Going Further: The Future of Human Spaceflight in 2040

September 7, 2023
Speaker: Nick Skytland

Humans are driven to explore the unknown, discover new worlds, push the boundaries of our scientific and technical limits, and simply go further. This innate curiosity and ambition has propelled us through centuries of exploration, from our first steps on the Moon to the work we are doing today to extend human presence across the solar system. Where will our relentless pursuit of discovery lead us in the year 2040? Join me as we consider the future of human spaceflight together.

Nick Skytland is the Chief Technologist at at NASA Johnson Space Center and also the Director of the Business Development and Technology Integration Office where he is focused on helping NASA return to the Moon through technology development, technology transfer, and strategic partnerships. Throughout his career, he has trained astronauts, designed next-generation spacesuits, developed open-source technology, led missional movements, and created some of the largest purpose-driven collaborations in history. He is well known for launching and leading successful cutting-edge initiatives such as the Random Hacks of Kindness, the International Space Apps Challenge, and the National Day of Civic Hacking. Nick also advises organizations on how to navigate the future by developing forward-leaning strategies, convening communities, and developing missional technology. He is a passionate leader who has pioneered new ways of doing business in both government and industry for decades. His best work is done at the intersection of technologists, change-makers and explorers.