The Vector

In this episode, we explore how space investing is evolving from bold vision to disciplined value creation. Learn what today’s capital providers look for beyond technical novelty, and how government demand, downstream integration, and customer proximity shape maturing space markets.   The Vector, from Space Commerce Institute at Space Foundation, covers the topics, trends, and insights driving the space ecosystem.     Get the latest updates from The Vector by joining the quarterly newsletter at https://www.spacefoundation.org/cie/space-commerce-institute/the-vector/

Space is entering an era of expansion, in launch activity, mission requirements, and economic impact across regions and sectors. This session, part of the Space Investment Analysis series, convenes leading voices across the sector to break down key insights from the newest edition of The Space Report. Join Kelli Kedis Ogborn, Dr. Mariel Borowitz,  Andrew Nelson, and Chris Quilty as they explore the latest findings from The Space Report and what they reveal about the evolving business of space.   The Vector covers the topics, trends and insights driving the global space ecosystem.      Stay informed with the latest from The Vector — subscribe to the quarterly newsletter here: https://www.spacefoundation.org/cie/space-commerce-institute/the-vector/  

In this episode, we explore the importance of advancing dual-use innovation and building supply chain transparency and resiliency across defense and commercial domains. Kelli Kedis Ogborn and Jamal Madni unpack why unlocking new models of supplier visibility and integrating small and mid-sized enterprises into national security ecosystems are critical to strengthening U.S. space competitiveness in an era of strategic uncertainty.    The Vector, from Space Commerce Institute at Space Foundation, covers the topics, trends, and insights driving the space ecosystem.   Get the latest updates from The Vector by joining the quarterly newsletter at https://www.spacefoundation.org/cie/space-commerce-institute/the-vector/

Join Kelli Kedis Ogborn, Dr. Mariel Borowitz, Justin Cadman, and Andrew Nelson for an exclusive look at the latest space economy figures and their implications for the future of the industry. This session, part of the Space Investment Analysis series, convenes leading voices across the sector to break down key insights from the newest edition of The Space Report—exploring market trends, investment drivers, government priorities, and what’s next for commercial growth in space.    The Vector, from Space Commerce Institute at Space Foundation, covers the topics, trends, and insights driving the space ecosystem.   Get the latest updates from The Vector by joining the quarterly newsletter at https://www.spacefoundation.org/cie/space-commerce-institute/the-vector/

What does it take to close the business case of space—and what factors should we be watching?  In this episode, Kelli Kedis Ogborn, vice president of space commerce & entrepreneurship at Space Foundation, is joined by Michael Mealling, General Partner at Starbridge Venture Capital, to explore how the commercial space sector is working to justify investment, scale sustainably, and deliver tangible economic returns. Together, they examine what it means to validate the broader economic promise of space: proving enduring market demand, securing anchor customers, and demonstrating that space-based solutions can compete in—and create—new markets. Michael shares candid insight into the investment landscape, the importance of capital-efficient growth, and the signals investors are watching as space matures from a frontier to a foundational domain of commerce. Tune in for a forward-looking discussion on how the business case for space is being built—and who’s paving the way for its long-term success.    The Vector, from Space Commerce Institute at Space Foundation, covers the topics, trends, and insights driving the space ecosystem.   Get the latest updates from The Vector by joining the quarterly newsletter at https://www.spacefoundation.org/cie/space-commerce-institute/the-vector/

How are lunar operations shaping the future of space exploration, and what role does the cislunar economy play in the next era of commercial space activity? In this episode, Kelli Kedis Ogborn, vice president of Space Commerce & Entrepreneurship at Space Foundation, sits down with Takeshi Hakamada, CEO of ispace, to explore the growing potential of lunar infrastructure and business opportunities beyond Earth's orbit. They discuss how companies like ispace are pioneering lunar landers, resource utilization, and sustainable operations to drive economic growth in the cislunar space. Takeshi shares insights into the challenges and breakthroughs in lunar exploration, the commercial viability of moon-based industries, and the global partnerships fueling this new frontier. Tune in to discover how the cislunar economy is evolving and what it means for the future of space commerce, innovation, and sustainability.    The Vector, from Space Commerce Institute at Space Foundation, covers the topics, trends, and insights driving the space ecosystem.   Get the latest updates from The Vector by joining the quarterly newsletter at https://www.spacefoundation.org/cie/space-commerce-institute/the-vector/

