TED Talks Daily: "How to Build in Space — for Life on Earth" by Ariel Ekblaw

Release Date: May 30, 2025
Host: Elise Hu
Speaker: Ariel Ekblaw, Space Architect

Introduction

In the TED Talks Daily episode titled "How to Build in Space — for Life on Earth," space architect Ariel Ekblaw presents a visionary approach to utilizing space infrastructure not just for exploration but as a catalyst for solving some of humanity's most pressing challenges on Earth. Hosted by Elise Hu, the episode delves into Ariel's innovative concepts and the practical implications of her work.

The Importance of Space Exploration

Ariel begins by addressing a fundamental question often posed by skeptics of space exploration:

“I once had a professor ask me, why in the world do we spend so much money on space exploration in the face of so many pressing challenges here on Earth?” (00:04:02)

She argues that space exploration is essential for generating new knowledge and technological advancements that benefit humanity. Ariel emphasizes that our understanding of the universe is limited, and the pursuit of space exploration drives us to expand these boundaries.

Innovations from Space Programs

Highlighting historical and contemporary contributions, Ariel showcases how space programs have consistently delivered breakthrough innovations:

“The Apollo program gave us the foundation of modern computing. The International Space Station gave us Lasik eye surgery...” (00:04:02)

She points out that current advancements in space technology are paving the way for life-saving biotech innovations in orbit and space-based energy solutions. The dramatic reduction in the cost of reaching space—from over $50,000 per kilogram during the NASA shuttle era to under $200 per kilogram today—has made these innovations more feasible and scalable.

Challenges of Current Space Infrastructure

Ariel identifies critical limitations in existing space infrastructure:

“The bottleneck isn't rockets anymore, it's real estate.” (00:04:02)

She explains that the International Space Station (ISS), although a monumental achievement, is aging, cramped, and set to be decommissioned by 2030. Building in space with current methods is slow, difficult, and dangerous, relying heavily on manual assembly by astronauts wearing bulky spacesuits. This approach is not scalable for future needs.

Autonomous Robotic Self-Assembly: Ariel’s Solution

To address the scalability issue, Ariel introduces her groundbreaking solution inspired by nature’s self-assembling systems:

“We have invented a system to grow space structures in orbit using autonomous robotic self-assembly.” (00:04:02)

Drawing from her PhD research at MIT, Ariel and her team at Aurelia Institute developed a modular system using electropermanent magnets that enable structural "tiles" to autonomously dock and build themselves in space—akin to "space Legos."

Key components of this system include:

• Modular Tiles (Tesserae): Each tile is equipped with strong electropermanent magnets that autonomously connect with others.
• Self-Assembling Structures: These tiles form reusable, reconfigurable space habitats without the need for astronauts or robotic arms.
• Scalability: Multiple self-assembling modules can connect to form larger structures, vastly increasing space infrastructure capacity.

Ariel notes the successful testing of this technology aboard the ISS, collaborating with astronaut Michael Lopez-Alegria to refine the autonomous assembly process.

Applications for Life on Earth

Ariel outlines several transformative applications of her space-building technology that directly benefit life on Earth:

1. Biotech Manufacturing in Microgravity:

   • Protein Crystals & Tissue Growth: Enhanced quality and speed of biological samples, enabling breakthroughs in drug discovery.
   • Example Quote: “Whether it's exceptional quality organoids for testing Alzheimer's drugs... these therapies would be made in space, stabilized, and brought back down to earth.” (00:04:02)

2. Space-Based Energy Solutions:

   • Solar Power Satellites: Assembling thousands of solar panels in orbit to capture and beam unfiltered sunlight to Earth, effectively solving the solar energy storage problem.
   • Impact: Provides abundant green energy, addressing global energy needs sustainably.

3. Off-Worlding Heavy Industry:

   • Reducing Earth's Industrial Burden: Moving heavy industries to space to allow Earth to recover and thrive as a "garden planet."
   • Long-Term Vision: Utilizing space infrastructure to support Earth's environmental sustainability for future generations.

Vision for the Future

Ariel envisions a future where space infrastructure is integral to both space exploration and terrestrial advancements:

“Space exploration isn't about escaping Earth... it's about building an aspirational future for humanity.” (00:04:02)

Key elements of her vision include:

• Accessibility: Making space affordable and accessible, enabling activities such as weekend space travel and long-term scientific research.
• Economic Growth: Contributing to a projected trillion-dollar space economy through innovative technologies and infrastructure.
• Sustainable Integration: Ensuring that advancements in space technology are leveraged for the betterment of Earth, protecting its environment while expanding human horizons.

Conclusion

Ariel Ekblaw’s talk underscores the symbiotic relationship between space exploration and Earth’s future. By developing autonomous robotic self-assembly systems, she demonstrates how space infrastructure can be rapidly scaled to support both extraterrestrial habitation and critical advancements in biotechnology and renewable energy on Earth. Her work embodies the belief that investing in space is not an escape from Earth’s problems but a strategic move to create solutions that ensure the longevity and prosperity of human civilization.

“We can profoundly expand humanity's horizons while still protecting the heritage of our priceless planet.” (00:04:20)

Ariel concludes by advocating for a balanced approach where space and Earth advancements go hand in hand, fostering a sustainable and innovative future for all.

Notable Quotes

• On the Necessity of Space Exploration:

  “Should we be building a future life in space? I want to argue yes...” (00:04:02)

• On Technological Advancements:

  “Lasik eye surgery contributed to that amazing technology.” (00:04:02)

• On Autonomous Construction:

  “We don't require astronauts or even robotic arms to go out and do slow or risky spacewalks...” (00:04:02)

• On the Future Vision:

  “If we invest now in space infrastructure...we can profoundly expand humanity's horizons while still protecting the heritage of our priceless planet.” (00:14:02)

Final Thoughts

Ariel Ekblaw’s presentation on TED Talks Daily offers a compelling narrative on how space infrastructure can be leveraged to address earthly challenges. By merging innovative engineering with visionary foresight, she provides a roadmap for a future where space and Earth coexist in a mutually beneficial relationship, ensuring sustainable progress and the preservation of our planet for generations to come.