The National Space Society invites you to the next Space Forum

Thursday, October 17, 2024, 9:00 pm to 10:15 pm EDT

Scaling New Heights: Delivering Power to Space Elevator Climbers

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with
LARRY BARTOSZEK
Vice President, International Space Elevator Consortium (ISEC)
Owner, Bartoszek Engineering
NSS Space Ambassador

Join the National Space Society for an exciting Space Forum where we’ll explore one of the most revolutionary concepts in space travel: the space elevator.

While rockets must carry all of their fuel to break free from Earth’s gravity, climbers on the space elevator’s tether have a distinct advantage—they don’t need to carry their own power source. This breakthrough enables climbers to bypass the limitations of the rocket equation, which forces rockets to burn extra fuel just to lift their fuel. Unlike rockets, which deliver only a small percentage of their mass as payload, space elevator climbers can transport at least 50% of their total mass as payload—reaching altitudes of up to 100,000 kilometers.

A big question: How do we deliver the power that climbers need?

This engaging forum with ISEC VP Larry Bartoszek will delve into both old and new approaches to powering climbers, examining challenges and seeking innovative solutions. We’ll explore caveats, identify areas where more research is needed, and welcome your ideas to help bring the space elevator closer to reality.

Don’t miss this chance to learn or to lend your expertise and be part of the future of space travel! Register for the space forum using the link below.

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Larry Bartoszek holds dual degrees in mechanical engineering and physics from the University of Illinois and is a licensed professional engineer in Illinois. He is a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, the American Welding Society, ASM International, the Chicago Society for Space Studies, and the National Space Society. He currently serves as Vice President of the International Space Elevator Consortium and is also an NSS Space Ambassador.

Larry is the owner of Bartoszek Engineering, a consulting firm specializing in mechanical design for the nuclear and high-energy physics research communities worldwide. His firm has worked with national laboratories, universities, and governments on projects across the globe, ranging from tabletop devices to large machines weighing up to 120 tons. You can find more details about his projects on his website at bartoszekeng.com or view a chronological history of his work there.

Larry began working on the space elevator as a hobby in 2004, focusing on conceptual designs for climbers, as outlined in The Space Elevator by Edwards and Westling. He has presented his work at multiple space elevator conferences, including in Washington, D.C. (2004), Seattle (2013), and the ISEC Annual Conferences in Chicago (2023 and 2024). His original climber designs have been featured in two ISEC annual study reports. In April 2021, Larry became a Director on the ISEC Board and was elected Vice President of ISEC in July 2024.

Register today to reserve your seat and ask your questions. Use the link below.

Register for this Space Forum

Register no later than October 17 at 8 pm EST

Past NSS Space Forums and Town Halls may be viewed here.

Thursday, September 19, 2024, 9:00 pm to 10:15 pm EST

Accelerating Space Education:
University of Chicago Interns Power NSS Initiatives

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With

Join us for the next Town Hall, where we’ll spotlight the achievements of our 2024 University of Chicago Jeff Metcalf Internship Program participants. For the past three years, NSS has proudly partnered with the Metcalf Program, a premier national model for university internships that provides paid, substantive opportunities to over 4,500 students annually across various industries. This year, NSS welcomed a group of talented interns, who focused on groundbreaking space education initiatives.

During the 2-Week Metcalf Summer Clinic, thirteen interns collaborated on three distinct projects:

1. spUN Debate Strategy and Marketing Plan – This project analyzed the low U.S. participation in the spUN Debate Program, providing actionable strategies to increase involvement. The team crafted a marketing plan to promote this educational space debate program globally.
2. International Space Elevator Consortium (ISEC) – Five students developed a 15-minute digital presentation illustrating a visionary Interplanetary Transportation Network. This network utilizes tethered-lift space elevators and orbital “cycler” spacecraft to facilitate the transportation of massive cargo and personnel between Earth, Mars, and the Moon. The system aims to create a permanent logistics infrastructure, eliminating the need for separate “one-off” missions.
3. NSS Lunar Mapping and Literature Review – This research project focused on finding and documenting archival resources associated with three important photographic lunar atlases. Guided by an intern who worked long-term on the project, the team produced a publishable bibliography and found new relevant resources.

