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Seminar: Building an In-Space Circular Economy

Circular Space Economy
Credit: NOAA Office of Space Commerce

Weather Notice: Update – 2/12/2025 at 3:30pm EST

We’re excited to confirm that the ISAM Seminar is still scheduled as planned! Should any weather-related changes occur, we will update this page immediately and send an email to all registered attendees.  Please contact Dianne Poster (dianne.poster [at] noaa.gov (dianne[dot]poster[at]nist[dot]gov)) or Carolyn Pace (carolyn.pace [at] noaa.gov (carolyn[dot]pace[at]noaa[dot]gov)) for further information. 

The deadline for registration for in-person attendance for foreign nationals has passed.  At this time, only virtual attendance is available for foreign nationals.

The NOAA Office of Space Commerce and NIST are hosting an event to explore the circular space economy. This innovative approach aims to utilize space-based resources sustainably by minimizing waste and maximizing the reuse and recycling of materials in space operations. As humanity expands its presence beyond Earth, this model becomes vital for reducing the need for costly resupply missions and mitigating the environmental impact of space activities.

By rethinking how resources are extracted, processed, and reused in orbit, a circular space economy can enhance mission longevity and improve the efficiency of various space missions, including space station utilization, in-space manufacturing, satellite servicing, and establishing off-world habitats. This approach supports broader sustainability goals on Earth and addresses urgent challenges like orbital debris and resource scarcity, ensuring a responsible and thriving space industry for future generations.

Attending this event is a crucial opportunity for policymakers, industry leaders, researchers, and entrepreneurs to engage in shaping the future of space sustainability. The event will showcase cutting-edge advancements, including in-orbit recycling technologies, sustainable satellite manufacturing practices, and innovative policies for managing shared space resources. It provides a platform for collaboration on scalable solutions, sharing ideas, and forging partnerships that drive economic growth and environmental stewardship in the growing space sector. Participants will gain valuable insights into how the circular space economy can tackle critical challenges, unlocking new opportunities for economic resilience and long-term sustainability in the final frontier.

Opening Remarks by Event Chairs 
Dianne Poster, Senior Advisor, Material Measurement Laboratory, NIST, NOAA Office of Space Commerce
Carolyn Pace, Executive Officer, Policy, Advocacy, and International Division, NOAA Office of Space Commerce
9:30 AM – 9:35 AM
Keynote – Government LEGOS: Building a Supportive Policy Framework for In-space Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing
Gabriel W. Swiney, Director, Policy, Advocacy, and International Division, NOAA Office of Space Commerce
9:35 AM – 9:55 AM
Roundtable – The Circular Economy in Space
Moderator: Rob MacPherson, Rogue Space Systems Corporation
John Roth, University of New Hampshire
Joe Pawelski, Cislunar Industries
Matt Cunningham, Lenuexus space
Olivia Gámez Holzhaus , Rhodium Scientific 
9:55 AM – 10:45 AM
Break10:45 AM – 10:55 AM
Moderated Panel - Emerging Technologies for the In-Space Circular Economy
Each participant will provide lightning presentations followed by a moderated discussion with speakers. 
Andrew Iams, NIST, Discussion Leader
David Barnhart, Arkisys 
Andrew Parlock, Space Phoenix
Bernie Kelm, Naval Center For Space Technology
Rick Rasansky, XCMR
Scott Zweibel, Stoke Space
10:55 AM – 11:25 AM
Moderated Panel – Recycling and Life Cycle Management
Moderator: Jeff Burton, NOAA Office of Space Commerce
Kyle Cybul, Clean Orbit Foundation
Edward Tate, Virtus Solis
Kelsea Schumacher, NIST 
11:25 AM – 12:00 pm
Special Presentation – National LEO Science and Technology Strategy Updates
Christie Cox, International Space Station Division Utilization Manager, NASA Headquarters
12:00 PM – 12:10 PM
Closing Keynote –  Industry Perspectives & Looking Ahead
Jon Beam, Rogue Space
12:10 PM - 12:30 PM
Wrap-Up and Closing Remarks
Dianne Poster and Carolyn Pace
12:30 PM
Created January 12, 2025, Updated February 12, 2025