The dynamic and fast-evolving space industry presents boundless opportunities for innovation, technological advancements, and the potential to shape humanity's future in unprecedented ways. In a fascinating conversation between Callye Keen, host of The Startup Defense, and Kelli Kedis Ogborn, Vice President of Space Commerce and Entrepreneurship at Space Foundation, provide a glimpse into the burgeoning space ecosystem, including the sector's challenges and opportunities, the pivotal role of the government, and why the space industry is a worthwhile pursuit for innovators and technologists.
Exploring the Space Ecosystem: A New Frontier of Innovation
Space exploration has always captivated the human imagination. Today, it presents a tangible reality with countless opportunities for innovation. The space industry is "shifting eras," evolving from the Apollo era's nationalistic, vertical integration approach to the collaborative and competitive Artemis era. This change allows a much wider audience to engage with the space ecosystem.
Understanding the current state of the art allows innovators to recognize the art of the possible. The future of space exploration relies heavily on technological advancement, creative thought, and the relentless pursuit of pushing boundaries. For entrepreneurs and innovators, this presents an exciting playground to explore, innovate, and make significant contributions.
The Critical Intersection of Public and Private Sectors in Space
The intricate relationship between the government and the private sector in the space industry is a critical aspect of space innovation. While some young companies may aspire to operate exclusively in the commercial sector, the government remains a key player, functioning as a regulator, a validator, and a strategic compass.
The government acts as a connector in this industry, bridging the gap between technology and its potential applications. Ogborn elaborates on the government's role as the strategic guide, setting the course for the industry's direction. For example, NASA's Artemis launch signaled a renewed interest in lunar exploration, indicating where priorities, investment, and technological development would likely gravitate.
Redefining the Landscape of the Space Industry
The conversation paints an exciting picture of the space industry's future. It highlights the emergence of agile companies that are fundamentally altering the landscape of the space industry. These companies are changing how the government conducts business, how they interact with each other, and how large corporations view their subcontractors.
Ogborn predicts that the major players in the space industry may look vastly different in as little as eight years. This assertion illustrates the pace at which the industry is evolving and the opportunities available for new entrants to make a significant impact.
The Lasting Impact of Pursuing Opportunities in Space
The conversation concludes with an inspiring call to action for those considering venturing into the space industry. Keen and Ogborn encourage innovators and technologists to seize the opportunity to contribute to an industry that has the potential to advance human civilization significantly.
Working on challenging problems in the space industry could result in a lifetime of gratitude and fulfillment. He emphasizes that those who contribute to pushing human civilization forward will likely look back at their careers with pride and satisfaction.
Ogborn echoes this sentiment, highlighting the tremendous opportunity to shape the future in an evolving ecosystem. As the space industry collectively builds the future, every stakeholder has the potential to make a significant impact.
The duo imparts this inspiring message, emphasizing the potential to leave a profound legacy in space. Working in the space industry is not just about the technological advances of the moment, but also about contributing to a narrative that will echo in human history. As Keen passionately conveys, those who have been part of momentous projects like the SR-71 at Skunkworks, or NASA during its golden eras, carry those experiences as badges of honor throughout their lives. Similarly, those who choose to venture into the space industry today have the opportunity to write their own legends.
Conclusion
The space industry presents compelling opportunities. The discussion not only highlights the dynamic nature of the space ecosystem but also emphasizes the value and lasting impact of contributing to this exciting frontier. Be sure to listen to the full podcast episode to delve deeper into these insightful perspectives on the future of space exploration and the myriad
The insights shared by Keen and Ogborn provide a comprehensive view of the current landscape and future prospects of the industry. Listen to the full episode to delve deeper into these perspectives and gain an understanding of the immense possibilities the space industry presents. The future of space is being written now, and you could be a part of crafting this extraordinary narrative.
Interested in the entire episode with Kelli Kedis Ogborn? Listen as host Callye Keen interviews her on episode 006 of The Startup Defense podcast. Available on all podcast platforms.
About Kelli Kedis Ogborn
Kelli Kedis Ogborn has extensive experience in R&D and cutting-edge technology applications for both civil and commercial sectors. She is an often-published author and speaker on the market applications of innovation and has worked extensively as an authoritative voice within the emerging space economy – qualifying and quantifying the economic drivers and technology trends driving the industry forward and shaping its investment potential and growth.
As Vice President of Space Commerce and Entrepreneurship at Space Foundation she spearheads Space Commerce Institute, an initiative designed to deliver informed insight and actionable programming to help companies and individuals find their market share and grow within the evolving space economy.
Kelli Ogborn - Space Foundation
