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/

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/

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 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/

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/

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/

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/

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.