Development of low Earth orbit is ramping up. Many factors are converging to upend old business models and technologies. Space access is no longer ‘gated’ by NASA, giant aero-defense primes and Telcos.
New, deep pocket players – Google, Facebook, SpaceX, Microsoft, Virgin/OneWeb & others – have visionary plans to provide broadband access to emerging economies, whether via satellite, drones or balloons.
The number of satellites in orbit may double, triple or quadruple in the next 5-10 years; one analysis estimates $7.4 billion worth of activity in the next 5 years alone, not counting SpaceX and constellations.
Start-ups are also testing novel business models around geospatial data. Jointly, all these developments, along with big policy shifts at NASA, DOD, and NGIA, are ushering in a new era of space development driven by vast Earthbased markets.
However, the money side of the “private space” equation has, until now, been restricted to a few wealthy individuals and companies. The venture capital community is just now coming online. The risk/reward balance for space is unique and not for the faint of heart.
In light of these trends, Infocast is hosting the inaugural SPACE 2.0: New Applications & Markets, set in Silicon Valley.
The Summit will profile fresh thinking around business models, partnering strategies, risk/reward and timelines, as illustrated by innovators in orbital services, geospatial analytics, satellite design, launch platforms, manufacturing platforms and ground systems.
Traditional players will respond to the new developments. SPACE 2.0 will be the first dedicated event to explore the implications of the “new money” in the space game, tied closely to the innovation dynamics of space entrepreneurs and a host of new enabling technologies. This will be a must-attend event!
Filed Under: Aerospace + defense
