Constellations – Explore Space Network Technologies with Industry Leaders

New business models for software-defined satellites: this episode features Florian Thirion, Senior Product and Portfolio Marketing Manager at Airbus Defence and Space. New software-defined satellites give operators the capability to scale their business models and diversify the services they deliver to customers.

• Over 27,000 satellites with flexible architectures are forecasted to be manufactured and launched between 2021 and 2031.
• Software-defined satellites enables lower and progressive CapEx, can share capacity between operators, and have lower overall operation costs.
• In coming years, high throughput laser links between GEO and ground architecture will allow from 10-100 gigabits of massive data transfer.

Chapters:

0:00 – introducing Florian Thirion, Airbus Defence and Space

1:25 – current state of the satellite market

2:42 – why the industry is moving towards software-defined satellites

4:10 – bent-pipe satellites vs. software-defined satellites

6:55 – new capabilities made possible

8:25 – best applications for software-defined satellites

10:11 – increasing revenue and lowering CapEx

11:50 – working with ground systems

14:17 – multi-orbit orchestration

14:50 – prediction: software-defined satellites in five years

17:44 – building cloud connectivity in satellite

19:36 – long-term sustainability in space

About Constellations: Constellations is a podcast and publication by Kratos covering the new generation of space network technologies. Our core interests are space networks, softwarization, terrestrial-space interoperability, the ground segment, security—and, of course, the growing space economy.

• The podcast publishes biweekly on Wednesday mornings.
• The podcast has featured leading CEOs, analysts, and government guests from Space Force, AFRL, the White House, and more.
• By size, our audience is space industry leaders, engineers, military/civil space, and academia.
• We publish article contributions from outside organizations and have ongoing content partnerships with DIFI, Space ISAC, Space Intel Report, and Analysys Mason.
• \Sign up to receive our newsletter: www.kratosdefense.com/constellations/newsletters

5G from space holds the promise to make mobile connectivity accessible to everyone and everywhere. Past efforts to mainstream satellite communications did not have the advantage that 5G brings - a single technology standard that enables Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and satellite service providers to complement each other’s networks to deliver nearly ubiquitous, instantaneous, connectivity for large numbers of devices globally. With us today on Constellations Podcast is Lucas Hansen, Vice President and General Manager of Wireless and Satellite Direct-to-Device Communications at Keysight Technologies to discuss the opportunities, challenges, use cases and future of 5G from space.

On the Constellations Podcast we’ll discuss the Space Development Agency (SDA) looking at taking capabilities and technologies that are already mature and integrating them into a solution for the military. During this episode, Colonel Kalliroi Landry, Space Development Agency, will discuss why the commercial model is attractive to the SDA, the challenges of DoD acquisition methods and the shift towards information services. Hear Colonel Landry describe getting capability to the warfighter on a relevant timeline and new technology coming out of the commercial industry that hasn't readily been available to the DoD before. Colonel Landry provides examples such as establishing ground entry points worldwide and the advancement of phased array antennas, which allow multiple satellite contacts per ground terminal.

As more than 80 percent of global trade volume is shipped by sea, countries’ participation in the international supply chains depends on reliable maritime connectivity. In this podcast, Pacôme Révillon, CEO of Novaspace, joins us to explain the role of satellite in solving this challenge including the ROI of maritime connectivity, the outlook on autonomous vessels and the impact of Starlink on the market.

On this Constellations Podcast, we explore the evolution of the satellite terminals. Join our panel of experts to understand how the digital transformation of satellite networks has opened the door to orchestrated and automated operations across multiple orbits.

As space becomes increasingly dynamic, the industry is turning to software to move faster, become more automated, and agile. This is evident in how satellites and ground systems are becoming much more software defined, integrated, and orchestrated to enable new and more flexible business models. In this Constellations Podcast, we have with us an outstanding panel of experts that will discuss the “softwarization” of satellites and ground systems and the increasing integration between the two. 

Listen to Colonel Michael Christensen, currently stationed at the Pentagon and serving as the director of test and evaluation for the US Space Force. Discover why it's imperative to transform our testing approach to meet the unique challenges of space. Learn about the significance of integrated testing and why involving real operators in test teams is crucial to ensure testing meets the demands of end operators. Colonel Christensen discusses the importance of modeling and simulation in stress-testing systems before construction begins. He underscores the necessity of collaboration with mission partners to fulfill the critical roles and functions of the Space Force. Additionally, he addresses the difficulty of shifting mindsets to effectively operate in contested environments.

Last year Space Foundation valued the space economy at $546 billion, a number they expect to reach $772 billion by 2027. Through technological advancements and decreased barriers to entry companies across the globe have entered the space ecosystem in hopes off growing their businesses portfolios and revenue streams. Hear Kelli Kedis Ogborn, Vice President of Space Commerce and Entrepreneurship, Space Foundation share key market drivers, growing international interest in space, and switching from the Apollo era to the era of Artemis. 

On this Constellations Podcast hear about a communications network that does not have to touch the Internet. Declan Ganley, CEO of Rivada and Konrad Nieradka, Vice President of Product Management of Rivada discuss connected communications with a laser mesh network in space and how standards like Carrier Ethernet are shaping the future of enterprise communications.

In the history of space, satellite terminal designs have expanded and changed with the needs of end use cases and at the mercy of demanding applications…but not more so than the past 10 years. Hear John Finney, CEO of ALL.SPACE, explain the details and drivers advancing terminal technology for true high performance multi-orbit connectivity on the move.

