David Fraine is a seasoned maritime professional with a career spanning over 25 years on the MV Liberty and MV Freedom Star. His role as the first officer on these unique vessels was instrumental in the operation of the Solid Rocket Booster (SRB) recovery ships. Fraine's experience extends beyond the helm, as he was also responsible for maintaining the ships in the challenging tropical climate of the Florida coast. His duties included the cross-training of crew members, ensuring a versatile and adaptable team.

Diane E. Wickland is a distinguished scientist with a specialization in botany, who has carved a notable career at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Over the years, Wickland has made significant contributions to the field of Earth science, particularly in the domain of remote sensing, leveraging her botanical expertise to enhance our understanding of Earth's ecosystems and their interactions with the atmosphere. Throughout her tenure at NASA, Wickland has been a pivotal figure in several high-profile missions and research initiatives.

Dr. Dixon Butler, the Founder and President of YLACES, serves as a consultant to a diverse range of organizations, including government agencies, non-profits, foundations, and corporations, offering his extensive knowledge in various science-related fields. His areas of expertise encompass science and information system management, satellite mission planning, STEM and environmental education, budget and appropriations, remote sensing, energy, environmental, nuclear, science, and space policy.

Edward C. "Pete" Aldridge, Jr. is a prominent figure in the field of aerospace, with a career spanning over 40 years in both the public sector and private industry. His interest in aviation and mechanical things began at a young age, around six years old, when he loved to build model airplanes. His father, a licensed pilot, further influenced his interest in aviation. In 1992, Aldridge was offered a job to become the president and CEO of the Aerospace Corporation, a company involved with space systems engineering for the Air Force and NASA.

Dr. Edward J. Weiler, born in Chicago, Illinois, in 1949, is a distinguished astrophysicist and former NASA executive renowned for his significant contributions to space exploration and scientific discovery. A graduate of Northwestern University with a Ph.D. in astrophysics, Dr. Weiler's career began in 1978 when he joined NASA Headquarters as a staff scientist. Serving as the 10th director of NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center from August 2, 2004, to September 30, 2011, Dr. Weiler played a pivotal role in advancing key initiatives during his tenure.

Eileen Galloway (May 4, 1906 – May 2, 2009) was a prominent American researcher and editor, often referred to as "The Grand Dame of Space." Born as Eilene Marie Slack in Kansas City, Missouri, she later adopted the name Eileen Galloway after marrying George Galloway, an expert on Congressional workings. Galloway's career at the Congressional Research Service in the Library of Congress commenced in 1941. During the Sputnik Crisis, she gained recognition when asked by Senator Richard Russel Jr. to write a report on the impact of the Soviet Union's satellite launch.

Dr. Eric Barron is a renowned geologist and oceanographer who has made significant contributions to the field of Earth System Science. His interest in geology began as early as third grade, and he pursued this passion through his undergraduate studies at Florida State University, where he also had the opportunity to take graduate classes in oceanography. He continued his academic journey at the University of Miami, where he completed his graduate studies in oceanography. Dr.

Fred Pearce was a dedicated engineer whose career spanned the pioneering days of America's space exploration efforts. He began his journey with the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA), which later evolved into the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Pearce played a significant role in the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo programs, contributing to the United States' ambitious endeavors to send humans into space and land them on the Moon. His expertise in guidance and control systems was crucial during these formative years of space travel.

Granville E. Paules, III is a distinguished electrical engineer whose academic foundation was laid at the University of Texas, Austin, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree. He served in the United States Navy.  Following his military service, Paules embarked on a career at NASA. At NASA, he assumed various roles that spanned the Flight Control Division, Operations Division, and Space Station Directorate. After his tenure at NASA, Paules transitioned to the field of transportation research and development.

Ivy F. Hooks is a distinguished figure in the field of aerospace engineering, with a career that has spanned several decades and has included significant contributions to the United States' space program. Born and educated in Houston, Texas, Hooks earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics in 1963, followed by a Master of Science degree in Mathematics in 1965, both from the University of Houston. Hooks began her illustrious career at NASA's Manned Spacecraft Center, which later became the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas.