Legislator gets inside look at U of A’s space expertise

Rep. Justin Wilmeth (R-Phoenix) and Jane Hays from Government and Community Relations recently visited with two industry luminaries who are part of the University of Arizona Space Institute: UASI Director Erika T. Hamden and Space4 Center Director Vishnu Reddy. The visit with these leading experts in space exploration provided an inside look at the university's groundbreaking research in space science, including its contributions to NASA missions, planetary exploration and satellite technology.

During the visit, Hamden shared insights into the innovative work being done at UASI, while Reddy highlighted the university's critical role in studying asteroids and advancing space situational awareness. Reddy's research focuses on understanding the behavior of space objects and ensuring that the use of orbital space remains sustainable and safe in a world with increasing space traffic. With experts like Hamden and Reddy at the helm, the U of A is poised to remain a key player in the next era of space exploration.

During the last legislative session, Wilmeth sponsored a bill designating Pluto as the official state planet of Arizona, recognizing its historic discovery in 1930 at Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff. The legislation highlights Arizona's significant contributions to space exploration and scientific discovery. Wilmeth is a strong advocate for advancing space science and technology in Arizona and sees the designation as an opportunity to celebrate the state's rich astronomical heritage, while inspiring future generations to explore the cosmos through STEM education and research.