2019, now consumes, processes, and distributes millions of unique SDA data products daily originating from dozens of commercial, academic, and government organizations worldwide to a diverse user base spanning 25 countries and over 3,500 individual users. How will the increase in proliferation of objects in multiple orbits – particularly low Earth orbit – impact SDA capabilities? How can the United States, in coordination with our allies and partners, characterize adversary behavior to call out dangerous or malign activity in space and influence adversary behavior?
PANELIST
Maj Gen Leah Lauderback
Director of Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance, Headquarters, U.S. Space Force
1030 – 1130 hrs
META-19: Joint All Domain Command and Control (JADC2) & Space Mission Integration
As the Department of Defense (DoD) is in the process of modernizing its approach to commanding military forces, Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) is DoD's concept to connect sensors from all the military services – Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, Navy, and Space Force – into a single network. Space is at the heart of JADC2. The Space Force is already pursuing some of the critical capabilities needed to implement the interconnectivity the military will need in future fights with adversaries such as Russia and China. For example, the Unified Data Library (UDL) of space domain awareness data is being integrated into the Space Force’s operational capabilities using cloud-based, commercial data standards. As we now face near-peer competitors like China and Russia, is the United States postured to respond in space at speed? In other words, are the needs of space operators being included?
PANELIST
Brig. Gen. John Olson
Mobilization Assistant to the Chief of Space Operations (CSO/MA), U.S. Space Force
1030 – 1130 hrs
META-20: Challenges and Opportunities for Spacecraft Autonomy
Hear an exciting discussion among autonomy experts on the unique challenges and opportunities of space-based autonomy. While there are billions of dollars being spent on terrestrial applications, are these relevant and transferable to the challenges of autonomy in the space domain?
MODERATOR
John Day
Manager, Engineering Development Office, and Lead, JPL Center for Autonomy, NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory
PANELIST
Michel Ingham
Chief Technologist, Systems Engineering Division, NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory; and Deputy Director, Information Systems Group, AIAA
1030 – 1130 hrs
META-21: Space Traffic Management from the Diverse Dozen
Influential thinkers and emerging leaders from around the globe will be featured in a series of rapid-fire lightning talks that highlighted the most important issues surrounding safety, security, and sustainability in the context of space traffic.
MODERATOR
Moriba Jah
Associate Professor, Aerospace Engineering and Engineering Mechanics, University of Texas at Austin
PANELIST
Giuliana Rotola
Implementation Support Office, Global Expert Group on Sustainable Lunar Activities (GEGSLA)
PANELIST
Cassandra Steer
Senior Lecturer, Australian National University College of Law; and Mission Specialist, Australian National University Institute for Space
1145 – 1245 hrs
Lunch Plenary: Leveraging Our Allies in National Security Space
The United States has long held a strategic “high-ground” military advantage over potential adversaries due to our advanced space capabilities. However, that time of superiority has passed. Our near-peer competitors, China and Russia, have not only reached parity with the United States, but are surging past us in some key space capability areas. Moreover, both have developed and are deploying increasingly advanced counterspace capabilities designed to degrade or destroy U.S. space assets. We can no longer take our advantages in space for granted, and must set a path to sustain or regain superiority in critical mission areas. Achieving this goal will not be simple nor quick, but with intellectual rigor and a continuous commitment, it is possible.
PANELIST
Air Commodore Nicholas Hogan
Director General Space Domain Review, Australian Defence Force
1530 – 1630 hrs
Scaling Space Architecture and Habitation: Next-Generation Models for Growth in Orbit
As LEO and cislunar commercialization moves from cautious early entrants to a burgeoning global effort, we will need space structures built at scale – for government labs, academic research, industry R&D, space tourism, and eventually steady-state in-space habitation. Join this workshop to continue the discussion from the ASCEND META-16 session “Next-Generation Space Habitats” on how the space industry can scale human habitation in orbit through next-generation space architecture designs, systems, and structures. This outcomes-focused workshop will produce a white paper reflective of the group discussion for formal publication and to be used in briefings to inform national space priorities.
1630 – 1700 hrs
Closing Ceremony
SPEAKER
Kari Byron
Producer and Television Personality, Mythbusters, White Rabbit Project; Host, Crash Test World
ASCEND 2021 East Coast Satellite Event
All times are Eastern Standard Time
Monday, 15 November 2021
Ronald Reagan Building – Rotunda Room
Washington, DC
DC Action: Health and Safety
Agenda
*Content subject to change
1030 hrs | Program Starts
MACRO-1 – Livestreamed from Las Vegas
Welcome
Kari Byron, Producer and Television Personality, Mythbusters; Host, Crash Test World; Co-Founder, EXPLR Media
Robert Lightfoot, Vice President, Operations, Lockheed Martin Space
Rob Meyerson, Executive Producer, ASCEND; and former President, Blue Origin
Building Worlds That Do Not Yet Exist
Have you ever wondered if we, as the greater collective, are thinking big enough for space? Discover the futures that don’t yet exist, how incredible creators and visionaries bring their ideas into reality, and the value that such efforts can bring to drive progress. Because if we can’t dream it, we can’t get there. Let’s explore together how to imagine untapped opportunities and turn those dreams into tangible images of the future as a catalyst for accelerating growth and delivering greater value for the space enterprise!
