Mr. O’Donnell will provide insights into the rapidly expanding commercial space industry and
the critical importance of collaboration between government and industry. Drawing from his
experience leading FAA oversight of commercial space transportation, he will explore the
evolving regulatory landscape and the measures necessary to ensure licensing and safety
oversight keep pace with industry growth.
His presentation will address the United States’ international obligations in space commerce,
including the imperative to protect public health and safety, property, national security, and
foreign policy interests. He will also discuss strategies to encourage, facilitate, and promote
private-sector innovation in commercial space, and will offer a discussion for changes to federal
statutes, regulations, and policies to strengthen and expand the nation’s space transportation
infrastructure.
Mr. O’Donnell will be presenting remotely . Join your NOVAC colleagues at GMU, 4:00 pm, to socialize before the meeting:
Meet at George Mason University, Exploratory Hall, Room 3301. Check the GMU web site for nearby parking options. Some lots or garages do charge for parking.
Room will be open as early as 4:00 pm. for socializing ahead of the meeting.
GMU Maps and Directions link: https://info.gmu.edu/campus-maps-and-directions/
Join virtually using Google Meet:
Video call link: meet.google.com/cbf-jusw-dsm
Or dial: (US) +1 252-344-1407 PIN: 937 923 741#
4:00 pm Join the online meeting for participant open discussion
4:30 pm NOVAC news, announcements and events
5:00-6:00 pm Michael O’Donnell’s presentataion
Presentation Details
Talk Title:
Insights into the rapidly expanding commercial space industry and the critical importance of collaboration between government and industry.
Biography:
Mr. O’Donnell is the President of O’Donnell Aerospace Consulting. He is a distinguished
aerospace executive with more than 40 years of leadership in commercial space, aviation, and
regulatory oversight. A trusted advisor to industry leaders, he offers deep expertise in safety
management, regulatory strategy, and high-stakes operational leadership, cultivated through
decades of service with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and state aviation agencies.
Most recently, Mr. O’Donnell served as the Deputy Associate Administrator for Commercial
Space Transportation (AST) at the FAA. In this role, he led the day-to-day operations of AST,
directing the agency’s efforts to ensure the safety and advancement of the U.S. commercial space
transportation sector. His leadership was pivotal in aligning regulatory frameworks with industry
innovation, supporting operational excellence while upholding the highest safety standards.
*** The program will be recorded and available a few days after the meeting on the Northern Virginia Astronomy Club YouTube channel ***
