Space Generation Fusion Forum 2026 (SGFF 2026) is the premier next-generation space leadership event for students and young professionals, held over three days prior to Space Symposium. Scheduled for April 11-13, 2026 in Colorado Springs, CO, this conference features expert panels and lightning talks, as well as collaborative “break out” sessions focused on pressing industry trends and developments. Findings from this conference are reported at the annual United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOUS) General Assembly. 

The Space Generation Advisory Council is a volunteer-based, global non-governmental, non-profit organization and network which aims to represent university students and young space professionals ages 18-35 to the United Nations, space agencies, industry, and academia. The SGAC network of volunteers and alumni has over 27,000 members representing more than 165 countries. 

The application deadline for SGFF 2026 has been extended! To apply or to learn more, please visit the SGFF 2026 website, found HERE. Applications are now due on December 21st at 11:59pm MST.

Space Generation Fusion Forum is restricted to registered delegates and invited speakers. It is closed to media and other affiliated press.

Separate Registration or Purchase Required

Space Generation Fusion Forum 2026 (SGFF 2026) is the premier next-generation space leadership event for students and young professionals, held over three days prior to Space Symposium. Scheduled for April 11-13, 2026 in Colorado Springs, CO, this conference features expert panels and lightning talks, as well as collaborative “break out” sessions focused on pressing industry trends and developments. Findings from this conference are reported at the annual United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOUS) General Assembly. 

The Space Generation Advisory Council is a volunteer-based, global non-governmental, non-profit organization and network which aims to represent university students and young space professionals ages 18-35 to the United Nations, space agencies, industry, and academia. The SGAC network of volunteers and alumni has over 27,000 members representing more than 165 countries. 

The application deadline for SGFF 2026 has been extended! To apply or to learn more, please visit the SGFF 2026 website, found HERE. Applications are now due on December 21st at 11:59pm MST.

Space Generation Fusion Forum is restricted to registered delegates and invited speakers. It is closed to media and other affiliated press.

Separate Registration or Purchase Required

Join us for a roundtable with USG officials and congressional representatives on ensuring America’s space superiority and the Administration’s effort based on the Executive Order.

Register here: Space Leaders & Stakeholders Roundtable Registration

Separate Registration or Purchase Required

Space Generation Fusion Forum 2026 (SGFF 2026) is the premier next-generation space leadership event for students and young professionals, held over three days prior to Space Symposium. Scheduled for April 11-13, 2026 in Colorado Springs, CO, this conference features expert panels and lightning talks, as well as collaborative “break out” sessions focused on pressing industry trends and developments. Findings from this conference are reported at the annual United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOUS) General Assembly. 

The Space Generation Advisory Council is a volunteer-based, global non-governmental, non-profit organization and network which aims to represent university students and young space professionals ages 18-35 to the United Nations, space agencies, industry, and academia. The SGAC network of volunteers and alumni has over 27,000 members representing more than 165 countries. 

The application deadline for SGFF 2026 has been extended! To apply or to learn more, please visit the SGFF 2026 website, found HERE. Applications are now due on December 21st at 11:59pm MST.

Space Generation Fusion Forum is restricted to registered delegates and invited speakers. It is closed to media and other affiliated press.

Separate Registration or Purchase Required

Presented in Association with Greenberg Traurig and the International Institute of Space Law (IISL)

The Space Law and Regulation Track, developed in association with the International Institute of Space Law, will address pressing issues of space law and regulation impacting commercial space activities.  Featuring government and industry leaders addressing a range of current issues.

The track will again feature the signature General Counsel Forum and will include a reception hosted by Greenberg Traurig to provide an opportunity for attendees to network. Lunch is included for Space Law & Regulation Track registrants. 

8:15 am: Young Professionals (35 and Under) Breakfast: Pathways to Success in Space Law

• • Hear from established space lawyers about how they got to their positions, and suggestions for advancing in the field.
  • Separate Registration or Purchase Required: https://spacefoundation.swoogo.com/youngprofbreakfast
  • Introduction: Dr. Michael Mineiro, Shareholder, Greenberg Traurig
  • Moderator: Laura Cummings Ross, Associate, Greenberg Traurig
  • Speakers:
    • Catherine Kuersten, Head of Government Affairs & Public Policy, Northwood Space
    • Elisabeth Pinsonneault, Senior Legal Counsel, Sierra Space
    • Justin Silver, Senior Legal Counsel, IonQ  

9:30 am: Welcome Remarks

• • Dr. Milton “Skip” Smith, Chair, Space & Satellite Industry Group, Greenberg Traurig 
  • Prof. Dr. Lesley Jane Smith, President, International Institute of Space Law (IISL)

9:40 am: Department of Commerce

• • Hon. Taylor Jordan, Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Environmental Observation and Prediction & Director, Office of Space Commerce

10:00 am: Regulatory Update and Importance to Space Companies

• • Moderator: Dr. Michael Mineiro, Shareholder, Greenberg Traurig 
  • Sabrina Jawed, Deputy Assistant Chief Counsel, Regulations Division, Federal Aviation Administration 
  • Jay Schwarz, Chief, Space Bureau, Federal Communications Commission 
  • Glenn Tallia, Chief Legal Counsel, Weather, Satellites, and Research, National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration

10:55 am: Break

11:10 am: From Greenland to Space Superiority

• • Hon. Peter Beshar, Former General Counsel, U.S. Department of the Air Force; Space Foundation Board Member

11:30 am: Fireside Chat: Acquisition Reform

• • Alice Eldridge, Senior Vice President, General Counsel & Secretary, BAE Systems, Inc.
  • John M. Tenaglia, Principal Director, Defense Pricing, Contracting, and Acquisition Policy, U.S. Department of War 

12:00 pm: Lunch

1:00 pm: Featured Speaker: Dan Jablonsky, Chief Executive Officer, Sierra Space

1:20 pm: Cutting Edge Issues

• • Moderator: Tom McCartin, General Counsel, True Anomaly 
  • EU Draft Space Law: Prof. Lesley Jane Smith, President, International Institute of Space Law (IISL)
  • Life Sciences in Space: Dr. Nicole Wagner, Chief Executive Officer, Lambda Vision
  • Spaceports: Dr. George Nield, President, Commercial Space Technologies, LLC 
  • Space-Based Solar Power: Nathan O’Konek, Chief Operating Officer, Star Catcher

2:20 pm: NASA and USAF/USSF Legal Issues

• • Iris Lan, General Counsel, NASA 
  • Hon. William Lane, General Counsel, U.S. Department of the Air Force 

2:45 pm: Break

3:00 pm: National Security & Commercial Space

• • Moderator: Dennis Burnett, General Counsel, HawkEye 360 
  • Kelly P. Garehime, Chief Legal & Ethics Officer, Sierra Space
  • Col. James Gutzman, Staff Judge Advocate, U.S. Space Command 
  • Janna Lewis, Senior Vice President of Policy & General Counsel, Astroscale U.S. 

3:50 pm: What GCs are Thinking About

• • Moderator: Anna Jones, Senior Vice President, Chief Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary, Intuitive Machines
  • Aaron Futch, Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary, Redwire Space
  • Arjun Kampani, Senior Vice President, General Counsel & Corporate Secretary, Rocket Lab
  • Shirley Paley, Chief Legal Officer, Muon Space

5:00 pm: Reception hosted by Greenberg Traurig & HawkEye 360

Separate Registration or Purchase Required

Presented in Association with the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory 

The Space Science & Exploration track allows for in-depth discussions of a range of space science and research matters. Government and industry speakers will address the NASA science roadmap, Earth and climate science, advanced rockets, exploration initiatives, space weather, and more. Lunch is included for Space Science & Exploration Track registrants.

Luncheon Co-Sponsor: Protolabs

10:00 am: Welcome

• • Dipak Srinivasan, Formulation & Strategic Engagements Manager, JHUAPL

10:10 am: NASA Science and Exploration in the Artemis Era

• • Amit Kshatriya, Associate Administrator, NASA 

10:55 am: Measuring Biosignatures on Exoplanets

• • Moderator: Heidi Hammel, Vice President for Science, AURA
  • Giada Arney, Planetary Scientist & Astrobiologist, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center 
  • Mark Clampin, Acting Deputy Associate Administrator, Science Mission Directorate, NASA 
  • Martin Frederick, Corporate Director, Civil Space Programs, Northrop Grumman Corporation 
  • Erin May, Exoplanet Astronomer, JHUAPL
  • Alison Nordt, Director, Space Sciences & Instrumentation, Lockheed Martin Space

11:50 am: Lunch

12:50 pm: Welcome Back

• • Helene Huby, Board of Directors, Space Foundation

1:00 pm: Bio-Labs Beyond Earth and the Future of Human Health

• • Moderator: Mark Shelhamer, Professor of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine Faculty
  • Lisa Carnell, Director, Biological & Physical Sciences Division, NASA
  • Frank De Winne, LEO Exploration Group Leader & ISS Programme Manager, European Space Agency (ESA)
  • Dava Newman, Apollo Program Professor of Astronautics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
  • William O’Hara, Vice President of Engineering, Aurelia Institute

1:45 pm: Building Better for Artemis: Infusing Engineering with Science

• • Moderator: Alicia Carey, Formulation Manager, JHUAPL
  • Brett Denevi, Lead, Artemis III Geology Team, JHUAPL
  • John Grunsfeld, President, Endless Frontier Associates 
  • Nujoud Merancy, Deputy Associate Administrator, Strategy and Architecture Office, NASA
  • Jean-Claude Piedboeuf, Senior Vice President, Space Programs, CSA 

2:30 pm: Break

2:50 pm: Space Science & Exploration Historical Perspective

• • Moderator: Heidi Hammel, Vice President for Science, AURA
  • Matthew Shindell, Curator, Planetary Science and Exploration, Smithsonian 