How is artificial intelligence revolutionizing space innovations and redefining autonomy in orbit? In this episode, Kelli Kedis Ogborn, vice president of Space Commerce & Entrepreneurship at Space Foundation, sits down with Lorenzo Feruglio, CEO and founder of AIKO, to discuss the game-changing role of AI in the space industry. They explore how machine learning and AI are streamlining mission operations, reducing repetitive tasks, and driving efficiency, scalability, and innovation in space exploration and commerce. Lorenzo also shares insights into the research and development behind these breakthroughs and offers strategies for fostering growth with cutting-edge AI solutions. Discover how AI is shaping the future of autonomous operations in space and creating endless opportunities for innovation in this dynamic and rapidly evolving sector.    The Vector, from Space Commerce Institute at Space Foundation, covers the topics, trends, and insights driving the space ecosystem.   Get the latest updates from The Vector by joining the quarterly newsletter at https://www.spacefoundation.org/cie/space-commerce-institute/the-vector/

How can space drive economic growth and strengthen national security? Join Kelli Kedis Ogborn, Vice President of Space Commerce & Entrepreneurship at Space Foundation, and Kevin O'Connell, President and CEO of Space Economy Rising, LLC, as they discuss the emerging business models shaping the space economy and how countries can expand their roles in this dynamic ecosystem. Drawing from global insights and private discussions with government leaders, investors, and entrepreneurs, Kevin shares actionable strategies for fostering innovation, enabling effective governance, and building diverse talent pipelines. Learn why “status quo is not an option” in the rapidly evolving space economy and how leveraging space can enhance both economic and national security outcomes.   The Vector, from Space Commerce Institute at Space Foundation, covers the topics, trends, and insights driving the space ecosystem.   Get the latest updates from The Vector by joining the quarterly newsletter at https://www.spacefoundation.org/cie/space-commerce-institute/the-vector/  

The commercial space industry is transforming rapidly, with private companies driving innovation and accessibility like never before. Join Kelli Kedis Ogborn, Space Foundation Vice President of Space Commerce & Entrepreneurship, and Kevin Lausten, President of Morpheus Space, as they discuss how advancements in space mobility are reshaping operations and the role of private companies in this transformation. Kevin shares insights from Morpheus Space's work and his 23 years of industry expertise to shed light on the future of space commerce.   The Vector, from Space Commerce Institute at Space Foundation, covers the topics, trends, and insights driving the space ecosystem.   Get the latest updates from The Vector by joining the quarterly newsletter at https://www.spacefoundation.org/cie/space-commerce-institute/the-vector/

How do we protect critical assets in space? Join Kelli Kedis Ogborn, Vice President of Space Commerce & Entrepreneurship at Space Foundation, and Lt Gen John Shaw, USSF (Ret), as they share insights into the vital role of Space Domain Awareness in national security. They'll explore current threats, strategies for safeguarding the space environment, and the evolving landscape of defense in the space sector.   The Vector, from Space Commerce Institute at Space Foundation, covers the topics, trends, and insights driving the space ecosystem.   Get the latest updates from The Vector by joining the quarterly newsletter at https://www.spacefoundation.org/cie/space-commerce-institute/the-vector/ 

Is your company defense ready? Join Kelli Kedis Ogborn, Vice President of Space Commerce & Entrepreneurship at Space Foundation, and Sean McKay, Owner & CEO of Precision ISR Consulting, as we explore the ways companies can design and prepare their technology for both commercial and defense applications.   The Vector, from Space Commerce Institute at Space Foundation, covers the topics, trends, and insights driving the space ecosystem.   Get the latest updates from The Vector by joining the quarterly newsletter at https://www.spacefoundation.org/cie/space-commerce-institute/the-vector/ 