Moderator: Kari Byron, Producer and Television Personality, Mythbusters; Host, Crash Test World; Co-Founder, EXPLR Media
Kara Cunzeman, Lead Futurist, Strategic Foresight, The Aerospace Corporation
Ariel Ekblaw, MIT Space Exploration Initiative, MIT Media Lab
Rob Meyerson, Executive Producer, ASCEND; and former President, Blue Origin
Visionaries from NASA: The Future of Deep Space Science and Exploration
NASA’s head of science, Thomas Zurbuchen (aka Dr. Z), and Ken Bowersox from deep space human exploration, take the stage to share the convergence of science, engineering, and commerce in the pursuit of new knowledge about our existence in the solar system. Zurbuchen and Bowersox will shine a spotlight on the interdependencies of the portfolios they manage, with a look ahead to the future of human-robotic exploration at the Moon and Mars.
Kenneth Bowersox, Deputy Associate Administrator, Human Exploration and Operations, NASA
Thomas Zurbuchen, Director, Associate Administrator for the Science Mission Directorate, NASA
Insights from Inspiration4
Just two months after the Inspiration4 Crew launched from historic launchpad 39A, Mission Commander Jared "Rook" Isaacman, Mission Pilot Dr. Sian "Leo" Proctor, and Mission Specialist Chris "Hanks" Sembroski share their experiences as the first all-civilian space crew.
Moderator: Kari Byron, Producer and Television Personality, Mythbusters; Host, Crash Test World; Co-Founder, EXPLR Media
Jared Isaacman, Commander of the SpaceX Inspiration4 Mission
Sian Proctor, Geoscientist and Mission Pilot for Inspiration4
Chris Sembroski, Reliability Engineer, Rotary and Mission Systems, Lockheed Martin; and Mission Specialist, Inspiration4
1200 hrs | Lunch Served
1215 hrs
META-4 – Livestreamed from Las Vegas (Lunch Offered) – Public–Private Partnerships: When One Shoe Doesn’t Fit All
Public–Private Partnerships (PPP) have been in use in the United States almost since the nation was founded and in aviation and space for decades – driving industry forward, introducing innovation, and reducing costs. At the same time, they are not a panacea and sometimes fail, leaving the government to step in to clean up the mess. NASA’s recent efforts to utilize PPPs for human spaceflight systems are modeled on success with the Commercial Crew and Cargo Program that benefitted from an existing launch market with well-established customer demand. Is this the appropriate model for PPPs under conditions of uncertain demand, in LEO or deep space? Are PPPs still a meaningful construct in those circumstances, or are the rules, incentives, and risk management approach governing the relationship more important? This session will go beyond the “PPP soundbite” to explore different models across various types of markets and incentives.
Moderator: Mary Lynne Dittmar, Executive Vice President, Axiom Space
Dan Dumbacher, Executive Director, AIAA
Henry Hertzfeld, Research Professor of Space Policy and International Affairs, Elliott School of International Affairs, George Washington University
Katherine Monson, Chief Commercial Officer, Hedron
Brig. Gen. John Olson, Mobilization Assistant to the Chief of Space Operations (CSO/MA), U.S. Space Force
1315 hrs | Networking Break
1350 hrs
Opening Remarks – Live in DC
Rep. Don Beyer (D-VA), Chairman, House Space and Aeronautics Subcommittee
1400 hrs
Policy for Growing Commercial Space Opportunities (Live in DC)
This session will sharpen our focus on how policy can be used to accelerate, enhance, and shape commercial space opportunities while balancing the array of technical, financial, legal, and programmatic factors. Topics for the dynamic discussion include:
- When is it appropriate for government to use commercial services?
- What are the benefits and risks of firm-fixed-price procurements and Other Transactional Authorities?
- How can government and industry work together to accelerate “hard tech” development for space?
- How can regulations encourage the growth of purely private space ventures while still protecting public safety and other national interests?
Moderator: Tim Dominick, Chair, AIAA Public Policy
Dean Bellamy, Executive Vice President for National Security Business Development, Redwire Space
Tom Hammond, Senior Policy Advisor, House Space and Aeronautics Subcommittee (Minority Staff)
Megan Mitchell, Vice President of Government Relations, Blue Origin
Ezinne Uzo-Okoro, Assistant Director for Space Policy, White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP)
1500 hrs | Post-Event Networking
1530 hrs | Program Ends
1600 hrs | Happy Hour with AIAA National Capital Section – Off-Site (Optional)
Harry’s Restaurant and Bar (436 11th St NW, Washington, DC 20004)