3:30 pm: Our Connection with the Sun

• • Moderator: Daniel Meidenbauer, Program Manager, Space Exploration Sector, JHUAPL
  • Daniel Baker, Director, Colorado Space Policy Center, University of Colorado
  • Stephen Fuselier, Vice President, Space Science Division, Southwest Research Institute
  • Irene Parker, Acting Assistant Administrator, NESDIS, NOAA
  • Joseph Westlake, Heliophysics Division Director, NASA

4:15 pm: Fireside Chat with the SMD & ESDMD AAs

• • Nicola Fox, Associate Administrator SMD, NASA
  • Lori Glaze, Acting Associate Administrator, Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate, NASA

Separate Registration or Purchase Required

The New Generation Space Leaders program fosters meaningful, long-term peer relationships by providing access to top space leaders through program opportunities at Space Symposium and throughout the year. Our goal is to fuel the future for young professionals and be the driving force in helping them launch their careers further.

Master of Ceremonies: Molly Prochaska, International and Embassy Relations Associate, Space Foundation

*This program is for young space professionals age 35 and younger. Must be registered for Standard Registration in order to participate in this program.

Separate Registration or Purchase Required

Master of Ceremonies: Molly Prochaska, International and Embassy Relations Associate, Space Foundation

*This program is for young space professionals age 35 and younger. Must be registered for Standard Registration in order to participate in this program.

Separate Registration or Purchase Required

This reception is open to New Generation Space Leaders Registrants and Mentors participating in the Leadership Exchange.

By Invitation Only

By Invitation Only

By Invitation Only

The Opening Ceremony celebrates the official start of the annual Space Symposium.  Space Foundation honors outstanding individuals and organizations at several Symposium events, to highlight the best of the best in the space community.  

Registrant Badge or Separate Ticket Required

By Invitation Only

Presented by Students from the Innovation Center of St. Vrain Valley Schools

Drone Show viewing outside at the lake at 9:00pm.

The Government Affairs Breakfast is a unique opportunity for attendees to enhance their networking by engaging with government, military, and industry representatives on public policy issues. Discussion focuses on topics critical to the government affairs community with a senior official as featured speaker.

• Master of Ceremonies: Meghan Allen, SVP Strategic Engagement, Space Foundation

Separate Registration or Purchase Required

Connecting Nations: the IAF’s Role in Global Space Cooperation

• Speakers
  • Gabriella Arrigo, President, International Astronautical Federation (IAF)
  • Christian Feichtinger, Executive Director, International Astronautical Federation (IAF)
  • Yusuf Kirac, Chairman of The Board and President, Turkish Space Agency (TUA)
  • Heather Pringle, Chief Executive Officer, Space Foundation

If you are interested in being invited, contact [email protected], and we will forward your request to the sponsor.

By Invitation Only

How AI is Powering Space Superiority

• Welcome Remarks
  • Yvette Cesario, Director, AWS National Security
• Moderator: Dave Wooddell, Principal Account Executive, AWS National Security
  • Guy de Carufel, CEO & Founder, Cognitive Space
  • Scott Josselyn, Senior Technical Director, Anduril Industries
  • Danny Moore, President and Owner, DeNovo Solutions

If you are interested in being invited, contact [email protected], and we will forward your request to the sponsor.

By Invitation Only

From Strategy to Implementation: How Oklahoma Transformed a Space Vision into the Next Space Industry Renaissance

• Speakers:
  • Rep. Nick Archer, Congressman, Oklahoma House of Representatives
  • Grayson Ardies, Chief Executive Officer, Oklahoma Space Industry Development Authority
  • Hon. Jim Bridenstine, Managing Partner, The Artemis Group
  • Mike Moradi, Co-Founder & General Partner, Cortado Ventures
  • Chris Pearson, Chief Executive Officer, AGILE Space Industries

If you are interested in being invited, contact [email protected], and we will forward your request to the sponsor.

By Invitation Only

Balancing National Resilience with Commercial Reality

Full-stack sovereign space capabilities are financially and operationally out of reach for most, and partnership strategies risk creating the appearance of independence while deepening reliance on a narrow set of providers. 

This session will focus on what this evolving dynamic means for commercial collaboration. We will move beyond rhetoric to confront the strategic and financial trade-offs: If total self-sufficiency is financially out of reach, what are the minimum viable points of control required for resilience? Furthermore, how do industry leaders balance the scale of investment required for next-generation space infrastructure against fragmenting market signals? 

If you are interested in being invited, contact [email protected], and we will forward your request to the sponsor.

By Invitation Only

Going direct to the dream End State vs Iterative Stepping Stones: Considerations for Building Space Infrastructure

As space activity transitions from government-led exploration to a broader commercial and industrial ecosystem, the program strategy used to develop infrastructure in orbit is becoming increasingly important. From Apollo’s ambitious end-state goal of landing humans on the Moon, to the incremental assembly and long-term operations of the International Space Station, different approaches to program architecture have shaped how capabilities are built, funded, and sustained.

Speakers

• Will Bruey, Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Varda Space Industries
• Jaret Matthews, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Astrolab
• Bridgit Mendler, Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Northwood Space
• Kris Young, Chief Operating Officer, Vast

If you are interested in being invited, contact [email protected], and we will forward your request to the sponsor.

