Space Minds

In this episode, SpaceNews editor Mike Gruss talks with Peter Cannito, CEO of Redwire.They discuss the future of the European space market, Redwire’s expanding footprint, and the growing intersection of space and defense technology.From strategic acquisitions in Europe to investments in autonomy and software, Cannito outlines how Redwire is positioning itself as a nimble, mid-sized player bridging the gap between startups and aerospace giants. The conversation also explores avenues in pharmaceutical research in microgravity, the rise of very low Earth orbit missions (VLEO), and how space and drone technologies are converging to reshape national security.

In this episode, SpaceNews editor Mike Gruss talks with Mina Mitry, CEO of Kepler Communications. They discuss Kepler’s groundbreaking optical communications test — the first ever to connect an aircraft and a spacecraft via laser link. Mitry explains why this milestone matters for defense, border monitoring, and the future of real-time data transfer. The conversation also explores Kepler’s role in an evolving space ecosystem, the push for interoperability and sovereignty, and the company’s roadmap toward delivering internet beyond Earth.

In this episode, SpaceNews editor Mike Gruss talks with Josef Aschbacher, Director General of the European Space Agency.They discuss Europe’s case for greater investment in space, the growing role of defense and security in ESA’s agenda, and the ambitious budget negotiations ahead of November’s ministerial conference. From dual-use technologies to new launch competition and commercial partnerships, Aschbacher outlines how ESA is positioning itself for a rapidly changing space economy.

Space Minds host Mike Gruss is joined by SpaceNews senior writer Jeff Foust to break down the surprising appointment of Sean Duffy as NASA’s Acting Administrator.From his unexpected dual role as Secretary of Transportation to his growing influence on the Artemis program, nuclear power on the Moon, and NASA’s embattled budget, Duffy has quickly become a central—if unconventional—figure in U.S. space policy. The conversation explores how industry, Congress, and the space community are reacting to his leadership, and what’s at stake as NASA navigates an uncertain future.

Riley Duren, CEO of Carbon Mapper and former NASA engineer, dives into groundbreaking technology for tracking methane and CO2 emissions. He shares how his organization uses hyperspectral satellites to identify super-emitters, transforming greenhouse gas data into actionable insights. Duren discusses the unique motivations for companies to reduce emissions and the importance of fast, agile partnerships in tackling climate change. He also highlights the broader applications of their hyperspectral data and the shift from traditional risk-averse space missions to innovative approaches.

In a fascinating discussion, Will Bruey, CEO of Varda Space Industries, dives into the transformative potential of microgravity for pharmaceuticals. He shares how their innovative 'microgravity oven' can create drug formulations impossible on Earth. Will explains the economics behind space manufacturing becoming viable and outlines the exciting possibilities for hypersonic applications. He even hints at when these breakthrough formulations could begin clinical trials. His insights position Varda at the forefront of merging space exploration with healthcare.

In this enlightening conversation, Al Tadros, Chief Technology Officer at Redwire with decades of experience in satellite systems, explores the exciting future of space infrastructure. He highlights how private investment is revolutionizing space, transitioning it from government dominance to a bustling marketplace. Tadros also delves into the groundbreaking potential of bioprinting in microgravity and the sustainability of space resource utilization. Additionally, he discusses the intricacies of balancing commercial interests and national security in the evolving landscape of space exploration.

Gabe Zimmerman, Director of In-Space at Ursa Major, shares insights from the SmallSat Conference, emphasizing the industry's evolving priorities. He discusses balancing cost with reliability amidst supply chain challenges. Zimmerman highlights the importance of volume production and strategic vertical integration to meet growing satellite hardware demands. He also reflects on the rapid proliferation of SmallSats and the exciting potential of hybrid propulsion solutions, showcasing the need for collaboration to navigate the booming landscape of satellite technology.

This week SpaceNews is at the SmallSat Conference in Salt Lake City, Utah. In this episode of Space Minds, host Mike Gruss speaks with Todd Master, Chief Operating Officer of Umbra, about the evolving small satellite market, supply chain challenges, and the company’s expansion from SAR data services into satellite components. Master discusses shifting investment trends in the space industry, the importance of building products around real customer needs, and how AI is reshaping operations. The conversation also explores how the definition of “SmallSat” is changing as launch access improves and technology cycles accelerate.

This week SpaceNews is at the SmallSat Conference in Salt Lake City, Utah. In this episode of Space Minds, host Mike Gruss speaks with Tom Walkinshaw, founder and CEO of Alba Orbital, a Scotland-based manufacturer specializing in pocket-sized satellites known as PocketQubes. Their discussion covers the growth of the small satellite sector, trends in satellite miniaturization, challenges of launch and supply chains, and strategies for building reliable, commercially viable spacecraft.