here’s what’s happening on day 1 of tc sessions: space 2020

Countdown complete…ignition! The first day of TC Sessions: Space 2020, our inaugural event focused on space technology, early-stage companies, and the pioneering individuals shaping the future of space exploration, has officially begun.

Prepare for two days filled with interviews, panel discussions, fireside conversations, and focused breakout sessions featuring the most influential figures in the space sector – including technologists, investors, founders, and prominent government leaders. Connect and build relationships with participants from across the globe. Uncover the latest trends, groundbreaking technologies, and funding opportunities – it’s a vast landscape of potential!

Are you prepared to activate your engines? Here’s a preview of some of today’s key events you won’t want to miss. Review the full event schedule to customize your day. Helpful hint: The schedule will automatically adjust to your current time zone.

Fast Money — SMC Space Ventures, AFWERX and Space Force Accelerators: Discover how these organizations collaborate to link startups with government entities and resources within the space industry. Featuring Col. Ryan M. Colburn (USAF), Craig “Yogi” Leavitt (AFWERX), Gabe Mounce (Air Force Research Laboratory) and Matt Tompkins (The Aerospace Corporation).

Pitch Feedback Session: Participate in a pitch feedback session available to all startups exhibiting at TC Sessions: Space 2020, facilitated by the TechCrunch team.

Bridging Two Eras of Human Spaceflight: Kathryn Lueders began her career at NASA in 1992, during the height of the Space Shuttle program. Now, as she assumes leadership of the Human Spaceflight Office this year, a new and exciting chapter is unfolding. Lueders will discuss the opportunities and obstacles presented by the latest systems and technologies that will enable the first woman and the next man to land on the moon…and potentially Mars. Remember to submit any questions you have for Kathryn Lueders (Associate Administrator, Human Exploration & Operations Mission Directorate, NASA).

University Showcase — Boldly Innovating in Space, for Space (Part One): This session highlights the space programs of Aerospace Corporation partners USC and MIT, offering insights into their work. They will be joined by representatives from UCLA, ASU and Caltech, demonstrating a variety of developing space technologies. Through collaboration with the Aerospace Corporation, these emerging capabilities can be assessed and incorporated into government space missions for communication, navigation, and exploration with NASA, NOAA and the Air Force. Randy Villahermosa (The Aerospace Corporation), Dr. Richard Linares (MIT), David A Barnhart (USC).

This is only a glimpse of what’s available, attendees. Explore the complete list of presentations and be sure to visit the expo area to connect with innovative, emerging startups. Take advantage of everything day one at TC Sessions: Space 2020 has to offer – including a wealth of opportunities waiting to be explored.

Haven’t secured your pass yet? That’s perfectly alright – you can still purchase one now for immediate access to the space race for as little as $50.