Bringing together the best in the galaxy.
Alpha BTX & ATX guides will be present to support camp.
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.
SIAN PROCTOR
Geoscience Professor & Astronaut
Sian Hayley Proctor is a geology professor, pilot, and spaceflight participant, known for her role in the Inspiration 4 Space Mission in 2021 to benefit St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. With degrees in Environmental Science and Geology, and a PhD in Science Education from Arizona State University, Proctor has made significant contributions to science education and exploration.
A finalist in the 2009 NASA Astronaut Selection Process, she has appeared on science TV programs, earned her pilot's license, and participated in analog space missions to simulate life in outer space. Proctor is also an international motivational speaker, inspiring others in STEM fields.
MARK ROBER
Former NASA Engineer
Former NASA engineer and inventor, Mark Rober, is widely recognized for his engaging YouTube videos on science and DIY gadgets.
With a background that includes seven years on NASA's Curiosity rover team and a stint at Apple designing VR for self-driving cars, Rober founded CrunchLabs in 2022. This educational technology venture offers hands-on STEM learning experiences and a subscription service for young inventors, showcasing his commitment to making science accessible and fun.
TRUDI HOOGENBOOM
Planetary Scientist
Dr. Trudi Hoogenboom, a Planetary Scientist with a Ph.D. in Geophysics, has contributed significantly to space exploration and education. Her extensive background includes research at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and teaching at Ad Astra/Astra Nova, a school co-founded by Elon Musk.
There, she empowers students globally to engage in cutting-edge space research, such as asteroid discovery, AI-based lunar crater detection, and Martian glacier mapping. Her team's discoveries of previously unidentified asteroids have earned them recognition and naming rights from NASA's Minor Planet Center.
JIM GREEN
Former NASA Director
Dr. Jim Green's career at NASA began in 1980, where he significantly contributed to space physics, including developing the Space Physics Analysis Network at Marshall Space Flight Center. Leading the National Space Science Data Center and other key roles at Goddard Space Flight Center, he contributed to the IMAGE mission and authored numerous scientific and technical articles.
As Director of the Planetary Science Division since 2006, Green oversaw the launch and success of several major missions, such as New Horizons to Pluto and the Mars Science Laboratory with the Curiosity rover.
JEFF WILSON
Brilliant Labs Founder
Jeff Willson is an educator, a maker, and a lifelong learner. As Executive Director of Brilliant Labs, a not-for-profit technology and experiential learning platform based in Atlantic Canada.
He promotes STEAM and Maker education by supporting students and educators throughout the Maritime provinces with project-based learning and developing Makerspaces for K-12 schools. He believes in collective impact, learning by doing, and finding innovative ways of integrating hands-on technology within classrooms and curriculum.
HERIBERTO REYNOSO
Reybotics Founder
Heriberto Reynoso, CEO of Reybotics, transformed his teenage hobby of building robots into a career that led him to innovate at NASA, where he worked on projects like PhoneSat and the Mars Perseverance Rover.
Recognized as a distinguished alumni by UTRGV in 2016, Reynoso founded Reybotics in Mercedes, Texas, to inspire young minds through STEM, notably with his acclaimed "Mission to Mars" educational initiative, blending his expertise in space exploration with a passion for teaching.
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.
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.
* guest speakers subject to change