The Intersection of Public and Private Spaceflight

The landscape of private endeavors into space has evolved considerably over the past several years and we can not help but feel a sense of accomplishment over acheievments once thought to be unlikely within the scope of non-governmental agencies. As we start to lay claim to new frontiers, it is important to remember the massive foundation, financial incentive, and technical expertise NASA has provided for small space startups and growing companies alike- our January Space Salon will explore the relationship between NASA and SpaceX during one of the most exciting times in human history.

Over the course of 2006 to 2012, $396 million was awarded to SpaceX by NASA, as a part of the Commercial Orbital Transportation Services (COTS) program. This program culminated with the historic delivery of cargo to and the return of cargo from the International Space Station by SpaceX's Dragon spacecraft- a feat, until this point, only accomplished by a small number of national agencies.

This monumental accomplishment by a relatively small private company was achieved with NASA as a vital partner every step of the way thorugh an innovative approach to a public-private partnership in the space industry. And leading that charge is our esteemed speaker, Mike Horkachuck, the COTS Project Executive for NASA, responsible for leading this partnership from the NASA side. His belief in, and coordination with, SpaceX, was vital in making this all a reality.

Join us as we explore the Intersection of Public and Private Space Flight. 

Come prepared with lots of your own thoughts and questions. Looking forward to seeing you there!

Scott Norman, Simone Syed, and Michael Clive

Food and Drinks: Enjoy light appetizers and drinks with us.  There is a cash bar for beer and wine as well.

The LA Space Salon is a new and unique social event designed to be a reliable outlet within the space community for people to engage with one another, contribute their ideas, pose questions, hear from industry leaders, and coalesce efforts towards a cultural permeation of the values we share about space exploration. Our objective is simple: bring space professionals, enthusiasts and entrepreneurs together in an open discussion about our shared future beyond this world.

Each month, we will have a featured guest who will help us explore humanity's path forward into space. These events are designed to be deeply engaging and leave time for plenty of mingling. Speakers start their presentations at 8:00 and audience interaction is encouraged. Come with your thoughts prepared and ready to share!