| Spacefest | |
|---|---|
| Status | Active |
| Genre | Space science, art, memorabilia |
| Venue | JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort (most years) |
| Location(s) | Tucson, Arizona |
| Country | United States |
| Inaugurated | 2007 |
| Founder | Kim Poor |
| Organized by | Novaspace Galleries |
Spacefest is a semi-annual convention held in Tucson, Arizona, focused on space exploration, spaceflight history, astronomical art, and science communication. Organized by Novaspace Galleries, the event features presentations by astronauts, planetary scientists, engineers, and artists, art exhibitions, and memorabilia sales. [1]
Spacefest was first held in 2007 in Mesa, Arizona, organized by Kim Poor and Sally Poor of Novaspace Galleries. [2] It was created to combine space art with astronaut engagement, and has since expanded to include a wide range of science and public outreach activities. [1]
After the inaugural event, Spacefest was relocated to Tucson, where it has been held regularly at the JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort. [3] Kim Poor remained involved with the event until his death in 2017. [4] The convention has continued under the direction of Sally Poor.
Spacefest has included panel discussions and Q&A sessions with former NASA astronauts and cosmonauts, including crew members from Mercury, X-15 Gemini, Apollo, Space Shuttle, ISS and Soyuz missions. [3] Attendees have appreciated science lectures by mission engineers, planetary scientists, and researchers affiliated with organizations such as NASA, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, The Planetary Society, SETI, and academic institutions. Additionally, artists meet patrons at art exhibitions showcasing astronomical and spaceflight-themed artwork by members of the International Association of Astronomical Artists and other contributors. [2] Autograph sessions, art sales, and merchandise exhibitions focused on historical and contemporary space exploration offer another opportunity to take home memories, and for families and young attendees, the conference offers educational and STEAM activities.
Special events have included musical performances and reunion appearances by astronaut-affiliated groups, such as Max-Q, a band formed by Space Shuttle-era astronauts. [5]
Attendees include a combination of professional scientists, artists, educators, amateur space enthusiasts, collectors, and families. The event has been described as bridging technical, artistic, and historical interests related to human spaceflight and astronomy. [2]
Past guests have included: