The Nexus Nairobi 2023 event, held from January 31 to February 4, 2023, in Nairobi, Kenya, was a significant milestone in the 100 Year Starship (100YSS) initiative's mission to enable human interstellar travel within a century. This gathering, marking the 10th anniversary of 100YSS, aimed to explore the theme "When Space, Purpose, and Culture Collide," addressing the question, "Who owns space?" The event sought to engage a diverse audience in discussions about the future of space exploration and its implications for humanity.
Background of 100 Year Starship
Established in 2012, 100 Year Starship is a global initiative dedicated to ensuring the capabilities for human interstellar travel exist within the next 100 years. Led by former astronaut Dr. Mae Jemison, the organization focuses on advancing the necessary technologies and fostering international collaboration to make interstellar travel a reality. Over the years, 100YSS has organized various symposia, workshops, and educational programs to engage the public and experts in discussions about the future of space exploration. ([en.wikipedia.org](
Objectives of Nexus Nairobi 2023
Nexus Nairobi 2023 aimed to bring together scientists, engineers, policymakers, and the general public to discuss the future of space exploration and its impact on society. The event's objectives included:
- Exploring the Ownership of Space: Engaging in discussions about who owns space and how its exploration and utilization should be governed.
- Fostering Global Collaboration: Encouraging international cooperation in space exploration to ensure that its benefits are shared equitably.
- Integrating Cultural Perspectives: Incorporating diverse cultural viewpoints into the conversation about space exploration to ensure it reflects the values and aspirations of all humanity.
- Celebrating the 10th Anniversary of 100YSS: Reflecting on the progress made over the past decade and setting the stage for future advancements in interstellar travel.
Event Highlights
The Nexus Nairobi 2023 event featured a variety of activities designed to engage attendees and stimulate thoughtful discussions:
- Keynote Addresses: Prominent figures in space exploration, including Dr. Mae Jemison, delivered keynote speeches addressing the event's central themes and sharing insights into the future of interstellar travel. ([tuko.co.ke](
- Panel Discussions: Experts from various fields participated in panel discussions covering topics such as the ethics of space exploration, the role of private companies, and the potential for international collaboration. ([citizen.digital](
- Workshops and Seminars: Interactive sessions provided attendees with opportunities to delve deeper into specific subjects, including the technological challenges of interstellar travel and the societal impacts of space exploration. ([nexusnairobi.org](
- Public Engagement Activities: Events like "A Night Under the Stars in Karura Forest," where participants could observe celestial bodies through telescopes, aimed to inspire interest in astronomy and space science among the general public. ([nexusnairobi.org](
Canopus Awards
During the event, the 100 Year Starship presented the 2023 Canopus Awards for Excellence in Interstellar Writing. These awards recognized outstanding works that engage audiences and enhance understanding of interstellar space exploration. Categories included:
- Published Long-Form Fiction: "Sentient" by Jeff Lemire and Gabriel Hernandez Walta.
- Published Short-Form Fiction: "The Hind" by Kevin J. Anderson and Rick Wilber.
- Published Long-Form Nonfiction: "A Traveler’s Guide to the Stars" by Les Johnson.
- Published Short-Form Nonfiction: "Language Development During Interstellar Travel" by Alex McKenzie and J. Punske.
- Digital Presentation: "Ixion" by Bulwark Studios.
- Original Short-Form Fiction: "The Living Archaeologist" by Jamiella Brooks.
- Original Local Short-Form Fiction: "Gumbojena" by Chioniso Tsikisayi, Zimbabwe. ([file770.com](
Impact and Legacy
Nexus Nairobi 2023 served as a platform for meaningful dialogue on the future of space exploration and its role in society. By addressing critical questions about the ownership and governance of space, the event aimed to ensure that space exploration benefits all of humanity. The discussions and collaborations fostered during the event are expected to influence future policies and initiatives in space exploration, promoting inclusivity and global cooperation.
The event also highlighted the importance of integrating diverse cultural perspectives into the conversation about space exploration. By hosting the event in Nairobi, Kenya, 100YSS emphasized the global nature of space exploration and the need for inclusive dialogue that reflects the values and aspirations of all people. ([nexusnairobi.org](
In summary, Nexus Nairobi 2023 was a landmark event that brought together a diverse group of individuals to discuss the future of space exploration. Through its various activities and discussions, the event aimed to address fundamental questions about the ownership and governance of space, promote global collaboration, and ensure that the benefits of space exploration are shared equitably. The legacy of Nexus Nairobi 2023 continues to influence the trajectory of space exploration, fostering a more inclusive and collaborative approach to exploring the cosmos.
Sources
- 100 Year Starship — Nexus Nairobi 2023 Press Release —
- 100 Year Starship — Nexus Nairobi 2023: US-Space Project Workshop Pitches Tent in Kenya to Explore Space Economy —
- 100 Year Starship — Nexus Nairobi 2023: First Ever Space Exploration Conference Kicks Off in Nairobi —
- 100 Year Starship — Nexus Nairobi 2023: Programming —
- 100 Year Starship — 100 Year Starship Announces 2023 Canopus Award Winners —