Bringing together the best in the galaxy.
Alpha BTX & ATX guides will be present to support camp.
* guest speakers subject to change
DIANE WARD
Chief Strategy Officer Launchpad23
Diane Ward is an innovation educator specializing in emerging technologies. She directs teacher training for the WNY Invention Convention, chairs several educational conferences, and teaches STEAM in various programs. Ward authored a textbook on RFID and mentors students at the University of Buffalo’s Launchpad startup center. As Chief Strategy Officer at Launchpad23, she fosters students' critical thinking skills and enjoys guiding them through STEAM challenges.
ALYSSA CARSON
Astrobiologist PhD Student
Alyssa Carson, an astrobiology student aiming to become an astronaut for Mars missions, has been recognized as an unofficial astronaut-in-training since her participation in the 2013 NASA MER 10 panel.
Gaining media attention and receiving applied astronautics certification at 17, Carson is active in promoting STEM for girls and women. In 2022, she was chosen as one of five global influencers by NATO and became the youngest full member of The Explorers Club, highlighting her influence and dedication to space exploration and gender equality in STEM.
MARK WAGNER, Ph.D.
Founder, ARES Learning
Dr. Mark Wagner is co-founder of ARES Learning, a public benefit corporation dedicated to preparing students for humanity’s future in space. He serves as the Director of Education Partnerships at the Aldrin Family Foundation, which is focused on inspiring the next generation of space explorers, and in a similar role with Slooh, which provides a platform for students to schedule time on telescopes around the world. He is the author of Space Education: Preparing Students for Humanity’s Multi-Planet Future (2022), exploring the opportunities on Earth and possibilities for teaching students on the Moon, on Mars, and in deep space habitats.
KIRBY RUNYON
Planetary Geologist
With a PhD in planetary geology, Kirby Runyon is known for his research on planetary surfaces and his dedication to public science education.
His work extends beyond academia into engaging the public with space science, leading exploratory groups, participating in space podcasts, and conducting tours at the Kennedy Space Center. Runyon's enthusiasm and ability to make space science relatable have made him a prominent figure in fostering an "Outer Space Lifestyle" and inspiring space curiosity among all ages.
DR FRANCK MARCHIS
Planetary Astronomer
Dr. Franck Marchis, renowned for discovering the first triple-asteroid system and direct imaging of a Jupiter-like exoplanet, is a senior astronomer at SETI and CSO of Unistellar. His contributions span over 400 publications and the founding of Dope Space, earning him a California Academy of Sciences fellowship.