Johnson Director Vanessa Wyche Engages in State of Space, Panel

On Oct. 11, 2022, aerospace industry leaders, including NASA Johnson Space Center Director Vanessa Wyche, discussed Houston’s prominence in leading human space exploration during the Greater Houston Partnership’s annual State of Space event.

Wyche, in addition to NASA astronaut Kate Rubins, were part of a panel discussion that covered the upcoming Artemis I mission and other innovative projects to come, as well as Houston’s historic rise as a hub for aerospace and aviation.

“At some point in the very near future, we’re going to land human beings on the Moon, and we’re going to say, ‘Moon, Houston,’” Rubins said during the panel discussion. “This is the only city in the world whose name is looped into this scenario.” 

Wyche showcased NASA’s current missions and recent collaborations with academia and commercial partners. During the panel conversation, she reiterated the critical role Space City plays in furthering exploration into the cosmos and added that partnerships will be integral to future discovery.

“It’s going to require our international, industry, and academia partners,” Wyche said. “It’s going to require all of us.” 

Houston boasts a vibrant space economy, with more than 350 aerospace and aviation companies in this corner of southeast Texas. That number is only expected to grow in the coming years.

Enjoy video, below, of Wyche and Rubins speaking at the panel, and scroll beyond for images from the event.