Last week, The Science Coalition (TSC) brought together academic researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders for The Science of Space, an engaging and interactive event that celebrated the critical role of federally funded university research in propelling America’s leadership in space exploration.
Distinguished guests included Jared Isaacman, the President’s nominee for NASA administrator, House Subcommittee on Space and Aeronautics Ranking Member Rep. Valerie Foushee (D-NC), and House Subcommittee on Space and Aeronautics Member Rep. Vince Fong (R-CA).
Each speaker emphasized the importance of public investments in basic science and how these outlays support America’s space innovation ecosystem. They were joined by NASA officials, university scientists, industry voices, and science communicators — including the University of Notre Dame’s Kate the Chemist, CNN space correspondent Kristin Fisher, and astronaut the University of Florida Space Institute Director Rob Ferl.
HIGHLIGHTS:
The event showcased cutting-edge space research underway at TSC member institutions across the country, including:
- American University
- Florida International University
- Northeastern University
- Old Dominion University
- Rochester Institute of Technology
- Syracuse University
- The Ohio State University
- University of Colorado Boulder
- University of Florida
- Washington State University
Faculty and student researchers demonstrated how federal support sparks innovation in aerospace engineering, rocket science, physics, astronomy, and planetary science. Their presentations highlighted advances in areas such as advanced materials for spaceflight, atmospheric science, gravitational wave observatories, next-generation space communications, and the origins of the universe.
“Our event makes one thing clear,” said Abigail Robbins, President of The Science Coalition. “When policymakers, researchers, and industry leaders come together in support of American investments in basic research, the result is a stronger, more competitive, and more inspired America.”
The Science of Space demonstrates the crucial importance of sustained federal funding for basic scientific research on college and university campuses — the foundation of our nation’s breakthrough space missions and transformative technologies.