Explore the Future of Space: Insights, Innovation, and Upcoming Events?
Welcome to the seventh edition of The Vector newsletter, a quarterly roundup of content, resources, and insights for the global space community brought to you by Space Foundation’s Space Commerce Institute.?Read on for the following highlights:?
Join us for these upcoming events:?
Don’t miss out on these incredible opportunities to connect, learn, and grow within the dynamic space economy. Stay informed, stay inspired, and stay connected!
The Space Report (Q4 2024)?
The Space Report 2024 Q4 highlights a record-breaking year for the global space industry. With 259 launches in 2024 — averaging one every 34 hours — the sector saw a 16% increase in launch attempts and a 40% growth in spacecraft mass delivered to orbit.?
SpaceX played a significant role, accounting for 152 launches and nearly 2,000 Starlink satellites deployed. Despite a slight 3% drop in spacecraft deployments, heavier satellites like Starlink v2 mini contributed to the increased mass. The rise of new space nations, such as Senegal and Croatia, brought the total number of countries with active satellites in orbit to 92. Additionally, the S-Network Space Index recorded a remarkable 26.4% annual gain, driven by strong second-half performance in public space companies.?
Key advancements in sustainability and innovation were also featured. The U.S. Department of Commerce began trials of its TraCSS space-tracking system, aimed at managing orbital debris and preventing collisions, as the number of licensed satellites and debris-generating events continues to rise. The report emphasizes the growing demand for an education-to-industry pipeline to support the expanding workforce, with increased collaboration between academic institutions and space companies. The James Webb Space Telescope continued to captivate the world with groundbreaking discoveries, while artificial intelligence further transformed the industry with applications ranging from data analysis to digital twins. Space Foundation CEO Heather Pringle remarked, “There is reason to have confidence in the upward trajectory of the space economy,” highlighting the sector's rapid expansion and global engagement.?
Ready to dive deeper into these transformative insights? Subscribe to The Space Report or explore the full Q4 report today to stay informed about the trends shaping the future of space exploration and commerce.?
Now Available: The Vector Episode 24
How is artificial intelligence revolutionizing space innovations and redefining autonomy in orbit??
Tune in to Episode 24 of The Vector as Kelli Kedis Ogborn, vice president of space commerce & entrepreneurship at Space Foundation, engages with Lorenzo Feruglio, CEO and founder of AIKO. Together, they’ll explore the impact of artificial intelligence on the space industry. From enhancing mission operations to automating repetitive tasks, Lorenzo sheds light on how advanced machine learning and AI technologies are impacting efficiency, scalability, and innovation in space exploration and commerce.?
Learn about the cutting-edge research driving these advancements, strategies for growth through AI solutions, and how autonomous operations are shaping the future of space. Don’t miss this deep dive into the boundless opportunities AI brings to this dynamic sector.?
Stay Connected with The Vector Podcast!
Don’t miss out on the latest updates from the space community. By subscribing to The Vector Podcast, you’ll gain access to in-depth conversations with thought leaders who are shaping the future of space, entrepreneurship, and innovation. Share your thoughts on topics you would like us to cover, and join a community dedicated to the future of space.
Space-Edge Biomedical Accelerator Pilot Program?
In partnership with Arizona State University, Vanderbilt University, University of Central Florida, University of Florida, and Blue Origin, Space Foundation proudly announces the successful completion of the Space-Edge Biomedical Accelerator. This 12-week program marked a significant milestone in advancing the utilization of outer space for groundbreaking biomedical research and business solutions.?
Designed to harness space conditions for Earth-based advancements and address challenges such as space travel, lunar colonization, and Mars missions, the program featured a cohort of 20 teams with approximately 65 individuals from across the United States. Participants engaged in a rigorous curriculum blending world-class biomedical research instruction and space industry commercialization expertise, transforming their perception of space from a distant concept to a dynamic business opportunity.??
The program concluded with an online pitch event, where the team's presented innovations in medical interventions, therapeutic production, administration in space, in-space health monitoring and interventions, and enabling technologies for space-based R&D, products and services. The event, attended by over 125 viewers, included feedback and networking opportunities from esteemed panelists. Participant testimonials highlighted the program's impact, with many calling it a pivotal and exceptional experience. Riding upon the success of this inaugural Space-Edge Accelerator pilot program, Space Commerce Institute is excited to share that plans for a broader, national, next iteration of the program are already underway, with a target start date during Fall 2025.
