Major Program Themes

Space Solar Power
Can a space-based solar power system reduce the world’s dependence on fossil fuels? This program will explore the opportunities and challenges of space solar power.For detailed information about this track, see our Space Solar Power program track page.

After the Augustine Report
Is the path envisioned by the panel the best way for the United States to mount a major return to space?  What technological, economic and political hurdles must it overcome?  Are we embarking on a losing race with China, India and Japan?  As private enterprise finds more profit opportunities beyond the Earth, will government programs even matter?

Building a Moonbase
Why should we? What are the step-by-step instructions? What did we learn from “bombing the Moon”?

What Can We Do with Mars?
While there are no Martians to greet us, the Mars rovers have kept alive public interest in the planet least unlike Earth. When will humans set foot there? Is a permanent human presence practical? Will the knowledge gleaned from the Red Planet repay the cost of getting there?

What’s New in the Solar System?
While there are no Martians to greet us, the Mars rovers have kept alive public interest in the planet least unlike Earth. When will men set foot there? Is a permanent human presence practical? Will the knowledge gleaned from the Red Planet repay the cost of getting there?

The New Space Entrepreneurs
Space travel is no longer the exclusive province of NASA and other governmental entities.  New private companies are mushrooming, to take cargo and people to Earth orbit and beyond.  What are these visionaries planning next?