In the past, “mission-adaptable” was not a phrase used to describe a satellite. Hear Sethu Saveda Suvanam, CEO and Found of ReOrbit, explain how on-board computing is fundamentally changing the way data moves in space – and how it can maximize data access security and speed.

Satellite has often been viewed as a transport of last resort, however that is rapidly changing as satellite networks digitally transform and adopt standards to become like today’s mainstream telecom networks. In this podcast episode, find out how standards such as Carrier Ethernet are playing a critical role in enabling satellite and telecommunications networks to converge to deliver services such as enterprise network extension, SD-WAN and IP services to hard-to-reach areas. Here to discuss the critical role of standards is Daniel Bar Lev, the VP of Strategic Programs at MEF. Daniel is responsible for the development and implementation of a range of strategic MEF programs that enable MEF’s 200+ members to accelerate the transformation of their networks and operations.

Take a deep dive with John Taylor, Chief Engineer for Swedish Space Corporation, into the technology behind advancing satellite ground systems in flexibility, scalability, and standardization. Many satellite industry players are embracing the “as-a-service” model for satellite service delivery especially in earth observation. Find out how today’s ground systems are supporting missions that are over a gigabit per second.

The space sector in the Middle East is highly dynamic, growing and being driven by evolving national ambitions and strategies. Leveraging their vast financial resources and strategic geographic location, the Middle East nations have increasingly gained prominence in the global space industry. Here to discuss the space sector development in the Middle East including the opportunities, challenges and the future is Steve Bochinger, the Affiliate Executive Advisor of Euroconsult. Steve has over 20 years of experience in the space sector and has vast knowledge across the space value chain from a commercial and government perspective.

2021 saw a record amount of private investment in space, followed by a significant downturn in 2022. Investments in the space sector once again fell in 2023, but many venture capitalists expect significant growth looking forward to the next few years. Space can be a tricky investment, requiring a long term view, but companies like Blue Origin and SpaceX show that massive innovation is still possible and likely. Our guest for today's episode is Justus Parmar, CEO of Fortuna Investments, here to discuss venture capital and finding profitability in the space sector, as well as highlights looking back on 2023 and the most exciting things to look forward to in 2024.

On the Constellations Podcast, we’ll discuss the DoD using commercial space capabilities, from launch to ISR data. During this episode, Dave Gauthier, Chief Strategy Officer, GXO, Inc., will discuss the challenges of DoD acquisition methods, the shift towards information services and leaning on the commercial industry for the critical advantage. The Space Force Commercial Services Office looking at bringing capabilities in as fast as their ready and incentivizing industry to work with the government to address the risks and options companies face. In this episode, David explains the power of electro-optical, including innovative solutions going beyond what the human eye can see, and provides example applications such as aggregating optical imagery with other forms of data such as remote sensing to gain better insight.

A digital transformation has begun in the modelling and simulation of spacecrafts. Today complete complex simulations can occur within minutes as opposed to days. Legacy desktop software solutions and costly in-house machines are being replaced by high-performance and scalable simulation in the cloud. Bridging the virtual and physical world has the potential to offer organizations substantial costs savings, cut-time-to-orbit and improve the entire process for developing spacecrafts. Here to discuss the massive potential of digital twins technology is Robbie Robertson, CEO and Co-founder of Sedaro, a start up that is revolutionizing engineering simulation and virtualization with digital twins in the cloud.

On the Constellations podcast, hear how the White House wants to impact the next generation of space exploration.  During this episode, Dr. Ezinne Uzo-Okoro, Assistant Director for Space Policy at the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) talks about space weather, Earth observation, and space data. There are several areas that require attention from the White House, either in providing a presidential vision or an executable strategy that the entire Federal Government can implement. Hear Dr. Uzo-Okoro discuss the White House’s mission to create and leverage innovation to advance America’s goals. 

The idea of High Altitude Platform Stations (HAPS) is not new…it has been around since 1945, but over the years the technology has been evolving and maturing to be able to effectively support the needs of the market. This is in large part because of a growing number of new players and approaches in the HAPS market moving beyond technology demonstrations to viable commercial solutions. Here to discuss their breakthrough HAPS technology and the opportunities and challenges of bringing the innovative solution to market is Samer Halawi, the CEO of AALTO.

On this Constellations Podcast, we explore taking advantage of high-speed bandwidth that coherent light free space optics can provide and driving that capacity into space.  During this episode, Chris Taylor, CEO of Aalyria talks about connecting everything we touch through sea, air and space. He discusses spectrum being finite and explains that by using light, free space optics, you are broadening choices and opening up capability where it did not exist. In addition, he addresses the demands of connectivity for humanity and that free space optics is a solution that may help get more people connected.

On the Constellations Podcast, we’ll discuss the Watch Center at the Space Information Sharing and Analysis Center or Space ISAC. During this episode, guests Joel Francis, Watch Center lead at Space ISAC, and Kevin Coggins, Senior Advisor to Space ISAC will discuss the purpose of the Watch Center and the types of data brought into the Watch Center for analysis. The Watch Center looks to monitor, analyze, and report information for its members, for example, the recent cyberattacks targeting ground segments and enterprise networks. Hear about the four primary data sources and the Space ISAC's role in facilitating the exchange of knowledge from all sources so that people can provide and benefit from the Watch Center. 

