Manifest Space with Morgan Brennan

Morgan Brennan sits down with Dirk Wallinger, York Space Systems founder and CEO, on the latest episode of Manifest Space. They discuss the rapid shift in the role space plays in national security—and why supply chain resiliency is more important then ever, plus York’s role as a prime contractor for the U.S. government and who wins the next era of commercial and defense space.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this engaging discussion, Steve Altemus, CEO and co-founder of Intuitive Machines, shares insights on his company's ambitious plans following the $800 million acquisition of Lanteris. He envisions a 'Verizon from the Moon,' detailing a layered communications network that connects Earth, the moon, and Mars. Altemus also addresses the challenges posed by the government shutdown, shares lessons from past lunar landings, and highlights the growing importance of data services as future revenue drivers. Prepare for an exciting leap into lunar exploration!

Ashley Pilipiszyn, Founder and CEO of Besxar, is on a mission to manufacture semiconductors in space using autonomous 'fab ships.' She explains how the ultra-high vacuum of space can create ultra-pure wafers, potentially cutting costs significantly. Ashley shares insights about her origins at OpenAI and the inspiration behind Bexar’s innovative approach. The discussion also covers partnerships with SpaceX and the U.S. Navy, along with future plans for launches and the impact of space manufacturing on domestic chip supply chains.

Shey Sabripour, the visionary CEO of CesiumAstro, is shaping the future with advanced phased-array telecom systems, while Phillip Sarofim, CEO of Trousdale Ventures, focuses on investing in hard-tech for reindustrialization. Together, they discuss the critical role of connectivity in AI and defense, the shift in aerospace pricing models, and how CesiumAstro's tech will impact vehicles and robotics. They emphasize the urgency for reindustrialization amidst the new space race, highlighting the importance of a dual-use strategy for global innovation.

Dan Smoot, CEO of Vantor (formerly Maxar Intelligence), shares insights on the company’s bold transition to AI-powered geospatial software. He discusses the impressive 90% recurring revenue model and their new products, Raptor and Century. Smoot highlights how Vantor is integrating satellite data with AI to enhance defense and navigation, while also expanding their international customer base. The conversation touches on the convergence of commercial and defense technologies, showcasing the agility and strategic growth of Vantor in a changing market.

The global space economy has hit a record $613 billion, growing nearly 8% year over year. Morgan Brennan speaks with Space Foundation CEO Heather Pringle about what’s fueling the boom—like human spaceflight and national security initiatives such as Golden Dome. They also discuss investor enthusiasm, the role of AI, and why Pringle expects the sector to hit $1 trillion by 2032. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Helium-3 is a critical resource for quantum computing and other futuristic technologies. But it is extremely rare on Earth. Luckily, the Moon contains tons of it. Morgan Brennan sits down with Interlune co-founders Rob Meyerson and James Antifaev along with Bluefors’ Chief Business Officer Dr. David Gunnarsson to discuss their partnership aiming to bring Helium-3 to Earth from the Moon.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

SPACs, or Special Purpose Acquisition Companies, are back – with aerospace & defense tech startups embracing the moment. Merlin, a startup focused on deploying AI into cockpits, is the latest to do so. The company announced a reverse merge with a SPAC led by Inflection Point Asset Management, valuing the company at $800 million pre-money and raise hundred of millions of dollars in proceeds. CEO Matt George joins Morgan Brennan to discuss the prospects of going public. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dan Wright, Co-founder and CEO of Armada, dives into the future of AI with his innovative movable data centers designed for remote computing. He shares insights on the collaboration with SpaceX’s Starlink, enhancing connectivity for critical data processing. The conversation highlights edge computing's role in sectors like energy and defense, as well as leveraging stranded energy resources for AI advancements. Wright emphasizes the need for a strong U.S. infrastructure to stay competitive globally, particularly against China's rapidly developing technologies.

Tom Mueller, Founder and CEO of Impulse Space, is a veteran of space innovation, previously with SpaceX. In this conversation, he discusses the expansion into geosynchronous orbits with upgraded spacecraft and the significance of their Mira space tugs. Tom also shares insights on a recent $300M Series C funding round and the implications of their potential IPO. He highlights how advancements in satellite technology and chemical propulsion are reshaping the space economy, pushing the boundaries of in-space mobility and operational capabilities.