NASA is extending an invitation to media representatives to attend the 2026 von Braun Space Exploration Symposium, scheduled to take place from October 26-28 at the University of Alabama in Huntsville. This pivotal event will delve into critical aspects of humanity’s renewed focus on the Moon, including the development of sustainable lunar infrastructure, advancements in space propulsion technologies, and the shaping of the future space workforce. The symposium aims to foster dialogue among leaders from government, industry, policy, and academia, charting a course for the ongoing and future endeavors in space exploration.
Key Themes and Discussions
The 2026 symposium will feature a comprehensive agenda addressing the forefront of space exploration. Panels will cover vital topics such as the Artemis II and III missions, offering insights into NASA’s ambitious plans for lunar return. Attendees can expect discussions on rapid-fire ‘flash talks’ concerning cutting-edge space propulsion systems, the intricate process of building and maintaining utilities and infrastructure for long-term lunar operations, and strategies for ensuring resilience in the Moon base supply chain. Additionally, the event will explore the burgeoning field of space nuclear technology, the challenges and opportunities in navigating the evolving NASA workforce, and the engineering innovations that will shape the future of space travel. The symposium will also include keynote addresses from prominent figures and award presentations recognizing significant contributions to space exploration.
Featured NASA Speakers and Registration Details
Several key NASA officials are slated to participate and share their expertise. Notable speakers include:
- Casey Swails, Deputy Associate Administrator
- Stephen Cash, Director, NASA Marshall Space Flight Center
- Nicky Fox, Associate Administrator, Science Mission Directorate, NASA Headquarters
- Charlie Blackwell-Thompson, Artemis II Launch Director, NASA Kennedy Space Center
- Steve Creech, Human Landing System Program Manager, NASA Marshall Space Flight Center
- Debbie Whitis Korth, Acting Program Manager, Orion Program, NASA Johnson Space Center
Media interested in securing an interview with NASA speakers during the event should contact Lance D. Davis at lance.d.davis@nasa.gov and Joel Wallace at joel.w.wallace@nasa.gov. To register for participation, either in-person or online, media professionals must contact the American Astronomical Society. The von Braun Space Exploration Symposium is organized by the American Astronautical Society in collaboration with NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, serving as a crucial platform for advancing the dialogue and strategy for space exploration.
Source: NASA
