Big Technology Podcast Modern Space Race + State of Elon Musk — With Ashlee Vance
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May 9, 2023 
Ashlee Vance, author of "When the Heavens Went on Sale" and a Bloomberg Businessweek feature writer, shares insights on the modern space race. He discusses the shift towards private companies like SpaceX and Rocket Lab dominating low Earth orbit, revealing how this shift mirrors early internet innovation. Vance also delves into Ukraine's use of satellite technology during conflict, corporate accountability in space, and his unique relationship with Elon Musk, exploring both Musk's ventures and public persona.
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SpaceX's Disruptive Innovation
- SpaceX's key innovation was not reusable rockets, but leveraging modern computing and materials to lower costs.
- This disrupted the stagnant, "space-grade" reliant industry, making commercial spaceflight viable.
The Real Space Race
- The real modern space race isn't between billionaires, but a rush to build a low Earth orbit economy with satellites.
- This involves imaging, communications, and experimental ventures, fueled by venture capital.
Planet Labs and the Data Economy
- Planet Labs uses hundreds of satellites to image every landmass daily, tracking human activity and environmental changes.
- This data is valuable for diverse groups, from farmers to Wall Street traders, highlighting the growing commercial space economy.