The Metcalf Clinic gave students firsthand experience in space marketing, a niche yet rapidly growing sector, equipping them with valuable skills for their future careers. And they made valuable contributions to the NSS education program, which will benefit students and educators as we work to inspire the next generation to space careers.

Register today to reserve your seat and ask your questions. Use the link below.

Register for this Town Hall

Register no later than September 19 at 8 pm EST

Past NSS Space Forums and Town Halls may be viewed here.

Thursday, September 12, 2024, 9:00 pm to 10:15 pm EDT

Behind the Headlines: A Journey Through Space Reporting with John Zarrella

Former CNN Space Correspondent

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We’re excited to invite you to the next National Space Society Space Forum, where we will be joined by legendary former CNN space correspondent John Zarrella. With more than 32 years of experience at CNN, John became the face of space journalism, reporting on some of the most pivotal moments in space history. Now, he’s ready to share his incredible journey with you.

In this engaging conversation, John will reflect on his career at CNN, where he covered everything from the Challenger disaster to John Glenn’s return to space, and the final flights of the Space Shuttle Program. You’ll hear first-hand stories from the front lines, as John recounts the challenges and triumphs of reporting on the most significant events in space exploration.

John will also share his thoughts on the current state of America’s space program, offering his unique perspective on how it has evolved over the years and where it’s headed next. As someone deeply connected to the space community, John’s insights are sure to be both informative and inspiring. You will also learn about his ongoing work and passion for space, and what it means to him to be a part of this vibrant and ever-expanding space community.

This is your chance to hear from one of the most respected voices in space journalism. Don’t miss this exciting and informative space forum. Register for the space forum using the link below.

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John Zarrella founded JZMedia after a 32-year career at CNN, where he served as the network’s space correspondent. A graduate of St. Thomas University with a Bachelor’s in English, he helped establish the college’s journalism program before starting his television news career as a producer. He held executive producer roles at WJTV-TV in Miami and WBAL-TV in Baltimore, followed by four years at WXIA-TV in Atlanta.

John joined CNN in 1981 as the executive producer at its world headquarters in Atlanta, overseeing the quality and content of newscasts. In 1983, when CNN established its Miami Bureau, John became a correspondent covering Florida, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. His tenacity and enthusiasm quickly made him a household name, as he reported from the front lines on bombings, hijackings, and natural disasters.

As CNN’s space correspondent, John covered pivotal events such as the Challenger disaster, John Glenn’s return to space, various national security and science missions, and the final flights of the space shuttle program. His deep passion for the space industry and his comprehensive knowledge of its intricacies have been evident throughout his career.

John has earned numerous accolades, including an Edward R. Murrow Award, two Emmys, and an Outstanding Achievement Award at the 2002 National Hurricane Conference. In March 2024, he received the National Space Club and Foundation “Press Award” for his exceptional coverage of America’s space program. Today, John remains actively engaged with the space community, hosting significant events at the Kennedy Space Center, including Astronaut Hall of Fame inductions and Apollo and Space Shuttle anniversaries.

Register today to reserve your seat and ask your questions. Use the link below.

Register for this Space Forum

Register no later than September 12 at 8 pm EST

Past NSS Space Forums and Town Halls may be viewed here.

Thursday, August 29, 2024, 9:00 pm to 10:15 pm EDT

The New World on Mars:
What We Can Create on the Red Planet

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With:

Dr. Robert Zubrin
President, The Mars Society
Astronautical Engineer and Author
Founder, Pioneer Astronautics

Join us at the next National Space Society (NSS) Space Forum for an exclusive opportunity to dive into a bold, new vision for humanity on Mars. Hear from Dr. Robert Zubrin, one of the most influential voices in space settlement, as he presents insights from his new book, The New World on Mars: What We Can Create on the Red Planet. Dr. Zubrin, who revolutionized our thinking about Mars with his classic The Case for Mars, is back with a detailed and actionable plan for establishing a sustainable human presence on the Red Planet.