By Invitation Only

Presented in Association with PwC

Space is moving from bold ambition to operational reality—and that shift is changing what investors, partners, and customers will fund.  Space Finance and Investment Track: Deal-to-Scale, presented in association with PwC, brings leaders together for a full day of real talk and practical working sessions on how space and space-enabled organizations earn credibility: articulating a financeable growth story, pressure-testing risk and resilience, and building the operating discipline to deliver once capital is raised or a deal is signed. 

Over the day, we’ll move from a market view of where the space economy is heading, into what it really takes to get transaction-ready, and then into the execution realities of running and scaling in a high-constraint environment—AI-enabled work, emerging tech risk (including quantum horizons), and mission-critical cybersecurity. 

Expect short talks, live Q&A with push-to-talk microphones on every table, roundtable conversations, and built-in networking breaks. You’ll leave with practical takeaways you can apply immediately—and a stronger network of peers who have the same deal, partnership, and growth challenges. 

7:30 am: Networking Breakfast

8:30 am: Welcome Remarks from Space Foundation and PwC

• • Hoyt Davidson, Board of Directors, Space Foundation
  • John May, Partner, Space Sector Leader, PwC

9:00 am: The Business of Space – Capital, Infrastructure, and Trust

• • Moderator: Foster Jondro, Partner, PwC
  • Carissa Christensen, CEO, BryceTech
  • Dr. Travis Taylor, Space Luminary, PwC
  • Mislav Tolusic, Managing Partner, Marlinspike

9:45 am: Networking Break

10:15 am: From Private Ownership to Public Markets – Navigating the Path for Space and Defense Companies

• • Moderator: Michael Bellin, Partner, US IPO Leader & US Capital Markets Integrated Solutions Leader, PwC
  • Jeff Griffiths, Deals Managing Director, PwC
  • Pem Hutchinson, Managing Director, Originations, CSC Leasing 
  • Brian O’Toole, Chief Executive Officer, BlackSky 

11:30 am: Digital Twins – De-Risking Investment and Live Operations from LEO to the Moon

• • Moderator: Antoine Grenier, Partner Space & Satellite, Analysys Mason 
  • Dr. Mark Eddings, Senior Vice President, Space Market, LMI 
  • Dr. Belinda Marchand, Chief Science Officer, Slingshot Aerospace 
  • Dr. Cody Paige, Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering, Columbia University
  • Dr. Timothy Persons, Partner, PwC

12:15 pm: Lunch

1:30 pm: Investing in the Bottlenecks – Capital Strategy for a Resilient Space Supply Chain

• • Moderator: Doug Anderson, Partner, Operations and Supply Chain Services, PwC
  • Shawn Buckley, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Redwire Space
  • Amber McIntyre, Senior Director for Civil Space, Aerospace Industries Association

2:30 pm: Networking Break

3:00 pm: The Economics of Cyber Resilience in the Space Economy

• • Moderator: Sean Joyce, Principal, Office of the Chairman and Global Cybersecurity and Privacy Leader, PwC 
  • Gen. Paul Nakasone, USA (Ret.), Former Commander of U.S. Cyber Command & Former Director, National Security Agency

4:00 pm: Closing Remarks

• • Hoyt Davidson, Board of Directors, Space Foundation
  • John May, Partner, Space Sector Leader, PwC

4:30 pm: Reception

Separate Registration or Purchase Required

Moderator: Maj. Gen. Heather Pringle, USAF (Ret.), Chief Executive Officer, Space Foundation

Moderator: Thomas Goffus, Executive Partner of Global Security, Elara Nova

Moderator: Grady Trimble, Correspondent, Fox Business Network

This luncheon brings together international leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to discuss fostering cooperation between nations, space agencies, and private companies to address global challenges, such as space exploration, satellite communication, and space sustainability. Attendees gain insights into collaborative initiatives that aim to advance innovation, enhance space security, and promote peaceful use of outer space.

• Master of Ceremonies: Prof. Pascal Ehrenfreund, Board, Space Foundation
• Speaker: Hon. Jim Bridenstine, Managing Partner, The Artemis Group
• Moderators:
  • Kathleen Karika, Senior Advisor, NASA
  • John Thompson, Senior Bureau Official, Bureau of Oceans & International Environmental & Scientific Affairs, U.S. Department of State

Separate Registration or Purchase Required

By Invitation Only

Integrating the Space Ecosystem: How the data layer secures, connects, and accelerates missions

Interoperability is the connective tissue that drives everything from logistics to C2 to modernizing systems. All space stakeholders are faced with supply chain challenges, interconnecting legacy investments with emerging innovation, and reconciling data of all formats and pedigree. As space architectures proliferate and threats compress decision timelines, the ability to move, trust and optimize available assets may determine mission success more than any single platform.

