Distant Worlds, Neighboring Opportunities
An Interstellar Research Group Event
October 12-15, 2025
AT&T Conference Center
University of Texas at Austin
Join us for an annual tradition gazing towards the stars and future!
IRG is excited to announce the 9th Interstellar Symposium:
Distant Worlds, Neighboring Opportunities
This theme evokes the fact that while truly interstellar missions remain an aspirational goal, all steps that we take now can have far-reaching effects by coloring our immediate challenges.
Just as habitat engineering studies have benefits for improving living in harsh earth environments; studies of culture, law, art, and governance here on earth will have lasting impacts on crewed interstellar missions.
We want to underscore how the breadth of the human experience will determine the success of our expansion to Distant Worlds and stars beyond. Neighboring opportunities reminds us that space is for all.
During the 9th Interstellar Symposium attendees can look forward to:
- Keynote Speakers: Presenters come from government, industrial, and academic researchers.
- Networking Opportunities: Many creative and scientific collaborations have arisen out of the intentionally close proximity offered by our programming.
- Supporting Arts and Culture: Artistic and cultural elements are a core part of the IRG symposium DNA.
Keynote Speaker
Applying the DARPA Method to Becoming an Interstellar Species:
The Plan, and Economic Guiding Principles, to Actually get it Done
Presented by Dr. Michael “Orbit” Nayak
Program Manager at DARPA
Learn more
Dr. Michael “Orbit” Nayak didn’t come to DARPA intending to start the DoD’s first lunar research program, but in creating and running it, he has interacted with policymakers, NASA and its international counterparts, private equity, space insurance firms, and new space innovators from across the spectrum. As a DARPA program manager, he also has experience in boiling down large visions into concrete, actionable technology leaps that can be made and measured, but also in transitioning those technology leaps to commercial industry and other government agencies for widespread use. He will bring that unique lens to a lively discussion of what it will take to become an interstellar species – guiding principles, a plan, and of course, a Heilmeier Catechism intended to inspire and guide future innovators.
Programing will include:
- Public Outreach Night: Luminaries have topical discussions at levels accessible to the public.
- Academic Plenary Lectures: Peer-selected presentations on broad topics related to interstellar travel.
- Student Poster Sessions: Students have the opportunity to present their research.
- Sagan Sessions: Special 90-minute discussion panel on a pre-selected topic for a deep dive.
- Hospitality Suite: Offers attendees a chance to relax in a social atmosphere that extends the conversations of the day with food and other refreshments.
Optional Symposium Activities:
- Pre-Symposium Seminars: 3-hour deep dives on focused topics from Subject Matter Experts
- Exclusive Banquet: Celebrate the accomplishments of IRG’s volunteers and the space community with a catered banquet and speaker.
- Technical Tours: Offering both informational and networking opportunities for attendees.
We have the beginnings of the scientific understanding and engineering know-how to realistically work on the myriad of challenges in reaching other solar systems. These very hard problems are what gets scientists, engineers, futurists, science fiction writers and business people excited and motivated.
Come join the exciting work of IRG 2025. Whether you are a professional in the field or an interested amateur, join us for a great multi-day conference of expert talks, social events, public outreach functions.
Technical Tour: Limited Capacity
Firefly: Rocket Ranch, Briggs, TX
Come out to Firefly with IRG for a technical tour of their Bertram facility, known as Rocket Ranch, consisting of the areas where they manufacture, test and integrate rockets.
Learn more
Thursday, October 16th | 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
We were advised that tours are limited to 25 people and that all people attending must be US persons as we have to adhere to ITAR regulations. We will need the emails of everyone attending at least 2 weeks in advance so that Firefly can send over an Envoy invite for everyone to register and fill out NDAs.
Will pictures be allowed at any point?
Unfortunately Firefly cannot allow photos during the tour due to ITAR restrictions. Before or after the tour, there is an opportunity for a group photo in front of their signage in a designated area
What personal information will you need for each tour member?
Firefly will need attendee email addresses to be able to send an Envoy invite to.
The Envoy invite will then collect their contact info, a signed NDA from them, and confirmation of whether they are a US-Person.
At the end of completing the invite registration, attendees will receive a QR code they can show upon their arrival at the security shack before they are allowed to enter the facility.
Hotel booked, and need help extending your stay?
To make, modify and cancel their hotel reservations online, as well as take advantage of any room upgrades, amenities or other services offered by the hotel.
To preview the website, please click the following link:
Pre-Symposium Seminars
Sunday, 12/Oct/2025: 9:00am – 12:00pm
Conflict in Space
Space War – Not Just Science Fiction Anymore
Presented by Dr. Ken Wisian
Major General, US Air Force (retired)
Space is already a battleground. As humanity expands into space, conflict may follow—as an extension of politics and power dynamics. While war in space isn’t guaranteed, it remains a strong possibility, demanding attention and understanding. Moreover, there is no evidence that any encountered extraterrestrial civilizations would be benign; prudence calls for preparation.
This seminar addresses both the history and evolving reality of space warfare. While science fiction often dramatizes interstellar battles, current developments are more grounded but advancing rapidly. The session explores the principles, strategies, tactics, and technologies of space war, with a particular focus on conflict scenarios beyond Low Earth Orbit—whether between human factions or with alien intelligence.
