Policy Team

Overview

Outer space is one of the few places in the universe that is shared among nations. It serves as a hub of innovation, creative thinking, and invaluable discoveries. Space projects have historically been some of the most challenging yet rewarding endeavors ever attempted. Why do we do it? What should Space be used for? Who decides?

SSI’s Policy Team investigates the politics of Space. Whether you are an engineer, lawyer, economist, philosopher, or just a deep thinker, the Policy Team is a great place for you. Come join us as we explore the space industry, past and present, and change the future of Space.

Be Enagaged

For readers and sci-fi lovers, we have a newly founded book club. Over the past year, members have read Space and future themed books, engaged in meaningful conversations, and invited authors to come to speak. The Policy Bookclub now meets over Zoom, making it easy to contribute no matter where you are. Additionally, the Policy team has weekly meetings. Each time, we discuss a new topic surrounding Space exploration. From terraforming Mars to Astronaut selection processes, the team enjoys candid conversation about these topics and more. Though we are unable to provide snacks during remote learning, everything else about these weekly team meetings will be the same this year. Above all else, SSI Policy fosters a community of curious Space enthusiasts. Whether you are an avid rocket engineer or have never studied Space before, there is a place on this team for you.

Be Heard

Policy Team has a podcast! Every week, we discuss the newest and most pressing questions in our podcast This Week in Space. Listeners from around the globe tune in to hear us dive into Space news, interview professionals, and engage in conversations. The podcast team has adapted to virtual re-cording sessions so you can be involved all year from anywhere! Episodes are available on all major podcast outlets, allowing your voice to be heard worldwide.

Worldwide Advocacy

Ever dreamt of presenting to the United Nations in Vienna, meeting with senators in DC, or having your thoughts on Space heard worldwide? SSI’s Policy Team provides meaningful opportunities like these to enrich your understanding of the Space industry and engage in the communities within it. For the past two years, members of the Policy team have teamed with For All Mankind to formulate and present proposals to the UN. With the help of this nonprofit, SSI has been able to advocate for Space heritage in front of delegates from around the globe. Students involved in this project will be sponsored by SSI to fly to the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) to share the team proposal in front of the council and defend it to delegates. Though the trip was unable to occur this past Spring, For All Moonkind is looking forward to teaming up again this year. Additionally, SSI Policy sends members to the International Astronautical Congress (IAC) every year. While there, students will see presentations from Space experts and have the opportunity to network with others in the industry. This year, the conference will be held virtually, so all members of SSI Policy Team will be able to attend!

Join Us!

Check out our weekly meetings, and don't hesitate to reach out to the current team leads,

@James Wall  and @Teddy Ganea