SmallSat & Space Access Summit 2025 to Convene Key Industry Experts

Defense Strategies Institute (DSI) is announcing the 8th Annual SmallSat & Space Access Summit, taking place at 151 St. George in National Harbor, MD on June 25–26, 2025.

The Summit will convene key experts, decision-makers, and innovators from across DHS, IC, government, and industry for in-depth discussions on the latest advancements in commercial and government small satellite projects, launch capabilities, and space access solutions.

The event will cover key topics such as innovations in small satellite technology, development and deployment strategies, the future of launch vehicles and space access, resilient hybrid architecture, spaceport and launch infrastructure, supply chain and manufacturing challenges, and critical commercial–government partnerships.

The Summit will also feature panels addressing the challenges facing the space industrial base amidst rapid demand for small satellite production, as well as exploring commercial innovations driving the SmallSat market.

The Summit will feature high-level speakers including:

• Dr. Bryan N. Dorland, ST, Principal Director for Space Technology, OUSD(R&E)/OASD(CT)

• Col Eric Zarybnisky, USSF, Director, Office of Space Launch, NRO
• Col Jeffrey Weisler, USSF, Commander, Space Delta 8
• Lt Col Aaron Stevenson, USSF, Deputy Director, Commercial Space Office, Space Systems Command

• Charlene Jacka, Chief Engineer, SpaceWERX

• Bradley Smith, Director of Launch Services for Space Operations, NASA

• Adam Oakes, VP, Launch Vehicles, Firefly Aerospace

• Andy Bunker, VP of Government Operations, Rocket Lab

• Mike Safyan, VP of Launch & Strategic Initiatives, Planet

The 2025 Summit will address how leveraging SmallSats in the space domain supports long-term competitive endurance, while also advancing ISR capabilities through innovative constellations. Sessions will explore strategies for securing resilient and reliable access to space, transforming launch systems, and expanding global connectivity.

Additional focus areas include overcoming the challenges of rapidly scaling SmallSat production, developing next-generation space technologies, and effectively transitioning those capabilities to the warfighter. The Summit will also examine the advancement of resilient, interconnected space architectures to strengthen operational effectiveness.

DSI is now welcoming sponsors and exhibitors for the forum, with the opportunity to exhibit to attendees from DoD, IC, federal agencies, academia, and industry. In order to allow for actionable discussion and dialogue amongst speakers and attendees, seating will be limited—register now to reserve a seat. Active military, government, and state personnel attend complimentary.

Register for the SmallSat & Space Access Summit 2025, June 25–26 >>