Programs at EV 2016
Friday July 1st
12:00PM-1:15PM
Phasers and Sabers
Pop
Weapons talk gets intellectual! Join the DC Stunt Coalition on a presentation on different weapons throughout sci-fi history, their real-world influences (including science and martial), how they work in the universe they were created for, and what might happen if one encountered another.
Speakers
Dylan Hintz is a Maryland born stunt performer, fight choreographer, actor, director, cinephile, digital and live action story teller. He has been featured in TV shows and films such as TURN: Washington’s Spies, Banshee, Outsiders, Braindead, BLACK MASS, PURGE: Election Year and over twenty other local independent films. He has over 10 years of martial arts training across various styles, and is a certified Actor Combatant with the Society of American Fight Directors, and is the DMV representative of Act Tactical for Film. He started the DC Stunt Coalition in 2011, and has since grown not only it’s numbers, but it’s reputation in the professional industry as a respected place of training for aspiring stunt performers and action actors to get their start in the field.
Abra Burkett is a member of DC Stunt Coalition, a practitioner of multiple martial arts, a lover of film and TV (especially sci-fi and action movies), and a self-proclaimed geek. She received an M.A. in Sociology from American University. Her thesis focused on the portrayals of gender in military films and the impact of media on understandings of gender in overall society.
Venue– Chesapeake GHI
12:00PM-3:00PM
Video Gamers United Presents: Microsoft Kodu Makerspace
Pop
Create rich and exciting games with Kodu Game Lab in this workshop, beginner-level camp for kids ages 8 to 11.
Attendees will work on Kodu games like Boku’s Amazing Race, Flashy Fishbots, and Air Delivery. In the process, they learn how interesting and powerful games can be created with simple building blocks and techniques. Attendees analyze and revise game character, write code to create game action, collaboratively plan and create a Kodu game, give and receive peer feedback, and explore the iterative design process. Some activities will be interactive tutorials, while others entail hands-on, open-ended game design. Every session will include collaborative design and development activities.
It is recommended that kids bring their own laptops and headphones for this workshops. The parent, legal guardian or authorized adult caregiver of every camp participant under 17 years of age must sign a Participation Agreement upon arrival and remain in the Microsoft Store for the duration of the event.
Learn about more YouthSpark Camps at microsoft.com/youthsparkcamp
Discover more resources for students at microsoft.com/imagine
Speakers
Cesar Diaz, Video Gamers United
Venue – Chesapeake DE
12:00PM-6:00PM
Kid’s Activities with Museum of Science Fiction
Education
Venue – Chesapeake C
Board Gaming
General Programs
Escape Velocity will feature a general gaming room and well-stocked library of hobby games – with your EV pass, you can check out anything that sparks your interest (free of charge). We will have many modern favorites, and some rare and unusual games dating back to the 1970s. Come and play – trying new games and meet fellow gamers!
Venue – Cherry Blossom
Preview Gallery – Museum of Science Fiction
General Programs
A sneak peek of MOSF! View a collection of artifacts from the Museum of Science Fiction collection.
Venue – Baltimore 345
Starship Horizons Bridge Simulator
General Programs
Starship Horizons is a multi-player experience allowing 2-6 players to work together as the ships Bridge Officers. The core gameplay experience is designed around players commanding their own Starship as the bridge officers in the roles of Captain, Flight, Tactical, Science, Operations, and Engineering.
Moderators
Rick Aseltine
Venue – Magnolia 1
1:00PM-2:00PM
An Indie Comics Writing Workshop
Education
It’s not as hard as you think! More people than ever before are making comics and telling stories on their own terms. In this one-hour discussion about writing comics, we will walk students through a checklist of what they need to start—and even publish—their own comics.
Venue – Chesapeake F
1:15PM-2:30PM
How to Run a Convention: Social Media and Marketing
Pop
Did you ever wonder what it would take to run a convention? So many questions, so many ideas and so little time. Well If you’re interested in putting together you own convention, definitely come by and listen in on my panel on how to run a convention. This part of the series is how to build and develop your social media and marketing for your convention. You’ve got a mega staff and an awesome theme well how are you going to get the word out? This panel will cover a majority of those things.
Speakers
Christian Savage
Chairman, Katsucon
Venue – Maryland 2
How to be a Happy Cyborg: What Science Fiction and Science Fact Teach Us About Life in the Age of Facebook, iPhones, and FitBits
Science
Love your digital devices? Addicted to them? As a user or developer, do you want to know how technology can support a better life? Creative and digital habits coach (and part-time Joss Whedon expert) Samuel Hedlund, MBA, provides a fast-moving look at how science fiction and science fact collide in our lives today. Call on your favorite sci-fi robots, replicants and hackers–in dialogue with the latest research on neuroscience, gaming, and personal growth–to discover how to cultivate digital wellbeing and avoid digital dystopia.
Speakers
Sam Hedlund
Knowledge Management Consultant, Inter-American Development Bank
Venue – Chesapeake GHI
Mad Scientists
Science
From Dr. Frankenstein to Dr. Horrible, the mad scientist has become an icon in books, movies, comics and games. We love them, loath them. We tremble and laugh at them, but why? Is it the fiendish devices, the willful disregard for the scientific orthodoxy, or is it all the maniacal laughter? Believe it or not, many of them are based on real scientists who pushed the boundaries of science, only to earn the scorn of their peers. Join us for a conversation of mad scientists fictional and real from the past, present and future, if you dare. Bwa ha ha ha ha ha ha!
Speakers
John Monahan, Science Writer
Venue – Maryland 1
Space Resources and Asteroid Mining
Science
Asteriod Mining, Space Law, and Policy – a Foundation for the Future As commercial spaceflight becomes a reality, the United States and other nations are extending the reach of their laws and public policies into the cosmos. How nations approach space can help determine how quickly we expand into space, how much of the expansion will be driven by the public and private sectors, and whether it will be peaceful or not. Basic issues like how to handle property rights will have far-reaching consequences. Join a panel of space policy experts, space lawyers, and commercial spaceflight pioneers to examine this emerging area of law and policy and its impact on the future.
Speakers
Paul Stimers, K&L Gates
Peter Marquez, Planetary Resources
M.V. Coyote Smith
Tommy Sanford, Commercial Spaceflight
Venue – Maryland 3
2:30PM-3:45PM
Cosplay and the Community
Pop
Cosplay is much deeper than the costume. Sometimes it can touch lives and help people get over hurdles. See how your cosplay can put a positive spin on your community. This way, we can help every person become a superhero.
Speakers
Liz Gmaz
President, Studio Cosplay
Studio Cosplay is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in the DC metro area whose mission is to promote community through the art of costuming by providing workspace, opportunity, and education. Studio Cosplay is opening a community-operated workshop in 2015 where cosplayers can connect and exchange ideas, share resources and knowledge, collaborate on projects, take instructional classes and hands-on workshops, and have the space and tools to work on costumes. Our workshop will be based in the DC metro area and will welcome all cosplayers, costume designers, LARPers, photographers, artists, and anyone interested in learning about costuming.
Nicole Jacobs, Studio Cosplay
Stephanie Hackenburg, Studio Cosplay
Venue – Chesapeake GHI
Mars in Science Fiction
Science
The Red Planet has fascinated many a science fiction writer. The word ‘Martian’ has long identified alien life. How have modern exploration and imaging influenced authors’ interpretations of Mars? Will human exploration someday mirror science fiction? Where do the Mars of the imagination and the Mars of science intersect?
Moderator David Grinspoon
Distinguished Visiting Scholar in Astrobiology, http://www.funkyscience.net/
Senior Scientist at Planetary Science Institute, is an astrobiologist who studies the possible conditions for life on other planets. In November 2012, he began a one-year appointment as the inaugural Baruch S. Blumberg/NASA Chair in Astrobiology at the John W. Kluge Center of the United States Library of Congress.
Speakers
Jim Green, NASA
Technical Adviser to the movie “The Martian”, Dr. James L. Green is NASA’s Planetary Science Division Director at NASA Headquarters in Washington, DC. He has overseen several missions including the New Horizons probe to Pluto, the MESSENGER probe to Mercury, the launch of JUno probe to Jupiter, the launch of Grail A and B to the Moon, the Dawn probe to Vesta, and the landing of the Mars Science Laboratory and Curiosity rover on Mars.Dr. Green has received numerous awards, including the Arthur S. Flemming award and the Japan’s Kotani Prize.
Venue – Maryland 2
Me and My Matrix? The Future of Humans and Computers
Science
The relationship of humans and computers has changed rapidly since their invention. As computers have become more integral to our lives, science fiction stories where that relationship goes wrong have become increasingly common. Emerging technologies like virtual reality and brain computer interfacing have the potential to revolutionize how we use computers once again. Will the computers of the future look like anything we’ve seen in science fiction?
Moderator
Phil Frana, James Madison University
Speakers
Jen Golbeck, UMD, Because Science! Podcast
Susanne Coates, UMD
Venue – Maryland 1
3:00PM-4:00PM
Designing a Sci-Fi Hero
Education
Join ID STUDIOS members Jerry and Penelope Gaylord to learn some basic character design tips when creating your sci-fi hero/heroine. Learn some basic anatomy and see how certain design elements make your hero fit in his/her alien environments. Bring a pencil and some paper so you can sketch your ideas! (Jerry Gaylord has worked on comic titles such as “Fanboys Vs Zombies” and “Sonic the Hedgehog” to name a few, as well as a storyboard artist on the “Ultimate Spider-Man” cartoon on Disney XD. Penelope Gaylord has done licensed illustration work for “How To Train Your Dragon” from DreamWorks and cover art for “My Little Pony” and “Adventure Time” comics.)
Venue – Chesapeake F
Sci-Fi Fighting 101
General Programs
Need to prep for a Light Saber duel? Looking to improve your Vulcan Death Grip, or just want to rock some Kirk-Fu? The DC Stunt Coalition presents their Fight Choreography 101 workshop. Drawing from the content of their Phaser’s and Sabers Panel, DCSC will show you the basics of safety and performing a fight scene as seen on stage and film.
Dylan Hintz is a Maryland born stunt performer, fight choreographer, actor, director, cinephile, digital and live action story teller. He has been featured in TV shows and films such as TURN: Washington’s Spies, Banshee, Outsiders, Braindead, BLACK MASS, PURGE: Election Year and over twenty other local independent films. He has over 10 years of martial arts training across various styles, and is a certified Actor Combatant with the Society of American Fight Directors, and is the DMV representative of Act Tactical for Film. He started the DC Stunt Coalition in 2011, and has since grown not only it’s numbers, but it’s reputation in the professional industry as a respected place of training for aspiring stunt performers and action actors to get their start in the field.
Abra Burkett is a member of DC Stunt Coalition, a practitioner of multiple martial arts, a lover of film and TV (especially sci-fi and action movies), and a self-proclaimed geek. She received an M.A. in Sociology from American University. Her thesis focused on the portrayals of gender in military films and the impact of media on understandings of gender in overall society.
Venue – Baltimore 1-2
3:00PM-11:30PM
Sci-Fi Film Festival
Short Film Block I
General Programs
Friday, July 1, 3:00pm
75 min, followed by Q&A
“Firestorm”
Friday, July 1, 6:30pm
45 minute presentation
Late Night Feature I: TBD
Friday, July 1, 9:00pm
110 min
Venue – Chesapeake AB
3:45PM-5:00PM
Romancing the Uncanny Valley: Why we love Robots
Pop
Why do kids love Baymax from “Big Hero 6” so dearly? Why do we watch with rapt attention whenever we come across a video of a machine that can walk, talk, and interact with humans? How many philosophical and psychological questions have we addressed using the story of automatons who can “feel”? Robots seem to bring out not only a sense of awe in us, but an inquisitive nature of what possibilities could arise from such technology.
