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DTSTAMP:20260114T213233Z
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UID:10004458-1769767200-1769772600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:SCORE + NASA Office Hours
DESCRIPTION:About SCORE Office Hours \nSCORE is the nation’s largest network of volunteer\, expert business mentors. Since 1964\, SCORE has helped more than 11 million entrepreneurs start\, grow\, or successfully exit a business. SCORE’s 10\,000 volunteers provide free\, expert mentoring\, resources\, and education in all 50 U.S. states and territories. \nOffice Hours with SCORE take place each Friday morning. Additional partners will be on-site the second Friday of each month (excluding holidays) \nAbout NASA Office Hours \nNASA is launching recurring Friday morning office hours to connect the innovation community with experts from across the agency. The program will begin with a focus on Technology Transfer\, offering insight into how NASA-developed technologies and intellectual property can be applied beyond space. \nOver time\, office hours will expand to showcase additional capabilities at Johnson Space Center and across NASA\, evolving based on community interest and needs. \n 
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/score-nasa-office-hours-2/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Founders & Startups,General Community,Networking,Office Hours,Start Here
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/6H1A1559-HDR-Edit-scaled.jpg?ver=1715034396
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260123T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260123T113000
DTSTAMP:20260114T213215Z
CREATED:20260114T213215Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260114T213215Z
UID:10004457-1769162400-1769167800@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:SCORE + NASA Office Hours
DESCRIPTION:About SCORE Office Hours \nSCORE is the nation’s largest network of volunteer\, expert business mentors. Since 1964\, SCORE has helped more than 11 million entrepreneurs start\, grow\, or successfully exit a business. SCORE’s 10\,000 volunteers provide free\, expert mentoring\, resources\, and education in all 50 U.S. states and territories. \nOffice Hours with SCORE take place each Friday morning. Additional partners will be on-site the second Friday of each month (excluding holidays) \nAbout NASA Office Hours \nNASA is launching recurring Friday morning office hours to connect the innovation community with experts from across the agency. The program will begin with a focus on Technology Transfer\, offering insight into how NASA-developed technologies and intellectual property can be applied beyond space. \nOver time\, office hours will expand to showcase additional capabilities at Johnson Space Center and across NASA\, evolving based on community interest and needs. \n 
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/score-nasa-office-hours/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Founders & Startups,General Community,Networking,Office Hours,Start Here
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/6H1A1559-HDR-Edit-scaled.jpg?ver=1715034396
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260122T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260122T190000
DTSTAMP:20260121T185856Z
CREATED:20251215T173700Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260121T185856Z
UID:10004378-1769104800-1769108400@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:NASA Tech Talks: Rice Space Institute and the UK Consulate
DESCRIPTION:We want HOU! Join us to discover NASA’s toughest tech challenges—and apply your skills and expertise to solve them.This month NASA Tech Talks is partnering with the Rice Space Institute and the UK Consulate in Houston to bring you a special event featuring a delegation from the UK Science and Technology Network. We’ll get to hear from a panel of UK space experts followed by a very special fireside chat featuring Dr. David Alexander\, the head of the Rice Space Institute\, and Meganne Christian\, ESA reserve astronaut and senior exploration manager. Along the way\, we’ll learn about the exciting opportunities upcoming for UK-US space collaboration and ongoing projects at Rice\, the European Space Agency (ESA)\, the UK Space Agency (UKSA)\, and in Houston more broadly.Please join us after the talk for drinks and networking at Second Draught! \n  \nAbout the Speakers \nMeganne Louise Christian is a member of the 2022 European Space Agency Astronaut Group and Reserve Astronaut and Exploration Commercialization Lead at the UK Space Agency. In January 2025\, she began the first of three\, two-month Astronaut Reserve Training (ART) programs at ESA’s European Astronaut Center (EAC) in Cologne\, Germany.  Meganne completed her Doctorate at the University of New South Wales in industrial chemistry\, studying the design\, synthesis\, and advanced characterization of nanomaterials for hydrogen storage applications. She was previously a materials scientist at the National Research Council (CNR) in Bologna\, Italy\, and atmospheric physicist at Concordia Station in Antarctica. As scientist in charge of atmospheric physics and meteorology at the French-Italian research base\, she was responsible for various observatories\, including radiation\, meteorology\, stratospheric lidars\, chemical and physical atmospheric aerosols and infrared radiation for Antarctic clouds. \nDr. David Alexander is a professor of astrophysics at Rice University and a Rice faculty scholar at the Baker Institute. Alexander also serves as the Director of the Rice Space Institute. Alexander was awarded an OBE by her majesty Queen Elizabeth in June 2018 for services to the space industry\, received a Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers in 2004 and was appointed a Kavli Frontiers Fellow by the National Academy of Sciences in 2006. He is former Chair of the Solar Physics Division of the American Astronomical Society and has served on many professional committees including the NASA Advisory Council’s Heliophysics Subcommittee\, and the NASA Solar Heliospheric Management and Operations Working Group.  He has been named a GlobalScot by the Scottish government and was an elected member of the Board of Directors of the American Astronautical Society from 2018-2022. He served as Chair of the inaugural Aerospace and Aviation Industry Committee of the Greater Houston Partnership\, has been on the Board of Directors of the Houston Spaceport Development Corporation since 2021 and was recently appointed to the Texas Aerospace Research and Space Economy Consortium Executive Committee.  Alexander received his Bachelor of Science in Natural Philosophy and Astronomy\, and his astrophysics doctorate from the University of Glasgow. \nMontgomery B. Goforth   has more than 40 years of experience as both Engineer and Manager in a variety of highly technical space and defense-related efforts.  After working for a small defense contractor specializing in anti-submarine warfare\, he joined NASA’s Johnson Space Center in 1990.  He has held leadership positions in multiple JSC Directorates and Program Offices. In his previous role as Assistant Director of the JSC Engineering Directorate\, he established a framework to better focus Engineering’s efforts towards Human Spaceflight technology and systems development consistent with JSC and Agency goals for exploration. Mr. Goforth is now serving as Acting Director of the Business Development & Technology Integration Office at JSC\, and as the JSC Chief Technologist.  In these capacities he will be helping to expand the Houston Aerospace Community through the identification of opportunities to develop space/terrestrial technologies of interest to JSC and Human Space Exploration.  Mr. Goforth was born in East Texas\, raised in Southern California and Arizona\, and graduated from Rice University (BSME 1982\, MSME 1987). \n  \nAbout NASA Tech Talks \nIn these presentations\, occurring the fourth Thursdays of the month\, Mr. Montgomery Goforth and other aerospace subject matter experts will discuss the technology development challenges faced by NASA’s Johnson Space Center and the surrounding Aerospace community in our ongoing efforts as the hub of human spaceflight. Presentations will focus on the ways in which these challenges\, and the associated opportunities\, can be leveraged by Houston’s innovation community. We will continue to identify potential space/terrestrial technologies of interest to Human Spaceflight.  Past NASA Tech Talks have included topics such as: \n\nFrom Space to Startup: Leveraging NASA Technology and Innovation to Propel Your Growing Enterprise\nDisruptive Filter Technology for Spacecraft Water Treatment:  The New Promise of Graphene\nLunar dust capture using novel multiplexed inertial filter\nLunar Passive Fuel Cell Technologies:\nMicrobes in Space\n\n  \nAbout the Rice Space Institute (RSI) \nRSI was formed in 2000 as part of the merger between the former Physics and Space Physics and Astronomy departments.  In 2011\, the Wiess School of Natural Sciences began a program to strengthen Rice’s involvement in space-related research and to pursue a more formal partnership with the NASA Johnson Space Center under the auspices of RSI. \nRSI has taken a central role in fostering programs which have given rise to Rice’s international reputation in all areas of space research. As a world leader in space\, earth and astronomical sciences\, advanced technology and engineering\, public policy and business\, Rice University invests in efforts to further the development of new ideas and innovation in the broad area that is space exploration and utilization. \nRSI is a dynamic leader in bringing the community together to promote space research\, education\, policy and advocacy.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/nasa-tech-talks-15/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Aerospace,Founders & Startups,General Community
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/DSC_0352-scaled.jpg?ver=1765820213
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251023T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251023T190000
DTSTAMP:20251016T163708Z
CREATED:20241212T215012Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251016T163708Z
UID:10002623-1761242400-1761246000@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:NASA Tech Talks
DESCRIPTION:Due to the lapse in federal funding for Fiscal Year 2026 and the associated partial government shutdown\, our October NASA Tech Talk has been canceled.  We look forward to restarting the series in next year\, with our first NASA Tech Talk of 2026 tentatively scheduled for Thursday\, January 22nd. \n\nWe want HOU! Join us to discover NASA’s toughest tech challenges–and apply your skills and expertise to solve them.In these presentations\, occurring the fourth Thursdays of the month\, Mr. Montgomery Goforth and other aerospace subject matter experts will discuss the technology development challenges faced by NASA’s Johnson Space Center and the surrounding Aerospace community in our ongoing efforts as the hub of human spaceflight. Presentations will focus on the ways in which these challenges\, and the associated opportunities\, can be leveraged by Houston’s innovation community.Join us after the talk for drinks and networking at Second Draught!Past NASA Tech Talks have included: Montgomery B. Goforth discussing NASA Intellectual Property suitable for commercialization by small/start-up companies; Jared Daum discussing Orion’s parachutes and risk identification and mitigation that are showstoppers for the spaceflight parachute industry; Kevin Kobylka discussing current Guidance\, Navigation\, and Control (GNC) capabilities and needs; and Nick Skytland\, Chief Technologist at the Johnson Space Center (JSC) and Director of the Business Development and Technology Integration Office. Future NASA Tech Talks will include: dual-use (space/terrestrial) technologies in the areas of: \n\nAvionics / Communication / Sensors\nRadio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for ultra-long lived wireless sensors\nPower Storage and Distribution\nAutonomous & Robotics Systems\nExtra-Vehicular Activity (EVA) Systems\nVirtual/Augmented Reality in Human Spaceflight Training & Execution\nHuman Health & Performance / Human Systems Research\n\nAbout the Speakers \nMontgomery B. Goforth has more than 40 years of experience as both Engineer and Manager in a variety of highly technical space and defense-related efforts.  After working for a small defense contractor specializing in anti-submarine warfare\, he joined NASA’s Johnson Space Center in 1990.  He has held leadership positions in multiple JSC Directorates and Program Offices. In his current role as Assistant Director of the JSC Engineering Directorate\, he has established a framework to better focus Engineering’s efforts towards Human Spaceflight technology and systems development consistent with JSC and Agency goals for exploration. He has used this framework to guide Engineering’s internal investments and external partnerships supporting Lunar and Mars Exploration. Mr. Goforth was born in East Texas\, raised in Southern California and Arizona\, and graduated from Rice University (BSME 1982\, MSME 1987). \nNASA Tech Talks topics include dual-use (space/terrestrial) technologies and focus areas in:\n\n\n\nAvionics / Communication / Sensors\nRadio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for ultra-long-lived wireless sensors\nPower Storage and Distribution\nAutonomous & Robotics Systems\nExtra-Vehicular Activity (EVA) Systems\nVirtual/Augmented Reality in Human Spaceflight Training & Execution\nHuman Health & Performance / Human Systems Research\nNASA Intellectual Property suitable for commercialization by small/start-up companies\nOrion’s parachutes and risk identification and mitigation strategies\nLeveraging Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for ultra-long-lived wireless sensors
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/nasa-tech-talks-14/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Aerospace,Founders & Startups,General Community
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/20240822_182607.jpg?ver=1727905970
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251014T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251014T100000
DTSTAMP:20251008T231212Z
CREATED:20250821T152234Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251008T231212Z
UID:10004025-1760430600-1760436000@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:NASA Stories at the Ion: Dina Contella\, Deputy Manager\, NASA’s International Space Station Program
DESCRIPTION:The community is invited to “NASA Stories at the Ion”—a dynamic morning series capturing the personal side of space exploration. \n\nOn Tuesday\, October 14\, the series welcomes Dina Contella\, Deputy Manager of NASA’s International Space Station Program. As a leader at the forefront of human spaceflight\, Contella offers insights from her career overseeing International Space Station operations\, shaping Artemis missions\, and guiding real-time decisions in Mission Control. \nEach session brings the lived experiences of astronauts and NASA’s top talent to center stage\, with stories of inspiring missions\, unexpected challenges\, and teamwork in orbit. Past speakers include Astronaut Tracy C. Dyson and NASA Flight Director Anthony Vareha. This event promises another powerful\, can’t-miss conversation. \n\n \n\n 
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/nasa-stories-at-the-ion/
LOCATION:Ion – Forum Stairs\, 4201 Main St.\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Aerospace,Founders & Startups,General Community,Keynote,Networking
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/251014_Website-Linkedin-1.jpg?ver=1758907886
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250925T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250925T190000
DTSTAMP:20250916T182458Z
CREATED:20241212T214929Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250916T182458Z
UID:10002622-1758823200-1758826800@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:NASA Tech Talks: Ceramic Ion Transport Membranes
