Space Minds Reimagining Space Stations for the Commercial Age
Nov 20, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Marshall Smith, CEO of Starlab Space and a former NASA engineer with extensive experience in spacecraft programs, shares his vision for the future of commercial space stations. He highlights the shift towards independent commercial capabilities and how market demand has surged, with over half of Starlab's capacity already reserved. Smith also emphasizes the importance of continuous human presence in space, the role of AI in operations, and innovative design strategies to make space more habitable—setting the stage for a new era of exploration and manufacturing.
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From Playground Planes To Starlab CEO
- Marshall Smith traced his space passion from watching airplanes, Apollo missions, and early NASA internships to a 37-year NASA career.
- He joined Voyager/Starlab to build commercial stations as the next step in that lifelong goal.
Commercial Firms Ready To Own LEO
- Smith argues commercial firms have the capability and precedent to build and operate LEO stations, citing industry work on ISS components.
- He sees commercial ownership as the next step to a self-sustaining space economy beyond government funding.
Market Demand And IP Unlock Microgravity
- Starlab already has 55% of its commercial volume reserved years before launch, indicating demand for microgravity research.
- Smith expects fewer IP restrictions on private stations will unlock more commercial R&D use cases.