Moderator
Phil Frana, James Madison University
Speakers
Charles Dunbar, Study of Anime
Charles Dunbar is a fan of many things, of which anime is but one. But it is certainly a large one. A lifelong fan, Charles has been attending conventions since his teenage years, and spent a chunk of his college career devoting copious amounts of free time to cultivating his fandom identity. Somewhere along the way, he managed to earn a graduate degree by studying convention culture, and began gave his first ever panel at Nekocon 2009. Needless to say, the Nekocon fans hooked him. Five years later, he is still at it, devoting many of his waking hours to educating his fellow fans on ideas pertaining to Japanese culture, fan culture, sacred culture, and whatever else grabs his attention. During his downtime, he sometimes writes these ideas down, indulges in the occasional JRPG, or binge-watches King of the Hill and It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. You can find more on him at Study of Anime
Steven Wilson
Steven Lloyd Wilson discovered Tolkien and Asimov at a dangerously young age and writing soon thereafter. His first novel Katorga is a dark yet humorous dystopian novel of a totalitarian future of brutal space colonization via gulags, while his short story Miskatonic Schrödinger was published this year in the award-nominated anthology Blurring the Line. In his spare time, he is a professor of political science.
Venue – Cherry Blossom
Women of Science Fiction
Pop
Speakers
Gigi Edgley, Actress
Better known as Farscape’s ‘Chiana’ will be at Escape Velocity for its entire three-day run! In addition to her role as Chiana, Edgley has an extensive list of film and television credits. You may know her from The Starter Wife, Rescue Special Ops, Tricky Business, Showdown at Area 51, Quantum Apocalypse, Carlotta, Newcastle, Black Jack, Peacekeeper Wars, Stingers, Secret Life of Us, Beastmaster, Lost World, Water Rats and Day of the Roses, and as host of Jim Henson’s Creature Shop Challenge.
Luvia Peterson, Actress
Best known for her series regular role as the fan favorite character Jasmine Garza on Syfy Network’s Continuum. She is also known for her recurring character, Lt. Fisher in TNT’s Falling Skies. Luvia has appeared in several notable projects for both Film and TV including, The X-Files, Battlestar Galactica, Reaper, Sanctuary, Endgame, The Tomorrow People, and Psych. Luvia is up for a CSA (Canadian Screen Award) for best supporting actress for her work in Continuum!
Venue – Maryland 1
How to Build a Planet: Believable Settings for Fantastic Tales
Science
Science fiction is the literature of the imagination, but imagination guided and bounded by science. One of the most ubiquitous settings for a science fiction story is the alien world – a planet capable of supporting life of some kind, circling another star. Designing such worlds credibly is the mark of the successful science fiction writer. The basic science has been understood for a long time – the “golden age” science fiction writer Poul Anderson wrote a famous essay about it – but recent discoveries of exoplanets and a better understanding of the formation and geological history of planets have enriched the writer’s toolbox immeasurably. We’ll have a brief presentation about the process of designing a habitable planet, then open the floor for discussion and questions.
Speaker
Chuck Adler, St Mary’s College of Maryland
Venue – Chesapeake GHI
Methods of Futurism
Science
How science fiction and related exploratory methods can help us contemplate the future. (Full description will be provided by Jeremy Pesner)
Moderator
Anthony Scerbo, Discerning Foresight
Speakers
Avery Senator
Claire Nelson
Dr. Claire Nelson has been actively engaged in the business of international development for more than twenty-five years. She works in the area of project development and management, with a particular focus on private sector development. A renaissance woman, she is a Development Engineer, Social Entrepreneur, and Futurist. The first Jamaican woman to earn a Doctorate degree in an engineering discipline and the only black in her graduating class, Dr. Nelson holds Industrial Engineering Degrees from the State University of New York at Buffalo, Purdue University, and a Doctorate in Engineering Management from George Washington University. She has served on numerous boards and committees including: US Department of Commerce US/Caribbean Business Development Council Advisory Board; Black Leadership Forum; DC Caribbean Carnival Association; International Think Tank Commission on Pan-African Affairs, Office of the Prime Minister of Barbados; African-American Unity Caucus; National Democratic Institute/Carter Center Election Observer Mission to the Dominican Republic; Black Professionals in International Affairs; and the International Committee of the National Society of Black Engineers-Alumni Extension.
Scott Aughenbaugh
Deputy Director, Strategic Futures Center for Strategic & International Studies (CSIS)
Venue – Maryland 2
5:00PM-6:00PM
How to Design a Picture Book Character
Education
A workshop that will walk kids through the basic steps of creating characters for story books. Fish on land? Cows in space? No problem! Learn what you need to create any character, anywhere, any time!
Venue – Chesapeake F
5:00PM-6:15PM
Bringing the World to Life: Science Fiction and Independent Filmmaking
Pop
Film is one of the most prominent media in bringing Science Fiction to life, but what goes into creating the experience? Join independent film studios in a discussion on the process behind Science Fiction films, from pre-production to final cut.
Moderators
Bjorn Munson, Museum of Science Fiction
Speakers
Phil Cook, Eagle Films
Philip Cook has written, directed, edited and/or photographed hundreds commercials, films, program opens and on-air Ids from clients ranging from The Washington Opera to MTV. He holds a degree from the University of Maryland in film production. His productions have won numerous awards, including a Clio, Tellies, Pollies, National Cine Eagles, Muse Award and numerous independent film festival awards.He has written ten screenplays, and at the age of 24 was writer/director of the feature film OUTERWORLD that debuted on the SyFy Channel. In 1994 he directed the feature film INVADER that has been seen on HBO, Cinemax, and Showtime as well as all over the world. In 1998 he wrote, directed and produced the video feature DESPISER that is in its second DVD release. Most recently he has produced MALICE, the groundbreaking original series that the Writers Guild of America has hot-listed as “the Web’s Most Cutting Edge New Media Content.” It can be viewed on Hulu. Malice is begins shooting its 5th season this summer.
Ron Newcomb, The Forge Studios
Director, Writer, Actor, and Producer: Ron has written and directed award winning short and feature-length independent films. He organized and co-leads the DMV Producers Association, as well as being involved in other film groups. Under his Opening Act Production, LLC team, Ron developed the feature film, Rise of the Fellowship, a coming-of-age story about how a group of four friends learn there’s a little bit of geek and hero in all of us. Since its debut in 2013, Rise has been distributed internationally and has been dubbed in several foreign languages. Ron also produced, Made in the USA: A 30 Day Journey, which is a documentary that explores what the brand “Made in the USA” really means these days. Ron’s shorts, include “Outlawed Faith” a Steampunk/Wesstern/Sci-fi that is making the film festival circuit. Ron’s innovative transmedia concept, along with his strong IP of The Rangers will create a new, dynamic and lucrative model for independent filmmaking under The Forge Studios, LLC.
Skip Lipman
Co-Founder, The Forge Studios
Skip Lipman is one of the founders of The Forge Studios, where he is a writer, actor, and producer of fantasy and sci-fi content. He also designs and fabricates costumes and props. Skip is best known for his critically acclaimed documentary, Darkon, which won the Audience Award for Best Documentary at the South by Southwest Festival. In addition to his filmmaking experience, Skip has worked extensively in the game and hobby industry with The Armory, and Alliance Distribution.
Seth Polansky
Managing Partner, Law Offices of Seth Polansky
Seth, the managing partner of The Law Offices of Seth Polansky, LLC, is a veteran business and IP attorney. He’s advised numerous startups and artists of all kinds, and provided pro bono services to artists’ rights organizations like Art Pact. He lives in Silver Spring, Maryland – which is good since that’s where he keeps his audio gear, wife, and cat. He also plays too much Magic the Gathering.
Jamie Anderson
Jamie Anderson is a producer, director, and writer, and is the proud son of legendary Fireball XL5, Thunderbirds and Space:1999 creator Gerry Anderson. As well as being a long-time Whovian and director/writer for Big Finish’s Doctor Who audio adventures, he is promotes and develops his late father’s legacy, developing new Anderson shows, drinks tea, and is a dementia ambassador for the UK’s Alzheimer’s Society charity.
Venue – Cherry Blossom
How to Run a Convention: Building a Team and Staff
Pop
Did you ever wonder what it would take to run a convention? So many questions, so many ideas and so little time. Well If you’re interested in putting together you own convention, definitely come by and listen in on my panel on how to run a convention. This part of the series is how to build a team and a staff. I will also cover team and staff development as well as keeping your staff engaged to the mission.
Speakers
Christian Savage
Chairman, Katsucon
Sharon Blarcon
Farpoint Convention
Venue – Maryland 2
An Early History of Computing
Science
The computer revolution is rapidly changing every aspect of our lives, but the roots of that revolution are a lot older than most people realize. Over 175 years ago, when electricity was in its infancy and the world was powered by coal and steam engines, a charismatic, albeit controversial, mathematician fired the first shots of that revolution when he attempted to build what appeared to be a thinking machine. He was aided by beautiful young debutant, more famous for her notorious father, Lord Byron, than for her technological insights. Together, this unlikely duo, Charles Babbage and Ada Lovelace, formed one of the most intriguing partnerships in the history of science.
Speakers
John Monahan, Science Writer
Venue – Maryland 3
5:00PM-6:45PM
Bullying in the Cosplay Community
Pop
We’re doing our part to stop cosplay bullying. Studio Cosplay is teaming up with Kurenai Kiba and Nicole Jacobs to bring some issues to light about cosplay bullying in our beloved cosplay community. Our goal is to bring some of the issues to light and informing you about ways to spot bullying at conventions, share some of our experiences, as well as find ways we can grow together in the cosplay community.
Speakers
Liz Gmaz
President, Studio Cosplay
Studio Cosplay is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in the DC metro area whose mission is to promote community through the art of costuming by providing workspace, opportunity, and education. Studio Cosplay is opening a community-operated workshop in 2015 where cosplayers can connect and exchange ideas, share resources and knowledge, collaborate on projects, take instructional classes and hands-on workshops, and have the space and tools to work on costumes. Our workshop will be based in the DC metro area and will welcome all cosplayers, costume designers, LARPers, photographers, artists, and anyone interested in learning about costuming.
Nicole Jacobs, Studio Cosplay
Stephanie Hackenburg, Studio Cosplay
Britany Marriott, Geppi’s Entertainment Museum
Venue – Chesapeake GHI
Science of Star Trek
Pop
The moment we saw that vessel first whoosh past the screen in 1966, we all wanted to know where it was going and dreamt of flying through the stars as we did between cities. Unlike so many other science fiction programs, however, Star Trek was premised on the idea of being as faithful to scientific precepts as possible—with the requisite dash of creative license. As a result, it predicted many of the technological advancements we take for granted today—like ubiquitous computing and cellphones—while also showing us what a civilization with faster-than-light travel can achieve. Learn about the inner workings of the Star Trek universe and its amazing gadgets, and how close we are to turning what remains of the series’ scifi tech into reality.