DESCRIPTION:We want HOU! Join us to discover NASA’s toughest tech challenges—and apply your skills and expertise to solve them. \nJoin us this month for John Graf’s “Ceramic Ion Transport Membranes – A new method for oxygen generation” \nFor the past 50 years\, there have been three commercially available methods for oxygen generation: \n\nCryogenic air separation plants provide industrial scale oxygen to steel mills and petrochemical plants.  This technology is cost effective at large scale\, but cryogenic air separation is not practical for small scale portable oxygen.\nPressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) systems have been commercially available since the 1980’s.  PSA systems are effective for small scale compact portable systems\, but they require regular maintenance.\nWater electrolysis oxygen generators have converted oxygen into oxygen in confined spaces like submarines and spacecraft for more than 70 years.  Water electrolysis systems can store oxygen in the form of water\, which is dense and safe and stable.  Use of water electrolysis systems is limited to confined space applications\, because the energy cost of splitting water is relatively high.\n\nNASA has been leading efforts to develop a new kind of oxygen generation technology.  Ceramic Ion Transport Membranes can extract oxygen from air using a mechanism that is solid state.  Small scale\, portable Ion Transport Membrane systems can be effectively built\, the oxygen generator shown in the figure below is smaller than 0.5 m3\, it has operated continuously for 366 days with no maintenance and no changes in system performance.  Ceramic Ion Transport Membrane systems produce oxygen with purity >99.9% \nNASA is developing the technology to enable the recharge of spacesuit oxygen tanks with high purity\, high pressure oxygen\, but this new technology has the potential to address other oxygen generation applications including: medical oxygen in remote locations\, ultrapure oxygen\, oxygen for laser cutting\, and oxygen for semiconductor manufacture.  Recent developments in membrane manufacturing have matured the technology and enabled commercialization.  American Oxygen\, the company manufacturing ceramic ion transport membrane systems for NASA plans to sell commercial systems in 2026. \nPlease join us after the talk for drinks and networking at Second Draught! \n  \nAbout the Speakers \nJohn Graf\, P.E.\, Ph.D. serves a Technology Development Lead for Life Support at NASA’s Johnson Space Center.  John will describe NASA’s work developing an entirely new kind of oxygen generation with the potential to increase system life\, reduce cost\, and improve reliability. \nMontgomery B. Goforth has more than 40 years of experience as both Engineer and Manager in a variety of highly technical space and defense-related efforts.  After working for a small defense contractor specializing in anti-submarine warfare\, he joined NASA’s Johnson Space Center in 1990.  He has held leadership positions in multiple JSC Directorates and Program Offices. In his current role as Assistant Director of the JSC Engineering Directorate\, he has established a framework to better focus Engineering’s efforts towards Human Spaceflight technology and systems development consistent with JSC and Agency goals for exploration. He has used this framework to guide Engineering’s internal investments and external partnerships supporting Lunar and Mars Exploration. Mr. Goforth was born in East Texas\, raised in Southern California and Arizona\, and graduated from Rice University (BSME 1982\, MSME 1987). \nAbout NASA Tech Talks \nIn these presentations\, occurring the fourth Thursdays of the month\, Mr. Montgomery Goforth and other aerospace subject matter experts will discuss the technology development challenges faced by NASA’s Johnson Space Center and the surrounding Aerospace community in our ongoing efforts as the hub of human spaceflight. Presentations will focus on the ways in which these challenges\, and the associated opportunities\, can be leveraged by Houston’s innovation community. We will continue to identify potential space/terrestrial technologies of interest to Human Spaceflight.  Past NASA Tech Talks have included topics such as: \n\nFrom Space to Startup: Leveraging NASA Technology and Innovation to Propel Your Growing Enterprise\nDisruptive Filter Technology for Spacecraft Water Treatment:  The New Promise of Graphene\nLunar dust capture using novel multiplexed inertial filter\nLunar Passive Fuel Cell Technologies:\nMicrobes in Space
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/nasa-tech-talks-13/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Aerospace,Founders & Startups,General Community
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/20240822_182607.jpg?ver=1727905970
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250828T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250828T190000
DTSTAMP:20250818T222312Z
CREATED:20241212T214829Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250818T222312Z
UID:10002621-1756404000-1756407600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:NASA Tech Talks: Lunar Innovations
DESCRIPTION:We want HOU! Join us to discover NASA’s toughest tech challenges—and apply your skills and expertise to solve them. \nAt this month’s NASA Tech Talk\, we’re going to learn more about patents\, innovation\, and space exploration. \nHow do you get patents for systems used on the Moon? How do you even think of something new? In “Lunar Innovations\,” Julie N. Strickland shares two of her patent-awarded systems and the story behind them. From a way to rescue an astronaut to a system that removes heat from a lunar habitat\, Strickland explains the thought process that went into developing these ideas. She breaks down the process from finding a problem worth solving to the amount of detail needed for a patent application. \nPlease join us after the talk for drinks and networking at Second Draught! \n  \nAbout the Speakers \nWith almost 20 years in the aerospace industry\, Julie N. Strickland is an experienced engineer\, project manager\, and innovator. She earned her degree in mechanical engineering so that she could facilitate space exploration. She worked on the design of the next generation spacesuit\, the Orion capsule\, and the Space Launch System (SLS). She is a space enthusiast to her core. \nMs. Strickland holds multiple patent awards in the US and internationally. She mentored junior employees over the years\, teaching them how to develop ideas that may become patents. Under her leadership\, the business unit increased invention disclosures by 10%. \nToday\, she works as a Research & Development Project Manager\, teaching a new team how to better innovate. Her business\, Strawberry Innovation\, provides coaching\, presentations\, and workshops. Outside of work\, she enjoys hiking\, writing\, and traveling. Her grand goal is to hike in every state in the nation with 60% of the states hiked so far. \nLearn more about Strickland on her company website at StrawberryInnovation.org \nMontgomery B. Goforth has more than 40 years of experience as both Engineer and Manager in a variety of highly technical space and defense-related efforts.  After working for a small defense contractor specializing in anti-submarine warfare\, he joined NASA’s Johnson Space Center in 1990.  He has held leadership positions in multiple JSC Directorates and Program Offices. In his current role as Assistant Director of the JSC Engineering Directorate\, he has established a framework to better focus Engineering’s efforts towards Human Spaceflight technology and systems development consistent with JSC and Agency goals for exploration. He has used this framework to guide Engineering’s internal investments and external partnerships supporting Lunar and Mars Exploration. Mr. Goforth was born in East Texas\, raised in Southern California and Arizona\, and graduated from Rice University (BSME 1982\, MSME 1987). \nAbout NASA Tech Talks \nIn these presentations\, occurring the fourth Thursdays of the month\, Mr. Montgomery Goforth and other aerospace subject matter experts will discuss the technology development challenges faced by NASA’s Johnson Space Center and the surrounding Aerospace community in our ongoing efforts as the hub of human spaceflight. Presentations will focus on the ways in which these challenges\, and the associated opportunities\, can be leveraged by Houston’s innovation community. We will continue to identify potential space/terrestrial technologies of interest to Human Spaceflight.  Past NASA Tech Talks have included topics such as: \n\nFrom Space to Startup: Leveraging NASA Technology and Innovation to Propel Your Growing Enterprise\nDisruptive Filter Technology for Spacecraft Water Treatment:  The New Promise of Graphene\nLunar dust capture using novel multiplexed inertial filter\nLunar Passive Fuel Cell Technologies:\nMicrobes in Space
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/nasa-tech-talks-12/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Aerospace,Founders & Startups,General Community
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/20240822_182607.jpg?ver=1727905970
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250812T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250812T100000
DTSTAMP:20250806T184656Z
CREATED:20250703T000425Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250806T184656Z
UID:10003353-1754987400-1754992800@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:NASA Stories at the Ion: A Conversation with NASA Flight Director Anthony Vareha
DESCRIPTION:Join us for “NASA Stories at the Ion” featuring NASA Flight Director Anthony Vareha who will share insights from leading teams of flight controllers at the core of Mission Control. Learn about the vital role flight directors play in overseeing dynamic human spaceflight operations from making critical real-time decisions to ensure astronaut safety and mission success to helping guide the development for future missions to the Moon and Mars. \nDid you know there have only been 108 flight directors in NASA’s 67 years of history? Hear from the agency’s 91st Flight Director\, Anthony Vareha (Enterprise Flight)\, about the history and responsibilities of the most storied and critical positions in human spaceflight. \nThis speaker series is designed to inspire anyone curious about what it takes to push the boundaries of human potential. Complimentary breakfast and networking kicks off each event. \n\n\nAbout the Speaker \nAs a Flight Director at NASA’s Mission Control\, Anthony has spent over 8000 hours operating spacecraft in low Earth orbit and beyond. His primary duty is the safe operation of the International Space Station (ISS) as he leads a multi-national team to execute the mission of humanity’s greatest scientific and exploration asset in space. Anthony has provided operational leadership to the Commercial Crew Program\, as a Flight Director on console during the SpaceX Demo 1\, SpaceX Demo 2\, and Boeing Starliner flight test missions. Anthony was the lead NASA Flight Director for the SpaceX Crew-1 mission\, which was the first six-month mission of the SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft. As lead Flight Director for Expedition 61\, his team set a variety of records for both the number of spacewalks as well the number of hours of scientific research. From 2021-2022\, Anthony served as Assistant Director of Flight Operations for the Commercial Crew Program. In 2022\, Anthony served as a Flight Director during the Artemis 1 mission – the first instance of a human-rated spacecraft orbiting the moon since the end of the Apollo program. His current assignments are as the lead Flight Director for the next flight of the Boeing Starliner capsule\, as well as lead Flight Director in the development of the US Deorbit Vehicle – responsible for the eventual safe decommissioning of the ISS. \n— \n\nThe Ion is proud to present “NASA Stories at the Ion”—a one-of-a-kind morning series spotlighting the human side of space exploration. Each session will feature personal and powerful stories from astronauts and key NASA personnel. From breathtaking missions aboard the International Space Station to unexpected lessons in leadership and teamwork\, this series offers a behind-the-scenes look at spaceflight\, told by the people who’ve lived it. \n\n 
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/nasa-stories-at-the-ion-0812/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Aerospace,Founders & Startups,General Community
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/NSATI-August-12-Website-Linkedin.jpg?ver=1753116372
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250724T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250724T190000
DTSTAMP:20250721T213157Z
CREATED:20241212T213931Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250721T213157Z
UID:10002619-1753380000-1753383600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:NASA Tech Talks: In-space Biomanufacturing and Advanced Material Manufacturing
DESCRIPTION:We want HOU! Join us to discover NASA’s toughest tech challenges—and apply your skills and expertise to solve them. \nJoin us this month for an exciting NASA Tech Talk exploring in-space biomanufacturing and advanced material manufacturing aboard the International Space Station (ISS)! As NASA stimulates low-Earth orbit (LEO) by paving the way for commercial LEO destinations\, NASA’s In Space Production Applications (InSPA) portfolio is developing the next generation of applications that will benefit humanity on earth\, drive economic growth\,  enhance national security\, and propel human space exploration. \nHighlights: \n\nOverview of NASA’s InSPA portfolio.\nCurrent strategies for biomanufacturing and advanced material manufacturing in LEO.\nHow microgravity enhances the production process for a variety of applications.\nExplore the benefits to humanity\, national security\, economy\, and human exploration.\nRemaining challenges for productions at scale and how NASA plans to enable the commercial space destinations of the future.\n\nThis engaging lecture will offer insights into how NASA scientists and engineers are tackling the challenge of ensuring United States leadership in LEO\, and how these innovations will improve the lives of humans on Earth. \nPlease join us after the talk for drinks and networking at Second Draught! \n  \nAbout the Speakers \nMatthew E. Wallace is a manager at The Aerospace Corporation and helps lead NASA’s InSPA portfolio. He currently manages a team of scientists\, engineers\, and data analysts to help NASA’s ISS Research Integration office solve it biggest challenges. He has nearly 10 years of experience at NASA’s Johnson Space Center. He has served as a STEM Engagement Specialist and science communicator\, as well as a portfolio manager. He is also a US Army Captain and aviation officer in the Army National Guard and pilots the AH-64E Apache and UH-72A Lakota in a variety of combat training and mission operations. He leverages his NASA and military background to make connections across civil and defense aerospace arenas. He holds a B.S. from Texas A&M University and a M.Ed. in Science\, Technology\, Engineering and Math Education from Northeastern State University. Before working for NASA\, he taught AP Biology and Chemistry in the greater Houston area. \nMontgomery B. Goforth has more than 40 years of experience as both Engineer and Manager in a variety of highly technical space and defense-related efforts.  After working for a small defense contractor specializing in anti-submarine warfare\, he joined NASA’s Johnson Space Center in 1990.  He has held leadership positions in multiple JSC Directorates and Program Offices. In his current role as Assistant Director of the JSC Engineering Directorate\, he has established a framework to better focus Engineering’s efforts towards Human Spaceflight technology and systems development consistent with JSC and Agency goals for exploration. He has used this framework to guide Engineering’s internal investments and external partnerships supporting Lunar and Mars Exploration. Mr. Goforth was born in East Texas\, raised in Southern California and Arizona\, and graduated from Rice University (BSME 1982\, MSME 1987). \nAbout NASA Tech Talks \nIn these presentations\, occurring the fourth Thursdays of the month\, Mr. Montgomery Goforth and other aerospace subject matter experts will discuss the technology development challenges faced by NASA’s Johnson Space Center and the surrounding Aerospace community in our ongoing efforts as the hub of human spaceflight. Presentations will focus on the ways in which these challenges\, and the associated opportunities\, can be leveraged by Houston’s innovation community. We will continue to identify potential space/terrestrial technologies of interest to Human Spaceflight.  Past NASA Tech Talks have included topics such as: \nFrom Space to Startup: Leveraging NASA Technology and Innovation to Propel Your Growing Enterprise \nDisruptive Filter Technology for Spacecraft Water Treatment:  The New Promise of Graphene \nLunar dust capture using novel multiplexed inertial filter \nLunar Passive Fuel Cell Technologies: \nMicrobes in Space
