Remembering Steve Durst

It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of Steve Durst, a long-time supporter and dear friend of the Moon Village Association.

Steve was the founding Director of the International Lunar Observatory Association (ILOA) and served as Editor and Publisher of Space Age Publishing Company since 1976, leading its Hawaii and California offices in support of international space, lunar and astronomy activities. He was a passionate advocate for space cooperation and lunar enterprise, and a driving force behind visionary initiatives such as lunar observatory efforts, the ILOA Galaxy Forum program, Stanford on the Moon and Ad Astra Kansas projects.  

Throughout his involvement with MVA, Steve actively participated in and supported key activities including the Global Expert Group on Sustainable Lunar Activities (GEGSLA) and the Women on the Moon initiative, helping to advance international dialogue and inclusion in lunar exploration. Steve’s Space Calendar has also been part of the MVA website.

Steve’s vision and enthusiasm inspired colleagues across the world. His warm spirit and sharp insights will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege to know him.

Aloha, Steve — you will be remembered and celebrated.