#8 Nerd Nite Hamilton – 8th April, 2024
Talk 1: The Canadian Lunar Rover Mission’s Science and Technology Goals for Canada
The Canadian Lunar Rover Mission (LRM) is the flagship of the Canadian Space Agency’s Lunar Exploration Accelerator Program (LEAP) and will be the first ever Canadian-led planetary surface mission. The aim of this technology demonstration mission is to land a 30 kg Canadian rover in the south polar region of the Moon, perform meaningful lunar science, operate inside of permanently shadowed regions, and to survive multiple lunar days/nights. Canadensys Aerospace Corporation was selected in November 2022 as the prime contractor for this mission. The rover will fly as part of NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) initiative as early as late 2026.
Bio: Josh Newman is a systems engineer at Canadensys Aerospace. Josh has over a decade of experience in the space industry developing and operating novel systems that push the boundaries of space accessibility. In addition to his current role as systems lead on the Lunar Rover Mission (LRM) for the Canadian Space Agency, Josh recently operated the ILO-X imaging systems on board the Intuitive Machines Odysseus lunar lander, which delivered stunning imagery of lunar descent and landing.
Talk 2: Beginnerhood – Conquering Perfectionism
In a world fixated on achievement and perfection, many of us find ourselves trapped in the relentless pursuit of flawlessness, often at the expense of our well-being and joy. Join Brooke Henshall, a dedicated advocate for authentic living, as she shares insights from her personal journey towards conquering perfectionism through the lens of “Beginnerhood”. Drawing from her rich background in yoga, meditation, and breathwork, Brooke invites us to embrace the liberating power of a beginner’s mindset. In her ongoing series, she explores a myriad of movement and mindfulness modalities, each a stepping stone towards self-discovery and growth. Through candid reflections and practical wisdom, Brooke reveals how cultivating a spirit of openness and curiosity can transform our relationship with success and failure. Discover how surrendering the need to be the best opens doors to profound experiences and genuine fulfillment. Join us on this transformative exploration of Beginnerhood, where imperfection becomes the gateway to authenticity and joy.
Bio: Brooke Henshall is a passionate explorer of self-discovery and advocate for authentic living. Inspired by her transformative journey in Australia, she is passionate about personal development. Trained in yoga, meditation, and breathwork facilitation, Brooke guides others in uncovering their true essence through her workshop, Journey Inward. Her ongoing series “Beginnerhood” aims to conquer perfectionism, embracing a beginner’s mindset and exploring new practices for growth and self-discovery. Through this series, she explores various movement and mindfulness modalities she hasn’t tried before in order to shift the focus from being the best to enjoying a new experience with an open mind. Originally aiming for 12 activities in 2024, Brooke has already completed 10 by March, realizing the journey has no end in sight.
Talk 3: The Power of Asking
This talk will be an exploration into the transformative force of asking. Through real-life stories and research insights, we’ll uncover how the simple act of asking questions can catalyze growth, deepen relationships, and unlock hidden opportunities. Whether seeking mentorship, feedback, or collaboration, mastering the art of asking opens doors to boundless possibilities. Discover how embracing curiosity and courage can lead to a life of fulfillment and impact.
Bio: Rocky Ricottone is a multi-talented restaurateur, chef, musician, and podcaster who thrives on bringing people together and fostering meaningful conversations. With a passion for creating vibrant spaces that empower creative individuals, Rocky’s endeavors transcend traditional boundaries. Through his culinary creations, musical performances, and engaging podcasts, he cultivates environments where collaboration flourishes and connections deepen. Whether in the kitchen, on stage, or behind the mic, Rocky’s mission is clear: to inspire, uplift, and unite through the power of creativity and community.