Moderator
Dan Curry
Known for his work on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Star Trek: Voyager, and Star Trek: The Next Generation as director, Visual Effects Supervisor, and Producer
Speakers
David Grinspoon
Distinguished Visiting Scholar in Astrobiology, http://www.funkyscience.net/
Senior Scientist at Planetary Science Institute, is an astrobiologist who studies the possible conditions for life on other planets. In November 2012, he began a one-year appointment as the inaugural Baruch S. Blumberg/NASA Chair in Astrobiology at the John W. Kluge Center of the United States Library of Congress.
Alex Young, NASA
Solar astrophysicist at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center and Associate Director for Science of its Heliophysics Science Division. Alex is also a member of the Museum’s Board of Advisors and Chair of the Technology Subcommittee.
Venue – Chesapeake GHI
6:15PM-7:30PM
38 Days in Space with Astronaut Pam Melroy
Science
Pam will talk about her experiences as a Space Shuttle pilot and mission commander, including three assembly missions to the International Space Station. She will share some stories about the challenges and triumphs of flying in space.
Speakers
Pam Melroy, DARPA, NASA
Retired Air Force test pilot and former NASA astronaut and Space Shuttle commander. Pam flew three missions in space: as Space Shuttle pilot during STS-92 in 2000 and STS-112 in 2002, and as Space Shuttle Commander during STS-120 in 2007.
Venue – Chesapeake GHI
Nanotechnology Will Give You Superpowers
Science
What superhero wouldn’t want a costume that can stop a bullet, a car that can heal itself, or an invisibility cloak? Wearing a strong, flexible, and smart costume could allow a hero to navigate in the dark without needing to see a map. It could alert them to poison gas long before the concentration becomes toxic and let the hero take body blows from henchmen without needing ice the next day. What hero wouldn’t want to save a cancer patient’s life while sparing her the side effects of the toxic drugs? Or provide clean drinking water, energy with fewer emissions, food they know isn’t spoiled. Stan Lee wrote that “nanotech is the real science of the imagination” and nanotechnology is already making possible powers possessed only by fictitious superheroes. Join nano scientists and engineers and discuss what powers await you.
Moderator
Quinn Spadola, National Nanotechnology Coordination Office
Speakers
Lisa Friedersdorf
Dorothy Farrell
Hongda Chen
Venue – Maryland 1
7:00PM-9:00PM
Science Fiction Trivia
General Programs
Think you can beat the Museum of Science Fiction at its own game, literally? Get your team together for a late-night trivia event using the official MOSF “trivia app”. Sponsored by Local Motors.
Moderators
Karina Dar Juan
Venue – Cherry Blossom
9:00 – 11:00PM
SPACE PARTY
Join the Museum staff and Escape Velocity guests for space-themed cocktails and sci-fi tunes in the Gaylord’s POSE bar.
Venue – POSE Bar
Saturday July 2nd
10:00AM-11:15AM
Future of Food
Science
From food pills to growing green lumps, the food of the future presented in science fiction is often unrecognizable and unappetizing. These foods give their worlds an unfamiliar, alien feeling, but probably don’t represent real developments in the future of food. The real future of food is tied to our health, our environment, and a changing world. We’ll discuss what emerging food technologies may solve problems we face today, and imagine what more distant challenges like space travel may mean for the food of the distant future.
Moderator
Anastasia Bodnar, Biology Fortified Inc
Dr. Anastasia Bodnar has been a science communicator with a focus on biotechnology since 2007. She is the Policy Director of Biology Fortified, Inc., an independent non-profit devoted to providing science-based information about food and agriculture. Anastasia now works in environmental compliance for pest control programs. She previously served in the US Army, leading teams in health and safety inspections and consulting on integrated pest management. Anastasia’s was inspired to study genetic engineering by Leo Frankowski’s book Copernick’s Rebellion and can’t wait to share her love of science fiction with her two-year old daughter. Find her on Twitter @geneticmaize.
Speakers
Nevin Martell
Nevin Martell has been writing about food and culture for more than a decade and a half. His work regularly appears in the Washington Post Express, Washingtonian, Capitol File, Washington City Paper, Cheese Connoisseur, Plate and Restaurant Management, as well as online at the Washington Post’s All You Can Eat blog and on Eater DC. He is also the author of four books: the small press smash Looking for Calvin and Hobbes: The Unconventional Story of Bill Watterson and His Revolutionary Comic Strip, Standing Small: A Celebration of 30 Years of the LEGO Minifigure, Dave Matthews Band: Music for the People and Beck: The Art of Mutation. When he’s not eating, typing or procrastinating, Martell enjoys traveling, jogging, baking, gardening, photography and falconing (Okay, that last one is a total lie, but it would be a cool hobby. Go, Mordecai!).
Jennie Schmidt, President, Maryland Grain Producers
Jennie Schmidt is a third generation farmer on the Eastern Shore of Maryland who practiced for over a decade as a Registered Dietitian. With her family, she practices synergistic farming, using the best of all farming methods to create healthy soils to sustain healthy food productionAs an “ag-vocate” she has worked with the Ministry of Agriculture in Botswana, represents the state of Maryland on the National Barley Growers Association, serves as the first female President of the Maryland Grain Producers. Jennie blogs as The Foodie Farmer.
Jenny Splitter
Jenny Splitter is a writer, storyteller, recovered lawyer and mother of two. She writes about food, agriculture, and parenting among many other topics. A regular contributor for Grounded Parents and Fitness Reloaded, she has been published in Salon, Refinery29, the Scientific American Blog Network and Science 2.0. When she isn’t chauffeuring her children or trying to wrap her head around CRISPR, she really likes to torture herself by telling her most embarrassing stories in front of a live audience. She has performed for Story District, the Risk! podcast, Perfect Liars Club and the Unified Scene Theater. Since 2014, she has also served on Story District’s Board of Directors.
Jessica Meisinger, Director of Education and Communication, National Renderers Association.
Dr. Jessica Meisinger is the director of Science Education and Communication for the National Renderers Association and the Fats and Proteins Research Foundation. As such, she runs the communication and education outreach for a vital part of the animal agriculture food chain that is regularly forgotten. She is a PhD Meat Scientist who can hear you all currently thinking “I didn’t know you could get a PhD in Meat Science” and is a first round draft pick on most zombie apocalypse teams for her ability to butcher and preserve meat. Jessica fell in love with manufacturing while watching crayons getting made on Sesame Street.
Venue – Chesapeake GHI
Homesteading in Space: Science and Technology to Inspire Science Fiction
Science
Achieving a future where humanity can live independently from Earth will require that much of what we need to survive and thrive come from space, so we will need to find, use, and re-use resources to make what we need on-the-go. This panel will discuss the science and technology of space exploration, including mining, nanotechnology, robotics, biological engineering, habitats, and healthcare, with the goal of inspiring the creation of science fiction that expresses a positive, entertaining view of a future “homesteading” in space.
Moderators
Lloyd Whitman, The White House, OSTP
Speakers
Andy Lane
Mason Peck, Cornell University
Former NASA Chief Technologist and Associate Professor in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at Cornell University and the Director of Cornell’s Space Systems Design Studio. Mason is also a member of the Museum’s Board of Advisors and Technology Subcommittee.
Greg Chirikjian, Johns Hopkins University
Alvin Drew, White House Office of Science and Technology Policy
Colonel Benjamin Alvin Drew is a United States Air Force officer and a NASA astronaut. He has been on two spaceflights; the first was the Space Shuttle mission STS-118 to the International Space Station, in August 2007.
Venue – Maryland 1
Science and Entertainment Exchange
Science-Pop
Film and television offer plenty of fun. But they also represent a highly influential tool that can get audiences thinking about science and engineering. In 2008 the National Academy of Sciences launched the Science & Entertainment Exchange to leverage the enormous power of film and television to inform and inspire. The Exchange’s collaborations have yielded a number of valuable lessons (and interesting stories). This panel, featuring both science consultants that The Exchange has engaged in its work and entertainment industry professionals who can speak to the benefit of the collaboration, will explore both. They will talk about the growing partnership between science and entertainment that allows for effective, accurate, and perhaps most importantly, entertaining portrayals of science and scientists. The panel will be moderated by Ann Merchant, deputy executive director for communications at the Academy and a member of The Exchange’s leadership team.
Moderator
Anne Merchant, National Academies of Science
Speakers
Anne Simone, UMD
Liz Fogel, Disney
Jeff Kahn, Johns Hopkins
Venue – Maryland 2
10:00AM-4:00PM
Board Gaming
General Programs
Escape Velocity will feature a general gaming room and well-stocked library of hobby games – with your EV pass, you can check out anything that sparks your interest (free of charge). We will have many modern favorites, and some rare and unusual games dating back to the 1970s. Come and play – trying new games and meet fellow gamers!
Venue – Cherry Blossom
Kid’s Activities with Museum of Science Fiction
General Programs
Children’s Book Readings at 12:00 noon and 4:00pm
Venue – Chesapeake DE
10:00AM-6:00PM
Preview Gallery – Museum of Science Fiction
General Programs
A sneak peak of MOSF! View a collection of artifacts from the Museum of Science Fiction collection.
Venue – Baltimore 345
Starship Horizons Bridge Simulator
General Programs
Starship Horizons is a multi-player experience allowing 2-6 players to work together as the ships Bridge Officers. The core gameplay experience is designed around players commanding their own Starship as the bridge officers in the roles of Captain, Flight, Tactical, Science, Operations, and Engineering.
Moderators
Rick Aseltine
Venue – Magnolia 1
10:00AM-2:00AM
Sci-Fi Film Festival
General Programs
Short Film Block II, featuring “Nexus”
Saturday, July 2, 10:00am
60 min, followed by Q&A
Live Movie Stunt Demo with On Camera Combatives (child-friendly)
Saturday, July 2, 12:00pm
60 min
Luvia Petersen presents: “Moonshot” Sneak Peek / Game Release
Saturday, July 2, 2:30pm
60 min including game demo
“Star Trek Continues” and talk with Gigi Edgley
Saturday, July 2, 5:00pm
45 min
“Rocky Horror Picture Show”
Saturday, July 2, 11:59pm
120 min content
Venue – Chesapeake AB
11:00AM-12:00PM
The Basics of Animation
General Programs
With a theme of Sci-Fi in mind, bring your drawings to life with these simple steps and learn the basics of animation with Eric Suggs of the Artway Alliance.
Venue – Chesapeake F
11:15AM-12:30PM
Star Trek: The Next Next Generation with Rod Roddenberry
Pop
Star Trek began 50 years ago from the imagination of his father. Listen to Rod Roddenberry reminisce about growing up around one of the birthplaces of science fiction and the influences it had on him back then and what it means to him today – as he takes Star Trek forward for the next generation of fans.
Speaker
Rod Roddenberry
The son of Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry, Rod will speak about his father’s legacy as the series celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, as well as his work as chairman of the Roddenberry Foundation.
Venue – Cherry Blossom
Video Games, Virtual Reality, and What We Can Learn From Them
Pop
As video game technology has improved over the years, so has its capacity for immersion. 3D graphics, Oculus Rift, and holographic Minecraft are among the examples of rapidly increasing VR technology. Experts and academics in the video game industry discuss these advancements, predict the future of this technology, and lay out the ethical and educational pros and cons to its implementation.
Moderator
Katriel Page
In 2004, Katriel Paige gave a panel about Japanese sacred cultures to a packed room at Otakon. Since then, she has been lecturing on topics emphasizing Japanese culture and media, from learning Japanese, to magical girls and witches, to Japanese sweets, and more! Her background is in Intercultural Communication with International Business with the University of Surrey (in the UK), and she is co-chair of studyofanime.com.
