Guiding Coalition Champions the Interdisciplinary Spirit of ASCEND

17 May 2021 Update: 2021 ASCEND Guiding Coalition Announced

The ASCEND Guiding Coalition (GC) is perhaps the most accomplished off-world advisory board on Earth. Representing the highest levels of technical, scientific, and engineering leadership in government, industry, the military, and academia, GC members play an active role in crafting and championing the ASCEND program to maximize its global reach and impact.

“As the interconnections between space and the world economy grow deeper, it is important for everyone interested in the future to keep a wide perspective on the changes and technologies ahead,” said GC member George Whitesides, Chair of the Space Advisory Board for Virgin Galactic. “The Guiding Coalition of ASCEND helps shape the agenda of this event, making sure that we stay abreast of the latest developments and pioneering people impacting our industry.”

Thanks to the leadership and dedication of the GC, the ASCEND program attracts a multidisciplinary community of students, professionals, and serious enthusiasts — from classrooms through careers — who are actively pursuing their interests in space. This includes “endemic” aeronautic and astronautic sectors traditionally served by AIAA, and “adjacent” sectors that see space as a new place to build, work, and live.

Whether you’re already active in the ASCEND community or just beginning to explore our space, scroll down to meet the members of the 2021 Guiding Coalition, and start planning your trajectory to join them at ASCEND in November.