Meet the Space Conference Speakers at ISDC 2026
A space conference like ISDC is powered by its speakers — innovators, astronauts, scientists, and advocates who inspire, educate, and expand what seems possible. At ISDC 2026, the lineup of speakers promises to raise the bar, bringing together visionaries from across academia, private sector, and government. This post highlights some of those leading voices, what they bring to the table, and why they make ISDC a can’t-miss event.
What Makes ISDC 2026 Speakers Special
Depth & Diversity of Expertise
The ISDC speaker roster spans a wide variety of disciplines — ranging from planetary science and astronautics to space policy, medical research, exploration advocacy, and even public engagement. For example:
- Dr. Pascal Lee, planetary scientist and co‐founder of the Mars Institute, bringing insights into the next phases of Mars exploration.
- Rod Pyle, editor and broadcaster, someone whose storytelling connects enthusiasts and experts alike.
- Nancy C. Wolfson, representing professional societies (AIAA) with perspectives on how engineering, policy, and education intertwine in space development.
Astronauts & Explorers in the Lineup
ISDC 2026 features speakers who have literally been there — from spaceflight veterans to modern explorers pushing boundaries in aerospace. It’s a chance to hear first‐hand what it takes to live, work, and pioneer in space.
Innovation, Visibility & Next Gen Voices
Alongside established leaders, ISDC includes emerging talent, educators, students, and professionals leading new solutions. These voices help bridge current challenges (sustainability, propulsion, space settlement) with what’s next. (isdc.nss.org)
Top Must‑Hear ISDC Speakers in 2026
Here are some featured speakers who stand out for their impact and vision:
- Dr. Pascal Lee – Planetary Scientist, Mars Institute
- Rod Pyle – Editor, Author, Broadcaster
- Nancy C. Wolfson – Representative, AIAA
- Stevan Akerley – Space Ambassadors Program Director, a voice in outreach & education.
- Dr. Sherry Bell – Dean of Psychology, bringing interdisciplinary views that link human psychology with space exploration and settlement. (isdc.nss.org)
How These Speakers Shape the ISDC Space Conference Experience
Inspiring Keynotes and Panels
Speakers at ISDC do more than give talks — they challenge assumptions, present breakthrough research, and set the tone for discussions around exploration, policy, technology, and humanity’s future in space.
Mentorship and Learning Opportunities
Attendees can learn from both established figures and rising stars. Sessions with astronauts and scientists are balanced by panels on education, policy, business, and space advocacy — making ISDC especially rich for a wide audience.
Building Networks & Partnerships
The diverse speaker pool offers opportunity not just to listen, but to connect. Institutional leaders, space industry entrepreneurs, non‐profit advocates, and students will all be present — enabling collaborations that can outlast the conference itself.
Making the Most of ISDC’s Speaker Lineup
- Review the full speaker roster in advance and plan which talks are must‐see. ISDC has dozens of speakers spread across many tracks and topics.
- Take advantage of Q&A and social/networking sessions — these bring added value beyond the presentations.
- For students and newcomers, check out sessions led by emerging voices or panels focused on education, science communication, and the future of space development.
- Follow up after ISDC: speakers often share slides, videos, and additional resources — great for reinforcing what was learned.
Why ISDC’s Speakers Make This Space Conference Unmissable
When the people on stage are leaders in space science, policy, exploration, and education, the whole conference becomes a source of inspiration and practical knowledge. For ISDC, this means hearing from folks who are shaping space exploration today and tomorrow. It’s an opportunity to witness—and take part in—the bigger picture: pushing humanity forward in space.
→ Connect with ISDC today to learn more about speakers, sessions, and how you can get involved in this space conference experience!