Speakers
Seth Polansky, Managing Partner, Law Offices of Seth Polansky
Seth, the managing partner of The Law Offices of Seth Polansky, LLC, is a veteran business and IP attorney. He’s advised numerous startups and artists of all kinds, and provided pro bono services to artists’ rights organizations like Art Pact. He lives in Silver Spring, Maryland – which is good since that’s where he keeps his audio gear, wife, and cat. He also plays too much Magic the Gathering.
Kathryn Hemmann
Chris Hazard, Hazardous Software Inc
Jason Ganz
Venue – Maryland 3
12:00PM-12:45PM
Stories from the Future: Yeah Moon!
General Programs
Futurist & Storyteller Claire A. Nelson shares a tale about her life on the Moon. In 2036, the Space Goodwill Games as they are popularly called was established to help dampen conflicts brewing between the Space-Faring nations and the Non-Space Faring Nations with respect to space tourism, space settlements and space sustainability, and promote multi-national and trans-national understanding on the extra-planetary scale. In the upcoming II Space Goodwill Games 2040 of the XXXV Olympiad – all eyes are on the team from Jamaica – the once and always audacious island nation. Team Jamaica – the world renown sprint factory, has qualified for the Steeple-Chase CrossTour, making it the ONLY non-space faring nation to have a team in the Space Goodwill Games. Team ‘Jamaica to the Universe’ blasts off to a new chapter in history, ‘Yeah Moon!
Speakers
Claire Nelson
Dr. Claire Nelson has been actively engaged in the business of international development for more than twenty-five years. She works in the area of project development and management, with a particular focus on private sector development. A renaissance woman, she is a Development Engineer, Social Entrepreneur, and Futurist. The first Jamaican woman to earn a Doctorate degree in an engineering discipline and the only black in her graduating class, Dr. Nelson holds Industrial Engineering Degrees from the State University of New York at Buffalo, Purdue University, and a Doctorate in Engineering Management from George Washington University. She has served on numerous boards and committees including: US Department of Commerce US/Caribbean Business Development Council Advisory Board; Black Leadership Forum; DC Caribbean Carnival Association; International Think Tank Commission on Pan-African Affairs, Office of the Prime Minister of Barbados; African-American Unity Caucus; National Democratic Institute/Carter Center Election Observer Mission to the Dominican Republic; Black Professionals in International Affairs; and the International Committee of the National Society of Black Engineers-Alumni Extension.
Venue – Exhibit Hall – NASA Stage
Sci-Fi Fighting 101
General Programs
Need to prep for a Light Saber duel? Looking to improve your Vulcan Death Grip, or just want to rock some Kirk-Fu? The DC Stunt Coalition presents their Fight Choreography 101 workshop. Drawing from the content of their Phaser’s and Sabers Panel, DCSC will show you the basics of safety and performing a fight scene as seen on stage and film.
Dylan Hintz is a Maryland born stunt performer, fight choreographer, actor, director, cinephile, digital and live action story teller. He has been featured in TV shows and films such as TURN: Washington’s Spies, Banshee, Outsiders, Braindead, BLACK MASS, PURGE: Election Year and over twenty other local independent films. He has over 10 years of martial arts training across various styles, and is a certified Actor Combatant with the Society of American Fight Directors, and is the DMV representative of Act Tactical for Film. He started the DC Stunt Coalition in 2011, and has since grown not only it’s numbers, but it’s reputation in the professional industry as a respected place of training for aspiring stunt performers and action actors to get their start in the field.
Abra Burkett is a member of DC Stunt Coalition, a practitioner of multiple martial arts, a lover of film and TV (especially sci-fi and action movies), and a self-proclaimed geek. She received an M.A. in Sociology from American University. Her thesis focused on the portrayals of gender in military films and the impact of media on understandings of gender in overall society.
Venue – Baltimore 1-2
12:30PM-1:45PM
So You Want to Be a Comic Artist
Pop
What goes into the creation of comics? Comic artists, writers, and specialists discuss what it takes to design entire worlds, characters, and storylines, not to mention how to reach the public with their creations. Open to all levels of comic enthusiasm, from fans to aspiring content creators.
Venue – Maryland 3
‘The Martian’: Science Fiction and Science Fact
Science
The best-selling book about an astronaut stranded on Mars was brought to life in Ridley Scott’s film, The Martian. Before production started, Ridley called NASA to obtain information about NASA’s plans for human exploration of Mars in addition to the science of Mars that would contribute to a realistic look and feel of the film in keeping with the approach laid out in Andy Weir’s book. An intense period of interaction over several months followed between Ridley’s design team and NASA journey to Mars personnel on everything from habitats, vehicles, spacesuits, ion engines, radioisotope power systems, and Mars terrains. The result was a tremendously popular and award winning film. Having been one of the main consultants on the film, Dr. Green will discuss what NASA’s real plans and challenges are to sending humans to Mars as compared to this fictional account.
Speaker
Dr. Jim Green, NASA
Technical Adviser to the movie “The Martian”, Dr. James L. Green is NASA’s Planetary Science Division Director at NASA Headquarters in Washington, DC. He has overseen several missions including the New Horizons probe to Pluto, the MESSENGER probe to Mercury, the launch of JUno probe to Jupiter, the launch of Grail A and B to the Moon, the Dawn probe to Vesta, and the landing of the Mars Science Laboratory and Curiosity rover on Mars.Dr. Green has received numerous awards, including the Arthur S. Flemming award and the Japan’s Kotani Prize.
Venue – Cherry Blossom
Science Fiction and the Symbiotic Relationship with Real Science
Science
An exploration of the history of how science fiction and real science inspire each other.
Moderator
Dan Curry
Known for his work on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Star Trek: Voyager, and Star Trek: The Next Generation as director, Visual Effects Supervisor, and Producer
Speakers
David Israel
Greg Williams
Catherine Asaro, Author
Catherine Asaro is an author of science fiction, fantasy and thrillers, and has written over twenty-five novels, as well as short stories and non-fiction. Her acclaimed Ruby Dynasty series combines adventure, hard science, math, romance and fast-paced action. Among her numerous distinctions, she has won the Nebula® and Analog Reader's Choice awards. Her most recent books are the anthology she edited, The Nebula Awards Showcase 2013 (Pyr), the novel Carnelians (Baen/ Simon & Schuster), and the anthology of her short fiction titled Aurora in Four Voices (ISFiC Press). All her novels are available in audio form and her most recent eBook releases are the award-winning works, Primary Inversion, “The City of Cries” and “The Spacetime Pool." Her book Undercity is due out from Baen in 2014.
Catherine earned her doctorate in theoretical chemical physics from Harvard. She has coached numerous math teams, in particular the Howard Area Homeschoolers and Chesapeake ARML program. Her students have won top honors in many competitions, including the USA Mathematical Olympiad and the USA Mathematical Talent Search.
Catherine is a member of SIGMA, a think tank of speculative writers that advises the government on future trends affecting national security. She is also known for her advocacy in bringing girls and women into STEM fields. She has been an invited speaker at various institutions, including the National Academy of Sciences, Harvard, Georgetown, NASA, the New Zealand Context Writer's program, and the US Naval Academy.
Venue – Chesapeake GHI
The Future of Mobility and Autonomous Vehicles
Science
This panel discussion will delve into what the future of transportation might look like in just a few short years. Experts from Local Motors and other leaders in future-forward mobility will discuss topics like self-driving cars, the 3D-printing of vehicles and how ride-sharing could change the way we move through the world.
Moderators
Adam Kress, Local Motors
Speakers
Paul Fenwick
Paul Fenwick is an internationally acclaimed public speaker, developer, and science educator. Paul is well known for presenting on a diverse range of topics including privacy, neuroscience and neuroethics, Klingon programming, open source, depression and mental health, advancements in science, diversity, autonomous agents, and minesweeper automation. His dynamic presentation style and quirky humour has delighted audiences worldwide.Paul was awarded the 2013 O’Reilly Open Source award, and the 2010 White Camel award, both for outstanding contributions to the open source community. In 2014 he formed the Comprehensive Kerbal Archive Network or CKAN, providing easier games modding for hundreds of thousands of space enthusiasts.As a Freedom Loving Scientist, Paul’s goal is to learn everything he can, do amazing things with that knowledge, and give them away for free.
Guy Fraker, CLO, AutonomouStuff
Venue – Maryland 1
1:00PM-1:30PM
The Chromatics
General Programs
The Chromatics are a high-energy vocal band on a mission to delight audiences with a full spectrum of songs about science, technology, life, and their intersections. They have taken their astronomically-correct a cappella songs, a project called AstroCappella, from Palm Springs to Orlando and from Las Vegas to New York, and their CD has flown in space (no kidding!). Back down on earth they have captivated young and old alike at the National Air & Space Museum, numerous science fiction conventions, First Nights, concert series, and a cappella festivals. Their CDs have been nominated for multiple Washington Area Music Awards (WAMMIES) and Contemporary A Cappella Recording Awards (CARAs). After more than 20 years together they still bring a youthful exuberance to their fun-filled, colorful, and scientifically accurate performances.
Venue – Exhibit Hall – NASA Stage
1:00PM-2:00PM
Drawing Characters with STEAM
General Programs
Within the theme of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math attendees can learn how to design a character based on one or all of the elements of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) in their design. Character design is the art of creating a character for use in books, comics, video games, television, movies and other fictional mediums. Designers outline everything about the character they envision from appearance and strengths to personality and weaknesses.
Venue – Chesapeake F
1:45PM-3:00PM
The Final Frontier and Beyond: Star Trek 50 Years Later and its Impact on Space Exploration
Pop
In the early 1970s, Star Trek fans wrote tens of thousands of letters to the White House asking the Administration to name NASA’s new prototype Space Shuttle “Enterprise.” Star Trek went off the air in 1969, but its fans kept busy and the series thrived and gained new converts in syndication. On September 17, 1976, NASA—accompanied by the most famous crew in Starfleet history—unveiled their newest addition to its fleet for the post-Apollo era: the Space Shuttle Enterprise. Fast forward 39 years to see Italian astronaut Samantha Christoforetti wearing a Starfleet uniform (circa Voyager) onboard the most audacious human engineering project ever: the International Space Station, while research on warp drive captivates the zeitgeist. Explore the relationship between Star Trek and space exploration with this panel as we hear the experiences from the heroes of screen and space, and learn about what lies in store. The Human Adventure is just beginning.
Moderator
Dan Curry
Known for his work on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Star Trek: Voyager, and Star Trek: The Next Generation as director, Visual Effects Supervisor, and Producer
Speakers
Adam Nimoy
The son of Leonard Nimoy, who played Mr. Spock on Star Trek, will discuss his father’s legacy and his new documentary film, For the Love of Spock.
Rod Roddenberry
The son of Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry, Rod will speak about his father’s legacy as the series celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, as well as his work as chairman of the Roddenberry Foundation.
Alex Young
Solar astrophysicist at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center and Associate Director for Science of its Heliophysics Science Division. Alex is also a member of the Museum’s Board of Advisors and Chair of the Technology Subcommittee.
Mason Peck, Cornell University
Former NASA Chief Technologist and Associate Professor in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at Cornell University and the Director of Cornell’s Space Systems Design Studio. Mason is also a member of the Museum’s Board of Advisors and Technology Subcommittee.
Venue – Cherry Blossom
Video Gamers United Presents: Indie Game Development with TAG Labs
Pop
TAG Labs will be hosting a panel featuring local Independent Game Developers. The developers will speak on their journey on becoming Indie Game Developers, provide tips to aspiring game Devs, address the state of Indie Games and provide an in-depth view into the life of a Game Developer. The panel will also feature a Q & A portion where the audience can ask the Game developers questions.
