Exploring the Evolution and Definition of SmallSats

This week SpaceNews is at the SmallSat Conference in Salt Lake City, Utah. In this episode of Space Minds, host Mike Gruss speaks with Gabe Zimmerman, Director, In-Space at Ursa Major.The conversation revolves around the small satellite industry’s evolving priorities, from balancing cost and reliability to overcoming persistent supply chain challenges. Zimmerman highlights the growing emphasis on volume production, strategic vertical integration, and early cross-team collaboration to meet rising demand for satellite hardware. Zimmerman also reflects on the conference’s growth, the rapid proliferation of small satellites, and the potential of hybrid propulsion solutions in shaping the sector’s future.