Space Education and Strategic Applications Journal: Volume 5, Number 2, Spring 2025: Special Issue:

As the United States, other nations, and industrial leaders move forward with plans to create and maintain a human off-world presence, it is critical to develop the necessary infrastructure, policies and technologies required to sustain human explorers in the harsh space environment. The Space Education and Strategic Applications (SESA) 2024 conference, co-organized by the American Public University System and the Policy Studies Organization, was a forum that brought together innovators, researchers, and decision-makers within all areas of the space community-astronauts, astro- biologists, engineers, scientists, entrepreneurs, educators, associations, and policy makers-to discuss the technological, training, and human factors requirements necessary to safely support crewed exploration initiatives. The SESA 2024 Conference encouraged multidisciplinary scholarship and conversations relating to all aspects of human space exploration, including safety, science, technology, education, policy, and workforce preparation. Presenters and attendees shared current findings, identified challenges. and brainstormed solutions throughout the conference by means of rich discussions and networking opportunities.