Speakers
Cesar Diaz, Video Gamers United
Venue – Chesapeake C
2:00PM-3:00PM
Geppi’s Entertainment Museum Spotlight
With a major focus on comics, Baltimore’s Geppi’s Entertainment Museum (GEM) is a journey through 250 years of American pop culture. Here to tell you about all the exciting things the museum does-and especially its current exhibitions, “The Artistry of Amanda Conner” and “Matt Crandall’s: Alice In Wonderland Collection”, Michael Solof (GEM’s Collection and Exhibits Manager) And Britany Marriott (GEM’s Events and Marketing Coordinator) host this fun and entertaining panel!
Speakers
Mike Solof, Geppi’s Entertainment Musuem
Britney Marriott, Geppi’s Entertainment Museum
Venue – Chesapeake F
3:00PM-4:00PM
Designing a Sci-Fi Villian
General Programs
Join ID STUDIOS members Jerry and Penelope Gaylord to learn some basic character design tips to turn your “bad guy” into something out of this world! See how simple silouhettes can set villains apart before going into the details of the design. Bring a pencil and some paper so you can sketch your ideas! (Jerry Gaylord has worked on comic titles such as “Fanboys Vs Zombies” and “Sonic the Hedgehog” to name a few, as well as a storyboard artist on “Ultimate Spider-Man” cartoon on Disney XD. Penelope Gaylord has done licensed illustration work for “How To Train Your Dragon” from DreamWorks and cover art for “My Little Pony” and “Adventure Time” comics.)
Venue – Chesapeake F
Machine Ethics and Emerging Technologies
General Programs
Technology is advancing at a faster rate than society’s expectations, and can go from science-fiction to being consumer-available, with very little in the way of discussion in between, but the questions they raise are critically important: What happens when self-driving vehicles cause unemployment, when medical expert systems work on behalf of insurance agencies rather than patients, and weapon platforms make their own lethal decisions?
Speakers
Paul Fenwick
Paul Fenwick is an internationally acclaimed public speaker, developer, and science educator. Paul is well known for presenting on a diverse range of topics including privacy, neuroscience and neuroethics, Klingon programming, open source, depression and mental health, advancements in science, diversity, autonomous agents, and minesweeper automation. His dynamic presentation style and quirky humour has delighted audiences worldwide. Paul was awarded the 2013 O’Reilly Open Source award, and the 2010 White Camel award, both for outstanding contributions to the open source community. In 2014 he formed the Comprehensive Kerbal Archive Network or CKAN, providing easier games modding for hundreds of thousands of space enthusiasts. As a Freedom Loving Scientist, Paul’s goal is to learn everything he can, do amazing things with that knowledge, and give them away for free.
Venue – Cherry Blossom
Sci-Fi Fighting 101
General Programs
Need to prep for a Light Saber duel? Looking to improve your Vulcan Death Grip, or just want to rock some Kirk-Fu? The DC Stunt Coalition presents their Fight Choreography 101 workshop. Drawing from the content of their Phaser’s and Sabers Panel, DCSC will show you the basics of safety and performing a fight scene as seen on stage and film.
Moderators
Dylan Hintz is a Maryland born stunt performer, fight choreographer, actor, director, cinephile, digital and live action story teller. He has been featured in TV shows and films such as TURN: Washington’s Spies, Banshee, Outsiders, Braindead, BLACK MASS, PURGE: Election Year and over twenty other local independent films. He has over 10 years of martial arts training across various styles, and is a certified Actor Combatant with the Society of American Fight Directors, and is the DMV representative of Act Tactical for Film. He started the DC Stunt Coalition in 2011, and has since grown not only it’s numbers, but it’s reputation in the professional industry as a respected place of training for aspiring stunt performers and action actors to get their start in the field.
Abra Burkett is a member of DC Stunt Coalition, a practitioner of multiple martial arts, a lover of film and TV (especially sci-fi and action movies), and a self-proclaimed geek. She received an M.A. in Sociology from American University. Her thesis focused on the portrayals of gender in military films and the impact of media on understandings of gender in overall society.
Venue – Baltimore 1-2
Spotlight: Gigi Edgley
Pop
Actress Gigi Edgley, better known as Farscape’s ‘Chiana’ will be at Escape Velocity for its entire three-day run!
In addition to her role as Chiana, the street-smart Nebari from cult science fiction series Farscape, Edgley has an extensive list of film and television credits. You may know her from The Starter Wife, Rescue Special Ops, Tricky Business, Showdown at Area 51, Quantum Apocalypse, Carlotta, Newcastle, Black Jack, Peacekeeper Wars, Stingers, Secret Life of Us, Beastmaster, Lost World, Water Rats and Day of the Roses, and as host of Jim Henson’s Creature Shop Challenge.
Edgley’s award nominations include the SyFy Genre Award for Best Supporting actress, the Saturn Award for Best Supporting Actress in a television series, and the Maxim Award for Sexiest Space Babe!
Something we are very much looking forward hearing about is Edgley’s new short film project, Hashtag, which provides a “sleek, smart, and sexy view of a world where social media dominates every moment of our lives.” Currently in post-production, Hashtag raised an amazing $44,222 through Kickstarter in 2014, and there are plans to take the film to Sundance, Cannes and Toronto film festivals.
Speakers
Gigi Edgley
Better known as Farscape’s ‘Chiana’ will be at Escape Velocity for its entire three-day run! In addition to her role as Chiana, Edgley has an extensive list of film and television credits. You may know her from The Starter Wife, Rescue Special Ops, Tricky Business, Showdown at Area 51, Quantum Apocalypse, Carlotta, Newcastle, Black Jack, Peacekeeper Wars, Stingers, Secret Life of Us, Beastmaster, Lost World, Water Rats and Day of the Roses, and as host of Jim Henson’s Creature Shop Challenge.
Venue – Maryland 2
3:00PM-4:15PM
First Contact: Improbable Dream or Worst Nightmare?
Pop
The merits and demerits of “activating” the Search for Extra-Terrestrial Intelligence (SETI) by transitioning from passive listening to deliberate sending of messages to targeted star systems have become something of a hot topic again with the publication of the end-note in a recent Communications of the ACM by Seth Shostak, wherein SETI’s senior astronomer takes an uncharacteristically pessimistic view of the possible consequences of reaching out to our interstellar neighbors. Can science fiction serve as a Gedankenexperiment for possible outcomes in advance of the actuality?
Moderator
Patrick Jackson, American University
Speakers
David Grinspoon
Distinguished Visiting Scholar in Astrobiology, http://www.funkyscience.net/
Senior Scientist at Planetary Science Institute, is an astrobiologist who studies the possible conditions for life on other planets. In November 2012, he began a one-year appointment as the inaugural Baruch S. Blumberg/NASA Chair in Astrobiology at the John W. Kluge Center of the United States Library of Congress.
Seth Polansky, Managing Partner, Law Offices of Seth Polansky
Seth, the managing partner of The Law Offices of Seth Polansky, LLC, is a veteran business and IP attorney. He’s advised numerous startups and artists of all kinds, and provided pro bono services to artists’ rights organizations like Art Pact. He lives in Silver Spring, Maryland – which is good since that’s where he keeps his audio gear, wife, and cat. He also plays too much Magic the Gathering.
Wendy Anderson, Workhouse Arts Center
Venue – Maryland 1
The History of Science Fiction
Pop
This genre that we love is diverse, with a definition that has been the root of battles between the devoted and the scholarly. Travel through time and space by teaming up with experts in the field. From crossing the sands of Arrakis to encountering the species only known to us as 8472, let us take a journey with you as we lay out a brief history of Science Fiction.
Moderators
Britany Marriott, Geppi’s Entertainment Museum
Speakers
Steven Wilson
Steven Lloyd Wilson discovered Tolkien and Asimov at a dangerously young age and writing soon thereafter. His first novel Katorga is a dark yet humorous dystopian novel of a totalitarian future of brutal space colonization via gulags, while his short story Miskatonic Schrödinger was published this year in the award-nominated anthology Blurring the Line. In his spare time, he is a professor of political science.
Mike Solof, Geppi’s Entertainment Museum
Venue – Maryland 3
Space Medicine
Science
Keeping humans healthy for long distance space travel presents a host of problems. How do we minimize the health impacts of weightlessness? How do we treat illness and injury without access to the full range of expertise, medication, and equipment available on Earth? Are solutions to these problems presented in science fiction feasible? What real life medical advances could help?
Moderators
Mike McDonnell, Mars One
Michael McDonnell is currently a Round Three Mars One Astronaut Candidate, having been selected in Round One from over 200,000 people world-wide, who applied in 2013. In 2015, he was again selected during Round Two, to be counted among 100 current astronaut candidates, chosen by the Mars One selection committee with the personal characteristics suitable to make a Mars colony successful. Mr. McDonnell is working for the Department of Justice, providing Cyber Security within its Information Technology Branch. Mr. McDonnell received a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics at St. Joseph’s University and completed Master’s level coursework in Software Engineering at Penn State University. He has worked as an Associate Software Engineer for the Lockheed Martin Aerospace Company. He provided public safety in his roles as a Radiation Health Physicist and a Hazardous Waste Inspector for the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. Prior work included environmental and civil engineering projects at a private consulting firm in Philadelphia.
Speakers
Leila Zucker, Mars One, Looney Pyramids, tabletop ganes, LEGO, ziplining/aerial adventure parks, SeaMonkey Medical Society
Kris Lindhart
Ryan Sochol
Venue – Chesapeake GHI
4:00PM-4:30PM
The Chromatics
General Programs
The Chromatics are a high-energy vocal band on a mission to delight audiences with a full spectrum of songs about science, technology, life, and their intersections. They have taken their astronomically-correct a cappella songs, a project called AstroCappella, from Palm Springs to Orlando and from Las Vegas to New York, and their CD has flown in space (no kidding!). Back down on earth they have captivated young and old alike at the National Air & Space Museum, numerous science fiction conventions, First Nights, concert series, and a cappella festivals. Their CDs have been nominated for multiple Washington Area Music Awards (WAMMIES) and Contemporary A Cappella Recording Awards (CARAs). After more than 20 years together they still bring a youthful exuberance to their fun-filled, colorful, and scientifically accurate performances.
Venue – Exhibit Hall – NASA Stage
4:00PM-5:15PM
Cosplay Showcase
Pop
Attention cosplayers of all skill levels and fandoms! Want to show off your handiwork and gather friendly and casual feedback from a panel of fellow crafters? Wearing a bought cosplay and want to talk about why you chose the character? Do you just love dressing up with a community of nerds and want to express your love? Cosplayer panellists are here to offer support, advice, and to have fandom squeals in solidarity.
Moderators
Liz Gmaz
President, Studio Cosplay
Studio Cosplay is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in the DC metro area whose mission is to promote community through the art of costuming by providing workspace, opportunity, and education. Studio Cosplay is opening a community-operated workshop in 2015 where cosplayers can connect and exchange ideas, share resources and knowledge, collaborate on projects, take instructional classes and hands-on workshops, and have the space and tools to work on costumes. Our workshop will be based in the DC metro area and will welcome all cosplayers, costume designers, LARPers, photographers, artists, and anyone interested in learning about costuming.