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/nasa-tech-talks-11/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Aerospace,Founders & Startups,General Community
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/20240822_182607.jpg?ver=1727905970
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250701T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250701T100000
DTSTAMP:20250605T163435Z
CREATED:20250605T163435Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250605T163435Z
UID:10003320-1751356800-1751364000@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:NASA Stories at the Ion: A Conversation with NASA Astronaut Tracy C. Dyson
DESCRIPTION:The Ion is proud to present “NASA Stories at the Ion”—a one-of-a-kind morning series spotlighting the human side of space exploration. Each session will feature personal and powerful stories from astronauts and key NASA personnel. From breathtaking missions aboard the International Space Station to unexpected lessons in leadership and teamwork\, this series offers a behind-the-scenes look at spaceflight\, told by the people who’ve lived it. \nThis speaker series is designed to inspire anyone curious about what it takes to push the boundaries of human potential. Complimentary breakfast and networking kicks off each event. \nJoin us for the inaugural edition of “NASA Stories at the Ion” featuring veteran NASA astronaut Dr. Tracy C. Dyson. In this conversation\, Dr. Dyson will share stories from her remarkable 373 days in space\, her experiences aboard the International Space Station\, and the leadership lessons she’s learned while orbiting 250 miles above Earth. \n  \nAbout Tracy C. Dyson \nTracy C. Dyson was selected as an astronaut by NASA in 1998. The California native has a Ph.D. in Chemistry\, and is a veteran of three space flights. Dr. Dyson has designed\, constructed and implemented electronics and hardware for the study of atmospheric gas phase chemistry\, and has developed and presented numerous papers on methods of chemical ionization for the spectral interpretation of trace compounds. In 2007\, Dyson flew aboard the space shuttle Endeavor on STS-118\, where she served as a mission specialist. In 2010\, she served as flight engineer for Expedition 23/24. She has logged a total of 373 days in space\, including over 23 hours in four spacewalks. Most recently\, Dyson launched to the International Space Station on March 23\, 2024\, as a flight engineer on the Soyuz MS-25 spacecraft. Dyson spent six months aboard the station as an Expedition 71 flight engineer\, conducting science experiments and maintaining the space station. It was her second long-duration spaceflight and third mission overall. \n 
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/nasa-stories-at-the-ion-a-conversation-with-nasa-astronaut-tracy-c-dyson/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Aerospace,Founders & Startups,General Community
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/250602-Website24.jpg?ver=1749066633
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250626T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250626T190000
DTSTAMP:20250625T191749Z
CREATED:20241212T213151Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250625T191749Z
UID:10002618-1750960800-1750964400@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:NASA Tech Talks: Intelligent Medical Crew Agent (IMCA)
DESCRIPTION:We want HOU! Join us to discover NASA’s toughest tech challenges—and apply your skills and expertise to solve them. \nJoin us this month as we partner with Houston AI to discuss AI in Space.  The Houston AI session will start at 4:00 PM and include a talk on “The Role of AI in Human Spaceflight” and a panel discussion featuring experts in the roles AI will play in the future of Human Space Exploration. RSVP for this portion of the session here. \nWe will segue into our NASA Tech Talk at 6:00 PM for a demonstration of a NASA developed Intelligent Medical Crew Agent (IMCA) aka “Doc-In-A-Box”. Led by Lui Wang\, this project is aimed to accelerate the maturation and flight readiness of an AI-enabled intelligent First Aid Medical kit developed for Earth Independent Medical Operations. This kit combines three AI agents to assist medical and non-medical crewmembers in assessing\, diagnosing\, and treating ongoing or emergent medical conditions with local computing resources and no remote SME support. \nPlease join us after the talk for drinks and networking at Second Draught! \n  \nAbout the Speakers \nLui Wang is a Principal Technical Expert in the Advanced Software Technologies at NASA’s Johnson Space Center. As a pioneer in avionics design\, he has developed electronic procedure systems that support human spaceflight. With a tenure at NASA since 1983\, Lui holds multiple patents and has spearheaded numerous projects integrating automation and intelligent systems technologies across various human spaceflight programs\, from the NASA Space Shuttle to Artemis Gateway program. \nMontgomery B. Goforth has more than 40 years of experience as both Engineer and Manager in a variety of highly technical space and defense-related efforts.  After working for a small defense contractor specializing in anti-submarine warfare\, he joined NASA’s Johnson Space Center in 1990.  He has held leadership positions in multiple JSC Directorates and Program Offices. In his current role as Assistant Director of the JSC Engineering Directorate\, he has established a framework to better focus Engineering’s efforts towards Human Spaceflight technology and systems development consistent with JSC and Agency goals for exploration. He has used this framework to guide Engineering’s internal investments and external partnerships supporting Lunar and Mars Exploration. Mr. Goforth was born in East Texas\, raised in Southern California and Arizona\, and graduated from Rice University (BSME 1982\, MSME 1987). \nAbout NASA Tech Talks \nIn these presentations\, occurring the fourth Thursdays of the month\, Mr. Montgomery Goforth and other aerospace subject matter experts will discuss the technology development challenges faced by NASA’s Johnson Space Center and the surrounding Aerospace community in our ongoing efforts as the hub of human spaceflight. Presentations will focus on the ways in which these challenges\, and the associated opportunities\, can be leveraged by Houston’s innovation community. We will continue to identify potential space/terrestrial technologies of interest to Human Spaceflight.  Past NASA Tech Talks have included topics such as: \n\nFrom Space to Startup: Leveraging NASA Technology and Innovation to Propel Your Growing Enterprise\nDisruptive Filter Technology for Spacecraft Water Treatment:  The New Promise of Graphene\nLunar dust capture using novel multiplexed inertial filter\nLunar Passive Fuel Cell Technologies:\nMicrobes in Space
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/nasa-tech-talks-9/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Aerospace,Founders & Startups,General Community
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC_0341-scaled.jpg?ver=1746635445
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250522T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250522T190000
DTSTAMP:20250520T200746Z
CREATED:20241212T213046Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250520T200746Z
UID:10002617-1747936800-1747940400@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:NASA Tech Talks: Exploring the Science and Innovations Behind Space Food Systems
DESCRIPTION:We want HOU! Join us to discover NASA’s toughest tech challenges—and apply your skills and expertise to solve them. \nJoin us this month for an exciting NASA Tech Talk exploring the science and innovations behind space food systems—past\, present\, and future. As NASA prepares for extended missions to the Moon and Mars\, providing astronauts with nutritious\, safe\, and palatable food remains a critical challenge. \nEvent Highlights: \n\nCurrent strategies for feeding astronauts aboard the International Space Station\nFood safety and quality considerations in microgravity and closed environments\nThe science behind the space food systems\nRemaining challenges to build space food systems for the Moon\, Mars\, and beyond\n\nThis engaging lecture will offer insights into how NASA scientists and engineers are tackling one of the most fundamental aspects of human spaceflight: keeping astronauts healthy\, fueled\, and mission ready. \nPlease join us after the talk for drinks and networking at Second Draught! \n  \nAbout the Speakers \nXulei Wu serves as Food Scientist/System Manager for International Space Station and Artemis at NASA Johnson Space Center. In this role\, she leads the overall management of the food system development\, provisioning\, production\, and delivery to support Crew health and performance. She also works with other government agencies\, commercial\, and international partners to ensure safe and reliable food systems for low Earth orbit missions. She earned a B.S. in food science and engineering from Shanghai Jiao Tong University\, and a M.S. in food science and technology from Oregon State University. She has over 10 years’ experience working in food industry and government agency\, with expertise on food safety\, freeze drying technology\, low moisture foods\, shelf-life study\, and sensory evaluation. \nMontgomery B. Goforth has more than 40 years of experience as both Engineer and Manager in a variety of highly technical space and defense-related efforts.  After working for a small defense contractor specializing in anti-submarine warfare\, he joined NASA’s Johnson Space Center in 1990.  He has held leadership positions in multiple JSC Directorates and Program Offices. In his current role as Assistant Director of the JSC Engineering Directorate\, he has established a framework to better focus Engineering’s efforts towards Human Spaceflight technology and systems development consistent with JSC and Agency goals for exploration. He has used this framework to guide Engineering’s internal investments and external partnerships supporting Lunar and Mars Exploration. Mr. Goforth was born in East Texas\, raised in Southern California and Arizona\, and graduated from Rice University (BSME 1982\, MSME 1987). \nAbout NASA Tech Talks \nIn these presentations\, occurring the fourth Thursdays of the month\, Mr. Montgomery Goforth and other aerospace subject matter experts will discuss the technology development challenges faced by NASA’s Johnson Space Center and the surrounding Aerospace community in our ongoing efforts as the hub of human spaceflight. Presentations will focus on the ways in which these challenges\, and the associated opportunities\, can be leveraged by Houston’s innovation community. We will continue to identify potential space/terrestrial technologies of interest to Human Spaceflight.  Past NASA Tech Talks have included topics such as: \n\nFrom Space to Startup: Leveraging NASA Technology and Innovation to Propel Your Growing Enterprise\nDisruptive Filter Technology for Spacecraft Water Treatment:  The New Promise of Graphene\nLunar dust capture using novel multiplexed inertial filter\nLunar Passive Fuel Cell Technologies:\nMicrobes in Space
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/nasa-tech-talks-8/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Aerospace,Founders & Startups,General Community
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC_0341-scaled.jpg?ver=1746635445
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250424T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250424T190000
DTSTAMP:20250417T171212Z
CREATED:20241212T213818Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250417T171212Z
UID:10002620-1745517600-1745521200@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:NASA Tech Talks - Rice Space Institute
DESCRIPTION:We want HOU! Join us to discover NASA’s toughest tech challenges—and apply your skills and expertise to solve them. \nThis month NASA Tech Talks is once again partnering with the Rice Space Institute. \nIn an ambitious effort to fuel startup growth\, drive research and forge international partnerships\, the Rice Space Institute\, in partnership with Business France\, the French Space Agency CNES and the French Consulate in Houston have launched the Texas-France Space Hub that aims to unite academic institutions and private enterprises to expand commercial space presence in both countries.  The first cohort of companies arrived at The Ion in early April and will be participating as part of the Rice Nexus over the next 2 months.  This first cohort consists of Absolut Sensing\, which specializes in high-precision satellite data for methane emissions detection; Geeglee\, a software platform designed to enhance decision-making in architecture and systems engineering; Agena Space\, which develops in-orbit mobility solutions powered by green propulsion; and Watt & Well\, a company focused on designing high-performance power electronics for space applications. Join us to learn more about the Texas-France Space Hub\, and to hear from each of these companies. \n\nAbout NASA Tech Talks \nIn these presentations\, occurring the fourth Thursdays of the month\, Mr. Montgomery Goforth and other aerospace subject matter experts will discuss the technology development challenges faced by NASA’s Johnson Space Center and the surrounding Aerospace community in our ongoing efforts as the hub of human spaceflight. Presentations will focus on the ways in which these challenges\, and the associated opportunities\, can be leveraged by Houston’s innovation community. We will continue to identify potential space/terrestrial technologies of interest to Human Spaceflight.  Past NASA Tech Talks have included topics such as: \n\nFrom Space to Startup: Leveraging NASA Technology and Innovation to Propel Your Growing Enterprise\nDisruptive Filter Technology for Spacecraft Water Treatment:  The New Promise of Graphene\nLunar dust capture using novel multiplexed inertial filter\nLunar Passive Fuel Cell Technologies:\nMicrobes in Space\n\nAbout the Houston Spaceport Frontiers Lecture Series \nThis public lecture series was begun by the Rice Space Institute to introduce students and the general public to the wide array of issues involved in the pursuit of an advanced presence in space: international policy\, technology innovation\, commercialization\, biological impacts\, space science\, etc. \nAbout the Speakers \nMontgomery B. Goforth has more than 40 years of experience as both Engineer and Manager in a variety of highly technical space and defense-related efforts.  After working for a small defense contractor specializing in anti-submarine warfare\, he joined NASA’s Johnson Space Center in 1990.  He has held leadership positions in multiple JSC Directorates and Program Offices. In his current role as Assistant Director of the JSC Engineering Directorate\, he has established a framework to better focus Engineering’s efforts towards Human Spaceflight technology and systems development consistent with JSC and Agency goals for exploration. He has used this framework to guide Engineering’s internal investments and external partnerships supporting Lunar and Mars Exploration. Mr. Goforth was born in East Texas\, raised in Southern California and Arizona\, and graduated from Rice University (BSME 1982\, MSME 1987).