For more details and to explore the innovations showcased, visit the Space-Edge Showcase recordings. Together, we are propelling biomedical solutions into the next frontier.?
Space Economy to reach $772 Billion by 2027?
In a recent interview with National Security News, Kelli Kedis Ogborn, vice president of space and commerce at Space Foundation, discussed the rapid expansion of the global space economy, projecting it to reach $772 billion by 2027, with 78% of this revenue anticipated from commercial sources.?
Kedis Ogborn emphasized the unique position of emerging nations, noting that many already engage with space technologies daily, often without realizing their contributions to the sector. Kedis Ogborn highlighted space-based research potential to advance manufacturing and healthcare, citing accelerated osteoporosis treatments and sophisticated retina production in microgravity. She noted innovative space-developed products like Bordeaux wine, valued at $1M per bottle, and a stem cell skincare cream with healing applications beyond beauty. Looking ahead, she anticipates exponential industry impacts over the next 5-7 years, driven by space-enabled R&D.?
Space Path – Space Business Bootcamp?
Creating Opportunities in the Space Economy?
Program Date: Saturday, March 22, 2025??
Are you a small to mid-size company looking to break into the space economy but unsure where to start or how to scale? Space Foundation’s Space Path is designed to provide the tools, strategies, and expert guidance needed to accelerate your business growth. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, high-growth venture, or established company, this intensive program will help you scale to space.?
Key topics include an overview of the space economy, downstream and upstream opportunities, strategies for growth in government and commercial sectors, customer and channel partner identification, cost structure and revenue streams, and investment strategies.
Join us on?February 27th at 5:30 PM EST for a short webinar exploring the Space Path: Space Business Bootcamp.?This session will provide a high-level overview of the bootcamp structure and how the program’s tailored approach benefits different audiences, from startups to established space-adjacent companies.?
If you’re curious about how Space Path can help you take the next step, this webinar is a great place to start.?Don’t miss this chance to gain actionable insights, connect with industry leaders, and position your business for success in this exciting sector!?
Space Foundation's 40th Space Symposium?
Join Us for One of the Most Anticipated Events in the Space Industry!?
Since its inaugural event in 1984, Space Symposium has grown from 250 space enthusiasts to over 12,000 participants from more than 40 countries, becoming the premier U.S. space policy and program forum. Known as the must-attend event for the global space community, it brings together leaders across all sectors to discuss, address, and plan for the future of space.??
Inform, Engage, Connect?
Awe-Inspiring Venue?
Nestled at the world-renowned Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, Colorado, Space Symposium offers breathtaking mountain views and impeccable service, setting the stage for an extraordinary experience.?
Don’t miss your chance to be part of the 40th Space Symposium and gain visibility with the only audience you need to reach. Visit the Space Symposium site to learn more and register today.?
Space Symposium Track: New Frontiers?
April 8, 2025, | Cheyenne Mountain Resort?
Join us?at Space Foundation's 40th Space Symposium for?New Frontiers.?This inaugural track explores the rapidly evolving space industry, driven by technological advancements, cislunar considerations, and Space-to-Earth capabilities. Attendees will learn how to scale and thrive in an increasingly competitive market and capitalize on emerging opportunities.?
Key discussions will include:?
Separate registration or purchase required.?
Don’t miss this opportunity to shape the future of space commercialization.
Discover How Space Foundation Can Support You?
Space Foundation's Space Commerce Institute is here to be your strategic partner in navigating the space industry. With our extensive expertise, robust research capabilities, and strong industry connections, we provide tailored guidance to help you achieve your space-related objectives. Let us put our experience to work for you — from shaping strategic plans to accessing valuable insights and connections.?
Now is the perfect time to turn your space ambitions into reality.?Schedule a call with our team today, and let’s explore how we can support your journey!?
Space Foundation is here to keep you up to date and informed on the latest developments in the space industry. As a nonprofit organization, our donors are what make this possible. If you find these updates valuable, please consider making a donation so we can continue providing informative content like this. As little as $5 or $10 can make a world of difference! For more information, and to donate, please visit www.spacefoundation.org/donate.
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