Speakers
Stephanie Hackenburg, Studio Cosplay
Venue – Cherry Blossom
4:15PM-5:00PM
Spotlight: Luvia Peterson
Pop
Best known for her series regular role as the fan favorite character Jasmine Garza on Syfy Network’s Continuum. She is also known for her recurring character, Lt. Fisher in TNT’s Falling Skies. Luvia has appeared in several notable projects for both Film and TV including, The X-Files, Battlestar Galactica, Reaper, Sanctuary, Endgame, The Tomorrow People, and Psych. Luvia is up for a CSA (Canadian Screen Award) for best supporting actress for her work in Continuum! Luvia is starring in a new science-fiction film, Moonshot, coming out later this year.
Speakers
Luvia Peterson, Actress
Best known for her series regular role as the fan favorite character Jasmine Garza on Syfy Network’s Continuum. She is also known for her recurring character, Lt. Fisher in TNT’s Falling Skies. Luvia has appeared in several notable projects for both Film and TV including, The X-Files, Battlestar Galactica, Reaper, Sanctuary, Endgame, The Tomorrow People, and Psych. Luvia is up for a CSA (Canadian Screen Award) for best supporting actress for her work in Continuum!
Venue – Maryland 2
4:15PM-5:30PM
Steampunk in Anime, Film, and Comics
Pop
Steampunk is an exploration of the alternative possibilities that lie hidden in the intersections between political modernity and modern technology. We in the United States often associate the genre with Victorian England, but how do other countries use steampunk to challenge and reconfigure their own histories? This panel will offer an international perspective on steampunk across multiple artistic media, with a focus on the mad science and outlandish devices that whir and clank within fantasy versions of the late nineteenth century in anime, manga, and comics.
Moderators
Kathryn Hemmann
Speakers
Julia Klag
Featured Panelist, Doomtastic
We are a group of otaku that enjoy going to conventions. In fact, it’s become quite a hobby for us. We are located centrally in Baltimore and attend many of the local conventions.
Philippa Ballantine
Tee Morris
Venue – Maryland 1
Why Are We Drawn to Science Fiction?
Pop
We are aware of the impact of Science Fiction on popular culture through film, books, and almost every media of entertainment. It is a worldwide phenomenon with a longstanding history. However, how often have we given thought to why this is the case? Why is the genre of Science Fiction so well-loved and celebrated? Can we even find an answer to this question?
Moderator
Ron Newcomb, The Forge Studios
Director, Writer, Actor, and Producer: Ron has written and directed award winning short and feature-length independent films. He organized and co-leads the DMV Producers Association, as well as being involved in other film groups. Under his Opening Act Production, LLC team, Ron developed the feature film, Rise of the Fellowship, a coming-of-age story about how a group of four friends learn there’s a little bit of geek and hero in all of us. Since its debut in 2013, Rise has been distributed internationally and has been dubbed in several foreign languages. Ron also produced, Made in the USA: A 30 Day Journey, which is a documentary that explores what the brand “Made in the USA” really means these days. Ron’s shorts, include “Outlawed Faith” a Steampunk/Wesstern/Sci-fi that is making the film festival circuit. Ron’s innovative transmedia concept, along with his strong IP of The Rangers will create a new, dynamic and lucrative model for independent filmmaking under The Forge Studios, LLC.
Speakers
Steven Lloyd Wilson
Steven Lloyd Wilson discovered Tolkien and Asimov at a dangerously young age and writing soon thereafter. His first novel Katorga is a dark yet humorous dystopian novel of a totalitarian future of brutal space colonization via gulags, while his short story Miskatonic Schrödinger was published this year in the award-nominated anthology Blurring the Line. In his spare time, he is a professor of political science.
Skip Lipman
Co-Founder, The Forge Studios
Skip Lipman is one of the founders of The Forge Studios, where he is a writer, actor, and producer of fantasy and sci-fi content. He also designs and fabricates costumes and props. Skip is best known for his critically acclaimed documentary, Darkon, which won the Audience Award for Best Documentary at the South by Southwest Festival. In addition to his filmmaking experience, Skip has worked extensively in the game and hobby industry with The Armory, and Alliance Distribution.
Michael Terracciano
Garth Graham and Michael Terracciano are the creators of the sci-fi superhero space adventure webcomic, STAR POWER! After working on their previous webcomics, “Finder’s Keepers” and “Dominic Deegan: Oracle for Hire,” they teamed up to create a superhero story filled with more action than violence and more adventure than angst. Now in its third year, STAR POWER continues to impress readers with its out-of-this-world characters and stellar artwork. Garth and Michael have been making webcomics for over a decade, and they hope you find the world they’ve created a place you want to escape to, not from. Follow the ongoing adventures of STAR POWER at www.starpowercomic.com!
Garth Graham, Star Power Comic
Garth Graham and Michael Terracciano are the creators of the sci-fi superhero space adventure webcomic, STAR POWER! After working on their previous webcomics, “Finder’s Keepers” and “Dominic Deegan: Oracle for Hire,” they teamed up to create a superhero story filled with more action than violence and more adventure than angst. Now in its third year, STAR POWER continues to impress readers with its out-of-this-world characters and stellar artwork. Garth and Michael have been making webcomics for over a decade, and they hope you find the world they’ve created a place you want to escape to, not from. Follow the ongoing adventures of STAR POWER at www.starpowercomic.com!
Venue – Chesapeake GHI
5:00PM-6:00PM
The Art of Forging Giant Mechas & Robots
General Programs
The Art of Forging Giant Mechas and Robots is a one hour course that teaches people the fundamentals of drawing Mechas by using geometric shapes. The course will cover the anatomy of Mechas and Robots with a brief introduction to the many ways of creating the Mechas and the differences between Mechas and Robots. At the end of this course students will have a basic understanding of how to create a Mecha from concept to a sketch and will be able to repeat the process on their own.
Venue – Chesapeake F
5:30PM-6:45PM
Eastern Versus Western Science Fiction
Pop
Join academic and fan experts in the field in a discussion over American and European Science Fiction versus Science Fiction within the Japanese entertainment industry and beyond.
Moderators
Kathryn Hemmann
Speakers
Julia Klag, Featured Panelist, Doomtastic
We are a group of otaku that enjoy going to conventions. In fact, it’s become quite a hobby for us. We are located centrally in Baltimore and attend many of the local conventions.
Charles Dunbar, Study of Anime
Charles Dunbar is a fan of many things, of which anime is but one. But it is certainly a large one. A lifelong fan, Charles has been attending conventions since his teenage years, and spent a chunk of his college career devoting copious amounts of free time to cultivating his fandom identity. Somewhere along the way, he managed to earn a graduate degree by studying convention culture, and began gave his first ever panel at Nekocon 2009. Needless to say, the Nekocon fans hooked him. Five years later, he is still at it, devoting many of his waking hours to educating his fellow fans on ideas pertaining to Japanese culture, fan culture, sacred culture, and whatever else grabs his attention. During his downtime, he sometimes writes these ideas down, indulges in the occasional JRPG, or binge-watches King of the Hill and It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. You can find more on him at Study of Anime
Britany Marriott, Geppi’s Entertainment Museum
Venue – Maryland 1
6:00PM-7:30PM
Sci-Fi Cocktails
General Programs
Join us for a sci-fi themed cocktail hour before the Escape Velocity Gala Dinner.
Venue – Cherry Blossom
7:30PM-10:00PM
Escape Velocity Celebrity Gala Dinner
General Programs
Join us for a cocktail reception and gala dinner where Rod Roddenberry will make a keynote presentation about Star Trek’s 50th Anniversary and his work with the Roddenberry Foundation. As the executive producer for new Star Trek television series to debut next year, Rod may be able to share a little information on great things to come. Mason Peck, former NASA Chief Technologist and member of the Museum’s Board of Advisors will present the CubeSat awards to three high school teams from China, Texas, and New York. The award ceremony will be followed by the science fiction live auction.
Speakers
Rod Roddenberry
The son of Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry, Rod will speak about his father’s legacy as the series celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, as well as his work as chairman of the Roddenberry Foundation.
Venue – Cherry Blossom
9:45PM-11:45PM
Sci-Fi Burlesque
General Programs
The sexiest local cosplayers will be performing a sci-fi themed burlesque show on Saturday night! Please be seated at 9:45 pm sharp, or kindly wait for intermission to join. Please, no photography or video.
Venue – Maryland A
11:59PM-2:00AM
Rocky Horror Picture Show
General Programs
Venue – Chesapeake AB
Sunday July 3rd
10:00AM-11:15AM
Drone Applications
Science
This panel, featuring hobbyists, industry, and researchers, will investigate the current and future uses and impacts of drones in science, the military, surveillance, and every day life.
Moderators
Fred Briggs, NoVa Labs
Speakers
Trey Fogerty, Director of Government Affairs, NENA: The 9-1-1 Association
Trey Forgety joined NENA: The 9-1-1 Association in 2010 after two years as a Presiden-tial Management Fellow in the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Office of Emer-gency Communications. During that time, he served temporarily with the Federal Com-munications Commission’s (FCC) Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau and with the Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Admin-istration (NTIA). At the FCC, Trey developed recommendations for the Public Safety chapter of the National Broadband Plan. Later, at Commerce, he worked to implement the Plan’s recommendations as NTIA evaluated applications to the Broadband Technology Opportunity Program (BTOP). Both at NTIA and DHS, he participated in discussions with senior Obama administration officials from the Office of the Vice President, the Of-fice of Management and Budget, the Office of Science and Technology Policy, and the National Economic Council to develop policies for the deployment of a nationwide mobile broadband network for first responders. Trey holds a Bachelor of Science in Applied Phys-ics and a Doctor of Jurisprudence, both from the University of Tennessee.
Katie Qutub, Health Systems Officer, Latin America and the Caribbean, UAV Champion, US Agency for International Development
Katie Qutub is a Health Officer at the US Agency for International Development (USAID). Katie is a Certified Supply Chain Professional, which triggered her interest in using UAVs to address challenges in humanitarian assistance and development. For more than a year, she has been acting as USAID’s “UAV Champion.” In this role, she has brought together more than 50 colleagues and 20 organizations to explore how UAVs can be tools to address poverty and advance democracy and prosperity.
Josh Dittmar
Commander Josh Dittmar is a Naval Aviator and drone tester for the U.S. Navy and has been involved in UAS testing since 2009. In his last job, he served as the lead developmental tester for the MQ-8B Fire Scout, a robotic helicopter. At VX-1 he led operational test efforts for MQ-4C Triton, RQ-21A Blackjack and MQ-8B Fire Scout. He is currently enroute to the U.S. Naval Academy where he will teach unmanned aircraft design in the Aeronautical Engineering Department. As a drone enthusiast, he flies a 3DR Solo quadcopter and is building his first racing drone. He is a member of AUVSI and serves on the Seafarer Chapter Board of Directors.
Christopher Vo, Chief Scientist, Sentien Robotics
Christopher Vo serves as the Chief Scientist for Sentien Robotics, developing technologies to improve robustness, scalability, and performance of autonomous unmanned systems. He holds a Ph.D. in Computer Science from George Mason University, where he developed artificial intelligence algorithms to enable huge collaborative swarms of unmanned aircraft. Christopher has also co-founded and now serves as President of the DC Area Drone User Group, one of the largest educational networks of civilian drone users in the mid-Atlantic.
Venue – Maryland 1
10:00AM-4:00PM
Starship Horizons Bridge Simulator
General Programs
Starship Horizons is a multi-player experience allowing 2-6 players to work together as the ships Bridge Officers. The core gameplay experience is designed around players commanding their own Starship as the bridge officers in the roles of Captain, Flight, Tactical, Science, Operations, and Engineering.
