Purdue University to host space policy symposium

Purdue University to host space policy symposium
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Oct 23, 2024

Purdue University will bring together key figures from government, industry, and academia for its first-ever Space Policy Symposium on Oct. 30-31 at its West Lafayette campus. Organized by the Purdue Policy Research Institute (PPRI), part of Discovery Park District, the event will focus on policy development to address norms of behavior in space through workshops and discussions.

Inspired by conversations with Purdue alumni such as Brig. Gen. Kristin Panzenhagen of the U.S. Space Force and Rodney Miller of Lockheed Martin, the symposium will cover critical issues like strategic messaging in space, working with allies, and enhancing collaboration between government and industry. Notable participants will include Panzenhagen; retired Gen. David D. Thompson, former U.S. Space Force vice chief of operations; Travis Langster, deputy assistant secretary of defense for international and industry engagement; Dan Dumbacher, former CEO of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics; Mark Lewis, CEO of Purdue Applied Research Institute (PARI); and Paula Trimble, policy chief for the Space Development Agency.

"The space race and our geopolitical climate make it imperative that we establish policy to ensure the safety, security and success of U.S. programs and efforts on Earth and in space," said Stacey Connaughton, director of PPRI. "This symposium marks a significant opportunity for discussions that could help shape the future of space policy and research, leveraging Purdue's long-standing expertise in space science, engineering, and technology and reinforcing the university's commitment to innovation in the field."

Participants will use their expertise to pinpoint knowledge gaps and propose further steps in research, collaboration, and policy creation. The first day will feature keynotes and expert panels, while the second day will offer workshops and a student case competition involving Purdue, North Carolina A&T State University, and the University of Puerto Rico. The symposium is free for Purdue faculty, staff, and students, with special workshops that include congressional staffers and invited experts.

The event has been developed in partnership with leaders from military, industry, and Purdue faculty, with contributions from PARI, the Office of Industry Partnerships, and the Krach Institute for Tech Diplomacy.

Following the event, PPRI will work to produce policy papers and briefs for key stakeholders.

View the speaker list and register here