April 26-27 at MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts

MIT’s contributions to the exploration of space, air, sea and Earth helped to shape the 20th century and literally put us on the Moon.

In honor of its 150th anniversary, MIT will host a major symposium April 26-27 that will celebrate the spirit of exploration and attempt to shape a vision for its future. Talks and panels by leading researchers and visionaries will reflect on the history of exploration and discovery; its changing nature in the 21st century; and the most revolutionary ideas for future explorations.

Highlights include:

– Keynote address by Peter Diamandis, Chairman and CEO, X PRIZE Foundation.

– Talks by eleven current and former astronauts — including a special guest appearance by astronaut “Cady” Coleman, live from the International Space Station.

– Explorer’s panel with astronaut Buzz Aldrin; James Bellingham (Monterey Bay Aquarium); Steven Squyres (Mars Rover); and Maria Zuber (MIT astrophysicist).

– Great exploration ideas for the future: Finalists from MIT student competition showcase their work.

– Demos of new exploration technologies and space vehicles.

And much more; see complete agenda: http://mit150.mit.edu/symposia/exploration

“Earth, Air, Ocean and Space: The Future of Exploration” kicks off at 8:45 a.m. EDT on Tuesday, April 26, in Kresge Auditorium on the MIT campus.

Accredited members of the news media are invited to join us and are eligible for complimentary press registration. RSVP required. To reserve your place and/or for additional information, contact Patti Richards in the MIT News Office, +1 617.253.8923, prichards@mit.edu.