T-Minus Space Daily: Europe’s Push for Reusable Rockets Hosted by N2K Networks | Release Date: November 18, 2024

Introduction

In this episode of T-Minus Space Daily, host Maria Varmazas delves into Europe's burgeoning efforts to establish itself as a formidable player in the reusable rocket sector. Alongside this primary focus, the episode covers a spectrum of space industry updates, including cybersecurity developments, significant funding rounds, and international collaborations. The episode also features an insightful discussion with space and cybersecurity academic Sharon Lamac Vincier, who shares her latest research on the intersection of space and cybersecurity.

1. The Exploration Company’s $160 Million Series B Funding

The episode kicks off with a spotlight on The Exploration Company (TEC), Europe’s answer to SpaceX, which has successfully raised $160 million in its Series B funding round—the largest space Series B round in Europe to date.

• Development of Reusable Rockets: TEC plans to utilize the capital to develop and test Nix, Europe's first reusable space capsule. The company aims to launch the second version of Nix next year, with a final version slated for 2028, partly financed by the European Space Agency.

• Expansion Plans: The funding will also support the expansion of TEC’s workforce from 200 members and scale their operational capacities.

• CEO Helene Hubby’s Vision: Helene Hubby emphasized the significance of this funding round, highlighting the commitment and talent within TEC. She stated, “98% of our shareholders are European, demonstrating that the continent can finance bold entrepreneurs. Space will play a critical role in shaping humanity's future, and I want to contribute to building a future which is peaceful and cooperative and our European DNA fits perfectly with this mission” ([00:47]).

2. Maxar Confirms Data Breach

Maxar Technologies, a leading satellite company, disclosed a data breach affecting its employees' personal information. According to filings with state regulators:

• Breach Details: On October 4, a hacker utilized a Hong Kong-based IP address to access files containing employee data. The breach was discovered on October 11, and immediate actions were taken to secure the system.

• Impact Duration: Investigations suggest the hacker had access for approximately one week before the breach was contained.

3. Space ISAC and Deloitte Expand Cybersecurity Efforts in Australia

In collaboration with Deloitte, the Space Information Sharing and Analysis Center (Space ISAC) announced the launch of a new Watch Center Hub in Australia.

• Purpose: The hub aims to protect satellites from cyberattacks by providing real-time threat intelligence and enhanced cybersecurity measures.

• Global Implications: This expansion marks a significant advancement in creating a more interconnected and resilient space ecosystem.

4. FAA Forms New Rulemaking Committee for Space Licensing

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is establishing a new rulemaking committee named the Launch and Reentry License Requirements Improvement Aerospace Rulemaking Committee, also known as Part 450.

• Objectives: The committee seeks to update licensing rules to enhance clarity, flexibility, efficiency, and innovation within the commercial space sector.

• Expected Outcomes: Goals include streamlining regulations, reducing the frequency of license applications, and minimizing the need for waiver processes.

FAA Associate Administrator Kevin Coleman remarked, “Making timely licensing determinations without compromising public safety is a top priority” ([4:50]).

5. Impulse Space Secures Ballista Contract with NRO

Impulse Space has been selected by the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), Office of Space Launch, as a recipient of the Ballista contract.

• Ballista Program: Standing for Broad Agency Announcements for Agile Launch Innovation and Strategic Technology Advancement, Ballista is designed to assess and evaluate advanced space technologies addressing the NRO’s strategic needs.

6. SpaceX’s Recent and Upcoming Launches

SpaceX remains at the forefront of space innovation with several key activities:

• Optus X Launch (TD7): Over the weekend, a Falcon 9 rocket launched the communications satellite Optus X from NASA's Kennedy Space Center at 5:28 PM on November 17.

• Starship Test Flight: The next Starship Super Heavy test flight is scheduled for November 19, with a 30-minute launch window opening at 4 PM from Boca Chica, Texas.

7. Blue Origin’s NS28 Mission Crew Unveiled

Blue Origin has announced the crew for its upcoming NS28 mission, marking the ninth human flight of the New Shepard program.

• Crew Members: Emily Calandrelli, Sharon and Mark Hagel, Austin Litterall, James Russell, and Henry Wolfond will join the mission.

• Launch Details: The mission is targeted for liftoff from Launch Site 1 in West Texas on Friday, November 22.

8. Pakistan and China’s Lunar Mission Collaboration

Pakistan’s Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) has announced a collaboration with China on the upcoming Chang'e 8 lunar mission slated for 2028.