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/nasa-tech-talks-10/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Aerospace,Founders & Startups,General Community
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC_0338-scaled.jpg?ver=1742571531
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250327T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250327T190000
DTSTAMP:20250321T153913Z
CREATED:20241212T212504Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250321T153913Z
UID:10002616-1743098400-1743102000@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:NASA Tech Talks: Spaceflight Associated Neuro-ocular Syndrome (SANS) and its risk to NASA astronauts
DESCRIPTION:We want HOU! Join us to discover NASA’s toughest tech challenges—and apply your skills and expertise to solve them. \nThis month NASA Tech Talks is proud to bring you Dr. Tyson Brunstetter to discuss “Spaceflight Associated Neuro-ocular Syndrome (SANS) and its risk to NASA astronauts”. \nFirst discovered in 2005\, Spaceflight Associated Neuro-ocular Syndrome (SANS) is a unique condition detected in 70% of astronauts during long-duration missions. SANS is associated with vision shifts and anatomical changes to the eyes and brain which present risk to crewmember vision\, cognition\, and mission effectiveness. NASA considers SANS mitigation to be a top priority\, especially for extended-duration missions to Mars where early returns are impossible. This NASA Tech Talk will discuss the history of SANS\, how it is measured and diagnosed\, its risk to astronauts\, and how it might be mitigated as humans prepare for interplanetary travel. \nPlease join us after the talk for drinks and networking at Second Draught! \nAbout the Speakers \nDr. Tyson Brunstetter retired from the U.S. Navy in 2020\, after serving 24 years on active-duty as an aerospace optometrist and vision researcher\, working within such areas as aircrew laser eye protection; helmet-mounted cueing systems for tactical aircraft; advanced refractive surgery; and deployable battlefield medical devices. He now serves at Johnson Space Center as NASA’s “Eyes & Vision” Clinical Lead in the efforts to mitigate a condition affecting the eyes\, brain\, and vision of astronauts during long-duration spaceflight\, Spaceflight Associated Neuro-ocular Syndrome (SANS) \nDr. Brunstetter earned Doctor of Optometry\, Master of Science\, and PhD degrees from the Ohio State University\, and an Executive MBA from the Naval Postgraduate School. He was “winged” as a Navy Aerospace Optometrist in 2002 and earned Board Certification as an Aerospace Physiologist in 2006. He is a Fellow of the Aerospace Medical Association (AsMA) and the American Academy of Optometry (AAO). \nMontgomery B. Goforth has more than 40 years of experience as both Engineer and Manager in a variety of highly technical space and defense-related efforts.  After working for a small defense contractor specializing in anti-submarine warfare\, he joined NASA’s Johnson Space Center in 1990.  He has held leadership positions in multiple JSC Directorates and Program Offices. In his current role as Assistant Director of the JSC Engineering Directorate\, he has established a framework to better focus Engineering’s efforts towards Human Spaceflight technology and systems development consistent with JSC and Agency goals for exploration. He has used this framework to guide Engineering’s internal investments and external partnerships supporting Lunar and Mars Exploration. Mr. Goforth was born in East Texas\, raised in Southern California and Arizona\, and graduated from Rice University (BSME 1982\, MSME 1987). \nAbout NASA Tech Talks \nIn these presentations\, occurring the fourth Thursdays of the month\, Mr. Montgomery Goforth and other aerospace subject matter experts will discuss the technology development challenges faced by NASA’s Johnson Space Center and the surrounding Aerospace community in our ongoing efforts as the hub of human spaceflight. Presentations will focus on the ways in which these challenges\, and the associated opportunities\, can be leveraged by Houston’s innovation community. We will continue to identify potential space/terrestrial technologies of interest to Human Spaceflight.  Past NASA Tech Talks have included topics such as: \n\nFrom Space to Startup: Leveraging NASA Technology and Innovation to Propel Your Growing Enterprise\nDisruptive Filter Technology for Spacecraft Water Treatment:  The New Promise of Graphene\nLunar dust capture using novel multiplexed inertial filter\nLunar Passive Fuel Cell Technologies:\nMicrobes in Space
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/nasa-tech-talks-7/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Aerospace,Founders & Startups,General Community
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC_0338-scaled.jpg?ver=1742571531
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250227T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250227T193000
DTSTAMP:20250217T153921Z
CREATED:20241212T211905Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250217T153921Z
UID:10002615-1740679200-1740684600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:NASA Tech Talks: Galactic Gold Rush: Tapping into the Space Economy
DESCRIPTION:We want HOU! Join us to discover NASA’s toughest tech challenges—and apply your skills and expertise to solve them. \nThis month NASA Tech Talks is partnering with the Rice Space Institute to bring you Kelli Kedis Ogborn\, the Vice President for Space Commerce and Entrepreneurship at the Space Foundation\, speaking on the “Galactic Gold Rush: Tapping into the Space Economy”. This talk will provide an overview of the major players\, markets\, capabilities\, and macro trends influencing and influenced by the evolving space economy. Topics covered will address the tangential industries relevant both now and in the future for growing and sustaining its potential. \nWe will have a reception starting at 6pm\, and begin the talk at 6:30pm. Please join us after the talk for drinks and networking at Second Draught! \nAbout the Speakers \nKelli Kedis Ogborn’s leadership has played a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of companies entering the space market. With extensive experience in R&D and cutting-edge technology applications for the U.S. government and private sector\, her methodologies guide organizations and companies that are transitioning from development ecosystems to market capitalization. \nIn her role as Vice President of Space Commerce and Entrepreneurship at Space Foundation\, Kedis Ogborn leads Space Commerce Institute\, an initiative aimed at providing valuable insights and actionable programming to empower countries\, individuals\, and companies to carve out their niche and thrive in the rapidly expanding space economy. \nPrior to joining Space Foundation\, Kedis Ogborn was President and Chief Operating Officer of Advanced Rockets Corporation (an aerospace company specializing in hypersonic flight)\, President and Chief Executive Officer of H.S. Dracones (a consulting company specializing in technology commercialization) and was contracted as the Congressional Liaison to the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). In the DARPA liaison role\, she provided advice to senior leadership and technical offices on Congressional engagement strategies to maintain the agency’s position and reputation as a premier science and technology organization. \nKedis Ogborn is an often-published author and speaker on the market applications of innovation and has worked extensively as an authoritative voice within the emerging space economy – qualifying and quantifying the economic drivers and technology trends driving the industry forward and shaping its investment potential and growth. She is also a frequent panel reviewer and technology assessor for commercialization merit of government R&D proposals and mentor for entrepreneurs. \nShe holds an International Security and Conflict Resolution Bachelor’s Degree from San Diego State University\, a Political Science Bachelor’s Degree from Stockholm University\, and a Master’s Degree in Government and Security Studies from The Johns Hopkins University. \nMontgomery B. Goforth has more than 40 years of experience as both Engineer and Manager in a variety of highly technical space and defense-related efforts.  After working for a small defense contractor specializing in anti-submarine warfare\, he joined NASA’s Johnson Space Center in 1990.  He has held leadership positions in multiple JSC Directorates and Program Offices. In his current role as Assistant Director of the JSC Engineering Directorate\, he has established a framework to better focus Engineering’s efforts towards Human Spaceflight technology and systems development consistent with JSC and Agency goals for exploration. He has used this framework to guide Engineering’s internal investments and external partnerships supporting Lunar and Mars Exploration. Mr. Goforth was born in East Texas\, raised in Southern California and Arizona\, and graduated from Rice University (BSME 1982\, MSME 1987). \n  \nAbout NASA Tech Talks \nIn these presentations\, occurring the fourth Thursdays of the month\, Mr. Montgomery Goforth and other aerospace subject matter experts will discuss the technology development challenges faced by NASA’s Johnson Space Center and the surrounding Aerospace community in our ongoing efforts as the hub of human spaceflight. Presentations will focus on the ways in which these challenges\, and the associated opportunities\, can be leveraged by Houston’s innovation community. We will continue to identify potential space/terrestrial technologies of interest to Human Spaceflight.  Past NASA Tech Talks have included topics such as: \n\nFrom Space to Startup: Leveraging NASA Technology and Innovation to Propel Your Growing Enterprise\nDisruptive Filter Technology for Spacecraft Water Treatment:  The New Promise of Graphene\nLunar dust capture using novel multiplexed inertial filter\nLunar Passive Fuel Cell Technologies:\nMicrobes in Space\n\n\nAbout the Houston Spaceport Frontiers Lecture Series \nThis public lecture series was begun by the Rice Space Institute to introduce students and the general public to the wide array of issues involved in the pursuit of an advanced presence in space: international policy\, technology innovation\, commercialization\, biological impacts\, space science\, etc.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/nasa-tech-talks-6/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Aerospace,Founders & Startups,General Community
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/20240822_182607.jpg?ver=1727905970
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250123T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250123T190000
DTSTAMP:20250113T192702Z
CREATED:20241212T211204Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250113T192702Z
UID:10002611-1737655200-1737658800@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:NASA Tech Talks: Artemis: NASA’s Plan for Sustainable Lunar Exploration
DESCRIPTION:We want HOU! Join us to discover NASA’s toughest tech challenges—and apply your skills and expertise to solve them. \n\nThis month\, Mr. Montgomery Goforth\, Assistant Director of Engineering at JSC\, will present a comprehensive overview of the Artemis Program as it exists today. This overview will provide context for the NASA Tech Talks to be held during the rest of 2025.  Mr. Goforth will provide a sense of the magnitude and complexity of the effort that will be required to return humans to the Moon. \nJoin us after the talk for drinks and networking at Second Draught!\n\n\n— \n\nIn these presentations\, occurring the fourth Thursdays of the month\, Mr. Montgomery Goforth and other aerospace subject matter experts will discuss the technology development challenges faced by NASA’s Johnson Space Center and the surrounding Aerospace community in our ongoing efforts as the hub of human spaceflight. Presentations will focus on the ways in which these challenges\, and the associated opportunities\, can be leveraged by Houston’s innovation community.\n\n\nPast NASA Tech Talks have included:Montgomery B. Goforth discussing NASA Intellectual Property suitable for commercialization by small/start-up companies; Jared Daum discussing Orion’s parachutes and risk identification and mitigation that are showstoppers for the spaceflight parachute industry; Kevin Kobylka discussing current Guidance\, Navigation\, and Control (GNC) capabilities and needs; and Nick Skytland\, Chief Technologist at the Johnson Space Center (JSC) and Director of the Business Development and Technology Integration Office. Future NASA Tech Talks will include: dual-use (space/terrestrial) technologies in the areas of: \n\nAvionics / Communication / Sensors\nRadio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for ultra-long lived wireless sensors\nPower Storage and Distribution\nAutonomous & Robotics Systems\nExtra-Vehicular Activity (EVA) Systems\nVirtual/Augmented Reality in Human Spaceflight Training & Execution\nHuman Health & Performance / Human Systems Research\n\nAbout the Speakers \nMontgomery B. Goforth has more than 40 years of experience as both Engineer and Manager in a variety of highly technical space and defense-related efforts.  After working for a small defense contractor specializing in anti-submarine warfare\, he joined NASA’s Johnson Space Center in 1990.  He has held leadership positions in multiple JSC Directorates and Program Offices. In his current role as Assistant Director of the JSC Engineering Directorate\, he has established a framework to better focus Engineering’s efforts towards Human Spaceflight technology and systems development consistent with JSC and Agency goals for exploration. He has used this framework to guide Engineering’s internal investments and external partnerships supporting Lunar and Mars Exploration. Mr. Goforth was born in East Texas\, raised in Southern California and Arizona\, and graduated from Rice University (BSME 1982\, MSME 1987). \nNASA Tech Talks topics include dual-use (space/terrestrial) technologies and focus areas in:\n\n\n\nAvionics / Communication / Sensors\nRadio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for ultra-long-lived wireless sensors\nPower Storage and Distribution\nAutonomous & Robotics Systems\nExtra-Vehicular Activity (EVA) Systems\nVirtual/Augmented Reality in Human Spaceflight Training & Execution\nHuman Health & Performance / Human Systems Research\nNASA Intellectual Property suitable for commercialization by small/start-up companies\nOrion’s parachutes and risk identification and mitigation strategies\nLeveraging Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for ultra-long-lived wireless sensors
