Rising Stars

Early Career Perspectives

Rising Stars Location

Breakout 5

Date and Time
Friday, June 5, 2:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

This session is a dedicated platform for undergraduate and graduate students, as well as early-career professionals (with five years or less of work experience) to showcase their research, innovative projects, and contributions to the space sector. 

Rising Stars will feature presentations focused on space-related themes, highlighting the next generation of space talent and their impact on advancing space exploration and settlement. Participants will present their work to a diverse audience that includes industry leaders, space enthusiasts, and fellow students, offering invaluable opportunities for exposure, networking, and professional growth. 

By partnering with organizations such as Students for the Exploration and Development of Space (SEDS), the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation (ASF), and the World Innovation Network (WIN), we aim to promote this track widely, attract exceptional presenters, and enhance participation across the broader ISDC audience. This session underscores our commitment to supporting the development of emerging space professionals, fostering connections, and showcasing the innovative contributions of the next generation. 

Attendees of this session will witness a wide array of topics including, but not limited to, satellite technology, space habitat design, lunar and Martian resource utilization, and innovative propulsion methods. Each presentation will be meticulously curated to ensure relevance, technical rigor, and originality, providing an engaging and educational experience for all attendees. 

The Rising Stars: Collegiate and Early Career Perspectives session is an essential forum for celebrating and advancing the work of the next generation of space innovators and professionals. Join us in supporting these talented individuals as they contribute to the future of space exploration and settlement. 

Rising Stars

Session Chair Info

Burt Dicht

National Space Society Director of Membership

Burt Dicht has dedicated his career to advancing STEM education and inspiring the next generation of engineers, scientists, and space innovators. As the National Space Society (NSS) Managing Director of Membership and Office Manager at the Kennedy Space Center, he actively promotes NSS membership and student engagement, ensuring that young people see space exploration as a tangible and exciting career path. Before joining NSS, Dicht served as the Director of Read More


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