Listen as experts from civilian and defense space explore pressing challenges, such as:

• Data integration: How do common data layers overcome overlapping authorities, ownership and accountability?  
• Supply chain: As proliferated constellations continue to deploy, what are the surge demands and industrial base limits to develop, build, launch, maintain and manage them?
• Commercial integration: How are legacy systems modernizing into a current infrastructure that must move at the pace of threats…not acquisition?

• Moderator: Mathew Hungerford, Chief Technology Officer, SAIC Space and Intell Business Group
• Speakers
  • Lt. Col. James Dossett, Senior Program Manager for Battlespace Awareness, Low/Medium Earth Orbit, U.S. Space Force 
  • Col. Amber Johnson, Commander, 2^nd Sustainment Squadron, Mission Delta 2, U.S. Space Force 
  • Lt. Col. Devon Messecar, System Program Manager, U.S. Space Force

If you are interested in being invited, contact [email protected], and we will forward your request to the sponsor.

By Invitation Only

Unlocking Dynamic Space Operations: Overcoming Challenges to Achieve Space Superiority

As the space domain becomes increasingly contested, the need for Dynamic Space Operations (DSO) has never been more pressing. DSO envisions a future where satellites maneuver with agility and missions adapt in real time, making it more difficult for adversaries to track, target or disable our critical space assets. But despite the vision, significant challenges must be overcome to unlock DSO at scale. Join us for a panel discussion that brings together seasoned operators and acquisition professionals to explore the critical obstacles hindering DSO and to shape the future of space superiority.

• Moderator: Gary Testut, Vice President, Space Systems, BAE Systems, Inc.
• Speakers
  • Dr. Kelly Hammett, Director & Program Executive Officer, Space Rapid Capabilities Office
  • Col. Bryon McClain,  Program Executive Officer (PEO) for Space Combat Power, Space Systems Command (SSC)
  • Col. Ramsey Horn, Commander, Space Delta 9, U.S. Space Force

If you are interested in being invited, contact [email protected], and we will forward your request to the sponsor.

By Invitation Only

Delivering Homeland Defense at Speed

In an era of rapidly evolving threats, there is no greater mission than defending the homeland. The increasing sophistication and volume of missile threats challenge our security and demand rapid and effective solutions. Next generation homeland defense depends on seamlessly integrated, multi-layered solutions from missile warning and tracking through intercept and missile defeat. Join this panel of industry, government, and military experts for a discussion on the innovative capabilities and ready-now solutions required to rapidly defend the homeland.  

 Moderator: Dr. Rob Fleming, Corporate Vice President and President, Northrop Grumman Space Systems

Panelists:

• Gen. Maurice Barnett, Director of Plans & Policy, U.S. Space Command
• Maj Gen Jason Cothern, Deputy Director, MDA 
• Gen. Anthony Mastalir, Director, Global Space Operations, U.S. Space Command

If you are interested in being invited, contact [email protected], and we will forward your request to the sponsor.

By Invitation Only

Moderator: Dr. Soichi Noguchi, Astronaut & CEO & Founder, Miraispace Co Ltd

Moderator: Gentry Stephens, Deputy Under Secretary of the Air Force, International Affairs, Office of the Under Secretary of the Air Force, U.S. Department of the Air Force 

Moderator: Michael Gruss, Chief Content & Strategy Officer, SpaceNews

Interviewer: Dr. Christian Feichtinger, Executive Director, International Astronautical Federation 

By Invitation Only

By Invitation Only

At the Corporate Partnership Dinner, we salute all the companies that support the Space Foundation throughout the year. Their donations, in-kind contributions, and volunteer efforts are essential to the success of the Space Foundation’s programs. The financial backing and ongoing participation by corporate members in Space Foundation programs have helped us grow into the leading organization we are today.

• Master of Ceremonies: Paul Engola, Independent Director, Atlantic Union Bankshares Corporation
• Fireside Chat: 
  • Gen. Stephen Whiting, Commander, U.S. Space Command
  • Lt. Gen. (Ret.) DeAnna Burt, Former Deputy Chief of Space Operations for Operations, Cyber, and Nuclear, U.S. Space Force

Corporate membership is an investment in the future of our industry, the returns are endless. Learn more about Corporate Membership.

Separate Registration or Purchase Required

America’s next space infrastructure isn’t on a roadmap. It’s already being built.

Join Astra for a Salon Breakfast and an off-the-floor conversation with Founder, Chairman, and CEO Chris Kemp on what it actually takes to manufacture launch and propulsion systems at scale, and what the next 12 months look like for one of the industry’s most capital-efficient builders.

Chris will give his unfiltered take on tactically responsive launch, satellite engines for the modern space economy, and a first look at Astra’s 2026 launch schedule — the kind of conversation that doesn’t happen on a main stage.

If you are interested in being invited, contact [email protected], and we will forward your request to the sponsor.

By Invitation Only

The New Generation Space Leaders program fosters meaningful, long-term peer relationships by providing access to top space leaders through program opportunities at Space Symposium and throughout the year. Our goal is to fuel the future for young professionals and be the driving force in helping them launch their careers further.