Want to know how the space industry has changed over the past year? Tune in as Lesley Conn, Director of Research & Digital Programming at Space Foundation, explores the latest changes and highlights from The Space Report Q2 2024.    The Vector, from Space Commerce Institute at Space Foundation, covers the topics, trends, and insights driving the space ecosystem.   Get the latest updates from The Vector by joining the quarterly newsletter at https://www.spacefoundation.org/cie/space-commerce-institute/the-vector/ 

How can commercial space entities approach sustainability strategically? Listen to Chris Blackerby, Chief Operating Officer of Astroscale, a leading on-orbit servicing company, as he discusses their approach to creating a sustainable infrastructure to decrease risk and increase value in space with host Kelli Kedis Ogborn.  The Vector, from Space Commerce Institute at Space Foundation, covers the topics, trends, and insights driving the space ecosystem.   Get the latest updates from The Vector by joining the quarterly newsletter at https://www.spacefoundation.org/cie/space-commerce-institute/the-vector/ 

How will space sustainability efforts today impact the global space ecosystem tomorrow? Join Dr. Peter Martinez, Executive Director of Secure World Foundation, and host Kelli Kedis Ogborn to learn more about the paradigms shaping space sustainability conversations among stakeholders worldwide.  The Vector is brought to you by Space Commerce Institute at Space Foundation. To tune in live, listen on other platforms, and learn more about Space Commerce Institute programs, please visit http://bit.ly/sci_links.  

In a special edition episode of The Vector filmed at the 39th Space Symposium, host Kelli Kedis Ogborn discusses the players and initiatives driving the workforce of the future with Mel Stricklan of the Space Workforce 2030 initiative and Mike French of Aerospace Industries Association.  Tune in and find out how you can become part of the solution.  The Vector is brought to you by Space Commerce Institute at Space Foundation. To tune in live, listen on other platforms, and learn more about Space Commerce Institute programs, please visit http://bit.ly/sci_links.

How will U.S. policy and regulation efforts create viable pathways for international commercial cooperation in space? Hear from Rose Croshier, International Relations Specialist at NOAA’s Office of Space Commerce, as she and host Kelli Kedis Ogborn discuss how businesses from across the globe can effectively engage with the U.S. space industry. To access Rose's free e-book, the Handbook for Space Capability Development, visit this link: www.cgdev.org/publication/handbook-space-capability-development. To learn more about the Office of Space Commerce, visit their website: www.space.commerce.gov/. The Vector is brought to you by Space Commerce Institute at Space Foundation. To tune in live, listen on other platforms, and learn more about Space Commerce Institute programs, please visit http://bit.ly/sci_links.  

What if satellites could be assembled in space? In-space servicing, assembly and manufacturing (ISAM) has a long name and an even longer list of game-changing applications. On this episode of The Vector, hear from iBOSS GmbH Co-Founders Joerg Kreisel and Thomas A. Schervan as they embark on an insightful conversation about ISAM innovation with host Kelli Kedis Ogborn. How will companies like iBOSS enable the build-out of a sustainable ISAM ecosystem? Tune in for the inside scoop on this up-and-coming space industry segment.   The Vector is brought to you by Space Commerce Institute at Space Foundation. To tune in live, listen on other platforms, and learn more about Space Commerce Institute programs, please visit http://bit.ly/sci_links.  

How do cultural, regulatory, and economic factors impact global space cooperation and business activities? How do differences like access to capital, risk-taking attitudes, and regulatory approaches play in? Ken Davidian, Vice President of North America at the International Space University, sits down with host Kelli Kedis Ogborn for an in-depth discussion on transatlantic space activities. Learn about trends in government investment in research and development, navigate the landscape of ITAR regulations, and discover unique ways to study the space economy on this episode of the Vector.  The Vector is brought to you by Space Commerce Institute at Space Foundation. To tune in live, listen on other platforms, and learn more about Space Commerce Institute programs, please visit http://bit.ly/sci_links.  

Did you know that GPS technology is 50 years old? We take this technology for granted, but Lisa Dyer, Executive Director of the GPS Innovation Alliance, explains the modern relevance of GPS to everything from precision agriculture to supporting first responders. How did GPS come to exist? What is being done to address threats like GPS spoofing and jamming? What challenges and opportunities are there for the evolution of GPS and its integration in our infrastructure? Listen to this month’s Vector episode to find out.  The Vector is brought to you by Space Commerce Institute at Space Foundation. To tune in live, listen on other platforms, and learn more about Space Commerce Institute programs, please visit http://bit.ly/sci_links.  

