Why is collaboration in space still so difficult? Despite high-profile partnerships like the ISS, geopolitical tensions, intellectual property disputes, and commercial interests often get in the way.
In this episode of Allies in Innovation, host Mikkel Svold talks with Kartik Kumar, CEO of
satsearch, and Manfred Otto, Senior Director at
Terma, about what’s really driving – and blocking – cooperation in the space industry. They cover the challenges of working across borders, how commercialization is reshaping partnerships, and the impact of AI and cybersecurity on collaboration.
For those navigating this high-stakes landscape, this is a conversation worth hearing.
In this episode, you'll learn about:1. Why collaboration isn't always seamless in the space industry.
2. Commercial off-the-shelf in space: reality or aspiration?
3. Navigating complexities like export control and IP in partnerships.
4. Impact of commercialization: driving standardization or commoditizing?
5. Is space heading for a Wild West gold rush?
Episode Content00:12 Introduction: Collaboration Challenges in the Space Industry
01:23 Observations on Industry Collaboration and Competition
02:41 Navigating Cross-Border Partnerships and Exhausting Legal Complexities
03:45 The Complexity of Satellite Production and Operations
06:15 Balancing Innovation with Regulatory Constraints
09:47 The Role of Smaller Companies in a Complex Ecosystem
13:08 Export Control and Compliance in Space Projects
17:40 Predicting the Future Demand in the Space Market
24:13 Trends Driving Commercialization in the Space Sector
30:45 Need for Standardization and Modular Approaches in Space Products
39:15 Making Space Accessible: The Future of Talent Acquisition
ProductionThis podcast is brought to you by
Terma This podcast is produced by
Montanus.