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/nasa-tech-talks-5/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Aerospace,Founders & Startups,General Community
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/20240822_182607.jpg?ver=1727905970
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250115T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250115T190000
DTSTAMP:20241220T173347Z
CREATED:20241219T140013Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241220T173347Z
UID:10002684-1736960400-1736967600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:In the Age of the Humanoid Robot
DESCRIPTION:Regsiter here: https://persona_ai.eventbrite.com \nThe AI revolution is here\, and it’s about to walk among us. Persona AI cofounder & seasoned roboticist Nicolaus Radford will discuss the promise of embodied AI and the adoption of humanoid robots—two advancements likely to impact every market sector.\nHumanoids coupled to artificial intelligence are poised to reshape the global work landscape forever. To learn more\, join us for a talk\, Q&A\, and Second Draught happy hour as we enter the “Age of the Humanoid Robot.” \nSpeaker\nNicolaus Radford is an engineer and serial entrepreneur. During his time in the field\, Radford has contributed to several humanoid builds\, led award-winning robotics teams at NASA\, and founded Jacobi Motors\, Nauticus Robotics\, and Rad Capital. His current venture is Persona AI\, a Houston-based startup seeking to build the world’s toughest humanoid.\nRadford received his BSEE and MSEE in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Purdue University. He is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Business Administration at the University of Houston\, and is a member of Tiger 21 and the Young President’s Organization.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/in-the-age-of-the-humanoid-robot/
LOCATION:Ion – Forum Stairs\, 4201 Main St.\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:3rd Party Registration,AI,Networking
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Persona-AI-ION-Talk-Announcement-Social-Media-12-18-2024_001_03-copy.png?ver=1734716000
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20241024T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20241024T190000
DTSTAMP:20241002T215314Z
CREATED:20240808T174723Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241002T215314Z
UID:10001416-1729792800-1729796400@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:NASA Tech Talks: Space Force Association Presentation
DESCRIPTION:Join us on October 24th at the Ion as Colonel Jeff Hokett (USSF\, retired) and Commissioner Tom Duncavage take the stage to explore the evolving role of the United States Space Force within the broader landscape of space exploration and defense. \n\nTheir talk will provide a comprehensive look at how the Space Force integrates with NASA and other existing space organizations. \n\nAbout the Speakers:\n\nColonel Jeff Hokett (USSF\, retired) served as the Director of Futures and Integration for the United States Space Force before his retirement in 2023. With a career spanning more than three decades\, Colonel Hokett has been instrumental in shaping the operational and strategic direction of the Space Force. His background includes commanding an experimental spacecraft squadron\, serving as Senior Plans Advisor to the Secretary of Defense\, and leading space warfighting concept integration efforts. His insights will highlight the Space Force’s evolving mission to protect and defend U.S. interests in space amid growing global challenges. \n\n\nCommissioner Tom Duncavage brings over four decades of experience in technical\, managerial\, and tactical leadership roles with the Marine Corps\, the Department of the Navy\, and NASA. As a Texas Military Preparedness Commissioner and NASA Visiting Executive\, Commissioner Duncavage has played pivotal roles in the advancement of space-related initiatives. His unique perspective\, grounded in extensive tactical experience\, including over three thousand flight test hours in U.S. and foreign military aircraft\, will shed light on the intricate interplay between military and civilian space operations. \n\nMontgomery B. Goforth has more than 40 years of experience as both Engineer and Manager in a variety of highly technical space and defense-related efforts.  After working for a small defense contractor specializing in anti-submarine warfare\, he joined NASA’s Johnson Space Center in 1990.  He has held leadership positions in multiple JSC Directorates and Program Offices. In his current role as Assistant Director of the JSC Engineering Directorate\, he has established a framework to better focus Engineering’s efforts towards Human Spaceflight technology and systems development consistent with JSC and Agency goals for exploration. He has used this framework to guide Engineering’s internal investments and external partnerships supporting Lunar and Mars Exploration. Mr. Goforth was born in East Texas\, raised in Southern California and Arizona\, and graduated from Rice University (BSME 1982\, MSME 1987). \n\n\nThe speakers will outline how the Space Force operates within the same physical environment as NASA and other space agencies\, sharing common challenges like collision avoidance and power generation. However\, they will also emphasize the Space Force’s distinct mission to protect and defend U.S. assets in space\, leveraging enhanced authority and capability to counter a growing number of threats. \nThis engaging session will conclude with an exploration of why the Space Force is crucial to the future of space activities\, underscoring the continuous need for vigilant protection of on-orbit interests against increasingly sophisticated threats. \nDon’t miss this unique opportunity to hear directly from leaders at the forefront of U.S. space defense and policy. \n\n\nRegister now to secure your spot at this insightful NASA Tech Talk! \n\n\nNASA Tech Talks topics include dual-use (space/terrestrial) technologies and focus areas in:\n\n\n\nAvionics / Communication / Sensors\nRadio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for ultra-long-lived wireless sensors\nPower Storage and Distribution\nAutonomous & Robotics Systems\nExtra-Vehicular Activity (EVA) Systems\nVirtual/Augmented Reality in Human Spaceflight Training & Execution\nHuman Health & Performance / Human Systems Research\nNASA Intellectual Property suitable for commercialization by small/start-up companies\nOrion’s parachutes and risk identification and mitigation strategies\nLeveraging Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for ultra-long-lived wireless sensors
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/nasa-tech-talks-1024/
LOCATION:Ion – Forum Stairs\, 4201 Main St.\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Academic Network,Aerospace,Corporate Innovators,Founders & Startups,General Community,Investors & Capital,Networking,Panel Dicussion
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/20240822_182607.jpg?ver=1727905970
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20241001T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20241001T130000
DTSTAMP:20240923T171057Z
CREATED:20240923T170948Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240923T171057Z
UID:10001692-1727771400-1727787600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Unlock Quantum Reality for the Energy Industry
DESCRIPTION:Meet with leaders from the Quantum Revolution and understand the impact Quantum Computing will have on Energy. \nDiscover how Pasqal is forging partnerships\, fostering ecosystems\, and revolutionizing the energy industry with customized quantum solutions. Get ready to hear from various leaders and innovators. Breakfast and lunch will be available during the event. \nSpeaker Lineup \n\nBrad Burke – Ion Houston\, Rice University\nWasiq Bokhari – Pasqal\nGeorges-Olivier Reymond – Pasqal\nMichael Warren – Pasqal\nChristophe Jurczak – Quantonation\nReynaldo Gomez – NVIDIA\nTirthak Patel – Rice University\nDavide Venturelli – NASA\nSean Jump – Sia Partners\nShichen Lian – Boston Consulting Group\nWilliam Hurley – Strangeworks\nLarry Bowden – Chevron Corporation\nQinghua Wang – Halliburton Labs\nClena Abuan – BP\nWill Zeng – Unitary Fund\n\nTo register\, click here: https://go.pasqal.com/Pasqal-Quantum-Computing-for-Energy-Houston-Texas \n  \n \n 
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/unlock-quantum-reality-for-the-energy-industry/
LOCATION:Ion – Forum Stairs\, 4201 Main St.\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:3rd Party Registration,Academic Network,Corporate Innovators,Founders & Startups,Investors & Capital,Networking
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Pasqal-1-scaled.jpg?ver=1727110725
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240926T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240926T190000
DTSTAMP:20240903T152003Z
CREATED:20240808T171811Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240903T152003Z
UID:10001414-1727373600-1727377200@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:NASA Tech Talks: Exercise Physiology and Countermeasures for Human Spaceflight
DESCRIPTION:We want HOU! Join us to discover NASA’s toughest tech challenges and apply your skills and expertise to solve them. \nThis month’s topic is: Exercise Physiology and Countermeasures for Human Spaceflight \nDr. Brian Prejean will discuss how NASA protects astronaut health and performance by understanding the mechanisms and consequences of spaceflight deconditioning in order to characterize mission risk as well as to optimize exercise countermeasure systems and interventions.  He will describe how we prepare astronauts for flight and what we do to rehab/recondition astronauts postflight\, as well as countermeasures taken during ISS missions.  He will also discuss the challenges we will face as part of the Artemis Program on Orion\, the Gateway Space Station\, and the Lunar Surface\, as well as the steps we are taking to deal with those challenges. \nAbout the Speakers:\nDr. Prejean is a Human Performance Scientist on KBR’s Human Health and Performance Contract in the Johnson Space Center’s Human Physiology\, Performance\, Protection\, and Operations (H-3PO) laboratory and leads the Exercise Physiology and Countermeasures (EPC) technical area within the lab. Brian holds a B.S. in Exercise Physiology from Texas A&M University\, and a M.S. and Ph.D. from the University of Texas at Arlington in Exercise Physiology and Kinesiology\, respectively with a research focus in Applied Biomechanics\, and is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association. He also currently serves as a Risk Custodian for the muscle and aerobic deconditioning risks carried by NASA’s Human Systems Risk Board and is the Exercise Discipline Scientist for NASA’s Human Research Program \nThe EPC team supports NASA’s human health and performance objectives for spaceflight in three primary areas: technology development\, applied research\, and exercise subject matter expert support to human spaceflight program operations. Current efforts within the lab include the evaluation and certification of exercise systems designated for Artemis Lunar exploration missions; development of exercise system requirements for the Lunar pressurized rover vehicle; spaceflight and terrestrial research on the dose-response relationship of both spaceflight exposure as well as exercise interventions;  development and implementation of standardized in-flight health and performance assessments; development of novel countermeasure technologies and strategies for optimizing astronaut health and performance outcomes. \nMontgomery B. Goforth has more than 40 years of experience as both Engineer and Manager in a variety of highly technical space and defense-related efforts.  After working for a small defense contractor specializing in anti-submarine warfare\, he joined NASA’s Johnson Space Center in 1990.  He has held leadership positions in multiple JSC Directorates and Program Offices. In his current role as Assistant Director of the JSC Engineering Directorate\, he has established a framework to better focus Engineering’s efforts towards Human Spaceflight technology and systems development consistent with JSC and Agency goals for exploration. He has used this framework to guide Engineering’s internal investments and external partnerships supporting Lunar and Mars Exploration. Mr. Goforth was born in East Texas\, raised in Southern California and Arizona\, and graduated from Rice University (BSME 1982\, MSME 1987). \n\n\nNASA Tech Talks topics include dual-use (space/terrestrial) technologies and focus areas in:\n\n\n\nAvionics / Communication / Sensors\nRadio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for ultra-long-lived wireless sensors\nPower Storage and Distribution\nAutonomous & Robotics Systems\nExtra-Vehicular Activity (EVA) Systems\nVirtual/Augmented Reality in Human Spaceflight Training & Execution\nHuman Health & Performance / Human Systems Research\nNASA Intellectual Property suitable for commercialization by small/start-up companies\nOrion’s parachutes and risk identification and mitigation strategies\nLeveraging Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for ultra-long-lived wireless sensors
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/nasa-tech-talks-0926/
LOCATION:Ion – Forum Stairs\, 4201 Main St.\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Academic Network,Aerospace,Corporate Innovators,Founders & Startups,General Community,Investors & Capital,Networking,Panel Dicussion
