As the era of the International Space Station (ISS) nears its end, the space industry faces a pivotal transition from government-based operations to industry-enabled leadership in low Earth orbit (LEO). This session will explore NASA’s roadmap for transitioning from the ISS to a new era of commercial LEO destinations (CLDs), emphasizing how private companies will assume a central role in sustaining human activity and research in space. The conversation will address technological, operational, and policy hurdles of this shift, and provide insights into how NASA is collaborating with industry to ensure a seamless handoff. With the growth of commercial space enterprises, the session also will highlight the evolving partnership between government and industry, and the transitions necessary during the pivot from a monolith to a multifaceted commercial ecosystem.

Key players in the CLD industry will review their progress in creating space habitats and research platforms. Panelists will share updates on ongoing projects, discuss the long-term vision for LEO commercialization, and provide insights into the opportunities and challenges ahead. Learn about the opportunities for collaboration and innovation that CLDs offer, and how these initiatives are building the foundation for a thriving space economy.

As commercial destinations in LEO become a reality, the regulatory landscape is rapidly adapting to meet new challenges. This session will explore how shifting policies are affecting the commercial space industry, from safety protocols to international cooperation. Gain a deeper understanding of the regulatory changes that are shaping the growth of LEO-based businesses.

Hear an update on recent legislative actions in Texas designed to support and advance the space community. Gain insights into the evolving landscape, including the role of the Texas Space Commission and the Texas Aerospace Research and Space Economy Consortium in fostering a robust, space-forward environment through innovative state enterprise mechanisms.

Join us for an insightful update on NASA’s Moon to Mars initiative, showcasing the latest developments and milestones in this ambitious program. This session will cover mission objectives, technological advancements, and collaborative efforts across various sectors that are paving the way for sustainable human exploration of the moon and Mars, highlighting the strategic importance of these missions for future space endeavors.

Leading aerospace companies will delve into the imminent challenges and opportunities within the cislunar ecosystem. Hear insights into the evolving landscape of lunar exploration and development as industry experts discuss key obstacles such as regulatory hurdles, resource utilization, and infrastructure development. Participants will explore innovative strategies for leveraging emerging opportunities, including public-private partnerships, technological advancements, and international collaboration, to foster sustainable growth and ensure the successful establishment of a thriving cislunar economy.

Join us for a compelling discussion on NASA’s forward-looking approach to long-duration space exploration, focusing on the key considerations in designing missions before committing to specific infrastructure. This session will examine how purposeful research shapes the planning for lunar and Martian exploration, ensuring that each mission component is aligned with NASA’s long-term vision for a sustainable human presence beyond Earth. Attendees will gain insight into how NASA’s operations strategy is evolving to support these goals, creating a roadmap for a new era of exploration and international collaboration.

This session offers a comprehensive look at the evolving infrastructure needs and missions necessary to support a sustainable lunar presence, from commercial lunar payload services (CLPS) to lunar terrain vehicles (LTVs) and paving the way for future adjacent industries to find a home on the lunar surface. Explore how lunar infrastructure will lay the groundwork for an interconnected lunar economy that will sustain human exploration and drive economic growth for decades to come.

The ASCENDx team will facilitate an interactive session on day two at ASCENDx Texas 2025. This year’s interactive session will be an opportunity for the community to discuss key drivers, trends, and forces to the current climate of the space ecosystem. We will be asking the community for comments and as a large group we will discuss the most impactful trends using the PESTLE approach (Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Legal, and Environmental). We will use the IO tool to collect inputs townhall-style, asking for real time feedback for the audience.

Join us for a comprehensive look at how the Texas Space Commission and Texas Aerospace Research and Space Economy Consortium (TARSEC) will work together to advance aerospace and space economy in Texas. This session will delve into the roles each organization plays in promoting innovation, managing resources, and integrating industry and academia. Discover how strategic planning, funding opportunities, and educational partnerships are expanding Texas’ aerospace horizons.

This session will explore how companies are developing advanced frameworks and methodologies to enhance manufacturing processes, improve production efficiency, and drive technological advancements. Learn how aerospace companies are leveraging innovative strategies to stay at the forefront of the aerospace industry.

Join us for a compelling wrap-up session that explores the intersection of national space policies and industry innovation, with a special focus on Texas’ contributions. We’ll delve into how Lone Star state advancements are aligning with national goals and driving progress in LEO, CLDs, and Moon to Mars strategies. Gain valuable insights into how Texas’ aerospace innovations are shaping U.S. space strategy and what this means for future developments in space exploration and commercialization.