The use of space and space law touch multiple facets of everyday life. To explore some of them, the Ole Miss Air and Space Law Society and University of Mississippi’s Center for Air and Space Law will host a dialogue on space with U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Roderick C. Owens.
The event is free, open to the public and will take place at 11:30 a.m. Thursday (March 6) in the Robert C. Khayat Law Center, Room 1115.
Owens will share his experiences in the Air Force overseeing architecture and integration of space systems and programs in the armed forces, as well as overseeing and directing space acquisition centers in the Department of the Air Force, among other things.
“As the foremost institution in air and space law, our center is thrilled to host Brig. Gen. Owens, whose insights into the domestic and international dimensions of space missions will inspire our students and community,” said Michelle Hanlon, executive director for the Center for Air and Space Law.
“His presence underscores our unique ability to connect cutting-edge legal scholarship with the operational realities of space exploration and national security – a dialogue that’s critical for the future of this domain.”
Owens serves as mobilization assistant to the principal deputy, office of the assistant secretary of the Air Force for acquisition, technology and logistics and also as mobilization assistant to the assistant secretary for the Air Force for space acquisitions and integration. He serves as a connection between the Air Force Acquisitions and the Space Force Acquisitions organizations.
Lonnie Cain, a third-year law student from Detroit and ASLS president, is coordinating the event.
“The central theme of his dialogue will speak to the United States Air Force and Space Force’s domestic and international space missions and an exploratory discussion on the future of space,” Cain said.
“Anyone with any interest in space will enjoy this discussion about space law, national security, military use of space and the current and future state of space exploration.”
Everyone is encouraged to attend because space is part of their world whether they realize it or not, Hanlon said.
“It’s the satellites powering your phone, the security policies shaping our nation or the future of resources we all depend on,” she said. “Here at the preeminent Center for Air and Space Law, he’ll break it down in a way that’s real, relatable and eye-opening, making you see why space matters to everyone, not just the stargazers.
This event also reflects the dedication and initiative of Ole Miss students focusing on air and space law, Hanlon said.
“Space needs lawyers and we are educating the very best space lawyers in the universe,” she said.