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/321A1478.jpg?ver=1723137726
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240822T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240822T190000
DTSTAMP:20240807T152147Z
CREATED:20240726T180135Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240807T152147Z
UID:10001391-1724349600-1724353200@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:NASA Tech Talks: Robotics in the New Space Economy
DESCRIPTION:We want HOU! Join us to discover NASA’s toughest tech challenges and apply your skills and expertise to solve them. \nThis month’s topic is: Robotics in the New Space Economy\nBrice Howard will be speaking on the roll robotics will play in building the new space economy and how Novium is helping to pave the way. Join us after the talk for drinks and networking at Second Draught! \nIn these presentations\, occurring on the fourth Thursday of the month\, Mr. Montgomery Goforth\, Assistant Director\, Strategic Pursuits & Partnerships – Engineering Directorate\, NASA JSC\,and other aerospace subject matter experts will discuss the technology development challenges faced by NASA’s Johnson Space Center (JSC) and the surrounding Aerospace community in our ongoing efforts as the hub of human spaceflight. Presentations will focus on how these challenges\, and the associated opportunities\, can be leveraged by Houston’s innovation community. \nAbout the Speakers:\nBrice Howard is co-founder and President of Novium since its founding in 2021. He brings a wealth of engineering and leadership experience to Novium and is guiding the company through its pivot from primarily a successful partner in engineering services for mainly larger\, established and leading new enterprises to a broader platform that will provide advanced robotics systems to help its current and new clients fulfill their ambitions in space. He has over 17 years of experience and excels in deploying complex novel hardware and software technologies. His technical skills as a mechanical engineer include deploying complex digital systems\, digitization of manufacturing technologies (Industry 4.0)\, and\, of course\, robotics. Complementing his technical skills\, he has developed an inclusive\, driven management style setting large expectations and timelines to move quickly. NASA and Intuitive Machines\, where collectively he spent nine years\, have entrusted Brice and the Novium team with vital engineering services. Brice holds advanced degrees from the University of Houston and Texas A&M University. \n\n\nMontgomery B. Goforth has more than 40 years of experience as both Engineer and Manager in a variety of highly technical space and defense-related efforts.  After working for a small defense contractor specializing in anti-submarine warfare\, he joined NASA’s Johnson Space Center in 1990.  He has held leadership positions in multiple JSC Directorates and Program Offices. In his current role as Assistant Director of the JSC Engineering Directorate\, he has established a framework to better focus Engineering’s efforts towards Human Spaceflight technology and systems development consistent with JSC and Agency goals for exploration. He has used this framework to guide Engineering’s internal investments and external partnerships supporting Lunar and Mars Exploration. Mr. Goforth was born in East Texas\, raised in Southern California and Arizona\, and graduated from Rice University (BSME 1982\, MSME 1987). \n\n\nNASA Tech Talks topics include dual-use (space/terrestrial) technologies and focus areas in:\n\n\n\nAvionics / Communication / Sensors\nRadio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for ultra-long-lived wireless sensors\nPower Storage and Distribution\nAutonomous & Robotics Systems\nExtra-Vehicular Activity (EVA) Systems\nVirtual/Augmented Reality in Human Spaceflight Training & Execution\nHuman Health & Performance / Human Systems Research\nNASA Intellectual Property suitable for commercialization by small/start-up companies\nOrion’s parachutes and risk identification and mitigation strategies\nLeveraging Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for ultra-long-lived wireless sensors\nFeatured speakers from Intuitive Machines and Orbital Mining Corporation
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/nasa-tech-talks-0822/
LOCATION:Ion – Forum Stairs\, 4201 Main St.\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Academic Network,Aerospace,Corporate Innovators,Founders & Startups,General Community,Investors & Capital,Networking,Panel Dicussion
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/240815-NASA-Tech-Talks-Linkedin-1-scaled.jpg?ver=1723044091
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240627T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240627T190000
DTSTAMP:20240621T171854Z
CREATED:20240529T184229Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240621T171854Z
UID:10001255-1719511200-1719514800@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:NASA Tech Talks: Microbes in Space
DESCRIPTION:We want HOU! Join us to discover NASA’s toughest tech challenges and apply your skills and expertise to solve them.\n\nFeatured Program: Microbes in Space!\n\n\nCharacterization of the International Space Station (ISS) microbiome has been enabled by culture-based sampling followed by Earth-based analysis. As human exploration pushes beyond low-Earth orbit\, microbial-related crew health\, planetary protection\, and space research questions require in situ capabilities. Steps toward reducing Earth-dependence for complex sample analysis began in 2016 with the amplification of DNA within the miniPCR thermal cycler and DNA sequencing with the MinION sequencer onboard the ISS; for both\, samples were prepared on Earth.\n\nIn 2017\, these platforms synergistically enabled the in situ identification of unknown bacteria collected and cultured from ISS surfaces\, thereby shifting the paradigm that microbial cultures had to be returned to Earth. The following year\, a culture-independent\, swab-to- sequencer method further advanced spaceflight microbiology\, demonstrating that culturing could be excluded and providing enhanced insight into the bacterial profile of ISS surfaces. Following the success of these investigations\, these methods have been expanded and utilized for routine microbial monitoring of both ISS surfaces and water. Additionally\, capabilities have been expanded for whole genome and shotgun metagenomic analyses. This seminar will focus on the efforts toward advancing modern microbiome profiling onboard the ISS\, the data collected to date\, and future efforts to expand sample type and nanopore sequencing applications.\n\n\nAbout the Speakers\n\n\nDr. Sarah Wallace serves as a technical lead in the Microbiology Laboratory at the NASA Johnson Space Center\, which is responsible for mitigating infectious disease risk during human spaceflight. Her responsibilities include the assessment of microbial risk based on vehicle and mission architectures as well as crewmember\, food\, and environmental monitoring. These assessments are used to develop requirements for NASA and commercial spaceflight vehicles\, including the International Space Station. In addition to her operational support of human spaceflight\, Dr. Wallace leads new technology initiatives for her discipline with the goal of reducing Earth-dependence for complex sample analysis. She has served as PI for numerous spaceflight investigations\, including those to increase off-planet molecular biology capabilities.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/nasa-tech-talks-0627/
LOCATION:Ion – Forum Stairs\, 4201 Main St.\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Aerospace,Community Event,Founders & Startups,Investors & Capital
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/321A1478.jpg?ver=1723137726
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240523T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240523T190000
DTSTAMP:20240522T210042Z
CREATED:20240425T185910Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240522T210042Z
UID:10001156-1716487200-1716490800@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:NASA Tech Talks: From Space to Startup
DESCRIPTION:From Space to Startup: Leveraging NASA Technology and Innovation to Propel Your Growing Enterprise.  \nNASA’s Technology Transfer Program ensures that innovations developed for exploration and discovery are broadly available to the public. The Tech Transfer Expansion (T2X) Program augments that mission to include a focus on entrepreneurial innovation and creating partnerships to help accelerate commercialization. T2X envisions prosperous NASA-infused tech startup ecosystems across the U.S. Within specified geographic regions\, T2X works to accelerate the commercialization of NASA-developed technology by reducing the risk of innovation and assisting new startups. \nWalt will introduce you to the NASA Technology Transfer Program\, which ensures that these revolutionary technologies\, initially designed for space exploration and discovery\, are accessible to the public.  Discover hundreds of free software programs and over 1\,200 patented technologies available for licensing through NASA’s portfolio. These vast technologies apply to various industries\, including health\, transportation\, public safety\, consumer goods\, environmental resources\, computer technology\, and manufacturing. \nA key highlight of this session will be introducing the ‘Startup NASA’ program\, a unique initiative designed to help startups license NASA’s intellectual property for free for the first three years. \n\n\nAbout the Speakers:\n\n\nWalt Ugalde is an Economic Development and Industry Outreach Executive for NASA’s Technology Transfer & Commercialization Program. Based out of the Johnson Space Center in Houston Texas\, Walt works with businesses\, startups\, co-founders\, and Investors to help them leverage NASA developed technology for commercialization into proven products and services as well as mapping industry capabilities back into the NASA mission. Walt has served as the NASA Executive on Loan to the Houston Technology Center (HTC) connecting and advising many of the HTC client startup companies and continues to support technology innovation hubs in Texas and across the Nation.\n\n\nWalt’s private industry experience includes work within the fields of  Architecture\, Urban Planning\, Economic Development\, Marketing\, Advertising\, Publishing\, and the Motion Picture Industry. Currently\, Walt leads the Technology Transfer Expansion (T2X) and the technology Transfer University (T2U) Programs for the Johnson Space Center. \n\nFor more infromation about Walt’s work\, see below:\n\nhttps://spinoff.nasa.gov/ \nhttps://technology.nasa.gov/\n\n\n\nMontgomery B. Goforth has over 30 years of experience as both an Engineer and Manager in various highly technical space and defense-related efforts. He joined NASA in 1990 as part of the Mission Operations Directorate\, working on planning systems and automated procedure execution tools for the International Space Station (ISS). He became Deputy Project Manager for the Portable Computer System\, the laptop used for command and control of the ISS\, in 1996. He became Chief of the Branch responsible for all laptops onboard the ISS and the Space Shuttle.\n\nIn 2002\, he moved to the ISS Avionics and Software Office as Manager of the Flight Software Development Office and later served as Chief Engineer. In 2005\, he spent several months at NASA Headquarters working in the Robotics Lunar Exploration Program. In 2006\, he joined the Constellation Program as Chief of Avionics and Software Test and Verification and became Chief of the Software and Avionics Integration Office in 2007. In this role\, he was responsible for leading a large nationwide Systems Engineering & Integration (SE&I) organization which provided program-level coordination\, oversight\, integration\, and management of the system-of-systems avionics and software\, including the coordination of integrated modeling and simulation and test activities across the Constellation program and the technical integration of Constellation’s Command\, Control\, Communications\, and Information (C3I) architecture.\n\nIn 2011\, he joined the Avionic Systems Division to support their Strategic Planning and Partnership efforts. In 2015\, he moved on to Engineering Directorate Staff to support Strategic Pursuits and Partnerships. In this role\, he put together a framework to focus better Engineering’s efforts toward Human Spaceflight technology and systems development consistent with JSC and Agency goals for exploration. This framework guides Engineering’s internal investments and external partnerships supporting Lunar and Mars Exploration. Mr. Goforth was born in East Texas\, raised in Southern California and Arizona\, and graduated from Rice University (BSME 1982\, MSME 1987). Before coming to Johnson Space Center\, he was employed by a small defense contractor specializing in anti-submarine warfare.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/nasa-tech-talks-0523/
LOCATION:Ion – Forum Stairs\, 4201 Main St.\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Aerospace,Community Event,Founders & Startups,Investors & Capital
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/321A1478.jpg?ver=1723137726
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240426T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240426T203000
DTSTAMP:20240429T203343Z
CREATED:20240422T190858Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240429T203343Z
UID:10001153-1714156200-1714163400@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:NASA VR: From Columbia to Now
