Conference Will Focus Focusing On Space & Innovation In The State

Registration is now open for the inaugural Michigan Space Forum planned for June 8, 2018 at Northwestern Michigan College, in Traverse City, Michigan.

The event, presented by Atlas Space Operations, will host more than 20 prominent speakers and panelists from the space and tech industries, including entrepreneurs, aerospace engineers, and business leaders. Headlining the event as Keynote Speaker is Jim Cantrell, who will speak on a new model for space launch, likening rockets to racecars. Cantrell has a distinguished pedigree of space entrepreneurship. In addition to being the co-founder and CEO of Vector Launch, his distinguished career also includes co-founding SpaceX as well as Moon Express.

"It will be an opportunity for key figures in our industry [Space] to identify and discuss the trending innovations and emerging technologies that are setting the pace and shaping the direction of growth in the various segments,” said Atlas CEO, Sean McDaniel. “The amount of support and enthusiasm we [Atlas] received since our relocation here [Traverse City] has been truly inspiring. It’s clear the growing space industry is a true benefit for the state of Michigan, and we felt strongly about providing a showcase opportunity here.

"We’ve received lots of positive support for this event, from potential speakers, panelists, and sponsors – all eager to participate,” said Atlas’ Chief Strategy Officer, Mike Carey. “The speakers and panelists we’re booking for Michigan Space [Forum] collectively represent much of the excitement and innovation that’s responsible for the rapid growth in today’s space industry.”

In addition to the keynote speaker, panel discussions scheduled for the Michigan Space Forum include the development of future space entrepreneurs; vehicle diversity in the launch segment; technologies used for viewing the Earth from space; the Internet of Things (IoT) and how data acquired from space is shaping the future; and the advancement of Michigan’s Space Industry.

Other speakers and panelist for the Forum include industry leaders representing Virgin Orbit, Boreal Space, PlanetIQ and many others. Also participating in panels will be leaders from New Zealand based Rocket Lab and Venture Southland. Educational leaders from the University of Michigan and Michigan Technological University will also be taking part in the showcase.

(Source: Atlas Space Operations news release)

FMI: www.michiganspaceforum.com