According to a recent Bloomberg Intelligence report, “The world is poised to see an explosion of growth in the generative AI sector over the next ten years that promises to fundamentally change the way the technology sector operates.” To learn more about the potential of this transformational technology for the space industry, we have with us, Buffy Wajvoda, Head of Solutions Architects, AWS Space & Satellite. She will provide her perspective on the opportunities, risks and future of the technology for the space industry. Buffy is an experienced leader with a demonstrated history of working in public cloud and big data in a range of industries from aerospace and satellite to the U.S. government.

Join Steve Good, Chief Business Officer at Ramon.Space, to learn how space resilient computing infrastructure is transforming fixed satellites into flexible ones, the applications for “earth-like” computing on orbit, and how a smart satellite can leverage artificial intelligence and machine learning to contribute to humankind’s knowledge of space and space operations.

On the Constellations Podcast, we’ll discuss the Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics (LASP), Colorado University's oldest research institute. LASP has a rich history, going back to World War II, launching science payloads on captured German B2s in the White Sand Missile Range. It is now an international organization, reaching universities across the world engaged in research leveraging Cubesats.  During this episode, Spencer Boyajian, Professional Research Assistant, Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics (LASP) talks about the work and INSPIRE, an international program to train students to participate in internationally collaborative missions, and elaborates on the INSPIRE spacecraft bus being built as an open domain hardware architecture developed jointly by partner universities. He talks about tracking several of the space missions LASP has been a part of as many are still being studied and tracked using university-owned ground station equipment and data from services such as AWS and KSAT.

In this episode, join Nathan de Ruiter, Managing Director of Euroconsult Canada, as he covers the state of play and prospects for the satellite communication sector, the shifting tides of revenue opportunities, and potential changes that will disrupt the SATCOM market.

On the Constellations Podcast, we’ll discuss the changing face of space sustainability, autonomously tracking objects with radar and leveraging artificial intelligence to manage large quantities of dynamic data. During this episode, Dr. Rachit Bhatia, Space Safety Analytics and Research Lead, LeoLabs, talks about surveillance of low Earth orbit (LEO) with ground-based radar and why radar is best suited for LEO monitoring and tracking. Hear Dr. Bhatia elaborate on the difference between conjunction and collision, address the significant amount of objects in space just from the Cold War era, and posit that global cooperation and continuous communication will be required for complete space domain awareness.

Over 20,000 smallsats are being launched over the next decade driven by the growing demand for data and services across the globe. All these new constellations need scalable, flexible, and on-demand ground services. This is driving the growth of the Ground Station as a Service (GSaaS) market. The market grew at 8.5% CAGR over the last five years and will continue to grow at a slightly slower pace over the next five years according to Euroconsult. To delve deeper into the GSaaS market and its future, we have with us today, Giovanni Pandolfi Bortoletto, Co-Founder and Chief Strategy Office of Leaf Space – a GSaaS provider that operates a fully owned, globally distributed network of ground stations.

On the Constellations Podcast, we’ll discuss geo-registration incorporating artificial intelligence and machine learning to improve accuracy greatly. During this episode, Ken Campbell, President of Edgybees Incorporated, will talk about how geo-registration is aligning or matching digital maps and images to real-world locations on the Earth's surface.  Ken talks about how crucial it is for navigation, remote sensing, and many other fields where precise location is essential. He describes ground control points and spatially referencing an image with the assistance of artificial intelligence. In addition, Ken addresses the ability to geo-registrate data into digitized maps or images for an accurate picture and location of where things are.

On the Constellations Podcast, we’ll discuss how future satellite, cellular, and Wi-Fi communication technology might evolve. During this episode, David Witkowski will talk about the evolving communication ecosystem. Hear David describe how the IEEE is considering satellite in the development of future releases of the 3GPP standard and how satellite broadband is already helping to close the digital divide. LEO broadband has already begun serving ground networks and David raises concerns about the network's capacity, and whether or not the LEO network can handle that amount of traffic. 

The past two years have been rocky for space investors. Matt O’Connell, operating partner at Data Collective Venture Capital, explains what caused this pause in space investment, and more importantly, what we should expect going forward. Matt will also discuss what space investors are looking for, and how those seeking investment can improve their investment pitches. He’ll also discuss the applications that will drive the market in 2023 and beyond, ChatGPT, AI, and the impact of government spending on the health of the space industry.

The smallsat industry is growing by leaps and bounds. Euroconsult estimates that one ton per day of smallsats will be launched on average over the next ten years. With this insatiable demand in the market, how is the manufacturing of smallsats keeping pace? To shed some light on this question, we have with us today, Mike Kaplan, the Vice President of Business Development for LeoStella, a specialized satellite constellation design and manufacturing company. Mike is an expert across multiple space domains with extensive experience in both government and commercial industries, previously holding senior leadership positions at NASA, Boeing, Raytheon Technologies, Ball Aerospace, and Space Systems Loral.

On this Constellations Podcast we’ll discuss space sustainability, what it means and how it is changing. During this episode, Dr. Brian Weeden, Director of Program Planning, Secure World Foundation will discuss working with governments, industry, international organization and others to hopefully avoid conflicts in space, supporting a safer, more sustainable space environment. Hear Dr. Weeden talk about the number of constellations currently in space and the role commercial industry has played in managing over 7,000 payloads. He raises concerns regarding how different constellations will operate close to each other and how they will interface - especially if they each have their own autonomous maneuvering systems. Dr. Weeden discusses the commercial industry offering more diversified sources of data collection and more information into how space awareness data is generated. With different objectives than the military, there is more transparency in the commercial industry.   