DESCRIPTION:Join us for an enlightening panel discussion featuring four esteemed NASA scientists who have been at the forefront of integrating virtual reality (VR) technology into space innovation over the past 43 years. Our panelists will share their unique insights and experiences\, covering a range of topics\, including the early adaptations of VR in the 1980s\, significant milestones achieved in VR technology\, and the latest advancements that are shaping the future of space exploration. \nAttendees will have the opportunity to understand how VR contributes to simulating extraterrestrial environments\, enhancing mission planning\, and facilitating complex space operations with interactive demos. \nThe event is sponsored by Ion Prototyping Lab and the Houston Chapter of the National organization\, VR/AR Association.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/nasa-vr-from-columbia-to-now/
LOCATION:Ion Prototyping Lab\, 4201 Main St.\, Suite 170\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:AR/VR,Ion Prototyping Lab
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/NASA-VRAR-Event-Large.jpeg?ver=1713812304
ORGANIZER;CN="Ion Prototyping Lab":MAILTO:ipl@ionhouston.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240425T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240425T193000
DTSTAMP:20240416T174859Z
CREATED:20240320T190129Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240416T174859Z
UID:10001111-1714068000-1714073400@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:NASA Tech Talks
DESCRIPTION:We want HOU! Join us to discover NASA’s toughest tech challenges and apply your skills and expertise to solve them.\n\n\nFeatured Program: Nutrition as Fuel for Human Space Flight \nHistory books are rife with examples of how nutrition either made\, or broke\, exploration missions on Earth. As we write the future of space exploration\, nutrition will be even more critical in ensuring crew health and safety and ultimately mission success. NASA’s Nutritional Biochemistry Laboratory supports both operational and research protocols to help ensure astronaut health before\, during\, and after flight. Ground-analog research includes head-down tilt bed rest studies\, studies of crews wintering over in Antarctica\, and an ongoing year-long Mars surface simulation study: the Crew Health and Performance Exploration Analog (CHAPEA) mission. The Nutritional Biochemistry Laboratory’s flight research has yielded findings on effects of spaceflight on vitamins\, minerals\, and hormones.\n\nThey have documented dietary effects on bone health\, and effects of oral contraceptive use on venous thromboembolism (i.e.\, blood clot) risk. A key line of research has documented that ocular changes affecting some astronauts is genetically predisposed\, and more specifically\, genetic differences which affect B vitamin requirements appears to increase the risk of these ocular changes. An experiment being conducted on the ISS right now is testing a B vitamin countermeasure. As humans move beyond low-Earth orbit nutrition will be even more important for the maintenance of crew health and ultimately for mission success. Uniting the many disciplines which comprise the human system with the engineering of spacecraft will be a significant challenge\, but daring to leave the planet demands this collaboration.\n\n\n\nAbout the Speakers: \n\nScott M. Smith leads the Nutritional Biochemistry Laboratory at NASA Johnson Space Center. This group is charged with keeping crews healthy with respect to nutrition\, including using nutrition to optimize astronaut health and safety. This work includes ground-based and spaceflight research to understand how nutrition can mitigate the risks of spaceflight.\n\nSmith has ongoing spaceflight research projects on the International Space Station. His past projects have been flown on the space station\, space shuttle\, and the Russian space station Mir. Smith has also led several ground-based research projects to better understand astronaut health in space\, including studies of vitamin D in crews in Antarctica\, studies of crews living on the bottom of the ocean\, and studying subjects spending months in bed or a year in an enclosed habitat.\n\nSmith is a member of the American Society for Nutrition\, the American Physiological Society\, and the International Academy of Astronautics. He holds a B.S. in Biology and a Ph.D. in Nutrition\, both from the Pennsylvania State University\n\nMontgomery B. Goforth has over 30 years of experience as both an Engineer and Manager in various highly technical space and defense-related efforts. He joined NASA in 1990 as part of the Mission Operations Directorate\, working on planning systems and automated procedure execution tools for the International Space Station (ISS). He became Deputy Project Manager for the Portable Computer System\, the laptop used for command and control of the ISS\, in 1996. He became Chief of the Branch responsible for all laptops onboard the ISS and the Space Shuttle. \n\n\nIn 2002\, he moved to the ISS Avionics and Software Office as Manager of the Flight Software Development Office and later served as Chief Engineer. In 2005\, he spent several months at NASA Headquarters working in the Robotics Lunar Exploration Program. In 2006\, he joined the Constellation Program as Chief of Avionics and Software Test and Verification and became Chief of the Software and Avionics Integration Office in 2007. In this role\, he was responsible for leading a large nationwide Systems Engineering & Integration (SE&I) organization which provided program-level coordination\, oversight\, integration\, and management of the system-of-systems avionics and software\, including the coordination of integrated modeling and simulation and test activities across the Constellation program and the technical integration of Constellation’s Command\, Control\, Communications\, and Information (C3I) architecture.\n In 2011\, he joined the Avionic Systems Division to support their Strategic Planning and Partnership efforts. In 2015\, he moved on to Engineering Directorate Staff to support Strategic Pursuits and Partnerships. In this role\, he put together a framework to focus better Engineering’s efforts toward Human Spaceflight technology and systems development consistent with JSC and Agency goals for exploration. This framework guides Engineering’s internal investments and external partnerships supporting Lunar and Mars Exploration.\n\n\nMr. Goforth was born in East Texas\, raised in Southern California and Arizona\, and graduated from Rice University (BSME 1982\, MSME 1987). Before coming to Johnson Space Center\, he was employed by a small defense contractor specializing in anti-submarine warfare.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/nasa-tech-talks-0425/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Aerospace,Community Event,Founders & Startups,Investors & Capital
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Angel-Investing-101-web-scaled.jpg?ver=1710959015
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240328T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240328T193000
DTSTAMP:20240327T171210Z
CREATED:20240309T201125Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240327T171210Z
UID:10001093-1711648800-1711654200@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:NASA Tech Talks
DESCRIPTION:We want HOU! Join us to discover NASA’s toughest tech challenges and apply your skills and expertise to solve them.\n\n\nFeatured Program: Keeping Humans Alive in Space \nHuman bodies change in space. Their delicate physiology requires oxygen and expires carbon dioxide. Other considerations are less obvious: invisible radiation\, muscle atrophy\, bone loss\, and more. This fascinating presentation explores the ways that habitats and spacesuits support life. \n\nProgram Partner and Moderator \nIn these presentations\, occurring on the fourth Thursday of the month\, Mr. Montgomery Goforth\, Assistant Director\, Strategic Pursuits & Partnerships – Engineering Directorate\, NASA JSC\, and other aerospace subject matter experts will discuss the technology development challenges faced by NASA’s Johnson Space Center (JSC) and the surrounding Aerospace community in our ongoing efforts as the hub of human spaceflight. Presentations will focus on how these challenges\, and the associated opportunities\, can be leveraged by Houston’s innovation community.\n\nJoin us after the talk for drinks and networking at Second Draught!\n\nNASA Tech Talks topics include dual-use (space/terrestrial) technologies and focus areas in:\n\n\n\nAvionics / Communication / Sensors\nRadio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for ultra-long-lived wireless sensors\nPower Storage and Distribution\nAutonomous & Robotics Systems\nExtra-Vehicular Activity (EVA) Systems\nVirtual/Augmented Reality in Human Spaceflight Training & Execution\nHuman Health & Performance / Human Systems Research\nNASA Intellectual Property suitable for commercialization by small/start-up companies\nOrion’s parachutes and risk identification and mitigation strategies\nLeveraging Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for ultra-long-lived wireless sensors\nFeatured speakers from Intuitive Machines and Orbital Mining Corporation\n\nAbout the Speakers: \nJulie N. Strickland\, PMP \nWith almost 20 years in the aerospace industry\, Julie N. Strickland is an experienced engineer\, program manager\, and innovator. She earned her degree in mechanical engineer so that she could facilitate space exploration. After all\, her older brothers had raised her on a steady diet of science fiction\, from Star Trek and Star Wars to Asimov and Bradbury. She is a space enthusiast to her core! \nStrickland holds five patent awards with many others in the pipeline. The book Strawberry Innovation: The Practical Guide for Innovating within a Fortune 50 Company\, which contains all the wisdom that Strickland has gathered over years of developing inventions\, will be published later this year. She is available for presentations and private workshops to teach the innovation process and to brainstorm on your toughest problems. \n\nStrawberry Innovation\nSpacesuit Engineer\, Author\, Innovator\nMaster’s degree\, Material Science & Engineering\, University of North Texas (UNT)\nBachelor of Science\, Mechanical Engineering\, University of Texas at Austin (UT)\n\nMontgomery B. Goforth has over 30 years of experience as both an Engineer and Manager in various highly technical space and defense-related efforts. He joined NASA in 1990 as part of the Mission Operations Directorate\, working on planning systems and automated procedure execution tools for the International Space Station (ISS). He became Deputy Project Manager for the Portable Computer System\, the laptop used for command and control of the ISS\, in 1996. He became Chief of the Branch responsible for all laptops onboard the ISS and the Space Shuttle. \n\n\nIn 2002\, he moved to the ISS Avionics and Software Office as Manager of the Flight Software Development Office and later served as Chief Engineer. In 2005\, he spent several months at NASA Headquarters working in the Robotics Lunar Exploration Program. In 2006\, he joined the Constellation Program as Chief of Avionics and Software Test and Verification and became Chief of the Software and Avionics Integration Office in 2007. In this role\, he was responsible for leading a large nationwide Systems Engineering & Integration (SE&I) organization which provided program-level coordination\, oversight\, integration\, and management of the system-of-systems avionics and software\, including the coordination of integrated modeling and simulation and test activities across the Constellation program and the technical integration of Constellation’s Command\, Control\, Communications\, and Information (C3I) architecture.\n In 2011\, he joined the Avionic Systems Division to support their Strategic Planning and Partnership efforts. In 2015\, he moved on to Engineering Directorate Staff to support Strategic Pursuits and Partnerships. In this role\, he put together a framework to focus better Engineering’s efforts toward Human Spaceflight technology and systems development consistent with JSC and Agency goals for exploration. This framework guides Engineering’s internal investments and external partnerships supporting Lunar and Mars Exploration.\n\n\nMr. Goforth was born in East Texas\, raised in Southern California and Arizona\, and graduated from Rice University (BSME 1982\, MSME 1987). Before coming to Johnson Space Center\, he was employed by a small defense contractor specializing in anti-submarine warfare.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/nasa-tech-talks-0328/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Academic Network,Aerospace,Corporate Innovators,Founders & Startups,General Community,Investors & Capital,Networking
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240314T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240314T130000
DTSTAMP:20240312T144247Z
CREATED:20240312T140231Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240312T144247Z
UID:10001094-1710417600-1710421200@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:IPL Presents: Product Readiness and Minimum Viable Product
DESCRIPTION:Join us at the Ion Prototyping Lab for an exclusive Lunch & Learn by Jim O’Sullivan from SCORE. \nTechnology Readiness Level was first coined by NASA to quantify the progression of new technologies from laboratory to viable commercial products. In this Lunch & Learn we explain how this system can be applied most effectively to new startups.  And we add to that the concept of Customer Readiness to more accurately reflect the point on the technology adoption curve it currently resides. \nLunch will be provided for those who register. \nReserve your spot now!
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/ipl-presents-mvp-lunch-and-learn/
LOCATION:Ion Prototyping Lab\, 4201 Main St.\, Suite 170\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
ORGANIZER;CN="Ion Prototyping Lab":MAILTO:ipl@ionhouston.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240226T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240226T113000
DTSTAMP:20240209T154454Z
CREATED:20240201T213932Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240209T154454Z
UID:10001014-1708939800-1708947000@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Blackstreet  x  Visionary Voices: Exploring Frontiers with Dr. Bernard Harris Jr.
