Seeing the Big Picture
A Conversation with Dr. Thomas Zurbuchen

During this event NextGen will hear from Dr. Thomas Zurbuchen (Associate Administrator for the Science Mission Directorate at NASA 2016-2022) about his thoughts on the future of the lunar workforce, NASA's plan for lunar exploration and the role early career scientists and engineers can play in shaping the path forward. 


Please bring any questions you may have to Dr. Zurbuchen, we will have an open Q&A at the end time permitting. Early-career-identified participants will get priority in having their questions answered. Non-early-career attendees are welcome and encouraged to ask questions as well, while keeping in mind that this event is run by and for the next generation of the lunar community.


This will be the first event in a Lunar Workforce Series put on by the Next Generation Lunar Scientists and Engineers Group with the goal of connecting early career members with senior NASA officials and prominent lunar scientists.

Event Details

April 14, 2023
9 AM Pacific Time / 12 PM Eastern Time / 4 PM UTC

Please note that we ask about NextGen status in our registration. You are considered 'NextGen' if you are currently enrolled as a student or are <10 years post-terminal degree (time off due to life events does not count toward 10 years). We ask this question for two reasons: (1) to track NextGen engagement, and (2) to amplify NextGen voices in the panel. Early-career-identified participants will get priority in having their questions answered. Non-early-career attendees are welcome and encouraged to ask questions as well, while keeping in mind that this event is run by and for the next generation of the lunar community.

All participants will be expected to follow the NextGen Code of Conduct:

The Next Generation Lunar Scientists and Engineers group expects organizers and participants alike to contribute to a harassment-free environment for all. While attending a NextGen event, workshop, networking function,  online forum, chat room, social media, or other NextGen related activities, organizers and participants should not engage in harassment in any form. As a group we aim to share ideas and freedom of thought and expression, and it is essential that the interactions between members within and others outside of the group take place in an environment that recognizes the inherent worth of every person by being respectful of all.


View recording of event on YouTube