We know that we can use satellite earth observation technology to better understand our world – but now it seems possible to leverage satellites to maximize operational efficiency across multiple industries. In this Constellations Podcast, we are joined by Sateliot CEO Jaume Sanpera to discuss nanosatellites, the evolution of IoT over satellite, and how 5G IoT can solve big problems in the agriculture, transportation, energy industries and more all over the world.

In the past satellites have often been viewed by telecom service providers as a last resort of transport. As satellite looks to move from being a niche application that holds 1% of the telecom market to becoming a mainstream part of the global telecom eco-system where there is a growing move towards convergence. In this Constellations podcast, a panel of experts will discuss the opportunities, challenges and new business approaches taken by satellite and teleport operators to deepen integration with terrestrial telecommunications providers. 

With billions of new devices coming online, satellite and network connectivity will become increasingly more complex and our expectations more demanding. In this episode of Constellations, we will look at what it will take to enable the new connectivity of the future. Our guests today are Rivada Space Networks' Chief Program Officer, Clemens Kaiser and Chief Commercial Officer, Ronald van der Breggen. Rivada is in the process of building a space network comprised of satellites linked by optical satellite technology. Our guests discuss the growth of optical technology and what it means for satellite data networks, the role of optical inter-satellite links in creating a space network, the trade-off between optical and RF technology and the implications of optical communications on satellite ground stations.

Digitally transformative technologies have been making their way across the satellite industry. From the core to gateways, in orbit and on the ground – there’s no denying that space communications is starting to become more like space IT. Hear a panel of experts from XipLink, Kratos, and NSR, an Analysys Mason company, discuss how digital transformation is changing satellite communications at the remote terminal also known as “the edge.”

On the Constellations Podcast, we’ll discuss how the government can pivot and adjust in the way it procures defense technology.  During this episode, Colonel Michelle Idle, the Mobilization Assistant to the Commander, Space Systems Command, Los Angeles Air Force Base, California will discuss SSC’s Front Door Initiative to help improve their outreach into the commercial sector. Space Systems Command (SSC) is looking to capture the vast amounts of commercial space industry expertise as quickly as possible. The SSC is working on changing how they do business, both from how a requisition is received, how systems are acquired, and how they're delivered. Hear Colonel Idle explain how ongoing Industry Days help the government learn more about existing commercial expertise that can be leveraged, rather than reinventing the wheel.

On today’s Constellations Podcast, we’ll discuss emerging business and technology trends in Earth observation.  With us today is Aravind Ravichandran, founder of TerraWatch Space, a company devoted to providing insight to satellite Earth observation. In this episode, Aravind will discuss emerging business models and technical advances being employed by EO, such as  “space-as-a-service” and “satellite-as-a-service”, data fusion and onboard computing.  He will also discuss the difference between space strategy and data strategy and how they impact the EO industry. Listen as he discusses “sovereign earth observation”, essentially an EO strategy for national governments.

When satellites are 500 miles from their antennas, and aircraft are traveling at over 500 miles per hour, it is difficult to fathom ways to provide faster speeds and more reliable connectivity for passengers and crew. Listen to John Peterson, Iridium’s Executive Director of Aviation, as he helps us understand new technologies in the aero market that make it possible. Hear Mr. Peterson discuss how these technologies can improve performance and end-user experience and overcome the challenging physics of in-flight connectivity.

Guillaume Tanier, CEO and Co-founder of Leanspace, joined Constellations to discuss the benefits of software for space and satellite operations. Hear Mr. Tanier discuss the digitalization of the satellite ground segment including an explanation of the concept of digital continuity, the challenges of interfaces between providers, and how it is possible for developers to build their own ground segment in weeks, rather than years.

On this Constellations Podcast, we’ll cover a lot of territory... from space to the ground. Our guest today is Sita Sonty, Partner and Associate Director at Boston Consulting Group and their global lead for commercial space. In this episode, Sita will discuss the satellite revolution taking place in both space and on the ground Including the future of satellite connectivity, the growth of non-geostationary orbit (NGSO) satellites, the demand for multi-orbit antennas, and the virtualization of satellite ground systems.

5G is the fifth-generation technology standard for broadband cellular networks predicted to have more than 1.2 billion connections and cover one-third of the world’s population by 2025. The impact on the mobile industry and its customers will be profound, especially with the recent inclusion of satellites into the standard. This offers new opportunities for satellites to integrate with terrestrial networks to manage connectivity to cars, ships, planes and other IoT devices in remote and rural areas. Will this satellite and telco industry convergence be a revolution or an evolution? To share some research and insights on this question, we have with us today Yesmean Luk, a Senior Consultant at STL Partners. She has led and managed client projects with both operators and technology companies across a number of domains, including private networks, telco cloud, network slicing, edge computing and IoT.

On this episode of the Constellations Podcast, we’ll learn about the differences between OneWeb and OneWeb Technologies.  Kevin Steen, CEO of OneWeb Technologies, will discuss how demand for broadband connectivity continues unabated with many government agencies requiring services. This includes not only the military but border protection, prison bureaus, policemen and first responders. IoT itself is not the reason for a LEO constellation, it is about mission-critical connectivity with low latency and resiliency. Kevin describes the need for time-sensitive, critical decision-making capabilities, with bandwidth and latency being key for relevant data availability. Additionally, Kevin talks about connectivity in places that currently do not have broadband, such as polar regions or UAV applications – any place where decisions are based on information coming from the edge.