By understanding the potential for conflict, humanity may better prepare for and ideally avoid it. As Sun Tzu wrote, “The art of war is of vital importance to the State.” In the cosmic arena, that art may prove vital to our survival.
Sunday, 12/Oct/2025: 1:00pm – 4:00pm
Space Propulsion
A Survey of Slower-Than-Light Interstellar Propulsion
Presented by Jeff Greason
Chief Technologist of Electric Sky
This 3-hour seminar offers a detailed overview of realistic slower-than-light interstellar propulsion systems, adapted from courses taught at Kepler Space University and NASA MSFC. It begins with a physics foundation and a classification of propulsion concepts—the “Zwicky Box”—including fission, fusion, and antimatter rockets; sails and drag devices; propellers, jets, and other non-rocket approaches.
The seminar explores advanced and hybrid systems such as beamed energy (via lasers, microwaves, or particle beams), momentum transfer, and harvesting concepts. It offers a holistic look at feasible propulsion technologies, emphasizing near-future engineering. Time permitting, a brief discussion will address the “wait problem”—whether it’s better to launch now or wait for better tech.
Tissue Engineering for Long Duration Space Flight
Presented by Dr. Robert E. Hampson
Neuroscientist, educator, and science fiction author
Popular discussions of space exploration typically emphasize propulsion, spacecraft engineering, radiation hazards, and psychological challenges such as isolation or confinement. However, successfully venturing into deep space and truly becoming Homo stellaris—the People of the Stars—requires addressing a broader spectrum of biological challenges.
At the 2013 Interstellar Symposium, Dr. Robert E. Hampson highlighted a stark reality: prolonged space missions pose significant risks of cognitive decline, including dementia, upon arrival at distant destinations. Beyond well-known dangers such as radiation exposure, altered gravity, and vacuum, astronauts will inevitably face common health issues associated with aging, injury, and disease. Conditions like stroke, traumatic brain injury, arthritis, dental problems, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s diseases cannot be fully prevented through crew selection alone. Additionally, the interaction between genetic predispositions and environmental factors—many poorly understood on Earth and virtually unknown in space—further complicates efforts to maintain crew health.
This seminar addresses anticipated medical issues on space missions lasting months to decades. It evaluates genetic screening for crew selection, explores the effects of aging and the space environment, and showcases promising advances in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine—such as stem cell therapies, engineered organs, accelerated healing techniques, and neurodegenerative treatments.
Register for the next Interstellar Symposium
Join us in Austin this October and participate in conversations around inspiring sessions led by industry leaders during 4 exciting days. Be among people invested in the future of the space and insights. We are looking forward to seeing you in Austin.
Make sure to secure your spot before tickets sell out!
Early Bird: Expired September 10th
Standard: September 11th – October 10th
Door Price: October 11-14th
Standard
Early Bird: $600
Standard: $650
Door Price: $675
Student
Early Bird: $150
Standard: $175
Door Price: $175
Student must register with email ending in .edu and upload proof of student status.
IAA Member
Early Bird: $550
Standard: $600
Door Price: $650
Register using member ID to receive discount.
IRG Member
Early Bird: $430
Standard: $455
Door Price: $472
Save 30% with discount code for professional and retired members.
Hotel & Lodgings
The grand hotel of The University of Texas at Austin, AT&T Conference Center
Located on The University of Texas at Austin campus and steps from the iconic UT Tower, AT&T Hotel and Conference Center features luxury accommodations you desire. Indulge in your quiet haven that delivers approachable comfort. It is a space to plug in and stay connected with our complimentary Wi-Fi and convenient power outlets or relax and unwind with our custom robes and a cup of hot tea.
Exclusive symposium pricing available if booked by 10/3/2025
Nightly Rate: $275 + Taxes & Fees
Symposium Exclusive
This year for IRG9, we are offering our attendees the option to pre-order exclusive merchandise featuring this years artwork.
Option 1) IRG9 Shirt: S-5XL
Option 2) Featured Artist Bundle: Printed Bag, Postcard, & Stickers
The only way to order these is through symposium registration
Announcements
Plenary Speakers
Wanjiku Chebet Kanjumba
Dr. Mark Baumann
Grace Bittlingmaier
Gerald Jackson, PhD
Dr. Blankenship
Livian Von Dran
Jeff Greason
Prof. Roman Kezerashvili
Andrew Higgins
Zara Hasan
Bryan Troop
Albert Allen Jackson IV
Boris Petrovic
Justin C. Feng
Pauli Laine
Partnerships
For the 9th Interstellar Symposium, The Interstellar Research Group is excited to partner with the University of Texas at Austin’s Center for Planetary Systems Habitability.
This is an amazing opportunity to showcase the talent that the state of Texas has to offer the interstellar community and our development goals.
IRG is proud to continue our collaboration with the International Academy of Astronautics
IAA is committed to tackling groundbreaking challenges in the peaceful exploration and use of space, which strongly overlaps with the mission and ethos of the IRG.
For more than 60 years, the IAA has pioneered space, uniting the world’s leading experts in astronautics to tackle groundbreaking challenges, recognize achievements, and provide direction for the peaceful exploration and use of space. By advancing global collaboration and innovation, IAA promotes international cooperation across all space-related fields and supports equitable access to space for all nations, for the benefit of humanity.