Modern space exploration and Indigenous world views may appear contradictory at first, as a mirror of the conflict between western science and Indigenous science, but within this dichotomy lies foundations for rich discussion and action on ensuring space is explored and developed for all.

Traditional methods of education outreach and the intentional degradation of Indigenous science have enabled colonial and harmful practices in space-based industry and academia. For Indigenous scholars, concerned members of the space community, and others, there are emerging paths towards alternative approaches on how we imagine and work towards constructing interstellar futures.

This talk will focus on one such path, starting with a grounded take on Indigenous experiences in STEM higher education, followed by an examination of space-based education and outreach in Indigenous communities, lessons learned from previous conflicts between Indigenous communities and the space community, and finally a presentation of how Indigenous science and western science can work together through systems engineering architecture and Indigenous Research Methodologies.

Image Credit: Alvin Harvey

Alvin Harvey is an MIT Ph.D. candidate in the Aeronautics and Astronautics department’s Human Systems Lab and a member of the Navajo Nation. He is of the Tó-baazhni'ázhi (Two Who Came To the Water) clan and was born for the Honágháahnii (One-walks-around) clan. His current Ph.D. research focuses on developing virtual reality systems for satellite constellation development, operation, and management; as well as developing methods of analyzing space technology as a tool for tribal sovereignty. Prior work of Alvin's includes research in partial gravity biomechanics and simulation, applied thermodynamics, and extensive historical research examining cases of conflict between Indigenous Nations and space agencies and entities. His current historical work also includes examining MIT’s ties to Indigenous land and lives through the Morrill Land Grant Acts, MIT’s relationship with its own Indigenous students, and its associations with local Indigenous Nations.

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