Upcoming Events and Activities

Space Ethics: Panel Discussion on Space Habitation

Wednesday, Feb. 11, 6 - 7 P.M. in Honors Hall HCRN 1066

Join us for this panel discussion exploring ethical questions surrounding space habitation with three leading experts in industry, policy, and academia. Panelists Diane Howard, DCL, L.L.M. (former Director, Commercial Space Policy at National Space Council), Janet Kavandi, Ph.D. (former NASA astronaut, former President of Sierra Space, and former Director of Glenn Research Center.) and astrophysicist Erika Nesvold, Ph.D. (Cofounder of JustSpace Alliance and author of “Off-Earth”) are guests of the Amelia Earhart Leadership for Space Careers program and the Space Ethics Research Group. This event is part of the JMHC Space Ethics Symposium, open to the Purdue community and free of charge.

Space Ethics: Ask Me Anything with Erika Nesvold

Wednesday, Feb. 11, 1:30 - 2:20 P.M., Innovation Forum, HCRN 1055 

Astrophysicist Erika Nesvold co-founded the JustSpace Alliance in 2018 to advocate for a more inclusive and ethical future in space, and to harness visions of tomorrow for a more just and equitable world today. Her book Off-Earth: Ethical Questions and Quandaries for Living in Outer Space and podcast Making New Worlds explore a range of ethical questions that is as vast as space itself. Show up with Dr. Nesvold as she fields questions and discusses any thoughts during this Ask Me Anything session for Purdue students. This event is part of the JMHC Space Ethics Symposium.  

RSVP optional but helpful for this AMA session: https://purdue.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9BwMbuKLZW149gy

Space Ethics Workshop: Nuclear Power Challenges for Lunar Surface Operations

Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2:30 - 3:20 P.M. 

In this workshop, senior leaders draw from deep experience in the space industry and government to discuss exploring nuclear power challenges for lunar surface operations and the ethical questions involved. Up to 20 students will examine technical solutions for continuous energy, ethical and regulatory issues, and practical deployment strategies. Interactive discussions will address enabling sustainable lunar habitation, combining nuclear and solar power in supporting future lunar missions. Readings will be sent to participants one week before the workshop. 

Students will be notified if they are admitted or placed on a waitlist. Admitted students will receive the workshop location and readings one week before the workshop.

RSVP required, deadline: Monday, January 26 https://purdue.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3aTRBK8bUuJH4lo 

Instructors: Diane Howard, DCL, L.L.M, Former Director, Commercial Space Policy at National Space Council; Janet Kavandi, PhD, Former NASA Astronaut and President of Sierra Space  

Learning Objectives: 

1. Analyze the technical and operational requirements for providing reliable power on the lunar surface, with a focus on nuclear technologies. 
2. Evaluate ethical, regulatory, and policy frameworks governing lunar energy deployment, including international agreements and national oversight. 
3. Develop interdisciplinary strategies addressing engineering, safety, and governance challenges for sustainable lunar habitation. 

Discussion Questions: 

1. What are the main challenges of sustaining power on the lunar surface, and how does nuclear energy compare to alternatives such as solar? 
2. What safety, ethical, and regulatory concerns arise with deploying nuclear power on the Moon, and how might these be addressed through policy and design? 
3. How can collaboration (engineering, policy, ethics) enhance solutions for lunar power? 
4. What future innovations or technologies could transform how energy is managed for lunar or deep-space bases?