Advisory Board
Our distinguished advisory board brings together leading experts in space technology, education, and policy from across Africa and beyond, providing strategic guidance to advance our mission.
Meet Our Advisors
Industry leaders and visionaries who guide our strategic direction and ensure we deliver world-class space technology education.
Prof Jordi Puig-Suari
Head of Advisory board
NMD Association
Dr. Puig-Suari received B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. Degrees in Aeronautics and Astronautics from Purdue University. Dr.Puig-Suari is a professor in the Aerospace Engineering Department at CalPoly, San Luis Obispo. In 1999, Dr Puig-Suari and Prof. Bob Twiggs at Stanford developed the CubeSat standard. Dr. Puig-Suari’s teamwas responsible for the development of the standard CubeSat deployer (the P-POD) and has supported launches forover 130 CubeSats in the U.S. and abroad. In 2011, Dr. Puig-Suari co-founded Tyvak Nano-satellite Systems to support the commercial CubeSat market.
Prof Robert van Zyl
Member of Advisory board
NMD Association
Professor Robert van Zyl is a leading South African engineer and space technology pioneer. He was the founding Director of the Satellite Programme at Cape Peninsula University of Technology, where he oversaw the development of Africa’s first nanosatellite, ZACube-1. He also serves as Managing Director of AAC Space Africa, advancing small satellite technologies across the continent. As Director of the French South African Institute of Technology, he leads innovation in space research and education. His work has greatly influenced Africa’s space industry and inspired a new generation of engineers.
Prof Laurent Dusseau
Member of Advisory board
NMD Association
Professor Laurent Dusseau, from Sète, is the founder of the Montpellier University Space Center (CSUM), which he directs, along with its associated foundation. Together with his students and engineers, this 56-year-old, affable technology enthusiast has carved out a piece of space thanks to his nanosatellites.