DESCRIPTION:Celebrate Black History Month with a special installment of Ion’s “Visionary Voices” speaker series featuring Dr. Bernard Harris Jr.\, a NASA astronaut and first African American to walk in space\, founder\, CEO\, philanthropist\, and venture capitalist. Together\, we’ll dive into Dr. Harris’ remarkable life and experiences with a riveting fireside chat hosted by Rice University President Reginald DesRoches. \nPrepare to be captivated as we delve into the depths of Dr. Harris’ groundbreaking achievements\, from historic spacewalks to transformative contributions in healthcare innovation and STEM education. \nRegistration is free and open while space permits. We hope you’ll join us for this ‘once in a blue moon’ opportunity that promises to ignite your imagination and inspire you to break your own frontiers. \nAgenda:  \n9:30 a.m. – Check-in \n9:30 – 10:30 a.m. – Networking breakfast \n10:30 – 11:30 a.m. – Fireside chat on the Ion Forum Stairs\, moderated by Rice University President Reginald DesRoches \nDr. Bernard Harris Jr.  \nDr. Harris was at NASA for ten years\, where he conducted research in musculoskeletal physiology and clinical investigations of space adaptation and developed in-flight medical devices to extend Astronaut stays in space.  A veteran astronaut for over twenty years\, he has logged more than 438 hours and traveled over 7.2 million miles in space\, and became the first African American to walk in space through the join Russian-American Space Program in 1995. \nDr. Harris is currently Chief Executive Officer and Managing Partner of Vesalius Ventures\, Inc.\, a venture capital firm\, that invests in early-to mid-stage healthcare technologies and companies. He is also the Founder of the Harris Foundation\, a non-profit organization that supports math/science education and crime prevention programs for America’s youth. \nHe earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Houston\, a Master of Medical Science from the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston\, a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Houston and a Doctorate of Medicine from Texas Tech University School of Medicine.  He completed a Residency in Internal Medicine at the Mayo Clinic\, a National Research Council Fellowship in Endocrinology at the NASA Ames Research Center and trained as a Flight Surgeon at the Aerospace School of Medicine\, Brooks Air Force Base. He is also a licensed private pilot and certified scuba diver. \nDr. Harris is the author of “Dream Walker: A Journey of Achievement and Inspiration.” His goals in life have been achieved through self-empowerment and self-determination.  He believes that education and effort will allow anyone to meet any challenge in life\, inspiring others to reaches for the stars. \n 
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/visionary-voices-exploring-frontiers-with-dr-bernard-harris-jr/
LOCATION:Ion – Forum Stairs\, 4201 Main St.\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Aerospace,All Communities,Blackstreet,Community Event,Human Performance,MedTech/HealthTech,Networking
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240222T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240222T193000
DTSTAMP:20240217T182902Z
CREATED:20240208T193000Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240217T182902Z
UID:10001029-1708624800-1708630200@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:NASA Tech Talks
DESCRIPTION:We want HOU! Join us to discover NASA’s toughest tech challenges and apply your skills and expertise to solve them.\n\nFeatured Program:\n\nJSC R5: Developing a low-cost on-orbit technology demonstration and free-flying inspection platform \nThe R5 Project is pioneering a new lean approach to small spacecraft missions to quickly and cheaply demonstrate technologies\, mission concepts\, and more.  The cost to orbit for small spacecraft has dropped dramatically over the last decade.  This has enabled new\, higher-risk missions.  These missions can accelerate immature technologies to on-orbit demonstrations\, enabling them to be infused more quickly and cheaply into larger missions.  This presentation will briefly overview the evolution of small spacecraft at JSC\, the exploration of this new approach\, and the future it might enable. \nSam Pedrotty \nSam works in the GNC Autonomous Flight Systems Branch at Johnson Space Center.  Sam has worked on various projects\, including Morpheus/ALHAT\, Commercial Crew\, Orion\, and Seeker.  Sam is currently the Project Manager for the R5 Project\, which endeavors to pioneer faster and lower-cost capabilities for technology demonstration in LEO.  Sam is also the Chief Engineer for the SPLICE Project\, which is focused on closing gaps in precision landing and hazard avoidance capabilities with a near-term focus on lunar applications.  Sam would love to connect with you to explore collaborations related to precision landing and hazard avoidance\, in-space inspection\, vision-based navigation\, mid-lift-to-drag ratio rigid-body entry vehicles\, expanding the use of COTS components in space\, and more. \n\nProgram Partner and Moderator \nIn these presentations\, occurring on the fourth Thursday of the month\, Mr. Montgomery Goforth\, Assistant Director\, Strategic Pursuits & Partnerships – Engineering Directorate\, NASA JSC\, and other aerospace subject matter experts will discuss the technology development challenges faced by NASA’s Johnson Space Center (JSC) and the surrounding Aerospace community in our ongoing efforts as the hub of human spaceflight. Presentations will focus on how these challenges\, and the associated opportunities\, can be leveraged by Houston’s innovation community.\n\nJoin us after the talk for drinks and networking at Second Draught!\n\nNASA Tech Talks topics include dual-use (space/terrestrial) technologies and focus areas in:\n\n\n\nAvionics / Communication / Sensors\nRadio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for ultra-long-lived wireless sensors\nPower Storage and Distribution\nAutonomous & Robotics Systems\nExtra-Vehicular Activity (EVA) Systems\nVirtual/Augmented Reality in Human Spaceflight Training & Execution\nHuman Health & Performance / Human Systems Research\nNASA Intellectual Property suitable for commercialization by small/start-up companies\nOrion’s parachutes and risk identification and mitigation strategies\nLeveraging Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for ultra-long-lived wireless sensors\nFeatured speakers from Intuitive Machines and Orbital Mining Corporation\n\nAbout the Speakers: \nMontgomery B. Goforth has over 30 years of experience as both an Engineer and Manager in various highly technical space and defense-related efforts. He joined NASA in 1990 as part of the Mission Operations Directorate\, working on planning systems and automated procedure execution tools for the International Space Station (ISS). He became Deputy Project Manager for the Portable Computer System\, the laptop used for command and control of the ISS\, in 1996. He became Chief of the Branch responsible for all laptops onboard the ISS and the Space Shuttle. \n\n\nIn 2002\, he moved to the ISS Avionics and Software Office as Manager of the Flight Software Development Office and later served as Chief Engineer. In 2005\, he spent several months at NASA Headquarters working in the Robotics Lunar Exploration Program. In 2006\, he joined the Constellation Program as Chief of Avionics and Software Test and Verification and became Chief of the Software and Avionics Integration Office in 2007. In this role\, he was responsible for leading a large nationwide Systems Engineering & Integration (SE&I) organization which provided program-level coordination\, oversight\, integration\, and management of the system-of-systems avionics and software\, including the coordination of integrated modeling and simulation and test activities across the Constellation program and the technical integration of Constellation’s Command\, Control\, Communications\, and Information (C3I) architecture.\n In 2011\, he joined the Avionic Systems Division to support their Strategic Planning and Partnership efforts. In 2015\, he moved on to Engineering Directorate Staff to support Strategic Pursuits and Partnerships. In this role\, he put together a framework to focus better Engineering’s efforts toward Human Spaceflight technology and systems development consistent with JSC and Agency goals for exploration. This framework guides Engineering’s internal investments and external partnerships supporting Lunar and Mars Exploration.\n\nMr. Goforth was born in East Texas\, raised in Southern California and Arizona\, and graduated from Rice University (BSME 1982\, MSME 1987). Before coming to Johnson Space Center\, he was employed by a small defense contractor specializing in anti-submarine warfare.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/nasa-tech-talks-4/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Academic Network,Aerospace,Corporate Innovators,Founders & Startups,General Community,Investors & Capital,Networking
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Forum-Stairs-2.jpg?ver=1679659860
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240125T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240125T193000
DTSTAMP:20240117T202932Z
CREATED:20231218T200607Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240117T202932Z
UID:10000713-1706205600-1706211000@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:NASA Tech Talks
DESCRIPTION:We want HOU! Join us to discover NASA’s toughest tech challenges and apply your skills and expertise to solve them.\n\nIn these presentations\, occurring on the fourth Thursday of the month\, Mr. Montgomery Goforth\, Assistant Director\, Strategic Pursuits & Partnerships – Engineering Directorate\, NASA JSC\, and other aerospace subject matter experts will discuss the technology development challenges faced by NASA’s Johnson Space Center (JSC) and the surrounding Aerospace community in our ongoing efforts as the hub of human spaceflight. Presentations will focus on how these challenges\, and the associated opportunities\, can be leveraged by Houston’s innovation community.\n\nJoin us after the talk for drinks and networking at Second Draught!\n\nNASA Tech Talks topics include dual-use (space/terrestrial) technologies and focus areas in:\n\n\n\nAvionics / Communication / Sensors\nRadio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for ultra-long-lived wireless sensors\nPower Storage and Distribution\nAutonomous & Robotics Systems\nExtra-Vehicular Activity (EVA) Systems\nVirtual/Augmented Reality in Human Spaceflight Training & Execution\nHuman Health & Performance / Human Systems Research\nNASA Intellectual Property suitable for commercialization by small/start-up companies\nOrion’s parachutes and risk identification and mitigation strategies\nLeveraging Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for ultra-long-lived wireless sensors\nFeatured speakers from Intuitive Machines and Orbital Mining Corporation\n\nAbout the Speakers: \nMontgomery B. Goforth has over 30 years of experience as both an Engineer and Manager in various highly technical space and defense-related efforts. He joined NASA in 1990 as part of the Mission Operations Directorate\, working on planning systems and automated procedure execution tools for the International Space Station (ISS). He became Deputy Project Manager for the Portable Computer System\, the laptop used for command and control of the ISS\, in 1996. He became Chief of the Branch responsible for all laptops onboard the ISS and the Space Shuttle. \n\n\nIn 2002 he moved to the ISS Avionics and Software Office as Manager of the Flight Software Development Office and later served as Chief Engineer. In 2005\, he spent several months at NASA Headquarters working in the Robotics Lunar Exploration Program. In 2006\, he joined the Constellation Program as Chief of Avionics and Software Test and Verification and became Chief of the Software and Avionics Integration Office in 2007. In this role\, he was responsible for leading a large nationwide Systems Engineering & Integration (SE&I) organization which provided program-level coordination\, oversight\, integration\, and management of the system-of-systems avionics and software\, including the coordination of integrated modeling and simulation and test activities across the Constellation program and the technical integration of Constellation’s Command\, Control\, Communications\, and Information (C3I) architecture.\n\n In 2011 he joined the Avionic Systems Division to support their Strategic Planning and Partnership efforts. In 2015\, he moved on to Engineering Directorate Staff to support Strategic Pursuits and Partnerships. In this role\, he put together a framework to focus better Engineering’s efforts toward Human Spaceflight technology and systems development consistent with JSC and Agency goals for exploration. This framework guides Engineering’s internal investments and external partnerships supporting Lunar and Mars Exploration.\n\n Mr. Goforth was born in East Texas\, raised in Southern California and Arizona\, and graduated from Rice University (BSME 1982\, MSME 1987). Before coming to Johnson Space Center\, he was employed by a small defense contractor specializing in anti-submarine warfare.\n\n\nFor January’s NASA Tech Talk\, we are featuring the following technology development efforts underway at NASA JSC: \n\nDisruptive Filter Technology for Spacecraft Water Treatment:  The New Promise of Graphene – Michael Callahan\nFull Lunar Surface Visualization and Simulation Platform – Terry Mayes\nLunar dust capture using novel multiplexed inertial filter – John Graf\nImproved Breathing Cartridge – Lawrence Barrett\nLunar Passive Fuel Cell Technologies: Evaporator Element + Fluid Polishing Element – Thomas Cognata\nDeveloping Health Assessment Methods for Metallic Components Using Acoustic Emission Testing – Steven Garcia\, Sonus Consulting\, LLC.\nLunar Surface Position Determination using Perceived Signal Strength – Michael Evans
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/nasa-tech-talks-3/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Aerospace,Founders & Startups,General Community
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Forum-Stairs-2.jpg?ver=1679659860
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END:VCALENDAR