The satellite industry has gone through tremendous innovation over the last few years with the emergence of software-defined payloads and LEO and MEO constellations. These new satellite architectures bring much more capacity and the ability to reconfigure and adjust payloads to changing missions on demand. Ground segment providers are embracing approaches proven in telecom and IT to overcome the scale and automation challenges being faced in the satellite industry. This has led to discussions focused on how virtualization, software-defined networking, and orchestration can enable ground networks to become much more agile to meet the new capabilities in space. To shed some light on these IT/Telecom concepts and how they can be applied to the satellite industry, we have with us Luc-Yves Pagal Vinette, an expert in networking concepts such as SDN/NFV, the edge and disaggregated networks. He is also the Product Marketing Director for 5G Service Orchestration, Network Slicing and Service Assurance at Amdocs.

In this Constellations Podcast, we’ll discuss the need for more terminals to be interoperable, including working on different frequency bands, different orbits, and different types of constellations. How the need is handled is less of a technology decision than a business discussion.  During this episode of Constellations, Bill Milroy, Chairman and CTO, of ThinKom Solutions, discusses the business case for the types of capabilities needed in an antenna. He addresses the challenges of creating antennas for deployment in space vehicles, especially in the unique environment of space. He touches upon the idea of a software-defined antenna, which in the case of antennas would mean reconfigurable hardware that can work using different software on different systems. However, he also gave a different example of a software-defined antenna that included a phased array antenna mimicking a parabolic dish for one application while creating multiple beams to service a large number of satellites when the need for the parabolic dish passed. Bill thinks the market is moving towards a fusion of GEO and LEO to help shape IP traffic and giving solutions that are the best of both worlds.

On the Constellations Podcast, we’ll discuss emerging direct satellite-to-cell phone technology and how it could dramatically alter the relationship between satellite and terrestrial networks. With us today is Chris Quilty, Partner in Quilty Analytics, who will discuss the financial, technical and regulatory implications of direct satellite to cell phone connectivity now being explored, and in some cases deployed,  by  SpaceX and T-Mobile, Globalstar and Apple, and Iridium among others.  Chris will discuss the different business models: using a mobile network operator’s (MNO) existing spectrum or using spectrum assigned to Mobile Satellite Services (MSS). Listen as he explains how this technology could impact cellular backhaul revenues and conclude with his thoughts on the challenges ahead for direct satellite to cell phone connectivity.

Imagine being able to download a full-length high-definition movie to your phone in seconds even when you’re in a car, ship or plane in remote and rural areas. That is the potential that 5G brings. High bandwidth and seamless connectivity to end users across a range of networks from terrestrial to satellite. 5G is about connecting things everywhere – reliably, without lag – and delivering a high-quality user experience.  During this episode, Tom Stroup the President of the Satellite Industry Association (SIA) discusses the market drivers, opportunities, and challenges that 5G presents for the satellite industry. Tom is uniquely qualified to discuss this topic. He is well versed in the regulatory and policy issues of critical importance to the satellite industry, including spectrum and licensing issues, defense and public safety matters, and export control and international trade issues.

On the Constellations Podcast, we’ll discuss the most recent development in the integration of satellite and terrestrial networks – direct satellite to smart phone communications! Soon, someone with no cellular connectivity in a remote part of the country, or merely in a dead zone on the way to work, will have a new option — satellite connectivity without the need of a satellite phone. Charles Miller, co-founder and CEO of Lynk, a company developing a satellite-to-mobile phone satellite constellation that aims to provide a cell tower and space capability for global coverage. Charles will explain how it works, the difference between using a satellite for GPS and for communication, cell tower economics and the impact cell-to-satellite connectivity will have on markets as diverse as mining and commercial fishing.

On this Constellations Podcast, we’ll discuss the impact a growing number of lunar missions, like NASA’s Artemis lunar exploration program, will have on the satellite and space sector, especially the ground segment.  We’ll discuss the differences between NHRO and GEO orbits and the CAPSTONE program from Advanced Space. Our guest today is Thomas Gardner, Director of Engineering/Mission Systems at Advanced Space, a Colorado space technology company now working with NASA on cislunar programs. Tom will discuss NASA’s space exploration program and Advanced Space’s role in it, advances in lunar navigation and communications, and NASA’s plan to land the first woman on the moon by 2024.

There are a number of companies introducing quantum key distribution for secure communications across optical fiber networks but the technology has yet to be applied across a constellation of small satellites in Low Earth Orbit to produce secure global coverage. Until now. On this Constellations Podcast, we welcome Dr. Mark Adams, Associate Professor, Electrical & Computer Engineering, Auburn University to discuss the basics of quantum information processing, how quantum key distribution (QKD) ups the game in data transmission security and moving from the BB84 scheme to fully entangled microwave sources for SmallSats.

On this Constellations Podcast, we’ll discuss the growing interest and investments surrounding today’s space efforts, particularly cislunar space. NASA is leading the forefront of this initiative and will soon launch Artemis I, an uncrewed moon-orbiting mission that includes different technology solutions offered by multiple commercial players. During this episode, we are joined by Al Tadros, CTO of Redwire, who walks us through the importance of sustainable space exploration and how Redwire is supporting the goal of a “sustainable presence” on the moon.

