Von Braun symposium to showcase space exploration’s future as NASA, industry leaders gather in Huntsville

The annual von Braun Space Exploration Symposium, organized by the American Astronautical Society in collaboration with NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, will take place from Monday, Oct. 28 to Wednesday, Oct. 30, at the University of Alabama in Huntsville. The event will bring together key figures from government, industry, policy, and academia to discuss the latest advancements in space exploration and outline the path forward for the industry.

This year’s theme, “Expanding Exploration: From Vision to Reality,” will highlight the transformative future of space exploration. The symposium will address topics ranging from NASA’s strategic initiatives to Marshall’s latest projects, alongside discussions about cutting-edge technology, the evolving workforce, and other critical aspects of the space ecosystem.

The media are invited to attend both in person and virtually, though registration is required via the American Astronautical Society’s media representative guidelines.

The symposium will kick off on Oct. 28 with opening remarks by Marshall Center Director Joseph Pelfrey, setting the stage for a day filled with insightful panels. Topics include NASA’s Artemis program, the role of artificial intelligence in space exploration, and workforce development challenges. NASA Deputy Associate Administrator Casey Swails will deliver a keynote address to conclude the first day.

Oct. 29 will feature discussions on space nuclear propulsion, advancements in space science, and logistics for upcoming lunar missions. Attendees will also hear from Col. Eric Zarybnisky, director of the Office of Space Launch at the National Reconnaissance Office, who will deliver the luncheon keynote.

The final day, Oct. 30, will focus on topics crucial to the future of space exploration, including nuclear propulsion and human exploration beyond low-Earth orbit. NASA Associate Administrator Jim Free and Wayne Hale, former NASA deputy associate administrator of strategic partnerships, will lead a closing discussion and award presentation.

The von Braun Symposium provides a unique platform for leaders across the space community to collaborate and explore new ideas as they work together to turn the vision of space exploration into reality.

For those interested in interviews with NASA Marshall speakers, please get in touch with Hannah Maginot at 256-932-1937 or Molly Porter at 256-424-5158. For more information on NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, visit NASA Marshall.