Moderators
Rick Aseltine
Venue – Magnolia 1
Kid’s Activities with Museum of Science Fiction
General Programs
Venue – Chesapeake DE
Preview Gallery – Museum of Science Fiction
General Programs
A sneak peak of MOSF! View a collection of artifacts from the Museum of Science Fiction collection.
Venue – Baltimore 345
11:00AM-11:30AM
Book Signing with Jamie Anderson
General Programs
Speakers
Jamie Anderson
Jamie Anderson is a producer, director, and writer, and is the proud son of legendary Fireball XL5, Thunderbirds and Space:1999 creator Gerry Anderson. As well as being a long-time Whovian and director/writer for Big Finish’s Doctor Who audio adventures, he is promotes and develops his late father’s legacy, developing new Anderson shows, drinks tea, and is a dementia ambassador for the UK’s Alzheimer’s Society charity.
Venue – Exhibit Hall – NASA Stage
11:00AM-4:00PM
Board Gaming
General Programs
Escape Velocity will feature a general gaming room and well-stocked library of hobby games – with your EV pass, you can check out anything that sparks your interest (free of charge). We will have many modern favorites, and some rare and unusual games dating back to the 1970s. Come and play – trying new games and meet fellow gamers!
Venue – Cherry Blossom
11:00AM-5:00PM
Sci-Fi Film Festival
General Programs
Live Movie Stunt Demo with On Camera Combatives (child-friendly)
Sunday, July 3, 11:00am
60 min
Short Films from Boston Sci-Fi Film Fest
Sunday, July 3, 1:00pm
60 min
11:15AM-12:30PM
Art Inspired by Science Fiction and Space
Pop
How has Science Fiction Pop Culture inspired and affected the arts, and how have elements of Science Fiction been received within art culture? From comic art to painting, from pen and ink to digital tablets and Photoshop, join artists of various media in a discussion on Science Fiction’s influence on the art world.
Moderator
Karina Dar Juan
Speakers
Wendy Anderson, Workhouse Arts Center
Michael Terracciano
Garth Graham and Michael Terracciano are the creators of the sci-fi superhero space adventure webcomic, STAR POWER! After working on their previous webcomics, “Finder’s Keepers” and “Dominic Deegan: Oracle for Hire,” they teamed up to create a superhero story filled with more action than violence and more adventure than angst. Now in its third year, STAR POWER continues to impress readers with its out-of-this-world characters and stellar artwork. Garth and Michael have been making webcomics for over a decade, and they hope you find the world they’ve created a place you want to escape to, not from. Follow the ongoing adventures of STAR POWER at www.starpowercomic.com!
Garth Graham, Star Power Comic
Garth Graham and Michael Terracciano are the creators of the sci-fi superhero space adventure webcomic, STAR POWER! After working on their previous webcomics, “Finder’s Keepers” and “Dominic Deegan: Oracle for Hire,” they teamed up to create a superhero story filled with more action than violence and more adventure than angst. Now in its third year, STAR POWER continues to impress readers with its out-of-this-world characters and stellar artwork. Garth and Michael have been making webcomics for over a decade, and they hope you find the world they’ve created a place you want to escape to, not from. Follow the ongoing adventures of STAR POWER at www.starpowercomic.com!
Chris Hazard, Hazardous Software Inc
Venue – Maryland 1
3D Printing: ‘Replicating’ Success
Science
The idea of a machine making what you want, when you want it, is common in science fiction. From The Diamond Age’s matter compilers to Star Trek’s replicators, the future promises the perfect cup of Earl Grey without waiting to heat the water. Scientists working at the cutting-edge of 3D printing technology (a.k.a. additive manufacturing) will discuss the real future possibilities of this science fiction trope. Perhaps we are a long way off from printing an entire being like in The Fifth Element, but 3D printing organs and tissues for transplant is already under development. Astronauts and soldiers might not be ordering their favorite tea out of hydrogen atoms, but field-printed meals ready to eat (MREs) customized to a warfighter’s nutritional needs by way of a wearable sensor is already on the horizon.
Moderators
Mason Peck, Cornell University
Former NASA Chief Technologist and Associate Professor in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at Cornell University and the Director of Cornell’s Space Systems Design Studio. Mason is also a member of the Museum’s Board of Advisors and Technology Subcommittee.
Speakers
Adam Kress, Local Motors
Fred Briggs, NoVa Labs
Ryan Sochol, UMD
Venue – Maryland 2
Time Travel
Pop
Who among us hasn’t wanted to travel back in time in their own Delorean or TARDIS? Would the butterfly effect hold true? Could you prevent your own birth? Ponder the paradoxes of time travel and the science that may propel us forward… or back.
Moderators
Adam Seats
Longtime fan of science fiction and fantasy. Longtime staffer of cons in the Hampton Roads area. Big fan of Masamune Shirow, Hayao Miyazaki and Monkey Punch.
Speakers
Luvia Peterson, Actress
Best known for her series regular role as the fan favorite character Jasmine Garza on Syfy Network’s Continuum. She is also known for her recurring character, Lt. Fisher in TNT’s Falling Skies. Luvia has appeared in several notable projects for both Film and TV including, The X-Files, Battlestar Galactica, Reaper, Sanctuary, Endgame, The Tomorrow People, and Psych. Luvia is up for a CSA (Canadian Screen Award) for best supporting actress for her work in Continuum!
Chris Hazard, Hazardous Software Inc
James Suriano, Author
A SciFi/Fantasy author originally from New York and educated at Johns Hopkins University. He is the author of Inbiotic and The Antarcticans. His next two novels, Dark and The Cult of Mao are both slated to release in 2016. A self proclaimed SciFi fan since birth, James is thrilled to be a part of Escape Velocity.
Venue – Maryland 3
Universal Translator: Klingon and Other Languages in Science Fiction
Pop
Language is intertwined with society and civilization. It enables communication and has a profound impact on how people identify themselves and others. At the same time, lack of a common language may impede understanding. In science fiction, this barrier sometimes seems nonexistent, perhaps due to miraculous technologies such as the Universal Translator. Some creators add realism to their works by crafting unique—and real—languages. When and how are these languages used? Why do Klingons speak English to one another in private? In the real world, the Internet and new technologies are helping to break down communication barriers, but do they also influence language change? Or hasten language loss? Join this panel to learn the funny and insightful lessons of what goes into crafting fictional languages, the impacts these languages have on their source material and the real world, and where communication may be heading.
Speakers
Marc Okrand
Linguist, creator of the Klingon language and author of Klingon for the Galactic Traveler, The Klingon Way, and The Klingon Dictionary
Venue – Cherry Blossom
Game of Drones
Science
In the coming years, legislation and regulation will define the limits of the potential commercial usage for drones. How have regulatory efforts by the FAA and other agencies to date constrained and promoted innovation in this exciting sector of the economy? What novel applications for drones are on the horizon? Panelists representing the world’s leading drone manufacturer and others will consider these questions and enlighten attendees on how drones are transforming a number of industry landscapes.
Moderators
Rod Hall, KL Gates LLP
Venue – Chesapeake GHI
12:00PM-1:00PM
THE ART OF MANGA: Composing Scene Design in Sequential Art
General Programs
A workshop that will demonstrate key concepts and the importance of scene design using composition and traditional art-making essentials. An illustrator and comic artist will explain the different uses of viewing angles and tone while showing how to compose an image in a sequential art format.
Venue – Chesapeake F
Sci-Fi Fighting 101
General Programs
Need to prep for a Light Saber duel? Looking to improve your Vulcan Death Grip, or just want to rock some Kirk-Fu? The DC Stunt Coalition presents their Fight Choreography 101 workshop. Drawing from the content of their Phaser’s and Sabers Panel, DCSC will show you the basics of safety and performing a fight scene as seen on stage and film.
Moderators
Dylan Hintz is a Maryland born stunt performer, fight choreographer, actor, director, cinephile, digital and live action story teller. He has been featured in TV shows and films such as TURN: Washington’s Spies, Banshee, Outsiders, Braindead, BLACK MASS, PURGE: Election Year and over twenty other local independent films. He has over 10 years of martial arts training across various styles, and is a certified Actor Combatant with the Society of American Fight Directors, and is the DMV representative of Act Tactical for Film. He started the DC Stunt Coalition in 2011, and has since grown not only it’s numbers, but it’s reputation in the professional industry as a respected place of training for aspiring stunt performers and action actors to get their start in the field.
Abra Burkett is a member of DC Stunt Coalition, a practitioner of multiple martial arts, a lover of film and TV (especially sci-fi and action movies), and a self-proclaimed geek. She received an M.A. in Sociology from American University. Her thesis focused on the portrayals of gender in military films and the impact of media on understandings of gender in overall society.
Venue – Baltimore 1-2
12:30PM-1:45PM
Collecting Pop Culture
Pop
You’ve spent years refining your personal collections, be they of books, comics, toys, models, records, or robots, but how should you take care of them? What’s the best way to keep track of every item in your special collection? See how the experts do it. Join speakers from Geppi’s Entertainment Museum, The DC Star Wars Collectors Club and more in a discussion on collecting and keeping track your Sci-Fi treasures.
Moderators
Britany Marriott, Geppi’s Entertainment Museum
Speakers
Mike Solof, Geppi’s Entertainment Museum
Jane Frank
Howard Frank, UMD
Adam Schneider
Venue – Maryland 1
Dystopian Science Fiction in Pop Culture: Panel Discussion
Pop
What is the behind the rise of dystopian science fiction and fantasy in pop culture today, and the corresponding decrease of optimistic science fiction? Films like Mad Max and Oblivion show different spectrums of a dystopian fate for humanity. Most science fiction movies also have some kind of anti-future bent, and few and far between are movies and television programming showing a positive example of the future, such as Tomorrowland. Panelists will discuss the merits of using dystopian vs. optimistic science fiction for storytelling, and also try to explain the rise of dystopian science fiction over the past two decades and the effect these two models of science fiction have on society.
Moderator
Adam Seats
Longtime fan of science fiction and fantasy. Longtime staffer of cons in the Hampton Roads area. Big fan of Masamune Shirow, Hayao Miyazaki and Monkey Punch.
Speakers
Sam Hedlund
Knowledge Management Consultant, Inter-American Development Bank
Gigi Edgley
Better known as Farscape’s ‘Chiana’ will be at Escape Velocity for its entire three-day run! In addition to her role as Chiana, Edgley has an extensive list of film and television credits. You may know her from The Starter Wife, Rescue Special Ops, Tricky Business, Showdown at Area 51, Quantum Apocalypse, Carlotta, Newcastle, Black Jack, Peacekeeper Wars, Stingers, Secret Life of Us, Beastmaster, Lost World, Water Rats and Day of the Roses, and as host of Jim Henson’s Creature Shop Challenge.
Patrick Jackson, American University
Wendy Anderson, Workhouse Arts Center
Venue – Chesapeake C
Mythgard / Science Fantasy: crossing the bridge with Clarke’s Third Law
Pop
According to Arthur C. Clarke’s Third Law, “any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic.” Speculative fiction mixes science and fantasy, blending technology and magic until it is difficult to determine where one begins and the other ends. If Thor’s hammer is an example of highly-advanced Asgardian technology, is the Force more than just a mystical energy field? Can science fiction feature both robots and magic? Where do we draw the line between fantasy and science fiction?
