This fall, I had the honor of representing Higher Orbits at the 2025 von Braun Space Exploration Symposium in one of my favorite places: Huntsville, Alabama. To many, Huntsville is known for its southern charm, incredible food, beautiful gardens, and rich history - but to space enthusiasts, it is Rocket City. Through decades of innovation, systems development, and unwavering dedication to exploration, Huntsville has earned its place at the heart of the aerospace industry. Attending the von Braun Symposium in the very city where Dr. Wernher von Braun designed the Saturn V rocket was both humbling and deeply meaningful. There felt like no better setting to honor a legacy of spaceflight than to imagine the future shaped by the ideas shared throughout the symposium. Participants were encouraged to embrace emerging technologies and envision discoveries that extend far beyond our home planet.
As an attendee, I had the privilege of engaging with aerospace leaders, rediscovering the wonder of STEM, and envisioning a future enriched by these experiences. The highlights I share here not only impacted me personally, but also reflect meaningful opportunities for secondary and post-secondary STEM students around the world. It was an immense honor to connect with professionals brought together by the American Astronautical Society, including getting to meet NASA astronaut and legend, Charlie Bolden, and attend his luncheon discussion reflecting on his time as the NASA administrator. Some of my favorite moments at the conference were meeting influential aerospace leaders and hearing how impressed they were when I shared my experiences with Higher Orbits and the impact of the Go for Launch! programs. Despite their involvement in some of the most pioneering work in the industry, many were genuinely astonished by the experiments Higher Orbits students have sent to the International Space Station. Witnessing their admiration for student-driven research was both affirming and inspiring.
Following the session “New Frontiers in Artificial Intelligence,” conversations often turned to the integration of AI in aerospace—an advancement filled with promise, curiosity, and understandable uncertainty. While many shared invaluable insights into the future of space exploration, there was a shared acknowledgment that organizations are navigating unfamiliar territory as they adopt these technologies. Again and again, I noticed a shift in tone when I spoke about the work of Higher Orbits students. Good leaders plan ahead, and learning about inquisitive, experiment-driven students seemed to offer a reassuring sense of confidence that the next generation would be ready to continue current projects- including being able to handle the AI integration transition period with grace and efficiency.
Another highlight of the conference was attending alongside Michelle Lucas - affectionately known as “Space Mom.” Her mantra, “Space Inspires!” never felt more true than during our conversations about Higher Orbits. It was a joy to share how space and Higher Orbits became an outlet for my scientific curiosity as I grew up. These programs truly serve as a pipeline to empower the next generation of scientists, engineers, and explorers. For
me, that meant having someone who encouraged bold steps in an intimidating industry—an irreplaceable message that continues to guide me. Mentorship in STEM is pivotal, and Michelle’s role as a mentor underscored the importance of strong support systems in education. Her dedication to fostering curiosity and resilience is a powerful reminder of what thoughtful mentorship can achieve. This message was especially meaningful as I reconnected with another mentor during the conference—someone who guided me through a middle school science fair project and helped ignite my passion for STEM. Being present as she received the Sally Ride Award was an unforgettable and full-circle moment.
Together, these experiences highlighted the growing convergence of technology, education, and business. The programs and opportunities Higher Orbits provides creates a ripple effect that continues to reshape the aerospace industry and scientific communities around the globe. The von Braun Symposium in Huntsville was a catalyst for inspiration, connection, and innovation. Meeting industry leaders, engaging with emerging ideas, and exploring the future of AI in space are experiences that will provide me with valuable foresight. This is a sentiment that was shared not only by me, but also between the other students who had traveled to attend the symposium as well. Throughout each session, it became increasingly clear that the future of space exploration depends on the next generation’s ability to embrace the unknown in an ever-evolving technological world. How can we further support STEM learning and innovation in our communities? Through community support, mentorship, and a shared commitment to empower students interested in STEM and space.
This symposium demonstrated an endlessly high potential for future innovation. Potential is exciting, but results are real. Higher Orbits ignites and enables student involvement in STEM to ensure the next generation is equipped to bring these prominent initiatives to life.
Written By Stellar Student Kiera Fehr