In this forum, Dr. Zubrin will lay out the technological breakthroughs, economic strategies, and political commitments required to turn the dream of Mars settlement into reality. Dr. Zubrin provides a compelling case for why Mars should be humanity’s next great adventure. From the first steps of reaching Mars to harnessing its resources and building thriving cities, he will explore the full scope of what it takes to create a new world. You’ll also learn about the incredible scientific discoveries and cultural innovations that could emerge from a Mars settlement—ushering in a new era of human civilization.

Dr. Zubrin, in making the case, will draw on his deep expertise and passion for space exploration as he offers this positive view for the long-term survival of humanity; suggesting a new frontier that could inspire innovation, drive economic growth, and safeguard the human race from potential global catastrophes.

Don’t miss this exciting and informative space forum that offers an inspiring and thought-provoking vision of expanding our human boundaries and settling Mars. Register for the space forum using the links in this message.

As a special bonus, the NSS has secured four copies of The New World on Mars. These books will be signed by Dr. Zubrin and will be given away as virtual door prizes.

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Dr. Robert Zubrin is the President of the Mars Society and a veteran astronautical engineer. In 1996 he founded Pioneer Astronautics, an aerospace R&D company he led for twenty-seven years, successfully executing more than seventy programs for NASA, the USAF, and the Department of Energy until selling the firm in 2023.

Prior to founding Pioneer Astronautics, Dr. Zubrin worked as a senior engineer at Martin Marietta and Lockheed Martin, as well as in areas of nuclear power plant safety, radiation protection, and thermonuclear fusion research. He holds a master’s degree in Aeronautics and a PhD in Nuclear Engineering from the University of Washington.

Dr. Zubrin is a Fellow of the British Interplanetary Society, a former Chair of the Executive Committee of the National Space Society and holds twenty patents. He is the author of more than two hundred published technical and non-technical papers in the field of space development and settlement, and twelve books, including the Case for Mars: The Plan to Settle the Red Planet and Why We Must, now in its 25^th anniversary edition; and the recently published The New World on Mars: What We Can Create on the Red Planet. He lives with is wife Hope, a retired science teacher, in Golden, Colorado.

Register today to reserve your seat and ask your questions. Use the link below.

Register for this Space Forum

Register no later than August 29 at 8 pm EST

Past NSS Space Forums and Town Halls may be viewed here.

Thursday, Augusts 15, 2024, 9:00 pm to 10:15 pm EDT

Bringing Columbia Home:
The Untold Story of a Lost Space Shuttle and Her Crew

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With:

Join the next NSS Space Forum to hear the inspiring story of the extraordinary efforts to recover the remains of the Space Shuttle Columbia and her crew after the tragic accident on February 1, 2003. In their book, Bringing Columbia Home: The Untold Story of a Lost Space Shuttle and Her Crew, co-authors Michael Leinbach and Jonathan Ward chronicle the tragic loss of the Space Shuttle Columbia during its STS-107 mission and the massive recovery effort that ensued, involving thousands of people from NASA, the FBI, local law enforcement, and volunteers.

The Space Shuttle Columbia disintegrated upon reentry into the Earth’s atmosphere, killing all seven astronauts on board. The disaster was caused by damage to the shuttle’s left wing leading edge, which occurred during launch when a piece of foam insulation from the external tank struck the wing, creating a breach that allowed hot gases to penetrate and weaken the internal structure, causing the shuttle to break apart.

During the space forum, Mike and Jonathan will describe the details of the search that covered more than 2,000 square miles across Texas and Louisiana, where debris was scattered. They will share personal stories from those involved in the recovery, highlighting their dedication, resilience, and the strong sense of community and teamwork. As with most tragedies that involve the interplay between human activities and technology, Mike and Jonathan will also reflect on the lessons learned from the Columbia disaster, both in terms of technical and organizational changes at NASA that led to improvements in shuttle and spaceflight safety.

Don’t miss this important space forum that looks back on a  national space tragedy while providing an inspirational message of honoring both the crew of STS-107 and the story of those who “Brought Columbia Home.” Register for the space forum today using the links in  this message.

