Space Minds

In this week’s episode of Space Minds, host Mike Gruss is joined by Matthew Weinzierl, Professor and Senior Associate Dean for Faculty Development and Research at Harvard Business School, and Brendan Rosseau, Strategy Manager, New Glenn at Blue Origin, for a deep dive into the forces reshaping the global space economy as outlined in their book Space to Grow.Drawing from their new book Space to Grow, the pair discusses how market dynamics, shifting public-sector priorities, and defense investments are driving a new era of space activity.From the growing influence of Space Force and NASA budget constraints to the classroom at Harvard and the C-suite in industry, Weinzierl and Rosseau offer a rare macroeconomic lens on the challenges—and opportunities—facing space as it moves further into the commercial and geopolitical spotlight.Whether you're a policymaker, investor, operator, or observer, this episode captures the critical questions facing the future of space enterprise.

In this week’s episode of Space Minds, award-winning science fiction author and physicist David Brin joins host David Ariosto for a wide-ranging conversation on the future of space, science, and humanity. From self-replicating probes and quantum sensing to moving Earth’s orbit and the true role of science fiction, Brin offers bold ideas grounded in decades of speculative thought and hard science. He challenges conventional wisdom on the Artemis program, discusses the risks and promises of artificial intelligence, and even makes the case for Yoda as history’s most evil character. Strap in — this is not your average sci-fi chat.

Join Nathalie Cabrol, Director of the Carl Sagan Center at the SETI Institute, as she unveils the mysteries of Mars and its potential to reveal extraterrestrial life and our origins. She explores how AI is reshaping our understanding of habitability and challenges conventional notions of intelligence and consciousness. The conversation also touches on the significance of recent exoplanet discoveries and the broader implications for life's existence beyond Earth. Get ready for a mind-expanding journey through the cosmos!

Chris Stott, Chair and CEO of Lonestar Data Holdings, discusses groundbreaking concepts for lunar data storage as a safeguard against potential digital disasters on Earth. He dives into the challenges of establishing off-world data centers, addressing latency, security, and geopolitical factors in this emerging lunar economy. Stott reveals the implications of U.S.-China competition in space infrastructure and shares exciting visions for human habitation and resource acquisition on the Moon, highlighting the transformative potential of commercial space initiatives.

Nadia Maroouf, a clinical scientist and analog astronaut, shares her journey from rural Morocco to the forefront of space medicine. She explains how microgravity accelerates aging and the physiological toll on astronauts. The discussion includes groundbreaking innovations like the AstroSkin biowearable system and a promising HSP27-based vaccine aimed at protecting heart health. Maroouf emphasizes how space research can also improve healthcare on Earth, revealing the dual benefits of studying the cosmos.

In this week's episode of Space Minds Retired Space Force Lt. Gen. John Shaw explains what it was like building a new military branch, the risks of commercial integration and the race to protect U.S. satellites in orbit.General Shaw shares some of the history on the formation of the Space Force and its cultural shift away from the Air Force, to the growing influence of commercial players like SpaceX and the conversation dives deep into the challenges and opportunities of the “Third Space Age.” General Shaw also shares insights on emerging technologies, vulnerabilities in space infrastructure, the strategic implications of China’s advancements, and the potential of data centers and AI-enabled autonomy in orbit.And don't miss our co-hosts' Space Take on important stories.

Ashley Johnson, President and CFO of Planet, shares insights on how daily Earth imaging can make global change visible and actionable. She discusses the transformative role of AI and hyperspectral data in monitoring the planet. The conversation highlights the unique ability to analyze historical imagery to anticipate events, emphasizing its applications in environmental protection and disaster response. Johnson also addresses ethical considerations and the future implications of geospatial intelligence in an increasingly transparent world.

Devin Brande, the Director of Commercial Operations at the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, shares insights from the GEOINT Symposium. He discusses the importance of collaboration and innovation in geo-intelligence, emphasizing the role of international partnerships. Brande also addresses the challenges entrepreneurs face when presenting complex ideas, and the need for clear communication. Additionally, he reflects on how integrating commercial tech can enhance capabilities and shape the future of geospatial intelligence.

This is a bonus edition of Space Minds by SpaceNews. This week we’re at the US Geospatial Intelligence Foundation GEOINT Symposium in St. Louis where we’ll post episodes Monday through Wednesday.Our guest today is Keith Masback, Principal Consultant of Plum Run, LLC. He sits down with Chief Content and Strategy Officer Mike Gruss to break down the latest news and insights from the event.

Robert Cardillo, President of the Cardillo Group and former head of the NGA, delivers fascinating insights about the evolving landscape of geospatial intelligence. He discusses the pressing need for reform in intelligence procurement, arguing for a commercial-first approach. The conversation also dives into the transformative role of artificial intelligence in data analysis, dispelling myths about its impact on jobs. Cardillo highlights the expectations for upcoming initiatives under new leadership and the future of space policy.