On this Constellations Podcast, we’ll discuss the first anniversary of STARCOM. Major General Shawn Bratton, Commander, Space Training and Readiness Command of the United States Space Force explains STARCOM and how it is training the Space Force for competition and conflict in the Space domain. Hear Maj Gen. Bratton explain why STARCOM is working with experts such as astronauts from NASA that do an incredible amount of training with simulators, the advice they’re receiving from other parts of the Space Force such as the Space Warfighting Analysis Center, and a new series of complex training exercises called the Sky Series.

On the Constellations Podcast, we’ll discuss how the Space Development Agency (SDA) is accelerating the development of space-based capabilities for the warfighter. The SDA is accelerating capabilities with spiral development, working with the idea that getting to a solution that is 80% complete and viable in two years is better than an exquisite solution that will take five years. During this episode, Dr. Frank Turner, Technical Director of the Space Development Agency, discusses how the SDA is trying to help both industry and DoD understand how to support the warfighter, building a mesh network in space and the difference between the SDA’s tracking and transport layer and Tranches.

Real-time video collaboration is a given in our day-to-day lives here on Earth, but how about in deep space?  On this Constellations Podcast, we’ll talk about how deep space video collaboration differs from video collaboration here on Earth. Deep space communication is becoming an important topic with the upcoming launch of NASA’s Artemis 1 mission around the Moon. The mission will be the first test of video collaboration technology off planet. During this episode, Jono Luk, VP of Product Management at Webex will discuss the difficulties of video communications in deep space and explain how these issues can be overcome to support NASA’s Artemis Program.

On this Constellations Podcast, we’ll discuss the emerging dual-use technologies coming from the commercial space market and what to consider when making investments in these technologies. Joining us today is Jordan Noone, Co-founder of Embedded Ventures, a next-generation venture capital firm investing in dual-use space startups beyond launch. During this episode, Jordan walks us through the first-of-its-kind partnership between Embedded Ventures and the United States Space Force, the ‘beyond launch’ technologies the venture capital firm invests in, and the growth seen within the industry over the last quarter century.

There are still many places in the world that have little to no access to the Internet. In Alaska, an estimated 40,000 rural households are disadvantaged in access to healthcare, education, timely emergency services, and basic communication because there is little to no reliable Internet connectivity. Advances in technology, such as software-defined smallsats, have aided in developing a business case for delivering service in the most remote places. On this Constellations Podcast, Shawn Williams, VP of Government Affairs and Strategy for Pacific Dataport, walks through the process of building a network that overcomes the challenges of Alaska while providing the performance we enjoy in the cities.

On the Constellations Podcast, we’ll discuss the growth of LEO and how it is supporting a void 5G was meant to fill. In this episode, Bill Ray, VP Analyst for Gartner Research and part of Gartner’s emerging technologies and trends office, will discuss topics his company has been following within the satellite market. Launch capacity has increased, not just in the United States, but globally and has brought with it value even in areas like sub-Saharan Africa. Phased array antennas are complicated, yet are considered an inexpensive innovation critical to this market. Hear Bill explain how several companies are starting to invest in the vertical markets rather than satellites, concentrating on the services available such as data and data analytics.

On the Constellations Podcast, we’ll discuss how satellite communications are being impacted by the introduction of laser terminals for ground, air, and space. Radio frequency (RF)-based communications have been the constant for transmitting reasonable amounts of data in space, but the movement from analog to digital signals has opened the door for some new methods of data transmission. During this episode, Bulent Altan, CEO of Mynaric, explains why laser terminal technology is one of the more prominent disruptors entering the global communications market, outlines the adoption of laser across the global space network, and shares how its implementation will impact the future of space communications.

On this Constellations Podcast, we’ll discuss the business of being an end-to-end spacecraft company. A lot of the actual hardware being deployed in smallsats, had its start in ground-based IT, with smallsats beginning to adopt hardware that's very similar – which is not traditional. During this episode, Josh Duncan, Business Development Lead from Blue Canyon Technologies will discuss the benefits of virtualization and how it is accelerating into the space domain. He will talk about the unique opportunities in smallsat, including the ability to rideshare. Hear Josh explain how the whole ecosystem has to fit together, including all the parts in architecture, launch, and comm in order to get an end product out to the user in a responsive timeframe.

On this Constellations Podcast, we’ll discuss the entire ecosystem of capabilities in space and envisioning how one might use those capabilities in new and novel ways. Dr. Costa describes the challenge of commercial companies designing an asset to do different things that were not necessarily envisioned for that asset, a key architectural component for putting hardware into space to create resiliency and redundancy. The more innovative industry can be, the more the Space Force can partner with them, and utilize their skills, assets, and on-orbit capabilities. Dr. Costa’s office is focused on disruptive and asymmetric capabilities that ensure the U.S. and its allies have the necessary space capabilities. When it comes to outpacing our adversaries, Dr. Costa is a big believer in not just catching up, but leapfrogging ahead.

On the Constellations Podcast, we’ll discuss the vast amount of debris now in space and how space companies are mitigating this problem through autonomous avoidance services. Dual-use technologies are becoming more prevalent for military and commercial applications, how do companies differentiate between users and their applications? The proliferation of constellations and taking advantage of different orbital regimes means there are consequences from an orbit phenomenology standpoint. There must be an understanding of those consequences which may also include emissions and RF interference with gateways and co-orbital objects. Learn about sharing data and the different levels of access permissions that should be addressed so that the right data is always with the right people.

In this Constellations Podcast, we'll examine the growing impact Artificial Intelligence (AI) is having on LEO constellations and how they can help satellites understand what they can and cannot do during a mission. Listen as Nathan De Ruiter, Managing Director of Euroconsult Canada and Scott Herman, CEO of Cognitive Space discuss how a projected 50,000 satellite constellation will turn to AI to manage and enhance constellation management, security and utilization.