As a special bonus, NSS has secured four copies of “Bringing Columbia Home.” These books will be signed by co-authors Mike Leinbach and Jonathan Ward and will be given away as virtual door prizes.

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Mike Leinbach was the final Shuttle Launch Director at NASA’s John F. Kennedy Space Center (KSC), Florida. He was responsible for overall shuttle launch countdown policy, planning, and execution activities in the last eleven years of the program. Mike’s NASA career began in 1984 when he joined the agency as a structural engineer. He quickly rose through the ranks, initially leading design efforts for critical launch pad systems. By 1988, he became a NASA Test Director, overseeing daily operations at the Kennedy Space Center’s Launch Complex.

In 1991 Mike was named Shuttle Test Director, conducting the terminal countdown and launch of seventeen shuttle missions. In August 2000 he became the Launch Director and led the Launch Team for all Shuttle missions from then to the end of the program in 2011, serving as the person to give the final “Go!” for launch.

In 2003, following the tragic breakup of Space Shuttle Columbia, Mike led the initial debris recovery efforts in Texas and Louisiana. He spearheaded the Columbia Reconstruction Team, which meticulously analyzed the collected debris to determine the cause of the accident. His innovative suggestion to loan the debris to academic institutions has contributed to the development of safer spacecraft. Following his retirement from NASA in November 2011, Mike transitioned to overseeing human space operations for United Launch Alliance ((ULA), where he helped to integrate ULA ‘s Atlas V rocket with Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft as part of NASA’s Commercial Crew program.

Mike collaborated with author Jonathan Ward on the project “Bringing Columbia Home,” which chronicles the recovery efforts and legacy of the Columbia disaster. This project underscores his commitment to honoring the memory of the Columbia crew and advancing the field of space exploration. His many service awards include the Presidential Rank Award, NASA’s Exceptional Service Medal, and NASA’s Medal for Outstanding Leadership.

Jonathan Ward is the author of four space history books, a cruise ship astronomer and enrichment speaker, and an avid astrophotographer. Jonathan’s most recent book, “Through the Glass Ceiling to the Stars,” was written in collaboration with astronaut Eileen Collins, the first American woman to pilot and command space missions. Jonathan and Eileen have given book signings and presentations about Collins’ life and spaceflight missions at regional and national conferences across the US. A feature-length documentary “Spacewoman,” based on the book and produced by Haviland Digital, is scheduled for release in 2025.

Jonathan is a Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society and a NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador. Jonathan spends about half the year at sea as a space exploration lecturer and astronomer on ocean cruises. In the past two years he has been featured on Viking, Cunard, Atlas, Silversea, Celebrity, and Oceania voyages.

While he would not call himself a “thrill-seeker,” Jonathan does like to travel, explore, re-invent himself, and push himself out of his comfort zone to broaden his personal knowledge in his areas of interest. This has led to such diverse experiences as taking a zero-G flight, skydiving, and singing on two GRAMMY-winning albums with the National Symphony at “the Other Kennedy Center” (for the Performing Arts). He resides in Greensboro, North Carolina.

Register today to reserve your seat and ask your questions. Use the link below.

Register for this Space Forum

Register no later than August 15 at 8 pm EST

Past NSS Space Forums and Town Halls may be viewed here.

Thursday, July 18, 2024, 9:00 pm to 10:15 pm EST

NSS Senior Leadership Open House

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With

You are cordially invited to a special National Space Society Town Hall Open House featuring our senior leadership. Join us for an enlightening conversation with Karlton Johnson, NSS Chief Executive Officer and BoG Chairman, Isaac Arthur, NSS President, and Dale Skran, NSS Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer.

This is a unique opportunity to engage directly with NSS’s top leaders and gain insights into our recent accomplishments, current challenges, and exciting future programs and plans. Discover the key issues facing space advocacy organizations and the strategies we are employing to advance our mission of space exploration, development and settlement.

Expect an exciting, fun, and informative discussion with these accomplished and dynamic individuals who have dedicated their expertise and passion to make humanity a spacefaring civilization. You will also have the chance to ask your own questions and share your thoughts during this interactive session.

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with NSS leadership and fellow space enthusiasts. We look forward to your participation! Register for the Town Hall today.

