T-Minus Space Daily: "Digging into Dark Matter"
Release Date: February 12, 2025
Host: Maria Varmazas, N2K Networks

Introduction

In the February 12, 2025 episode of T-Minus Space Daily, host Maria Varmazas delivers a comprehensive overview of the latest developments in the space industry. The episode features significant updates from leading aerospace companies, an insightful interview with Richard Turner, CEO of Convergence Data, and a special segment on NOAA's Deep Space Climate Observatory (DSCOVR). This summary encapsulates the key discussions, expert insights, and pivotal announcements made during the episode.

Industry Headlines

Maria begins the episode by highlighting major news in the space sector:

1. Redwire's Expanded Contracts:

   • European Space Agency (ESA) Contract: Redwire Space NV, a Belgian subsidiary, secured a study contract from ESA to develop the preliminary spacecraft design for an upcoming astrophysics mission aimed at imaging faint galaxies. This mission, referred to as ARRAKIS (Analysis of Resolved Remnants for Accreted Galaxies Instrumented Survey), is projected to receive ESA's approval by mid-2026 with a budget of approximately $62 million for the platform and up to $109 million for the full mission.
   • Orion Space Solutions Contract: Redwire has also been awarded a contract by Orion Space Solutions to deliver a MAKO spacecraft supporting the US Space Force's Space Systems Command Tetra 6 mission. This mission aims to demonstrate the first refuelable satellite in geosynchronous orbit, enhancing future on-orbit servicing capabilities.

2. Sierra Space's Engine Development:

   • Sierra Space received a $16 million firm fixed-price contract from the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) to advance the maturation of its upper stage engine, the VR35KA. This high-performance liquid oxygen-liquid hydrogen engine generates 35,000 pounds of thrust, surpassing current market offerings.

3. Astroscale UK's Progress:

   • UK Active Debris Removal Mission: Astroscale UK successfully completed the midterm review for the Cosmic Debris Removal project with the UK Space Agency. The mission focuses on deorbiting two inactive UK-registered satellites using innovative debris detumbling and robotic capture systems, with final technical reviews slated for March 2025.

4. Rocket Lab's Pioneer Spacecraft:

   • Rocket Lab delivered its third Pioneer spacecraft to Varda Space Industries, preparing it for the upcoming Orbital Processing and Hypersonic Reentry mission (W3) scheduled for launch no earlier than March. This marks Rocket Lab's second delivery for launch within a single month.

In-Depth Interview: Richard Turner on Aerospace Supply Chain Solutions

Following the headlines, Maria conducts an in-depth interview with Richard Turner, CEO of Convergence Data, at Spacecom 2025. The discussion centers on the complexities of the aerospace and defense (A&D) supply chain and the innovative solutions Convergence Data offers.

Background and Company Mission

Richard shares his journey from a mechanical engineer to an entrepreneur:

Richard Turner [10:12]: "I started as a mechanical engineer designing parts for a company. I realized that wasn't my calling and wanted to be a bigger part of a business. Eventually, I started Convergence Data 25 years ago."

Convergence Data specializes in creating comprehensive catalogs of electronic parts for aerospace companies, partnering with industry giants like Boeing and Northrop Grumman. Their SaaS platform streamlines the process for engineers and procurement teams to select and purchase preferred parts, mitigating high costs and reducing unnecessary complexity.

Addressing Industry Pain Points

Richard elaborates on common challenges in the A&D sector:

Richard Turner [12:05]: "Manufacturing companies face high costs and extended time-to-market due to a lack of governance in part selection. This results in too many parts and suppliers, inflating expenses."

He emphasizes the importance of a governance process to ensure engineers select appropriate parts, promoting reuse and preventing the introduction of costly, redundant components. This not only streamlines procurement but also enhances product quality and reduces supplier onboarding complications.

Impact on Rocket Manufacturing

Discussing the space industry's rapid growth, Richard points out:

Richard Turner [14:43]: "Rocket companies are spending excessively on parts like washers, sometimes over $2,000 for a single component, due to inefficient procurement processes."

He argues that by implementing governance and part cataloging, space startups can significantly cut costs and improve manufacturing efficiency, ultimately lowering the overall expense of rocket development.

Integration of Engineering and Procurement

A critical barrier identified is the disconnect between engineering and procurement teams:

Richard Turner [17:26]: "Engineering and procurement typically don't collaborate, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs."

Convergence Data facilitates collaboration, ensuring that both departments work harmoniously to manage part selections and supplier relationships, thereby enhancing operational success and financial performance.

Message to C-Level Executives

Richard stresses the importance of executive understanding and support:

Richard Turner [18:34]: "For CEOs, direct material expenses are the highest cost. Ensuring engineering and procurement work together is vital for achieving desired margins and product delivery rates."

He calls for leadership to recognize and invest in governance processes to optimize supply chain management and maintain competitive advantage.

Additional Stories and Selected Readings

Maria briefly mentions supplementary content available to listeners:

• China's Space Alliances in Africa: A Reuters article discussing China's efforts to build space partnerships in Africa amidst US aid reductions.
• Funding for Momentous: Insights into recent capital raises for the aerospace company Momentous.
• Space Achievement Awards: Announcements from the Space Foundation recognizing outstanding contributions to the space industry.

Listeners can access these stories in the Selected Reading section of the episode's show notes on space.n2k.com.

NOAA's Deep Space Climate Observatory (DSCOVR) Update

In a special segment, Maria highlights the ongoing contributions of NOAA's DSCOVR:

Maria Varmazas [21:06]: "DSCOVR has been Earth's silent guardian against solar storms, monitoring space weather from Lagrange Point 1."

DSCOVR successfully detected the strongest solar storm in 21 years in May 2024, providing crucial early warnings that helped mitigate potential disruptions to power grids, GPS systems, and satellite operations. As DSCOVR approaches the end of its operational life, NOAA is set to launch the Next Generation Space Weather Sentinels, starting with the Space Weather Follow-On Lagrange1 mission, ensuring continued protection against solar events.

Conclusion

The February 12 episode of T-Minus Space Daily offers a thorough examination of current space industry advancements, supply chain innovations, and critical space weather monitoring efforts. Through detailed reporting and expert interviews, listeners gain valuable insights into the challenges and solutions shaping the future of aerospace and defense.

For more detailed information and resources from this episode, visit space.n2k.com.