Since 1970, the Lunar and Planetary Science Conference (LPSC) has been a hotbed for the field of astronomy. Every March, up to 2,000 planetary experts and students gather from around the world to share their research, discuss new theories, and plan future projects to better understand Earth’s solar system. This prestigious assembly has made The Woodlands its home since 2009, strengthening the township’s economy and ties to the international space sector.

Jamie Shumbera, the Senior Operations Manager of the USRA's Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI), is a key figure in bringing LPSC to life and offers her insights into this year's event.

The Lunar Planetary Science Conference in The Woodlands Texas. A large ballroom is packed full of students and researchers of astronomy. A panel of five experts and a moderator are on the stage. Three projector screens read, "Research & Analysis Updates."

A panel discussion at LPSC 2025 | Photo courtesy of LPSC

The Lunar Planetary Science Conference in The Woodlands Texas. A large ballroom is packed full of students and researchers of astronomy looking at each other's poster presentations. The central figure is a man in a tan jacket and checkered newsboy cap.

Poster presentations | Photo courtesy of LPSC

WHAT IS YOUR ROLE IN THE PLANNING OR EXECUTION OF LPSC?

My role primarily focuses on logistical support, but LPSC is a collective effort that wouldn’t be possible without the valuable contributions from colleagues across LPI, partners who develop the scientific program, and vendors who help support both the onsite and virtual components of this hybrid conference.

WHAT ARE THE HIGHLIGHTS OR KEY EVENTS OF THIS YEAR’S CONFERENCE?

LPSC 2026 will feature six special sessions highlighting new lunar exploration efforts, fresh insights on Venus, the latest high-impact results from extended planetary science missions, and more. This year, we are also debuting a Professional Development Center designed to support students, postdoctoral researchers, and early-career scientists. The center will benefit attendees through pre-conference webinars and in-person events, such as networking mixers and professional development workshops.

WHAT DOES LPSC LOOK LIKE FOR VIRTUAL ATTENDEES COMPARED TO THOSE WHO ATTEND IN PERSON?

The conference offers the same scientific content to all attendees. All scientific talks are streamed live, and because the sessions run concurrently, both in-person and virtual attendees can access on-demand recordings, e-posters, and the full scientific program at their convenience.

An overhead view of the Food Truck Village at LPSC. There are at least 10 food trucks along either side of a parking lot, each with long lines of customers from the convention. In the back, on the left, is another lot with white pop-up tents and tables for guests to eat their lunch.

The 2025 Food Truck Village

WHAT IS THE FOOD TRUCK VILLAGE AND HOW DID IT COME TO BE?

The Food Truck Village brings a rotating variety of food trucks, live music, and outdoor seating to a location near the convention center. It came about because the conference schedule is packed full of events, so LPSC meeting planners worked with Visit The Woodlands to create the Food Truck Village as a quick and convenient lunch option between sessions.

WHY IS THE WOODLANDS THE IDEAL LOCATION FOR THIS CONFERENCE?

LPSC returns to The Woodlands year after year because The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center provides the necessary space, accessibility, and amenities needed for such a large number of attendees. The walkability of the town, the variety of nearby hotels and restaurants, and the convenient access to the George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) also make it ideal for hosting the international scientific community.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU OFFER TO OTHER MEETING PLANNERS HOPING TO BRING THEIR EVENTS TO THE WOODLANDS?

Reach out to Visit The Woodlands early in your planning process. They are easy to work with and have strong relationships with local businesses, which may include benefits like discounts at nearby restaurants, shops, and attractions. They’re also a helpful resource for solving logistical challenges, such as identifying convenient grab-and-go lunch options for attendees.