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Karlton Johnson (Col, USAF-Retired) is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Space Society and Chairman of the Society’s Board of Governors (BoG). As the senior executive overseeing a variety of business operations and objectives, he shapes major strategic decisions regarding the NSS’s direction, leads our c-suite cadre, and steers the organization towards successful outcomes. In the latter capacity, he serves as the primary spokesperson for the Board of Governors, provides overall leadership to enhance board effectiveness and performance, and fosters board cooperation in support of the Society’s goals.

Karlton is a senior executive leader with over 36 years of subject matter experience in strategic leadership, partnership creation, mission assurance, and the development of emerging space markets. He brings extensive corporate board experience and has advised internationally to drive large-scale program initiatives from requirements to full implementation.

His distinguished career in the Air Force included senior leadership roles where he oversaw strategic operations and communications technologies essential to national security. In the private sector, Karlton is influential towards enabling the growth of space market expansion opportunities for Fortune 500 firms.  Additionally, he successfully engages with Congressional leaders to garner support for various space-related legislative initiatives and advocates for commercial and civil space programs, space traffic management, planetary defense, and space economic development advancements.

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Isaac Arthur is the creator of the wildly successful Science & Futurism with Isaac Arthur, an award-winning weekly science education and entertainment show with more than 780,000 subscribers and over 700 episodes on YouTube. The show covers a wide range of futuristic concepts including space technology, development, and exploration, and focuses on how humanity or other hypothetical advanced civilizations may behave logistically, technologically, and socially, both in the near and distant future, under the understood laws of science.

Past episodes have examined communities in space, planetary terraforming, interstellar exploration, space megastructure engineering, cybernetics, transhumanism, artificial intelligence, the Fermi Paradox, the possible existence of alien civilizations, post-scarcity economies, and much more. Isaac is also a regular guest on a variety of news and entertainment shows ranging from online productions to national radio shows, and he consults on science fiction books and video games. Isaac attended Kent State University majoring in physics and graduating top of his class at age 20 and served in the United States Army during the Iraq war. When not working on his show, Isaac serves as the chair of the Ashtabula, Ohio Board of Elections under the Ohio Secretary of State. Isaac was elected NSS President in April 2023. He serves as the public face of NSS, promoting its mission and providing strategic guidance for the organization.

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Dale Skran worked 17 years with Bell Labs (AT&T, Lucent Technologies) and continued his career at several companies including Ascend Communications (VP of Enterprise Engineering), Sonus Networks (Director of Engineering), and CMWare (Founder, CEO, COO, and VP of Engineering). He was also a negotiator/manager at the UN (International Telecommunication Union) where he led the development of international Internet standards for video conferencing and voice services (VoIP).

Dale has written dozens of NSS blog posts and has written many articles in Ad Astra magazine as well as other space related mediums such as The Space Review and Space News. Dale currently holds the following NSS leadership positions: Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Co-Chair of the Bylaws Committee, Co-Chair of the Strategic Planning Committee, and At-large Board Member. Additionally, he is a member of the Diversity Committee, the Club for the Future team, and the Space Settlement Advocacy Committee. In the past he has served as NSS Executive Vice President, Chair of the Policy Committee, and CEO.

Register today to reserve your seat and ask your questions. Use the link below.

Register for this Town Hall

Register no later than July 18 at 8 pm EST

Past NSS Space Forums and Town Halls may be viewed here.

Thursday, July 11, 2024, 9:00 pm to 10:15 pm EDT

Cybersecurity in Space: Now and in the Future

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with
Bryce Meyer
Software Engineering/Cybersecurity Professional
NSS Space Ambassador

In today’s world, increasing reliance on space-based technologies makes the protection of space assets and personnel more critical than ever. Space systems, including satellites, space stations, and crewed spacecraft, face significant cybersecurity challenges. These risks can compromise networking, imagery, mission effectiveness, and the safety of both people and property in space.

As we embrace new technologies like artificial intelligence and witness the growing presence of factories, power systems, and humans in space, the stakes are higher than ever. The economic and national security impact of potential cybersecurity breaches is profound.