Corporate Host: John Elbon, Interim CEO, United Launch Alliance

Master of Ceremonies: Molly Prochaska, International and Embassy Relations Associate, Space Foundation

*This program is for young space professionals age 35 and younger. Must be registered for Standard Registration in order to participate in this program.

Separate Registration or Purchase Required

Strengthening Missile Defense with “Left of Launch” Solutions

Securing a strategic advantage in missile defense begins “Left of Launch”—the domain where early warning, preparation, and proactive measures create opportunities for deterrence and decisive response. This panel will examine the pivotal role of pre-launch capabilities within offensive and defensive Long-Range Kill Chains (LRKCs), emphasizing the importance of rigorous system testing to expose and resolve vulnerabilities, as well as the integration of information flows across intelligence and military domains. Panelists will underscore how robust “Left of Launch” solutions strengthen resilience by enabling early threat identification and mitigation, enhancing operational readiness, and fostering cross-domain collaboration. Through these efforts, stakeholders can ensure that forces remain prepared to act with speed, precision, and effectiveness against evolving missile threats.

• Moderator: Dr. Erich Hernandez-Baquero, Vice President, Space ISR, Raytheon
• Panelists:
  • Dan Chang, Area Executive, National Security, NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory 
  • Matt Jenkins, Chief Space Systems Officer, Vantor
  • Dr. Gurpartap Sandhoo, Director, Space Development Agency

If you are interested in being invited, contact [email protected], and we will forward your request to the sponsor.

By Invitation Only

The Future of Commercial Operations – Scaling the Orbital Economy

As civil, commercial and national security priorities converge in low-Earth orbit, the next chapter of space activity will be defined by sustained operations, scalable infrastructure and economic durability.

The keynote and panel bring together Matt Kuta, president of Voyager Technologies, Matt Magaña, President of Space, Defense & National Security at Voyager Technologies; Marshall Smith, CEO of Starlab; and representatives from the U.S. Space Force and NASA to explore how government and industry are building a resilient, commercially driven orbital economy.

Discussion will focus on government-led programs and commercially enabled platforms, the role of next-generation space stations in ensuring continuity beyond ISS, and how integrated capabilities — from mission management to advanced manufacturing and national security systems — are accelerating operational scale in orbit.

Panelists will explore how continued collaboration across government and industry can help ensure seamless capability transitions while expanding economic opportunity in orbit, and what it may take to move from demonstration to durable presence.

• Keynote: Matthew Kuta, President, Voyager
• Panelists:
  • Joel Graham, Associate Administrator, Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs, NASA
  • Lt. Gen. David Miller Jr., Deputy Chief of Space Operations, Strategy, Plans, Programs & Requirements, U.S. Space Force
  • Matt Magaña, President, Defense & National Security, Voyager Technologies
  • Marshall Smith, Chief Executive Officer, Starlab
  • Eric Stallmer, Executive Vice President, Global Government Affairs, Starlab and
    Voyager Technologies

If you are interested in being invited, contact [email protected], and we will forward your request to the sponsor.

By Invitation Only

AI That Fits The Mission: What Delivers Results in Space-Based Sensing

Artificial intelligence is everywhere in space and defense conversations, yet too often the discussion stops at promises, risks, or model performance. AI creates value only when it aligns with the mission. As space-based remote sensing systems scale and operating environments grow more contested, the question is no longer whether to use AI, but how to design it to work within real constraints—bandwidth, latency, trust, and existing workflows. This discussion focuses on what works: mission-fit AI that supports analysts and operators, brings decision support closer to the sensor, and delivers actionable insights where and when it matters most.

• Why AI creates real value for defense and government users only when it is designed around how missions are executed – timelines, workflows, trust boundaries, and operational constraints
• How mission-fit AI augments analysts and operators through onboard processing, prioritization, and decision-ready outputs rather than generic analytics

• Moderator: Nick Sinai, Senior Advisor, Insight Partners
• Panelists: 
  • Dr. May Casterline, Director, Solution Architecture, NVIDIA
  • Barbara Golf, Executive Agent for Space Domain Awareness, U.S. Space Force 
  • Shayn Hawthorne, Principal Lead for Space, AWS National Security
  • Arpan Sura, Chief AI Officer, Federal Communications Commission

If you are interested in being invited, contact [email protected], and we will forward your request to the sponsor.

By Invitation Only

By Invitation Only

By Invitation Only

Moderator: Gen. (Ret.) David Thompson, Senior Principal Advisor, Elara Nova

Presented in Association with Novaspace

The Game Changers: AI & Space Track showcases cutting-edge advancements in artificial intelligence applications for space exploration and operations. Industry leaders, scientists, and innovators gather to discuss how AI is revolutionizing satellite technology, autonomous spacecraft, mission planning, data analysis, and space debris management. This track highlights collaborative efforts between space agencies and tech companies to leverage AI for deep space missions, planetary exploration, and improving Earth observation systems, offering attendees insights into the future of AI-driven space endeavors. Lunch is included for Game Changers: AI & Space Track registrants. 

