T-Minus Space Daily: The US Expands Starshield Access in Ukraine

Hosted by N2K Networks on December 9, 2024

Introduction

In this episode of T-Minus Space Daily, host Maria Varmazas delves into the expanding role of the United States in enhancing secure satellite communications for Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict. The episode not only explores the critical developments surrounding SpaceX's Starshield but also covers a spectrum of significant updates from the global space industry. Additionally, Maria engages in an insightful conversation with Ariel de Herrera, Vice President of Programs at NewSpace Nexus, about the upcoming ShowSpace Summit in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Expanding Starshield Access in Ukraine

Maria Varmazas opens the episode by highlighting the strategic importance of Starshield, the militarized version of SpaceX's Starlink satellite network, in modern warfare. She emphasizes:

"In case there was ever a case study needed in how so much of modern warfare relies on space and secure satellite connectivity." ([01:13])

Key Developments:

• Pentagon's Contract with SpaceX: The U.S. Department of Defense has awarded SpaceX a contract to enhance Ukraine's secure communications by expanding access to Starshield. This agreement involves upgrading 2,500 existing terminals and adding 500 previously connected terminals under an earlier contract. These upgrades provide encrypted, jam-resistant capabilities, bolstering Ukraine's communication infrastructure amidst the conflict.

• Contract Details: The contract falls under the Space Force's Proliferated Low Earth Orbit program and extends service through 2025. While specific financial terms were not disclosed, the initial contract for 500 terminals was valued at $40 million.

"This encrypted capability strengthens Ukraine's communication infrastructure during the ongoing conflict." ([01:13])

Industry-Wide Space Developments

Beyond Starshield, the episode covers a range of notable activities and contracts within the space sector:

1. SES Space and Defense:

   • Contract Awarded: A five-year blanket purchase agreement worth $117 million to deliver multi-orbit, multi-band satellite capabilities supporting the United States European Command.

2. Nova Space Solutions:

   • NASA Contract: Secured a contract valued at approximately $822.7 million to provide operations, maintenance, and infrastructure support for NASA's Stennis Space Center and Michoud Assembly Facility. The contract spans over eight years and three months, starting July 1, 2025.

3. AST Space Mobile and Vodafone Group:

   • Definitive Agreement: Establishes a framework for Vodafone to offer space-based cellular broadband connectivity through AST Space Mobile's satellite network. This agreement, lasting until 2034, marks a significant milestone in deploying global network infrastructure.

4. Space42 and IceEye:

   • Joint Venture: Formation of a new partnership to manufacture Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellites in the UAE, building on the successful launch of UAE's first SAR satellite, Foresight 1, in August 2024.

5. PIXL:

   • Funding Announcement: Closed an additional $24 million in Series B funding, bringing the total to $60 million. PIXL plans to develop a constellation of 18 high-resolution hyperspectral satellites.

6. SatXFi:

   • Financial Results: Reported $8.5 million in revenues for the nine-month period ending September 30, 2024, a 4% decrease from the previous year. The company anticipates increased service revenues in Q4, projecting full-year revenues between $17–19 million with a gross margin of 70–75%.

7. Satellogic:

   • Share Purchase Agreement: Raised approximately $10 million for general corporate purposes and expanded its contract with US-based satellite data analytics firm Synmax to enhance its Hyperion platform for monitoring oil and natural gas production.

8. NI Space and UK Agencies:

   • Research Initiative: Launched a small business research initiative with the UK Space Agency and the Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs. Three companies have been awarded a collective £360,000 to develop satellite technology for detecting and monitoring blue-green algae.

