http://www.nationalspacesymposium.org/

24th National Space Symposium: Our Expanding Universe...50 Years of Space Exploration

Date: Monday, April 7 - Wednesday, April 9, 2008

Location: The Broadmoor Hotel - 1 Lake Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80906, USA | Google Maps

Description:

Abstract: Join us at the 24th National Space Symposium on April 7-10, 2008, in Colorado Springs at The Broadmoor Hotel. The National Space Symposium is the premier U.S. space policy and program forum, a "must attend" opportunity for information and interaction on all sectors of space -- civil, commercial, and national security.

The push for space continues in all sectors, and "Our Expanding Universe...50 Years of Space Exploration" sets the tone for the event. As we push forward, we'll also look back at the many accomplishments in space as 2007 marks the 50th anniversary of space exploration.

Since the launch of the world's first artificial satellite - Sputnik - in 1957, space exploration has opened the door to new technology, discovery, and opportunity. The 1960s showcased the launch of the first weather satellite, the first satellite-based navigation system, and moon orbits, landings, and a human visit. In the 1970s, we returned to the moon, witnessed the first space laboratories, began early exploration of Jupiter, and saw the first Mars spacecraft at work. During the next decade, we explored the sun, began the space shuttle program, and reached outside the solar system. The 1990s brought us awe-inspiring images of space from the Hubble Space Telescope. GPS also became fully operational and we embarked on a seven year journey to explore Saturn's moons. The implementation of the International Space Station kicked off the 2000s, followed by more sophisticated Mars rovers, and the introduction of private space vehicles and the space tourism industry.

More forward discussions will highlight the Orion/Ares program and how it's moving manned space exploration forward through further expeditions to the moon, Mars and other destinations; and how the shuttle program continues to bring the International Space Station closer to completion. The role of entrepreneurs will be included on how they continue to push the edge of the envelope, providing more funding for new and innovative research in the "new space" industry leading to affordable space tourism. National security issues will broach on continuing to understand the central role of space and using the opportunities it has to offer for defense purposes. The partnerships that are being forged through the civil, commercial and national security sectors to help make space financially obtainable will also be discussed as will international awareness and participation in space, as it continues to expand between various countries and organizations as each hopes to be the first in setting new standards.

Don't miss these vital discussions. We'll see you at the 24th National Space Symposium, April 7-10, 2008.