TEP Power Meal: The Meaning of Space Exploration

There’s so much emphasis on space exploration as of late – from both public (NASA) and private (Blue Origin) entities doing big things to hit TV shows (Space Force) being binged-watched to SpaceX launching a four-person crew into orbit mid-November. 

So we asked George N. Tzintzarov, a fourth-year PhD student in electrical and computer engineering at Georgia Tech, to host a Power Meal around the meaning of space exploration.  With his expertise in microelectronics and photonics, paired with his research around Silicon-Geranium (SiGe) devices and circuits in partnership with NASA, we knew he’d be the perfect person to lead such a discussion. And in order to make a deep impact, we invited some of Tech Square ATL (TSQATL) Social Club’s biggest enthusiasts and experts from all our different communities (Centergy One, ATDC, Tech Square Research Building, Georgia Tech) to safely gather over lunch at Technology Enterprise Park (TEP) to discuss the topics at hand. 

 
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THE INNATE HUMAN INTEREST IN SPACE

Can anyone truly put a finger on why, for as long as we can remember, people have been so curious about knowing what’s in outer space? As Gary O’Neill (Senior Aerospace and Defense Specialist-COI Aerospace, Georgia Department of Economic Development) remarks, “We’ve been studying space since Babylon; it’s part of our DNA.”

But is it just the unknown in general that captivates us, the whole vastness of it all, the data and findings from it, or something else all together? Dominick Constanza (Property Manager, Collaborative Real Estate) believes it’s because “we’re all natural explorers.” And others would agree. Whether it’s galvanizing the human spirit, or just deepening our understanding, going to and exploring outer space is truly fascinating. But is it worth the price tag that accompanies it?

QUITE THE PRETTY PENNY

NASA's budget for 2020 alone is $22.629 billion, which is not only mind-blowing (to some), but also a 5.3 percent increase from the previous fiscal year. Return on investment (ROI) is especially tricky in this department, with some attendees citing it’s an investment in knowledge and technology, while others viewed it from an entirely different perspective – what’s the cost of not knowing? 

For instance, we use satellites in space to help predict natural disasters, and ultimately put into place a plan of action, including warning the general public. But what would it cost if we didn’t have these capabilities? The cost would be detrimental – not only to the planet, but to the human race, as well. 

Fortunately, there’s ROI support for the space program – during the Apollo missions, the ROI was around $7 for every $1 spent. And in today’s climate, it’s an estimated ROI of $40 for every $1 spent on space development. This includes new jobs, advanced technologies, and the overall economic impact of further pushing the frontier. 

INVOLVEMENT IN SPACE EXPLORATION 

A big question still remains – if our tax dollars are collectively helping to fund the space program, who all gets to be involved in such exploration? Historically, as Blake Tiede (Graduate Research Assistant, Georgia Tech Aerospace Systems Design Lab) recalls, “the first astronauts weren’t even scientists – they were fighter pilots in the Air Force and Navy.” And there’s some that believe non-engineers make the better pilots. But should space exploration just be left to the scientists, or can the general public be involved – and to what capacity?

Sure, space experts are necessary. Vital, even. Still, there’s varying degrees involved – aerospace, computer engineering, astronomy, physics. Not to mention, specialists in relatable, yet atypical, fields – like botanists and 3D printers – could be incredibly valuable. But what about the general public? 

The general consensus at the table was that everyone should be able to be involved. But again, there are ranges. As Mike Bonner (CEO, 1710 Music LLC) points out, “Do people involved want to see Mars, or see data from Mars? The difference is, what are you really exploring?” And this distinction is crucial. Leo Prinzi (Product Director, Carbice Corporation) adds to this notion, stating that he likes “the idea that we as people don’t have to go to Mars, but it’s good to know what the data is [behind it, in order] to keep space exploration [continuing].”

Our gracious host, George, couldn’t agree more: “Involvement in space exploration is similar to involvement in sports teams – there’s varying levels of ‘fans,’ but everyone is part of that community one way or another. We’re all in this together.”

EXPLORING SPACE IS HERE TO STAY

As the conversations continued over catered lunch from Atwoods Pizza Cafe in Midtown, one thing was evident – space exploration isn’t going anywhere (for now), so everyone should find their own level of participation – voluntarily. Whether the investment in the space program resonates with you in the form of time or money, or something completely different, the program and funding will carry on. 

Much like the unknown in outer space, there is still much unknown here on Earth – especially in recent times. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused great uncertainty in what’s to come, but just like our fearless leaders in the space program, we too, must forge ahead. 

That’s why safely coming together over lunch for an hour to discuss an interesting topic is so crucial to our mental and social health. Now, more than ever, is when we need the support and backing of our community members. 

Therefore, TSQATL Social Club will continue to host these socially-distanced types of gathering. We’ve thoughtfully and carefully curated an environment where like-minded individuals could come together – safely – to connect and collaborate with each other in a setting that only further drives growth and innovation. All while maintaining everyone’s personal health and wellbeing. 

And if you still fear the unknown, our upcoming Face Your Fears events are the perfect opportunity for you to combat this (and close out spOoOky season). Using virtual reality, attendees will have the chance to walk a plank on top of a city skyscraper, or make their way through a haunted house. RSVPs and masks are required. Click the links for more information on the events happening Tuesday, October 27 and Thursday, October 29.  



Power Meals are a great way to meet other members of the community and discuss an intriguing topic. If you are interested in hosting, please email hello@techsquareatl.com

What’s your level of involvement with space exploration like? Let us know in the comments below.

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