Inspiring the Next Frontier: Kris Kimel and the Human Side of Space Exploration

Kris Kimel is a nationally recognized advocate for creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurial thinking whose career bridges science, technology, space research and development, and commercialization. His work spans both Earth-based applications and the rapidly evolving frontier of human activity in space.

Kimel is the cofounder of Space Tango, a global company pioneering biomedical research, advanced manufacturing, and technology development in microgravity. Space Tango partners with academic, government, and commercial organizations to conduct research aboard the International Space Station, translating discoveries made in space into meaningful applications on Earth and supporting the future of extended human space missions.

He is also the founder and lead of Humanity in Deep Space, a nonprofit initiative focused on the human dimensions of deep space exploration. This work explores the technological, scientific, legal, psychological, and ethical questions that will shape humanity’s future beyond Earth. Through interdisciplinary dialogue and collaboration, the initiative emphasizes the importance of reflection, responsibility, and shared values as we expand our presence in space.

Previously, Kimel served as cofounder and President of the Kentucky Science and Technology Corporation (KSTC), where he helped advance innovation-driven economic development across the Commonwealth. He is also the founder of IdeaFestival, a nationally recognized platform that brings together thinkers and leaders from diverse disciplines to spark bold ideas and collaborative action.

A native of Miami, Florida, Kimel holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Kentucky. His career reflects a deep commitment to science education, interdisciplinary learning, and the belief that creativity and curiosity are essential drivers of progress—on Earth and far beyond it.