Join us for an insightful NSS Space Forum featuring NSS Space Ambassador Bryce Meyer, a recognized expert in software engineering and cybersecurity. Bryce will delve into the current and future risks, best practices, and cutting-edge tools for space cybersecurity. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights into safeguarding our space future. Whether you’re a space enthusiast, professional, or just curious about the topic, this space forum is for you! Use the link to register today and ask your questions.

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Bryce L. Meyer has a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering, an M.S. in Computer Science/Software Engineering, and a M.S. in Biology. In addition to being an NSS Space Ambassador for Space Agriculture, Editor in Chief of the NSS Space Settlement Journal, and a past NSS Board Member, he also has a day job in Software Engineering/Cybersecurity working with complex space and aerospace systems, and a night job teaching and researching Cybersecurity and AI with Franciscan University of Steubenville. Bryce has several cybersecurity and software engineering publications, and is an Associate Fellow with AIAA, and Senior Member of IEEE.

Register today to reserve your seat and ask your questions. Use the link below.

Register for this Space Forum

Register no later than July 11 at 8 pm EST

Past NSS Space Forums and Town Halls may be viewed here.

Thursday, June 20, 2024, 9:00 pm to 10:15 pm EDT

Wally Funk: Higher, Faster, Longer

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with
Loretta Hall
Author and Researcher
NSS Space Ambassador

Join the next NSS Space Forum for an inspiring presentation by NSS Space Ambassador Loretta Hall as she delves into the remarkable life of Wally Funk, a trailblazer in aviation and space exploration. In 1961, thirteen highly skilled female pilots, later known as the Mercury 13, passed the same rigorous physical exams as the Mercury astronauts. Despite their qualifications, they were not given the opportunity to join NASA’s human spaceflight program. Among these pioneering women was the youngest member, Wally Funk, who refused to accept this denial of her dreams.

For the next six decades, Wally Funk demonstrated extraordinary perseverance and determination, continuously preparing herself and seeking chances to reach space. Along the way, she shattered numerous barriers in aviation, becoming an symbol of creative perseverance and unyielding positivity.

Loretta Hall will narrate the compelling story of Wally Funk’s ongoing pursuit of her spacefaring dreams, her achievements in aviation, and her ultimate triumph with her flight on Blue Origin’s New Shepard launch vehicle on July 20, 2021. This presentation promises to be an engaging and motivational session, celebrating the spirit of a woman who epitomizes the essence of reaching “higher, faster, longer.” Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about a true icon in aerospace history and be inspired by her journey of persistence and success. Register for the space forum today.

As a special bonus, the NSS has secured three copies of “Higher, Faster, Longer,” Wally Funk’s autobiography (see NSS review). These books will be signed by co-author Loretta Hall and will be given away as virtual door prizes.

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Loretta Hall is the author of six nonfiction books about human involvement in space travel. She collaborated with Wally Funk to write the memoir of the youngest member of the Mercury 13, who completed her 60-year quest for spaceflight with Blue Origin in July 2021 at the age of 82.  Loretta has been an NSS Space Ambassador since 2012 and has served on the Phase II Space Ambassadors Subcommittee since 2017.

Register today to reserve your seat and ask your questions. Use the link below.

Register for this Space Forum

Register no later than June 20 at 8 pm EST

Past NSS Space Forums and Town Halls may be viewed here.

Thursday, June 13, 2024, 9:00 pm to 10:15 pm EDT

Experiencing the Moon at the Kennedy Space Center

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with
Dr. Kirby Runyon, PhD
Planetary Geology Research Scientist
CEO, Planex.Space

The Space Coast has been the launchpad for countless astronauts and lunar spacecraft. But what happens after they embark on their journey to the Moon? Join us for an enthralling space forum with planetary geologist, exploration architect, and NSS member Dr. Kirby Runyon as he delves into the Kennedy Space Center’s pivotal role in lunar exploration. Think the Moon is just a lifeless rock in space where we’ve “been there, done that?” Think again!