9:00 am: Opening Remarks

• • Pacôme Révillon, Chief Executive Officer, Novaspace

9:05 am: Welcome Remarks

• • Carissa Christensen, Board of Directors, Space Foundation

9:10 am: Fireside Chat: Entering the Age of Space-Based Power Computing

• • Moderator: Pacome Revillon, Chief Executive Officer, NovaSpace 
  • Dr. Debra Emmons, Chief Technology Officer, The Aerospace Corporation 

9:25 am: Making Space Data Centers a Reality

• • Moderator: Carla Filotico, Partner & Managing Director, Novaspace
  • Rob deMillo, Chief Executive Officer, Sophia Space
  • Steve Eisele, Chief Executive Officer, Lonestar Data Holdings
  • Salem El Nimri, Chief Technology Officer, AWS Aerospace & Satellite 
  • Dennis Gatens, President, LEOcloud, Voyager Technologies
  • Philip Johnston, Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Starcloud

10:10 am: Break

10:30 am: Toward a New Decade of Interoperability: Earth Observation Entering the Information Domain

• • Moderator: Rainer Horn, Partner & Managing Director, Novaspace 
  • Dr. Brian Barritt, Senior Vice President & Chief Technology Officer, Aalyria
  • Makoto Kobori, Senior Manager, Business Development, Space Compass 
  • Mack Koepke, Senior Vice President of Business Development, Loft Orbital 

11:15 am: Edge Computing for Resilient Space Architectures

• • Moderator: Dara Panahy, Partner, Milbank 
  • Daniel Gizinski, President of Satellite & Space Segment, Comtech
  • Dr. -Ing Onur Deniz, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, NeuralAgent 
  • Phil Frank, Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Rendezvous Robotics
  • Karan Kunjur, Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer, K2 Space
  • David Anderson, Chief Product Officer, Ramon.Space 
  • Michał Zachara, Chief Operating Officer, KP Labs

12:05 pm: Lunch

          1:05 pm: Unlocking Lunar Cadence: From Ambitions to Missions

• • Maria Lily Shaw, Senior Consultant, Novaspace

1:15 pm: From Detection to Decision: Trusting AI Insights

• • Moderator: Maurizio Valesani, Manager, Novaspace
  • Phil Carrai, President, Space, Training & Cybersecurity Division, Kratos Defense & Security Solutions
  • Francis Doumet, Chief Executive Officer, Metaspectral
  • Richard Schgallis, Executive Vice President, Space, Safran Data Systems Inc.
  • Kate van Dam, Head of Government, SkyFi 
  • Phil Carrai, President, Space, Training & Cybersecurity Division, Kratos Defense & Security Solutions 

1:55 pm: Fireside Chat: Computing Above the Clouds: In-Space GPUs for Real-Time Monitoring

• • Moderator: Pacôme Révillon, Chief Executive Officer, Novaspace
  • Dr. May Casterline, Director, Solution Architecture, NVIDIA 
  • Dr. Kiruthika Devaraj, Vice President, Avionics & Spacecraft Technology, Planet 
  • Pacome Revillon, CEO, Novaspace 

2:15 pm: Fireside Chat: From Code to Command: AI’s Role in Defense

• • Moderator: Zack Hester, Head of U.S. Office, Novaspace
  • Devin Brande, Director, GEOINT Functional Management & Enterprise Operations, National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency

2:30 pm: Fireside Chat: From Sensor to Decision: AI in the Future of Space Warfare     

• • Moderator: Rainer Horn, Partner & Managing Director, Novaspace 
  • Col. Jon Strizzi, Director of Enterprise Integration, Space System Integration Office & Director of Analysis & Nuclear Systems, Space Systems Command 

2:45 pm: AI Driven Change: Detection for Rapid Response

• • Moderator: Zack Hester, Head of U.S. Office, Novaspace
  • Lyn Chassagne, Chief Marketing & Product Officer, BlackSky
  • Luciano Giesso, Vice President, Space Systems, Satellogic 
  • Eric Jensen, Chief Executive Officer, ICEYE US
  • Dr. Sanjay Parthasarathy, Director of Custody & Emerging Capabilities Cell, Space Development Agency (SDA)

3:30 pm: Closing Remarks 

3:35 pm: Coffee & Networking 

Separate Registration or Purchase Required

Moderators:

• Prof. Pascale Ehrenfreund, President, Committee on Space Research COSPAR 
• Clay Mowry, Chief Executive Officer, AIAA

By Invitation Only

At the Space Technology Hall of Fame® & Awards Luncheon, we honor those who transform technology originally developed for space exploration into products that improve the quality of life here on Earth.

Separate Registration or Purchase Required

If you are interested in being invited, contact [email protected], and we will forward your request to the sponsor.

By Invitation Only

California is a leader in the space industry, with unparalleled strategic assets and an unrivaled talent pool to launch the future of the sector.

• Speakers:
  • Dee Dee Myers, Senior Advisor to the Governor and Director of the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development, California Governor’s Council
  • Col. James Horne, Commander, Space Launch Delta 30 (SLD 30) & Western Launch and Test Range, U.S. Space Force
  • Karan Kunjur, Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer, K2 Space
  • Caryn Schenewerk, Chief Policy Officer, Vast
  • Dr. Tahllee Baynard, Vice President, Ignite, Lockheed Martin

If you are interested in being invited, contact [email protected], and we will forward your request to the sponsor.

