Welcome from the Conference Chair • IEPC09

We look forward to welcoming you to the upcoming 31st International Electric Propulsion Conference which will take place from Sunday, September 20 to Thursday, September 24, 2009 in Ann Arbor on the campus of the University of Michigan.

A conference representing the worldwide electric propulsion and spacecraft community, the International Electric Propulsion Conference (IEPC) is held every other year, alternating between a United States and a non-United States venue. The IEPC brings together over 300 researchers, developers, managers, and scholars from more than 15 countries. Providing the perfect forum to present findings in electric propulsion, the IEPC provides an unequalled opportunity to learn the latest developments, meet with colleagues, and establish new business contacts.

In September 2009, the IEPC will be held in Michigan for the first time. More than 80 years ago, the University of Michigan offered the first program in aeronautical engineering in the United States, just 11 years after the historic flights at Kitty Hawk. Since then, Michigan has graduated more than 4,000 aeronautical and aerospace engineers. Graduates from Michigan have gone on to distinguished careers in the aerospace industry, related fields, government, and academia.

In addition to the history that Michigan offers, Ann Arbor possesses a backdrop of fall’s natural beauty rivaled by few other states. The climate in Ann Arbor is generally temperate during September, ideal for window shopping, browsing museums, canoeing the Huron River, hiking Nichols Arboretum, touring Matthaei Botanical Garden, golfing at Reddeman Farms, dining at the upscale Gratzi or enjoying specialty foods from all over the world at Zingerman’s Deli, and enjoying the nightlife that includes jazz clubs, piano bars, theaters, and comedy clubs. Detroit casinos are just 30 minutes away from Ann Arbor.

No matter what your interest is, you’ll find it in Ann Arbor. Looking forward to seeing you in 2009!

Best regards,

Alec D. Gallimore
Conference Chair • IEPC09