National Academy of Engineering (NAE) Regional Meeting & Symposium

Quantum & Space The Next Frontier text graphic

March 23-24, 2026

Limelight Hotel | Boulder, Colorado

NAE and CU Boulder logos

Quantum & Space, the Next Frontier

The convergence of quantum technologies and space applications presents both fundamental engineering challenges and transformative opportunities as laboratory-demonstrated systems transition to operational environments. Quantum-enabled capabilities promise orders-of-magnitude improvements in precision, resilience and performance for missions ranging from autonomous satellite operations to Earth observation, secure communications and scientific discovery.

Participants will discuss technical pathways for space deployment, debate implications for satellite architectures and national security applications and share insights on accelerating the transition from laboratory prototypes to mission-ready systems. The program leverages Colorado’s interconnected ecosystem of academic quantum and aerospace research, national laboratories and commercial quantum, space and technology partners to facilitate technical exchange across academia, government and industry on this emerging frontier.

 

Your University of Colorado Boulder Hosts:

Scott Diddams

Scott Diddams
Professor and Robert H. Davis Endowed Chair
University of Colorado Boulder

NAE Election Year: 2025
Electronics, Communication & Information Systems

Hanspeter Schaub

Hanspeter Schaub
Glenn L. Murphy Endowed Chair & Distinguished Professor
University of Colorado Boulder

NAE Election Year: 2025
Aerospace

Preliminary Event Schedule

6-7 p.m.

Cocktail Reception
NAE Leadership, NAE Members, College Leadership, Invited Guests

7-9 p.m.

Keynote Address

8-9 a.m.

Breakfast

9-10:30 a.m.

NAE Members Business Session

10:30-10:45 a.m.

Welcome

10:45-11:15 a.m.

Keynote Address

11:15-11:30 a.m.

Break

11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m.

Panel Session #1: Quantum Technologies in Space

12:15-1:15 p.m.

Lunch

1:15-2 p.m. 

Panel Session #2: Space Benefiting from Quantum Advancements

2-2:15 p.m.

Break

2:15-3 p.m.

Panel Session #3: Developing Quantum for Space

3-4 p.m.

Reception & Poster Session

4-6 p.m.

Lab/Building Tour(s) 

Location & Travel Directions

Limelight Boulder
1295 University Avenue
Boulder, CO 80302
(844) 674-2733


Travel Directions

Things To Do In & Around Boulder

Take a hike with a view at Chautauqua Park

Dine and shop on historic Pearl Street

Attend a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre

(27.7 miles from Boulder)

Explore Rocky Mountain National Park

(45 miles from Boulder)