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Classified Day at ASCEND

18 May 2026 | The Aerospace Corporation, Chantilly, VA

This TS/SCI/TK/NF-only gathering unites space investors, Pentagon and agency leaders, and major and emerging industry players to tackle the critical challenges slowing the U.S. space sector's response to national security "go-faster" directives.

THE GOAL: spark a modern industrial revolution in defense space by aligning government needs with rapid commercial solutions.

Hosted by:

Sponsors:

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Accelerate the Space Industrial Base

VAR deadline: 11 May 2026 at 5 p.m. ET

If approval from your organization is pending, start the VAR with The Aerospace Corp now to avoid delays.

Approval deadline: Must be fully processed/approved by 11 May 2026. Read all instructions carefully.

Location:
Aerospace Chantilly Campus (ACC)
14745 Lee Rd, Chantilly, VA 20151

Intelligence Community Badge Reciprocity
Visitor Access Request (VAR) Instructions:

  • IC Blue Badge holders: reciprocity honored, but VAR still required; present badge at check-in
  • All others: submit VAR/VAL per below
  • Clearances: SCI via recognized security office
  • Required level: TS/SCI/SI/TK/NF
  • Allow 5 business days for processing

Submit VAR/VAL (choose one):

Purpose and Date of Visit:
AIAA ASCEND 2026 Classified Day — May 18, 2026

POCs:

VAR status checks:
Unclassified email: [email protected] (password-protected)
Classified email: [email protected]

FEATURED PROGRAMMING:

KEYNOTES

Senior national security leaders set the strategic context for accelerating the U.S. space industrial base.

INDUSTRY PANEL

Providing a platform for industry to address three critical challenges:

  • Going Faster

  • Synchronizing Investments

  • Building innovation ecosystems

STRATEGIC INNOVATION SANDBOX

An immersive, cross-sector experience led by Aerospace’s Center for Space Policy and Strategy and Strategic Foresight teams — roundtable discussions aimed at priming America’s space industry to solve critical national security challenges.

Browse All Program Topics

2027 Sponsors & Event Partners

COMING SOON.