22/09/2026
Astro Week 2026 | International Lecture Series | Eco Astronomy Inc
Astronomy is often seen as a pursuit of pure curiosity - yet the study of the cosmos has quietly shaped modern society in profound ways. This talk explores the many benefits astronomy brings to humanity, from the scientific to the practical: a century of astonishing discoveries, its role as a training ground for scientists and a motivator for students entering STEM, and its less visible dividends in data science, computing, spinoff technologies, and the growing promise of lunar and asteroid resources. It closes with a reflection on the cosmic perspective and astronomy as a model for international cooperation and the shared stewardship of space.
Topic : "The Many Benefits of Astronomy to Society"
Guest Speaker : Dr. Eric Dahlstrom [ Space Engineer | Ex-NASA | Co-Founder & Leader @ SpaceBase]
Eric Dahlstrom is a space engineer and astronomer with over 40 years of experience in space science, exploration, and technology development. He studied the physics of black holes at the University of North Carolina and galactic astronomy at the University of Maryland, using some of the world's largest radio telescopes to map the Galaxy, and space-based infrared telescopes to study interstellar dust. He has chaired the Space Science department at the International Space University and taught in more than a dozen countries. During his NASA career he worked for eight years on the design of the International Space Station, co-authored NASA's "Lessons Learned from Challenger" report, and conducted risk assessments for the Space Shuttle program. As co-founder of SpaceBase, he helps build collaborative space ecosystems in emerging countries, beginning with New Zealand. He is also a co-founder of the Global Space Enablers Network (GSEN), a worldwide alliance supporting grassroots "space enablers" in developing and emerging nations.
Eco Astronomy Inc | 2026
