This milestone marks a century and a half since American scientists first came to New Zealand to observe the 1874 Transit of Venus, beginning a tradition of shared discovery that continues today. As part of our support, we are bringing an exceptional line-up of guest speakers from the USA and New Zealand.
Thanks to U.S. Embassy grant support, the event will feature four distinguished NASA guests:
- Dr Sanjoy Som – Founder, Blue Marble Space Institute of Science
- Dr Graham Lau – Host of Ask an Astrobiologist, NASA research investigator
- Dr Mitch Schulte – Program Scientist, Mars Exploration Program, NASA HQ
- Sarah Marcotte – Mars Rover Science Communicator, NASA JPL
They’ll be joined by Kathy Campbell, Haritina Mogoșanu, Sam Leske from The New Zealand Astrobiology Network, and Earth & Space Science departments from NZ universities, showcasing study options and career pathways.
More to Explore on the Day
Alongside our international guests, the event will feature the Earth and Space Science departments from universities across New Zealand. They’ll showcase their programmes, share insights into course content, and discuss the career pathways available after university.
SpacewardBound.NZ will also be on site (weather permitting!) with their solar telescope, a 3D-printed Mars Rover, and mobile planetarium.
This is a fantastic opportunity for attendees to meet and talk with NASA experts, New Zealand scientists, university representatives, and other special guests.
Event Schedule
Panel discussion, led by Sam Leske – 1:00–1:45 pm Panellists: Dr Mitch Schulte, Dr Graham Lau, Sarah Marcotte, Glen Willoughby (CEO, Staples VR)
Doors open – 9:00 am
Welcome speeches from distinguished guests – 10:00–10:30 am
Exhibitor floor open – 9:00 am–12:30 pm
