Personal Portfolio

Victor De Los Santos | Founder & Executive Producer, Ex Astris

My personal mission is to share space, science, and the cosmic perspective through experiences.

Since 2019, I’ve devoted much of my time to space science and STEM outreach, with a focus on informal education. Drawing on more than 10 years of project management experience in the software industry, I’ve organized large-scale events, outreach programs, and educational initiatives that connect students to careers in space and STEM. My work brings together scientists, educators, industry leaders, and public audiences to engage with space science in meaningful ways.

Below are some of the organizations, projects, and programs I have collaborated with, both currently and in the past (independent of Ex Astris).

South Texas Astronomical Society

STARS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to ignite curiosity through space science education, outreach programs, and by expanding access to STEM opportunities in the Rio Grande Valley. STARS hosts stargazing events, hands-on STEM programs, meetups for informal space discussions, and more.

I have served as Board Chair since the organization’s incorporation in 2020, and previously served as Executive Director from 2019 to 2024.

UTRGV Cristina Torres Memorial Observatory

CTMO is an astronomical research facility operated by the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley’s (UTRGV) Time Domain Astronomy Group. Researchers use CTMO’s to observe transient celestial phenomena, including asteroids, variable stars, and events that trigger gravitational waves.

I currently serve as Operations Manager for CTMO, coordinating observatory repairs, upgrades, and the ongoing development of its accompanying “mini dome” cluster.

Astro Awards

Astro Awards (hosted by Everyday Astronaut) is a celebration recognizing the most important, innovative, and inspiring achievements in space exploration.

Since its first in-person event in 2024, I have supported the production of the event through volunteer coordination and logistical planning. In 2026, I served as Co-Producer, as well as leading the organization of the event’s Exhibit Hall.

UTRGV South Texas Space Science Institute

STSSI is an interdisciplinary research institute at UTRGV that provides higher education opportunities in the space sciences. Its primary areas of focus include astrophysics, space technology, and planetary/Earth science, with an emphasis on gravitational wave and multi-messenger astronomy.

I currently serve as Public Outreach Lead, supporting initiatives that connect the institute’s research and programs with the community.

NASA Solar System Ambassador Program

The NASA / Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) Solar System Ambassador program enables trained volunteers to share space and planetary science discoveries and mission updates through public outreach.

I have been part of the program since 2023, delivering presentations and activities that communicate the science and exploration goals of missions such as the James Webb Space Telescope, Perseverance Mars Rover, and historic Voyager missions.