Dr. Runyon will take you on a captivating journey, painting a vivid portrait of the Moon as an active planet, bustling with secrets waiting to be uncovered. Learn how innovative collaborations between people and machines are pushing the boundaries of lunar exploration. But this presentation is more than just science; it’s about the human spirit of adventure and discovery. Explore not just the technical aspects but also the emotional and experiential journey of those who dare to explore the Moon. Don’t miss this informative space forum and register today.

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Dr. Kirby Runyon is a planetary geology research scientist with the NASA-sponsored Planetary Science Institute and also the CEO of his Space Edutourism company, Planetary Experience (Planex.Space). He is also a Zero-gravity coach, having participated in almost two-dozen parabolic flights. A life-long space enthusiast, Kirby loves sharing his amazement, awe, and wonder of the Cosmos with any who will listen. Not content to simply learn about the Cosmos, he seeks to experience the cosmos through space-themed adventure tourism. He lives in Baltimore, MD.

Register today to reserve your seat and ask your questions. Use the link below.

Register for this Space Forum

Register no later than June 13 at 8 pm EST

Past NSS Space Forums and Town Halls may be viewed here.

Thursday, May 9, 2024, 9:00 pm to 10:15 pm EDT

A Launch Director’s Perspective

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with
Bob Sieck
Space Shuttle Launch Director (Ret)
NASA Kennedy Space Center

“Go for Launch.” When listening to the countdown for a rocket launch, those are the words we eagerly await as we brace for the mighty roar and blinding light of engine ignition. Spoken by the launch director, it is the final affirmation that the countdown is proceeding, and the rocket will soon depart Earth. But have you ever wondered about what goes on behind the scenes as the launch director, working with a team of skilled experts, makes that final decision?

Join us for a very special space forum to hear “The Launch Director’s Perspective” from retired Space Shuttle Launch Director Bob Sieck. During his illustrious career at NASA, Bob served as the launch director for more than 50 space shuttle missions. In his presentation, Bob will unravel the essence of what it takes to become a launch director. He will discuss the rigorous training, the years of experience, and the unwavering commitment to safety that define the role.

While the Space Coast has witnessed an increase in the number of overall rocket launches in the past few years, still rare are the launches that carry precious human cargo. As Bob will illustrate, launching rockets destined to carry human lives amplifies the stakes to an entirely new level, requiring additional measures to ensure the safety and well-being of astronauts embarking on the ultimate journey.

Drawing from his own experiences, Bob will vividly describe the intricate dance between technology, teamwork, and tenacity that underpins every human spaceflight mission. He will share anecdotes of tense countdowns, last-minute adjustments, and the collective exhilaration that accompanies each successful liftoff. Yet, woven into his narrative is a sobering reminder of the inherent risks of space exploration.

We all hold admiration for the men and women who dedicate their lives to the pursuit of space exploration. Bob’s presentation will leave us with a positive view of the spirit that drives this quest to explore the cosmos and the efforts of these talented and dedicated individuals who make it possible. Don’t miss this exciting space forum and register today!

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Bob Sieck graduated from the University of Virginia with an Electrical Engineering degree in 1960. He served three years in the U.S. Air Force, attaining the rank of first lieutenant. While in the Air Force, he worked as a meteorologist and was involved in the activation of the LGM-25C Titan II weapon system. After leaving the Air Force, Bob joined NASA at KSC in 1964 as a spacecraft systems engineer for the Gemini and Apollo programs. After Apollo he was transferred to the Space Shuttle program where he was Launch Director for 52 space shuttle missions before retiring in 1999 as KSC Director of Shuttle Processing. After retirement he has served on many NASA review boards and is currently a member of the NASA Advisory Council and the SpaceX Safety Panel.

He has been a board member, advisor ,trustee, and volunteer in many nonprofit organizations, including Habitat for Humanity, the Astronauts Memorial Foundation, the National Space Club, the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation, the NASA Alumni League, and the American Space Museum. Bob enjoys his children and five grandchildren who all live in his local area. Along with volunteer work, he enjoys SCUBA diving, sports cars, and ballroom dancing.

Register today to reserve your seat and ask your questions. Use the link below.

Register for this Space Forum

Register no later than May 9 at 8 pm EST

Past NSS Space Forums and Town Halls may be viewed here.