Dr. Lu Dong is a space entrepreneur, strategist, and researcher with deep expertise in bridging scientific innovation, policy planning, and commercial development across the space industry. He earned his PhD in SAR remote sensing, a radar imaging technology critical to space-based Earth observation and planetary exploration, from Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU Munich), supported by a prestigious DAAD scholarship for doctoral research excellence.

Over the past decade, Dr. Dong has played a key role in major strategic and international cooperation initiatives within China’s space sector. He has served as an internal consultant at the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation and held senior positions in space-focused start-ups. His work has spanned coordination with national ministries and the cultivation of partnerships across Africa and Asia in emerging space markets.

As Founder and CEO of NQP Forces Promoting Soc. (HK) Limited, Dr. Dong is committed to harnessing Hong Kong’s innovation potential to support China’s expanding space ambitions—including commercial ventures, lunar missions, and deep-space exploration. He will share insights into China’s space activities and explore how Hong Kong can play a pivotal role in shaping the future of space exploration and commerce.

Cedric Robert Georges Thiry is a pioneering expert in emerging technologies, blending deep-tech innovation with strategic business advisory across Erupe and Asia. With 20+ years of interdisciplinary experience, he masters areas like AI-driven solutions, materials informatics, and aerospace advancements, while leading EmTDLab's cutting-edge developments and SEED Advisory's consultancy services.

As a rare foreign specialist in regions like the Greater Bay Area, Cedric has influenced policies (e.g., Hong Kong's New Space inclusion in the CE plan) is speaking at key events such as industry panels, chambers of commerces and think tanks. His Space Agency validated work at EmTDLab and training programs at SEED Advisory turn complex tech challenges into actionable opportunities for governments, investors, and corporations.

• Founder & CEO/CTO of EmTDLab: AI-powered innovations in radiation shielding and materials.

• Owner of SEED Advisory: Delivering corporate training and advisory since 2011.

• Policy Influencer: Advocating for emerging tech integration in Asia.

• Global Transformer: Optimized operations at Umicore and biotech ventures.

Octavie Ralet is an England qualified solicitor based in Hong Kong specialising in litigation and regulatory matters in the aerospace industry. She advises industry stakeholders on commercial and contractual issues, with a particular interest in emerging challenges in the space sector, including sustainability and responsibility under space law frameworks. Octavie holds an LL.M. in Air and Space Law from Leiden University (IIASL), and is a member of the International Institute of Space Law (IISL).

James Liu, CFA. FRM. ERP. is the Deputy CEO of E Fund Private Equity. James previously worked at Merrill Lynch Investment Banking Division, IDG-Accel, IDG Capital Partners, and at China Merchants Capital as a founding member. He focuses on deep tech PIPE, growth cap, special situation and buyout opportunities.

David Hoantee Peng is a seasoned global executive and advisor bridging the worlds of finance and the rapidly emerging space economy. With over 38 years of leadership in asset management, investment strategy, and financial services across Asia-Pacific, David has built and led businesses for renowned institutions including BlackRock, Merrill Lynch, Legal & General, AXA, Aberdeen, Bank of China, and Aetna. His career has spanned China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Southeast Asia, with a deep track record in regulatory engagement, cross-border joint ventures, and organizational growth. 

Now leveraging his financial acumen in the space sector, David serves as President & Senior Advisor at BluFin Advisory (specializing in space and deep tech finance). He also serves as Executive Vice Chair and Board Director at the Orion Astropreneur Space Academy (OASA), and is Chief Strategy Officer at AstroHub, a commercial space consultancy company. David acts as advisor to aerospace and digital transformation ventures across Asia. A graduate with distinction from Thunderbird School of Global Management’s Executive Master’s in Space Leadership, Business & Policy, he brings a strategic vision to scaling the commercial space ecosystem with financial discipline and international insight. 

Fluent in English and Mandarin—with working knowledge of several other languages— David is widely recognized for his cross-cultural leadership, global networks, and belief in “Space for All Mankind.” He continues to advise startups, institutional investors, and educational institutions on the intersection of capital, innovation, and sustainable development in both traditional and space-related sectors.