By Invitation Only

Keeping the Stars Aligned in 2026 and Beyond: Investment Strategies for a Changing Space Landscape

Shifting defense priorities are accelerating both the militarization and commercialization of space, creating significant opportunities for companies aligned with national security objectives—while introducing new regulatory, geopolitical, and funding challenges. An expert panel, featuring leaders from established and emerging space companies, banking, and venture capital, will examine how these dynamics are reshaping investment strategies and the future of the space industry globally.

• Moderator: Andrew Chassin, Managing Director, Investment Banking, Bank of America
• Speakers
  • Ronald J. Epstein, Managing Director, Americas Equity Research, Bank of America
  • Dr. Shahin Farshchi, PhD, Partner, Lux Capital
  • Matthew Kuta, President and Co-Founder, Voyager Technologies
  • Eric Romo, President and Chief Operating Officer, Impulse Space
  • Max Vozoff, Chief Technology Officer, X-Bow Systems Inc. 

If you are interested in being invited, contact [email protected], and we will forward your request to the sponsor.

By Invitation Only

Commercial Space Disruptors and Their Contributions to Defense and Civil Space

• Moderator: Gen. Lester Lyles, USAF (Ret.), Chairman, NASA Advisory Council
• Speakers
  • Dr. Nicola Fox, Associate Administrator, Science Mission Directorate, NASA 
  • Jason Kim, Chief Executive Officer, Firefly
  • Maj. Gen. Stephen G. Purdy, Jr., USSF

If you are interested in being invited, contact [email protected], and we will forward your request to the sponsor.

By Invitation Only

Moderator: Dave Cavossa, President, Commercial Spaceflight Federation

Moderator: Michael Stefanelli, Partner, McKinsey & Company

Moderator: Hon. Kari Bingen, Director, Aerospace Security Project & Senior Fellow, Defense and Security Department, CSIS 

Moderator: TSgt Michael Dillard Jr., Crew Chief, U.S. Space Force

Moderator: Dipak Srinivasan, Formulation & Strategic Engagements Manager, JHUAPL 

Moderator: Col. Dean Bellamy, USAF (Ret.), Executive Vice President, National Security Space and Special Programs, Redwire

Open to all attendees with Northrop Grumman Exhibit Center access.

Enabling Space-Based Kill Chains for Homeland Defense

• Speakers:
  • David Bradley, Vice President, Space & Strategy, Leonardo DRS
  • Col. Alexander Rasmussen, Chief Capabilities Officer, Space Development Agency
  • Raymond Sharp, Vice President, Missile Defense Integration Business Unit, Northrop Grumman
  • Lt. Gen. Richard Zellmann, Deputy Commander, U.S. Space Command

If you are interested in being invited, contact [email protected], and we will forward your request to the sponsor.

By Invitation Only

Moderator: Steven Arnold, Deputy Mission Area Executive for Space Formulation, JHUAPL

Moderator: Mike Dickey, Founding Partner, Elara Nova

Moderator: Carla Filotico, Partner & Managing Director, Novaspace

Moderator: Jacqueline Feldscher, Managing Editor, Payload Space  

Moderator: Elaine Ho, Executive Director STEM Engagement, NASA 

Moderator: Randy Segal, Partner, Hogan Lovells

Moderator: Stephanie Brick, Founder, Salutogenic Design & Consulting Group

Moderator: Dr. Christopher Iannello, Professor of Practice, Space Electrical and Power Systems, University of Central Florida

The State of Planetary Defense, protecting Earth and building repeatable deep-space mission capability

• Moderator: James Orsulak, Co-Founder, ExLabs, Chairman, Planetary Defense Trust
• Speakers:
  • Dr. David Bearden, Manager, Office of Strategic Planning, NASA JPL(confirmed)
  • Hon. Jim Bridenstine, Former NASA Administrator, Managing Director, The Artemis Group
  • Dr. Edward Lu, Head, Asteroid Institute & Founder, B612 Foundation
  • Matt Schmidgall, CEO, ExLabs, Apophis EX Mission

If interested in being invited, contact [email protected], and we will forward your request to the sponsor.

By Invitation Only

Workforce Luncheon: Shockproof – Building a Workforce Amid Constant Disruption

There has been a call to action across our industry to come together for a shared purpose: to close the STEM talent gap and create a space workforce that can support the dynamic and diverse needs of space missions for generations to come.

Moderator: Heather Pringle, CEO, Space Foundation

Separate Registration or Purchase Required

Moderator: Neil Rae, UK Space Lead, KPMG 

Moderator: Rich Cooper, Vice President of Strategic Communications, Space Foundation

Moderator: John Rood, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, Momentus 

In Honor of Space Warfighters

This dinner honors the service and contributions to our national and global security by our military forces and those of our global partners. Hear remarks from a distinguished leader in the Space domain.

Separate Registration or Purchase Required