Human Spaceflight: An Evolving Process
From very early times, individuals and cultures dreamt first of human flight, and then space flight, which ultimately contributed to the Apollo 11 Moon landing. The Apollo landings, in turn, were inspirational for many, including some who ended up becoming astronauts. Human spaceflight further evolved during the Space Shuttle, Mir, and ISS programs. More recently, the development of commercial spacecraft led to the rise of Commercial Astronauts, Research Astronauts, and Scientist Astronauts. Human spaceflight has evolved, and is currently evolving, in ways that will expand human presence in space and afford scientific, research, engineering, and commercial opportunities.
Join our special guest, Commercial Astronaut Richard Blakeman, as he takes us through a journey from human’s early flight aspirations, through the more “traditional” routes to space, (such as the typical NASA astronaut selection process,) and finally to the latest developments in the area of human spaceflight.
Originally from Denver, Colorado, Richard Blakeman is a professional Airline Captain (retired), Flight Systems Instructor, Aerospace Research Pilot, Scientist, Engineer, Spaceflight Researcher, and AIAA member. He holds a B.S. in Aerospace Science, turbojet systems engineering/meteorology minor; an M.S. in Aeronautical Sciences, and is currently working on a Ph.D. in Human Spaceflight Engineering/Human Factors. He has completed the FAA-approved Suborbital Scientist Astronaut Training Program at the National Aerospace Training and Research Center (NASTAR). Additionally, he has completed the Scientist Astronaut Training Program through the International Institute for Astronautical Sciences (IIAS) and has been active in human spaceflight research, development, testing, and mission operations since the organization’s founding in 2015. Captain Blakeman served as the Executive Officer and Crew Engineer of the Crew 192 Mars analog mission at the Mars Desert Research Station (MDRS). Captain Blakeman is a rated Command Pilot with nearly 19,000 hours of flight experience, Airline Transport Pilot, Flight Engineer, Military Aviator, and Military Parachutist. Operational experience includes: search and rescue, reconnaissance, survey, experimental research and test missions flown for numerous military and government agencies. Professional interests include: Aerospace sciences/engineering; astronaut/pilot crew operations and training; and STEAM education programs.
6:00 Doors open, networking
6:15 Food arrives
6:30 Presentation begins
7:15 Q&A
7:30 Event ends
(All times approximate)
Advance registration required! Refreshments (pizza, sandwiches, drinks) will be served at the presentation for paid attendees only. Food tickets must be purchased before noon on the event day.