Dr. Robert Braun, NASA chief technologist, will visit Iowa State’s College of Engineering to discuss the future of human space travel. His presentation, part of the T.A. Wilson Lecture series, will be held on October 20 at 11:00 a.m. in the Alliant Energy-Lee Liu Auditorium in Howe Hall.
Through “Investments in Our Future: Exploring Space through Innovation and Technology,” Braun will provide an overview of NASA’s planned research, innovation, and technology investments that focus on robotic and human exploration throughout the solar system.
Braun believes NASA’s new Space Technology Program will provide vital development in new technologies to the future of space travel. The program has been focusing on advancements in deep space missions for humans, as well as creating benefits for these new innovations on Earth. These technologies will allow humans to venture beyond low Earth orbit more safely and efficiently, while providing real-life applications and benefits.
Braun was appointed NASA Chief Technologist in February 2010. He has more than 20 years experience performing design and analysis of planetary exploration systems, and has also contributed to the design, development, test and operation of several robotic space flight systems including entry, descent, and landing systems.
The T.A. Wilson Lecture was established in honor of the 1943 Iowa State aerospace engineering alum who went on to become the CEO of Boeing.