Moderator
Neil Ottenstein
Speakers
Aria Omrani
Laurel F. Jean, Humboldt State University
Jonathan Spencer
Venue – Maryland 3
Star Wars: Then and Now
Pop
An open-ended discussion on the Star Wars universe following the inclusion of “The Force Awakens” to the series. How has the universe changed? How has it stayed the same? How did the returning cast do after so many years away?
Moderators
Kyle Garber, Museum of Science Fiction
Speakers
Kyle Joseph E.
Scott Edelman, Author
Bria LaVorgna, Tosche-Station.net
Venue – Maryland 2
Robots: Rosie vs Roomba
Science
Quick, picture a robot. Does it have two arms, two legs, and talk? Thank science fiction. Panelists will compare humanoid and non-humanoid robots in science fiction and reality. What jobs are right for humanoid robots and what jobs aren’t? And how does the form of a robot shape our perception of it?
Moderators
Phil Frana, James Madison University
Speakers
James Suriano, Author
A SciFi/Fantasy author originally from New York and educated at Johns Hopkins University. He is the author of Inbiotic and The Antarcticans. His next two novels, Dark and The Cult of Mao are both slated to release in 2016. A self proclaimed SciFi fan since birth, James is thrilled to be a part of Escape Velocity.
Venue – Cherry Blossom
1:00PM-2:45PM
Science Fiction Educators Workshop
Education
“The MOSF Teacher’s Workshop is designed to help teachers find new and innovative ways to incorporate science fiction into the classroom. First, we will explore the ins and out of hosting an STEAM activity night. Come and learn from our mistakes on what you need (including lesson plans) to host your own STEAM event! Second, join our featured panelists – Iryna Sirota-Basso and John Monahan to an open forum discussion about how to incorporate Science Fiction into the classroom. Iryna is a teacher at Academy of the Holy Cross who will talk about exploring the role of fantastic fiction in a high school classroom. Reading a variety of texts, from dystopias to the tales of AI, students are given an opportunity to view the challenges of the modern world through the lens of speculative fiction. John is a teacher and the author of They Called Me Mad, about the scientists that pushed the outer limits of knowledge.
Moderators
Jessica Paul, Museum of Science Fiction
Venue – Chesapeake GHI
1:45PM-2:45PM
SPACE! and Why it’s Awesome!
General Programs
Curious about the wonders of space but don’t know where to start? Garth and Michael, the creators of the Sci-Fi webcomic “Star Power”, will be happy to share their love of outer space with you! “SPACE! And why it’s Awesome!” is an accessible talk about celestial objects, favorite planets, and the majesty of it all.
Speakers
Michael Terracciano
Garth Graham and Michael Terracciano are the creators of the sci-fi superhero space adventure webcomic, STAR POWER! After working on their previous webcomics, “Finder’s Keepers” and “Dominic Deegan: Oracle for Hire,” they teamed up to create a superhero story filled with more action than violence and more adventure than angst. Now in its third year, STAR POWER continues to impress readers with its out-of-this-world characters and stellar artwork. Garth and Michael have been making webcomics for over a decade, and they hope you find the world they’ve created a place you want to escape to, not from. Follow the ongoing adventures of STAR POWER at www.starpowercomic.com!
Garth Graham, Star Power Comic
Garth Graham and Michael Terracciano are the creators of the sci-fi superhero space adventure webcomic, STAR POWER! After working on their previous webcomics, “Finder’s Keepers” and “Dominic Deegan: Oracle for Hire,” they teamed up to create a superhero story filled with more action than violence and more adventure than angst. Now in its third year, STAR POWER continues to impress readers with its out-of-this-world characters and stellar artwork. Garth and Michael have been making webcomics for over a decade, and they hope you find the world they’ve created a place you want to escape to, not from. Follow the ongoing adventures of STAR POWER at www.starpowercomic.com!
Venue – Maryland 3
1:45PM-3:00PM
Science Fiction Legacies
Pop
We can only imagine that a child growing up in a science fiction family would be a . . . fascinating experience, to say the least. Four prospectives come from children of creators, storytellers, writers, and filmmakers: Rod Roddenberry, Adam Nimoy, Jamie Anderson, Mason Peck, and Dan Curry.
Moderators
Mason Peck, Cornell University
Former NASA Chief Technologist and Associate Professor in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at Cornell University and the Director of Cornell’s Space Systems Design Studio. Mason is also a member of the Museum’s Board of Advisors and Technology Subcommittee.
Speakers
Adam Nimoy
The son of Leonard Nimoy, who played Mr. Spock on Star Trek, will discuss his father’s legacy and his new documentary film, For the Love of Spock.
Rod Roddenberry
The son of Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry, Rod will speak about his father’s legacy as the series celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, as well as his work as chairman of the Roddenberry Foundation.
Jamie Anderson
Jamie Anderson is a producer, director, and writer, and is the proud son of legendary Fireball XL5, Thunderbirds and Space:1999 creator Gerry Anderson. As well as being a long-time Whovian and director/writer for Big Finish’s Doctor Who audio adventures, he is promotes and develops his late father’s legacy, developing new Anderson shows, drinks tea, and is a dementia ambassador for the UK’s Alzheimer’s Society charity.
Dan Curry
Known for his work on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Star Trek: Voyager, and Star Trek: The Next Generation as director, Visual Effects Supervisor, and Producer
Venue – Cherry Blossom
Space Operas and Space Westerns: From Flash Gordon to The Force Awakens
Pop
Delve into the past, present, and future of the Final Frontier exploration and Space Opera subgenres of Science Fiction. Find out the history behind Star Wars, Star Trek, Battlestar Galactica, Cowboy Bebop, Firefly, and beyond. Why are these stories meaningful to so many audiences? How did these styles of Sci-Fi once hated as “hack work” grow to become some of the most beloved tales of our time? And why have they served as such an inspiration to generations of scientists, engineers, and everyday people (despite often being light on “hard” science)?
Moderator
Adam Seats
Longtime fan of science fiction and fantasy. Longtime staffer of cons in the Hampton Roads area. Big fan of Masamune Shirow, Hayao Miyazaki and Monkey Punch.
Speakers
Sam Hedlund
Knowledge Management Consultant, Inter-American Development Bank
Venue – Chesapeake C
To the Cinema and Beyond: 2015 & 2016 in Sci-Fi Films
Pop
In past year, we’ve seen so many new and “new-to-you” Science Fiction films hit the cinema. Which were the most notable? The most groundbreaking? The most necessary or unnecessary, depending on your view? See the debate first-hand here.
Moderator
Matt Lucas
Speakers
M Sieiro Garcia, The Sci-Fi Diner Podcast
Steven Wilson
Steven Lloyd Wilson discovered Tolkien and Asimov at a dangerously young age and writing soon thereafter. His first novel Katorga is a dark yet humorous dystopian novel of a totalitarian future of brutal space colonization via gulags, while his short story Miskatonic Schrödinger was published this year in the award-nominated anthology Blurring the Line. In his spare time, he is a professor of political science.
John Frazier
Venue – Maryland 1
2:00PM-3:00PM
Bringing Your Toys to Life: Tips on Stop Motion
General Programs
Take your toys and a camera to make your own animated films. This workshop tutorial will teach any age the basics methods used to create movies like Boxtrolls and Nightmare.
Venue – Chesapeake F
3:00PM-4:15PM
Uncommon Core- Incorporating Science Fiction into the Curriculum (Forum)
General Programs
Science fiction connects science, technology, and literature; a combination ideal for a classroom! How can you incorporate science fiction into your teaching? A panel of educators will share their lessons and experiences developing science fiction based curriculum, while aligning with Common Core and Next Generation Science Standards. Inspire the next generation of science fiction fans!
Moderators
Jessica Paul, Museum of Science Fiction
Speakers
John Monahan, Science Writer
Iryna Sirota-Basso
Venue – Chesapeake GHI
3D Printing and Model Building at the Museum of Science Fiction
Pop
Speakers
Steve Dreyer, Museum of Science Fiction
Jeff Wargo
Venue – Chesapeake C
The Big Score: The Evolution of the Soundtrack in Science Fiction
Pop
We always know when Darth Vader is on the way, when James Bond is coming to the rescue, or when you’re entering the city limits of Bon Temps, Louisiana. Music forms an integral part of television and cinema, yet is rarely examined or celebrated. Or are there fans out there that collect soundtracks as some collect cards and comics? What is some of the best music from the genre? Which themes are true signatures? Who is your favorite composer?
Speakers
Tee Morris
Venue – Cherry Blossom
What is ‘Science Fiction’? And Where is Sci-Fi going?
Pop
A free-wheeling discussion between panelists and the audience about what does—or does not—count as science fiction. Are there common misconceptions about what qualifies? Or are we too limited in our thinking? What does the vox populi consider to be science fiction versus that of science fiction aficionados? Ultimately, who’s to say what is or is not science fiction?
Moderator
David Grinspoon
Distinguished Visiting Scholar in Astrobiology, http://www.funkyscience.net/
Senior Scientist at Planetary Science Institute, is an astrobiologist who studies the possible conditions for life on other planets. In November 2012, he began a one-year appointment as the inaugural Baruch S. Blumberg/NASA Chair in Astrobiology at the John W. Kluge Center of the United States Library of Congress.
Speakers
Catherine Asaro, Author
Catherine Asaro is an author of science fiction, fantasy and thrillers, and has written over twenty-five novels, as well as short stories and non-fiction. Her acclaimed Ruby Dynasty series combines adventure, hard science, math, romance and fast-paced action. Among her numerous distinctions, she has won the Nebula® and Analog Reader's Choice awards. Her most recent books are the anthology she edited, The Nebula Awards Showcase 2013 (Pyr), the novel Carnelians (Baen/ Simon & Schuster), and the anthology of her short fiction titled Aurora in Four Voices (ISFiC Press). All her novels are available in audio form and her most recent eBook releases are the award-winning works, Primary Inversion, “The City of Cries” and “The Spacetime Pool." Her book Undercity is due out from Baen in 2014.
Catherine earned her doctorate in theoretical chemical physics from Harvard. She has coached numerous math teams, in particular the Howard Area Homeschoolers and Chesapeake ARML program. Her students have won top honors in many competitions, including the USA Mathematical Olympiad and the USA Mathematical Talent Search.
Catherine is a member of SIGMA, a think tank of speculative writers that advises the government on future trends affecting national security. She is also known for her advocacy in bringing girls and women into STEM fields. She has been an invited speaker at various institutions, including the National Academy of Sciences, Harvard, Georgetown, NASA, the New Zealand Context Writer's program, and the US Naval Academy.
Steven Lloyd Wilson
Steven Lloyd Wilson discovered Tolkien and Asimov at a dangerously young age and writing soon thereafter. His first novel Katorga is a dark yet humorous dystopian novel of a totalitarian future of brutal space colonization via gulags, while his short story Miskatonic Schrödinger was published this year in the award-nominated anthology Blurring the Line. In his spare time, he is a professor of political science.
Scott Edelman, Author
Venue – Maryland 3
Quantum Computing
Science
Quantum computing technology is rapidly evolving and has the potential to significantly disrupt the field of machine learning. Quantum computers make use of the quantum mechanical properties of special materials to perform calculations in ways that are not possible on traditional computing systems. In this talk, we give and crash course on quantum computing and describe the current state quantum computing technology. Specifically, we focus on a special type of quantum optimization called quantum annealing and its applications in machine learning. Finally, we discuss our outlook on the field of quantum machine learning and it’s potential to change the landscape of machine learning research.
Speakers
Joseph Dulney
Venue – Maryland 2