The satellite industry makes up 1% of the much larger global telecommunications market. There is a huge growth opportunity for satellite service providers to gain a larger share of the market if they adopt key technology enablers to seamlessly integrate with telecom carriers. In this Constellations Podcast hear Lluc Palerm, Consultant at NSR and Chris Boyd, Vice-President of Product Management at Kratos discuss new market opportunities where satellite can extend today’s global communication networks.  The conversation will also focus on how satellite service providers can seamlessly integrate with telecom carriers to deliver these new services. This conversation builds on a recently released NSR report entitled “Telecom-Satellite Digital Network Integration: The Keys to New Market Opportunities. “

The concept of intellectual property is complex but critical to foster innovation in all industries. But how does it work in space? In such a booming industry, how is new technology protected? While the number of countries and commercial players involved keeps increasing, it is important to understand how innovation is regulated and most importantly protected. In this case, we do not only cross borders, we go to space! Is a patent granted in the United States still valid in outer space? That’s what we will find out in this Constellations podcast with guest Kevin Myhre, patent attorney with a focus on space-related innovations.

On the Constellations Podcast, we’ll discuss the concept of space as a service, the technology of 3D printed satellites, and the process and challenges of spectrum licensing. Similar to “software-as-a-service” and “satellite-as-a-service,” businesses are beginning to offer the entire gamut as “space-as-a-service.” What does that really mean for space businesses and customers? Some processes for space startups are advertised as too difficult to handle alone. Some companies are proving that this is not necessarily the case for everyone. During this episode, Carol Craig, Founder and CEO of Sidus Space, will discuss her definition of “space-as-a-service” and all that it includes. She’ll cover the complicated yet achievable process and timeline of spectrum licensing for a 100-satellite constellation as well as the key points that drove her decision to bypass SPACs and instead go IPO.

On this Constellations Podcast, we're going to talk about being an entrepreneur and what tools are available for those unique individuals who want to develop a business relationship with the Department of the Air Force. Today, we have two guests, Dr. Kate Gilpin is the Director of Discovery and Engagement at Parallax Advanced Research and Chris Mather, Senior Consultant. Both guests support the department of the Air Force partnership intermediary agreement called the Academic Partnership Engagement Experiment or APEX.  Hear them explain APEX, a program providing free resources to academic researchers and innovators who are interested in successfully pitching new ideas to the department of Air Force.

On today’s podcast, we'll go beyond the world of satellites and explore the potential of High Altitude Platforms or HAPs, uncrewed stratospheric, long duration telecommunications platforms designed to provide mobile telephony and broadband communications, among other applications. Do they represent an alternative or complementary service to satellites? To explain HAPs, we have with us today on Constellations Walt Andersen, Founder and CEO of Avealto, LTD., whose mission is to finance, build, and operate a fleet of High Altitude Platforms (HAPs). Among today’s topics, our guest will describe the three types of HAPS, how they will integrate into existing terrestrial and satellite infrastructure to provide low-cost connectivity throughout the world and why earlier versions of HAPs failed and why Avealto’s won’t.

On today’s podcast, we'll go beyond our solar system and discuss how newer mini satellites and alternative business models can bring exoplanets scientific research to a much broader audience at a significantly lower cost than is available. We are joined by Ian Stotesbury, Lead Systems Engineer and Dr. Billy Edwards, Project Scientist, both of Blue Skies Space. Among today’s topics, our guests will explain what exoplanets are, how they differ from the planets in our solar system and why exoplanet research is so important. We will learn all about Twinkle, Blue Skies Space’s first satellite, designed to create new opportunities for transformative scientific research and how it will differ from those currently being used by other exoplanet research missions.

In this Constellations Podcast, we’ll talk about the emergence of software-defined-satellites and the massive growth opportunity being driven by the need for more flexibility in the market. Software-defined satellites are projected to be an $86.9 Billion cumulative revenue opportunity by the decade’s end according to Northern Sky Research’s recently released report on the topic. During this episode, we welcome Dallas Kasaboski, a consultant from NSR to discuss the global demand for software-defined-satellites, the applications that will benefit the most from this capability, the implications for the ground segment, the key players in the industry, and the outlook for the future.  

In the Constellations Podcast, we’ll discuss the global space economy and how it is affecting investments in the space industry. Access to space is starting to move beyond traditional use cases, such as satellite television, Internet, and communication to remote locations. Right now, innovative companies and organizations are developing technology and methods for in-space experimentation and manufacturing as well as space stations for commercial use and space planes to deliver customers there, and more. With the expansion of use cases comes growth in investment opportunities and space venture capitalists are looking for the new market segment with the highest possibility of return. During this episode, Raphael Roettgen, professional space investor and founder of E2MC, will explore the potential in these emerging space market segments including the one he refers to as “the kitchen sink.” Listen as he shares his experience in diversification, how proposals he’s receiving are different now than in the past, and how he weighs the risk and reward of potential investment opportunities.