Interview with Ariel de Herrera: ShowSpace Summit at NewSpace Nexus

Guest: Ariel de Herrera, Vice President of Programs at NewSpace Nexus

Maria Varmazas introduces Ariel, who shares her journey from a marketing intern to VP of Programs at NewSpace Nexus. Ariel provides an in-depth overview of the upcoming ShowSpace Summit scheduled for December 10, 2024, in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

"We like to say we unite and ignite. So what we mean by that is we bring people together, put them in situations that allow them to connect to resources." ([11:23])

Key Highlights:

• Event Purpose: The ShowSpace Summit aims to highlight stellar space companies, foster valuable connections between small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and investors, government leaders, and industry giants.

• Agenda Overview:

  • Keynotes: Featuring leaders from investment, government, and industry sectors.
  • Panels: Discussing various aspects of the space ecosystem.
  • Company Pitches: Approximately 13 companies from the NewSpace Igniter program will present their concepts, products, and sales strategies.
  • One-on-One Sessions: Post-pitch interactions akin to "speed dating," allowing companies to engage directly with experts in investment, government, and industry.

"It's just putting those small and medium-sized companies in the same room as potential customers and government leaders." ([15:01])

• Networking Opportunities: The summit includes industry tours to prominent local entities like Blue Halo and Rocket Lab, showcasing New Mexico's robust space infrastructure.

• Program Highlights:

  • New Space Igniter: An incubator program assisting companies from concept to commercialization.
  • Pathway of the Stars & New Space Launchpad: Initiatives supporting workforce development and technological innovation.

"This event is not just open to customers and to companies, but anyone interested in learning more about the space ecosystem." ([17:56])

Ariel’s Closing Remarks: Ariel emphasizes the summit's role in propelling businesses forward by providing access to essential resources and fostering an environment where innovation can thrive.

NASA's 2024 Year in Review

As the episode progresses towards its conclusion, Maria reflects on NASA's accomplishments in 2024:

• Lunar and Deep Space Exploration: Successful missions landing new science and technology on the moon and launching missions to study Jupiter's moon Europa.

• International Space Station: Celebrated 24 years of continuous human presence aboard the ISS, underscoring humanity's ongoing commitment to space exploration.

• Supersonic Quiet Aircraft: Unveiled a new aircraft designed to benefit humanity by reducing the noise associated with supersonic flight.

A short video featuring Bill Nelson, the outgoing NASA administrator, highlighted the agency's achievements and the dedication of its workforce.

"With the help of our commercial partners, we launched into a new era. New things are possible. More things are possible." ([19:57])

Closing Remarks

Maria Varmazas wraps up the episode by encouraging listeners to engage with the content and share their thoughts on the year's space achievements and predictions for 2025. She invites feedback through various channels and highlights the importance of community input in shaping future episodes.

"If you've got some thoughts, I'd love to hear them. Help me out a little bit." ([20:24])

Maria concludes by acknowledging the production team and encouraging listeners to stay connected through N2K's social media platforms for daily updates and behind-the-scenes content.

Notable Quotes

• Maria Varmazas ([01:13]):

  "So my next question is how do you keep your company's data safe when it's sitting on all those unmanaged apps and devices?"

• Ariel de Herrera ([10:22]):

  "It's a tongue twister. Can you walk me through that?"

• Ariel de Herrera ([15:01]):

  "We are just putting those small and medium-sized companies in the same room as potential customers and government leaders."

• Ariel de Herrera ([17:56]):

  "This event is not just open to customers and to companies, but anyone interested in learning more about the space ecosystem."

• NASA Representative ([19:57]):

  "With the help of our commercial partners, we launched into a new era. New things are possible. More things are possible."

Conclusion

This episode of T-Minus Space Daily provides a comprehensive overview of the latest developments in the space industry, from strategic defense contracts and innovative partnerships to entrepreneurial support through events like the ShowSpace Summit. The discussion with Ariel de Herrera offers valuable insights into fostering growth within the space ecosystem, while NASA's year-end achievements highlight the progress and future possibilities in space exploration. Whether you're a space industry professional or an enthusiast, this episode delivers crucial information and engaging discussions to keep you informed and inspired.

For more detailed information and additional resources mentioned in today's episode, please visit the Show Notes.