From lift-off to insight—Week 2 launched us deeper into the cosmos and closer to ourselves.
Week 2 of this year’s SSP began with Dr. Jeffrey Hoffman’s lecture on Human Space Operations, where he introduced the Plan-Train-Fly phases of space missions and highlighted how mission planning, astronaut training, and in-flight operations must align for success, drawing from his own experience as an astronaut. This was followed by Gwanghyeok Ju’s session on Spacecraft Configuration and Testing, which unpacked the integration of various subsystems and the critical environmental testing required before launch, illustrated through real-world examples. Prof. Kyungsuk Cho then delivered a dynamic lecture on the Sun, exploring coronal heating, solar wind acceleration, Korea’s future ambitions in heliophysics, including a proposed Sun–Earth L4 mission, and gave out presents to some of the participants at the end of the lecture.
That evening, we had a fireside chat led by Astronaut Soyeon Yi, the first Korean to fly in space. In her moving talk, Mindfulness from Weightlessness, she shared how her time aboard the ISS reshaped her view of Earth and herself. Her reflections on gratitude, humility, and connection grounded us all, and reminded us why we’re here.
We were also introduced to Team Projects (TPs); Artificial Intelligence, Climate, and Lunar Infrastructure by the Teaching Associates and Chairs for respective TPs setting the stage for dynamic interdisciplinary collaboration in the weeks ahead. We then conducted personal introductions, elected team management, developed norms through participant agreements, and then started a brainstorming session.
The International Astronaut Panel on Wednesday evening featured astronauts Jeff Hoffman, Soyeon Yi, and Robert Thirsk who among other things discussed the physiological and psychological challenges of spaceflight and the evolving collaboration between humans and robots, sparking lively debate on adaptability versus precision.
Commercial Space Launch Business sessions began with Diego Guerra breaking down the economics, risks, and innovations shaping private launch markets. We examined how commercial firms like SpaceX and Rocket Lab are redefining launch frequency, cost efficiency, and market competitiveness. The class discussed how rideshare models, risk tolerance, and national security applications are transforming the industry landscape.
We then had a Systems Engineering Workshop by Astronaut Soyeon Yi, during which we started building a Rube Goldberg machine – a chain-reaction type-machine. The experience brought us together to work in teams improving our communication and vision within the group.
Written by TA Saphirah Kubakurungi.
