In the vast expanse of space exploration and advocacy, few names resonate as profoundly as Burt Dicht, the managing director of membership for the National Space Society (NSS). His journey with NSS, a cornerstone in the advocacy for space exploration, is a testament to a lifelong passion for the cosmos.
Dicht’s association with the NSS dates back to its inception as the National Space Institute in 1974. “I joined as a member in 1977 when I was just about to go into college,” he recalls, marking the beginning of a journey fueled by an unwavering interest in space.
The National Space Society, with its transition in 1987, has stood as a beacon for space enthusiasts, embodying the collective aspiration of humanity to reach beyond the confines of our planet. Dicht’s rise from a member to a key volunteer, and eventually to his current role, mirrors the growth and evolution of NSS itself.
Under Dicht’s stewardship, the NSS has championed the cause of space exploration through various initiatives. “Our mission is to ensure that there are people living and working in thriving communities off of the Earth,” he states, underlining the organization’s vision for humanity’s future in space. This mission extends to utilizing space resources for the betterment of humankind, a goal that Dicht and the NSS pursue with zeal.
The society’s multifaceted approach includes political advocacy, awareness campaigns, and educational programs. Dicht highlights their annual ‘March Storm’ event in Washington, D.C., where members are trained to advocate space-related issues to their elected representatives. This initiative epitomizes the society’s proactive stance in shaping space policy.
Additionally, the NSS’s efforts in disseminating knowledge about space advancements are commendable. The quarterly magazine ‘Ad Astra’, as Dicht describes, is an award-winning publication that keeps the space community informed about technological and global developments in space exploration.
One of the NSS’s signature events, the International Space Development Conference (ISDC), garners attention from industry leaders, astronauts, and space enthusiasts alike. Dicht’s reminiscence of attending the first ISDC in 1982 as a young engineer speaks volumes about the conference’s long-standing impact in the space community.
Furthermore, Dicht emphasizes the importance of inspiring future generations through STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and STEAM (STEM plus Arts) education. The Space Edge Academy and various contests and competitions under the NSS umbrella are designed to ignite a passion for space among students and young professionals.
The heart of Dicht’s story, however, lies in his personal journey, which was profoundly influenced by the Apollo missions. “I became interested in space because of Apollo,” he shares, recalling the awe-inspiring moment of Apollo 8 entering lunar orbit and how it fueled his career in aerospace engineering.
While celebrating the past and present achievements in space exploration, Dicht and the NSS are keenly focused on the future. Their recent initiative of organizing tours at the Kennedy Space Center exemplifies their commitment to bringing space closer to the public.
Burt Dicht’s story is not just about his ascension within the NSS. It’s a narrative of dedication, passion, and an unwavering belief in the potential of space exploration to transform humanity. Through his leadership and the endeavors of the National Space Society, the cosmos seems not just a distant realm, but a frontier within our grasp, ready to be explored and cherished.