Puerto Rico has its sights set on the stars. On this episode of The Vector, Kelli Kedis Ogborn talks to Gail Towers Nolan about the island's ambitious plans to establish a multi-pronged space hub. How does Puerto Rico intend to leverage strengths in industries like pharmaceuticals and attract pioneering companies working on new frontiers of point-to-point logistics? Tune in to hear Nolan reveal Puerto Rico's strategy for integrating local talent and building the infrastructure needed to propel the island's burgeoning space economy to new heights.  The Vector is brought to you by Space Commerce Institute at Space Foundation. To tune in live, listen on other platforms, and learn more about Space Commerce Institute programs, please visit http://bit.ly/sci_links.  

How does a country establish its own space program? Michal Brichta, co-founder of the newly established Slovak Space Office and head of its industry branch, explains on this episode of the Vector. Brichta and host Kelli Kedis Ogborn discuss Slovakia’s intention to leverage its existing capabilities in areas like electronics, IT, and automotive engineering to bolster its space presence. What could the role of local industry, policy and international business look like in enabling a vibrant Slovakian space industry? Listen on for firsthand insight on Brichta’s ambitious initiative.  The Vector is brought to you by Space Commerce Institute at Space Foundation. To tune in live, listen on other platforms, and learn more about Space Commerce Institute programs, please visit http://bit.ly/sci_links.  

Did you know that over 100 organizations and 30 countries contributed to satellite projects in the past year? In this robust episode of the Vector, an impressive cadre of economists and experienced business people discuss the large-scale trends driving the global space economy forward. Hear insights from Matt Weinzierl, Senior Associate Dean and Chair of the MBA program at Harvard Business School, Brendan Russo, teaching fellow at Harvard Business School, and Lesley Conn, Director of The Space Report at Space Foundation. Host Kelli Kedis Ogborn guides the conversation through topics like space workforce challenges, the emergence of human spaceflight, and growing opportunities related to Earth observation applications.  The Vector is brought to you by Space Commerce Institute at Space Foundation. To tune in live, listen on other platforms, and learn more about Space Commerce Institute programs, please visit http://bit.ly/sci_links.   Learn more about the Space Report 

Why do some space startup pitches fail? What sets a space company apart, and how can entrepreneurs take advantage of decreasing launch costs and increasing government support for space activities? Explore these key questions and more with this month’s Vector episode, featuring a conversation between Raphael Roettgen, founder of E2MC Venture Capital Firms and host Kelli Kedis Ogborn. Roettgen shares his perspective on the problem of orbital debris, discusses regulations that promote growth, and offers key insights for companies looking to find their niche in the space economy.    Episode Resources: Space Business Podcast https://linktr.ee/spacebusinesspodcast Space economy book https://www.amazon.com/Infinity-New-Space-Economy-Participate-ebook/dp/B0BK9R7C6C/ Space economy course https://www.edx.org/course/new-space-economy Forthcoming Newsletter https://spacebusiness.substack.com/ The Vector is brought to you by Space Commerce Institute at Space Foundation. To tune in live, listen on other platforms, and learn more about Space Commerce Institute programs, please visit http://bit.ly/sci_links.  

As the International Space Station approaches retirement, coalitions of space companies are clamoring to shape the future. What will the transition from government-owned stations to commercial stations look like? What types of new activities will be conducted there and who will be utilizing these new stations? Explore these questions with host Kelli Kedis Ogborn and Clay Mowry, Chief Revenue Officer at Voyager Space. With Mowry's firsthand experiences at the forefront of a pioneering company, this wide-ranging discussion is brimming with invaluable insights you will not want to miss.  The Vector is brought to you by Space Commerce Institute at Space Foundation. To tune in live, listen on other platforms, and learn more about Space Commerce Institute programs, please visit http://bit.ly/sci_links.  