• Involvement: SUPARCO will contribute its indigenous rover to explore the lunar surface, conduct scientific research, and test new technologies for future lunar and planetary exploration.

9. Guest Segment: Sharon Lamac Vincier on Space and Cybersecurity

The episode features an in-depth conversation with Sharon Lamac Vincier, a space and cybersecurity academic, who discusses her latest research on the convergence of space technology and cybersecurity.

Research Highlights:

• Cybersafe Gateway Report:

  • Focus: Evaluates Scotland’s potential in space science cybersecurity.
  • Findings: Advocates for integrating cybersecurity by design in satellite manufacturing. Sharon notes, “If we're building and manufacturing satellites, then we should really be thinking about the cyber secure by design built into that” ([10:02]).

• UK-Wide Cybersecurity Report:

  • Scope: A comprehensive analysis of cybersecurity opportunities across the UK space sector, with the report expected to release the following week.

• Women Leadership in Space Cyber:

  • Focus: Examines the role and impact of female leadership at the intersection of space and cybersecurity.

Key Insights and Recommendations:

• Competitive Advantage for Scotland: Leveraging Scotland's historical expertise in satellite manufacturing to develop robust cybersecurity measures.

• Support for SMEs: Addressing the funding challenges faced by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in implementing cybersecurity, emphasizing the need for a more supportive ecosystem.

• Innovative Framework: Sharon proposes a new conceptual framework encouraging businesses to:

  • Think Like Spies: Anticipate and mitigate emerging threats.
  • Build Like Astronauts: Develop resilient systems capable of operating in unpredictable environments.
  • Innovate Like Entrepreneurs: Drive market-driven solutions and disruption.

Sharon passionately asserts, “We need to think like spies, build like astronauts, and innovate like entrepreneurs” ([16:00]).

Discussion Points:

• Language Barriers: The disconnect between space and cybersecurity languages hindering effective collaboration.

• Geopolitical Landscape: How different nations approach space cybersecurity and the regulatory environments shaping these efforts.

• Entrepreneurial Opportunities: Encouraging cybersecurity professionals to explore the space sector for its growth potential and significant financial incentives.

Sharon concludes, “If we make it sexy and more engaging, with the evidence base and the money behind it, it’s a no. Why would you not want to be doing it?” ([19:44]).

10. Cosmic Revelation: JWST Challenges Dark Matter Theory

In an exciting segment, Maria Varmazas shares groundbreaking findings from the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) that question the prevailing dark matter paradigm.

• Modified Newtonian Dynamics (MOND): JWST’s observations suggest that at large scales, the laws of gravity might operate differently than previously thought, aligning with MOND’s predictions instead of dark matter's influence on galactic behaviors.

• Implications: If confirmed, these findings could necessitate a fundamental rewrite of our understanding of cosmic structures and gravity.

• Scientific Caution: The scientific community urges for more data to substantiate these preliminary findings.

Conclusion

The episode of T-Minus Space Daily provides a comprehensive overview of Europe’s ambitious strides in reusable rocket technology through TEC’s significant funding and development plans. It underscores the critical intersection of space and cybersecurity, highlighted by Sharon Lamac Vincier’s insightful research. Additionally, the episode touches upon international collaborations, cybersecurity challenges, and revolutionary astronomical discoveries, painting a vivid picture of the dynamic and rapidly evolving space industry.

Notable Quotes

• Helene Hubby, TEC CEO: “98% of our shareholders are European, demonstrating that the continent can finance bold entrepreneurs. Space will play a critical role in shaping humanity's future, and I want to contribute to building a future which is peaceful and cooperative and our European DNA fits perfectly with this mission” ([00:47]).

• Sharon Lamac Vincier: “We need to think like spies, build like astronauts, and innovate like entrepreneurs” ([16:00]).

• Sharon Lamac Vincier: “If we make it sexy and more engaging, with the evidence base and the money behind it, it’s a no. Why would you not want to be doing it?” ([19:44]).

Additional Resources

For further reading on today’s topics, visit the Show Notes at spare.n2k.com. Follow N2K Networks on LinkedIn, Bluesky, and Instagram for more updates and behind-the-scenes content.

Produced by Alice Carruth | Associate Producer: Liz Stokes | Mixed by Elliot Peltzman and Trey Hester | Original Music by Elliot Peltzman | Executive Producer: Jennifer Iban | Executive Editor: Brandon Karpf | President: Simone Petrella | Publisher: Peter Kilpy