On this Constellations Podcast, we’ll discuss the benefits of open standards. During this episode, Constellations has brought together a panel of three to discuss standards and how they will improve delivery of SATCOM services. Lt. Col. Gary Thompson from the U.S. Space Force, Ben Hilburn from Azure Spectrum Technologies at Microsoft and Stuart Daughtridge, Chairman of the Digital Intermediate Frequency Interoperability Consortium (DIFI) are all actively taking part in the digital transformation of the satellite ground architecture and have insight to where standards can play a role. Lt. Col. Thompson speaks about the necessity to transition between military and commercial space and ground systems independently at the speed of need, which is underpinned by standards.  Hilburn and Daughtridge discuss the challenges of VITA 49, a packet-based protocol to convey digitized signal data and metadata that plays an essential part in standardizing the underlying plumbing for interoperability at the IF transport layer. DIFI, a consortium created under the auspices of The IEEE Industry Standards and Technology Organization (ISTO), is also addressed as it is was formed to help enable the digital transformation of the entire spectrum of the satellite industry.

In this Constellations Podcast, we’ll discuss the evolution of internet in space as it moves from utilizing government infrastructure to utilizing modern commercial infrastructure. Increased commercial technology has made space more accessible than ever. More accessibility in space drives the demand for faster, more modern communication onboard spacecraft. During this episode, Brian Barnett, Co-Founder and CEO of Solstar Space Company, will discuss the evolution of space communication and how NASA has accomplished it with their deep space network, tracking and data relay satellites, and fly-over ground stations. Hear Brian explain how Solstar’s Schmitt Communicator, now at the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum, enabled the first commercial tweet from space and how it currently enables secure communication for the military with Critical Data Relay technology.

In this Constellations Podcast, we’ll discuss how earth orbits are becoming more crowded due to greater accessibility for all. As more rockets, more satellites, more ground stations and more components are helping to grow space capabilities,  they inadvertently grow the risks of collision with uncontrolled space debris and coverage gaps with other nations, providers and schemas. During this episode, Melanie Stricklan, co-founder and CEO of Slingshot Aerospace, will talk through the state of our orbits and space situational awareness, how massive growth in space affects sustainability, and how space data can be curated and combined to create a more holistic view of what is going on in orbit. Hear Melanie explain how Slingshot’s Beacon platform fosters collaboration between space players to support timely threat detection and enable confident decision-making that can protect space assets and infrastructure.

In this Constellations Podcast, we are joined by Bill Joo, Special Projects Engineer at the U.S. Navy. Mr. Joo has over 25 years of experience in software-defined radios, and was one of the principal developers of the widely deployed joint tactical radio systems. In this episode, Mr. Joo discusses JADC2, project OVERMATCH and aligning programs to deliver a focused capability. Mr. Joo shares the changing and dynamic battlefield for warfighters and the importance military SATCOM will have in helping the warfighters. Finally, Mr. Joo speaks on the current challenges of interoperability and open standards as well as a non-profit industry group, Digital IF Interoperability (DIFI) Consortium, that is collectively influencing this commercial standard.

In this Constellations Podcast we are joined by Carissa Christensen, CEO and Founder of Bryce Tech, a leading aerospace and emerging markets consultancy and the publisher of multiple space tech-related reports including the most recent annual State of the Satellite Industry Report. Among today’s topics, Carissa will discuss the impact of advances in satellite manufacturing, including software-defined payloads, miniaturization, and virtualization. She discusses the evolution of ground systems given the advent of software-defined satellite networks and virtualization. We will also learn more about on-orbit services including repair, life extension and deorbiting and how they will change the industry dynamic. And, last but not least, Carissa discusses some of the dramatic changes to the launch industry, including rideshare, reusable launch vehicles and increased affordability. For more information on all these topics and more, get a copy of “The State of the Satellite Industry Report”, published by Bryce Tech.

On this Constellations Podcast, we’ll talk about the exponential growth of Non-Geostationary-Orbit (NGSO) satellite constellations, their commercial and go-to-market plans, and the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in realizing a bandwidth filled future. Well over 50,000 NGSO communications smallsats are planned for launch over the next decade. SpaceX, Amazon Project Kuiper, SES, Telesat, OneWeb and many other constellation providers are promising to transform the space industry with thousands of NGSOs beaming tens of Terabits per second to the ground to satisfy a seemingly endless demand for bandwidth. During this episode, Nathan de Ruiter, the Managing Director of Euroconsult Canada will share insights into the go-to-market plans and commercial strategy for these NGSO constellations and the implications from a business model, cost, funding and ground segment perspective.  

On this Constellations Podcast learn how a Hollywood visual effects company is now helping satellite operations to visualize data.  Listen to Tim McBride, President of Zoic Labs, describe how his company is using their experience in visual effects to bring sense to the complex and massive amounts of data coming from satellites. Mr. McBride shares how Zoic Labs has grown from their first project of mapping the world with the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency to helping the U.S. Space Force and Air Force Research Laboratory see things in a different light.

In previous episodes of Constellations Podcast, we’ve discussed a broad range of topics, among them space law, space sustainability, and on-orbit servicing.  Today we’re going to see how these are not independent issues but an integrated framework of space concerns.  And to take us through it all we have with us Carolyn Belle, Director of Advanced Systems at Astroscale U.S., a company focused on space sustainability. On today’s Constellations Podcast we’ll discuss how climate change and the Kesler effect can lead to a dramatic increase in space debris.  We will also learn more about on-orbit satellite servicing, especially end-of-life and life extension services. Carolyn will also describe the growing integration of the space economy with the terrestrial economy and its resulting economic impact. As a big proponent of a more diverse space community…making it more accessible to others, Carolyn talks about STEM education, mentorship programs, and building a welcoming community for underrepresented groups in the space industry.