81. The Space-Earth Ecosystem: How Orbits Shape Our Future
Mar 25, 2025
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In this engaging discussion, Shelli Brunswick, CEO & Founder of SB Global LLC and former COO of Space Foundation, shares her insights on how space technologies can solve pressing Earth challenges. She highlights the booming space economy, expected to reach $1.8 trillion by 2035, and discusses the impressive 40:1 return on NASA's investments. Brunswick covers the impactful use of satellites in agriculture, innovative medical applications from microgravity research, and the exciting potential of fractional satellite ownership for emerging nations.
The global space economy, valued at $630 billion, is projected to grow to $1.8 trillion by 2035, offering substantial investment opportunities.
Space technology enhances agricultural productivity through precision farming, contributing to food security and enabling farmers to optimize crop yields.
International collaboration in space initiatives is crucial for addressing terrestrial challenges while driving innovations for sustainability and economic growth.
Deep dives
Shelley's Journey in the Space Industry
Shelley Brunswick shares her personal journey, which began in the U.S. Air Force where she enlisted at a young age and learned valuable skills while earning education benefits. After a significant career as a space acquisition officer, she transitioned into leadership roles, including serving as the COO of the Space Foundation, which involved organizing global events and fostering education initiatives. Her experiences highlight the diverse pathways to entering the space economy, emphasizing that individuals from various backgrounds can find their niche within the industry. Today, as the CEO of SB Global LLC, she acts as a bridge between the space sector and the public, demonstrating how space innovation impacts daily life.
Understanding the Space Economy
The space economy encompasses a broad range of activities, technologies, and initiatives that extend beyond traditional perceptions of space exploration. This includes efforts like the Artemis program, which focuses on sustainable lunar exploration and the development of a cislunar economy, generating economic opportunities between the Earth and the moon. Additionally, Mars exploration is advancing, with nations expressing interest in establishing research centers on the planet. Everyday technologies, such as telecommunications and GPS, have roots in space exploration, benefiting society in numerous ways.
Economic Growth through Space Innovation
The global space economy was valued at $630 billion in 2023, with projections reaching $1.8 trillion by 2035, showcasing significant growth opportunities for investors and entrepreneurs. Many individuals unknowingly engage with space technology daily, emphasizing its integral role in various sectors such as agriculture and finance. For instance, satellite technology plays a crucial role in precision agriculture, enhancing crop yields through data-driven insights. Furthermore, NASA's investments yield impressive returns, demonstrating the value of space-related innovations that extend to industries across the globe.
Intersections of Agriculture and Space Technology
Space technology significantly contributes to agricultural practices, which are vital for national security and food production. Satellites can provide data on crop health and environmental conditions, enabling farmers to optimize irrigation and fertilization efforts. Innovations such as GPS-equipped tractors allow for precision farming, which increases efficiency and productivity. By leveraging space-derived data and analytics, farmers can navigate challenges like climate variability more effectively and ensure a stable food supply.
The Future of Space Collaboration and Innovation
Going forward, fostering international collaboration in the space sector will be essential for addressing both terrestrial challenges and maximizing the benefits of space exploration. Countries are increasingly recognizing the importance of engaging in space initiatives and leveraging technologies to enhance their economic landscapes. The role of AI and quantum technology is also pivotal, offering new solutions for both space exploration and improvements in earthly applications like healthcare. By encouraging a collaborative spirit and innovative thinking, the future of the space economy can take shape as a collective effort toward sustainability and resilience across the globe.
In this enlightening episode of Ecosystemic Futures, Shelli Brunswick, CEO & Founder of SB Global LLC and former Chief Operating Officer of Space Foundation, reveals the measurable impact of space innovation on Earth's most pressing challenges.
The numbers tell a compelling story: The global space economy, valued at $630 billion in 2023, is projected to reach $1.8 trillion by 2035, with NASA's investments yielding a remarkable 40:1 return through commercialized technologies. Brunswick shares research showing how orbital technologies drive innovation across sectors, with the average person connecting to satellites 45 times daily without realizing it.
Highlights:
Quantifiable impacts of Earth observation satellites on agricultural productivity, including 10% yield increases through precision farming
The economic case for orbital debris management and in-space manufacturing
Research regarding microgravity's effects on medical innovations, including LambdaVision's 3D-printed protein-layered lens replacements for macular degeneration
Data-driven approaches to international space collaboration and fractional satellite ownership models for emerging space nations
Metrics-based workforce development strategies for the space economy
For researchers, business strategists, and innovation leaders, this episode provides critical insights into how space-derived technologies are transforming our approach to sustainability, economic development, and global collaboration.
Guest:Shelli Brunswick, Former U.S. Air Force Officer and Chief Operating Officer of Space Foundation | CEO & Founder of SB Global LLC
Host: Dyan Finkhousen, Founder & CEO, Shoshin Works
Series Hosts:
Vikram Shyam, Lead Futurist, NASA Glenn Research Center
Dyan Finkhousen, Founder & CEO, Shoshin Works
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