When you envision careers in space, what do you imagine? Mike French, Vice President for Space Systems at Aerospace Industries Association, and host Kelli Kedis Ogborn explore the diverse array of job opportunities within the rapidly expanding space sector. From welding and machinery operation to office support and business operations, the space industry offers a wide range of career paths, extending beyond just science and engineering roles. Yet, why do companies often struggle to attract, recruit, and retain talent? Listen to this episode of the Vector to dive into space workforce challenges and discover the most promising solutions to strengthen the space talent pipeline.   The Vector is brought to you by Space Commerce Institute at Space Foundation. To tune in live, listen on other platforms, and learn more about Space Commerce Institute programs, please visit http://bit.ly/sci_links.  

Why are intellectual property protections important for space entrepreneurs and innovators? What resources are out there for visionaries looking to secure funding, license their products, and commercialize their ideas? On this episode of The Vector, Kathy Vida, Director of the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) joins host Kelli Kedis Ogborn to highlight the office’s plethora of resources available to innovators. With a surge in patent applications within fields such as space technologies, space-adjacent domains, and artificial intelligence, understanding the intellectual property landscape has never been more vital. Tune in for tips on how to engage with government agencies, avoid common IP pitfalls, and take full advantage of USPTO resources.  The Vector is brought to you by Space Commerce Institute at Space Foundation. To tune in live, listen on other platforms, and learn more about Space Commerce Institute programs, please visit http://bit.ly/sci_links.  

Did you know that invisible orthodontics came from materials research in space? Or that Easy VI, a solution to clean up soil and groundwater contaminants worldwide, originated as a product to clean rocket parts?  Meredith Reeves, NASA’s Technology Transfer Expansion Lead at Kennedy Space Center, joins host Kelli Kedis Ogborn on the Vector for a scintillating conversation about space spin-off technology. As opportunities for research in space skyrocket, there are endless possibilities for connecting space technology with our day-to-day lives. Join us to learn how NASA engages with startups, entrepreneurs and communities to launch space spin-off opportunities into orbit.  The Vector is brought to you by Space Commerce Institute at Space Foundation. To tune in live, listen on other platforms, and learn more about Space Commerce Institute programs, please visit http://bit.ly/sci_links.  

How do government and private sector stakeholders approach space research and development differently? What role does policy and regulation play in enabling or hindering new capabilities? This month, Matt Tompkins, Vice President of the Outpost Space Portfolio, sits down with host Kelli Kedis Ogborn for a wide-ranging discussion filled with practical tips and insights for NewSpace entrepreneurs. Listen and learn about how successful companies are navigating the intertwined yet distinct private and public sectors of the space ecosystem, engaging commercial, national security, and civil verticals.  The Vector is brought to you by Space Commerce Institute at Space Foundation. To tune in live, listen on other platforms, and learn more about Space Commerce Institute programs, please visit http://bit.ly/sci_links.  

How is a South-Florida based initiative helping entrepreneurs from all industries venture into space? Dr. John Wensveen, Chief Innovation Officer at Nova Southeastern University, talks with host Kelli Kedis Ogborn about a budding partnership between the Space Foundation and the Alan B. Levan | NSU Broward Center of Innovation. Tune into this month’s episode of the Vector to discover how the LEVL5 SPACEDOCK project aims to grow the space industry in South Florida, challenging everyone to expand our collective understanding of space-relevant innovation.  The Vector is brought to you by Space Commerce Institute at Space Foundation. To tune in live, listen on other platforms, and learn more about Space Commerce Institute programs, please visit http://bit.ly/sci_links.  

How can starry-eyed NewSpace entrepreneurs balance their idealistic ambitions with pragmatic business approaches? Industry experts Zaheer Ali and Jamie Lesser from NewSpace Finance sit down with Kelli Kedis Ogborn on the Vector to share their insights and strategic advice. How can entrepreneurs unlock multiple business models, maximize utilization of existing space infrastructure, and determine whether investors are the right strategic fit? Tune in for a wealth of practical pointers from these distinguished guests.  The Vector is brought to you by Space Commerce Institute at Space Foundation. To tune in live, listen on other platforms, and learn more about Space Commerce Institute programs, please visit http://bit.ly/sci_links.