A Look Back at TechCrunch Disrupt 2024
Hello, and welcome back to TechCrunch Space. We’re thrilled to have wrapped up another exciting edition of TechCrunch Disrupt 2024, and we can’t wait to share the highlights with you.
Building a Dual-Use Business in Space
At this year’s event, we covered everything from building a dual-use business to orbital re-entry. It was clear that the space industry is rapidly evolving, and companies are starting to explore new opportunities for growth.
- Dual-Use Businesses: A growing trend in the space industry is the development of dual-use businesses. These companies create products or services that can be used both on Earth and in space.
- Orbital Re-entry: One of the most significant challenges facing the space industry today is orbital re-entry. Companies are working to develop technologies that will allow for safe and efficient re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere.
Key Takeaways from TechCrunch Disrupt 2024
We caught up with some of the biggest names in the space industry, including Rocket Lab’s Peter Beck and Bridgit Mendler, co-founder of a space startup focused on ground stations.
- Rocket Lab: As part of their end-to-end space company vision, Rocket Lab is working to develop a new rocket called Neutron. This rocket will be capable of launching medium-sized satellites into orbit.
- Ground Stations: Bridgit Mendler’s company is developing ground stations that will enable the industrialization of space. These stations will provide a crucial link between Earth and space-based infrastructure.
A Conversation with Bridgit Mendler
We had the opportunity to speak with Bridgit Mendler, co-founder of a space startup focused on ground stations. She shared her thoughts on scaling connectivity to enable the industrialization of space:
"To actually fulfill the benefit of people in the world, you have to invest in unsexy problems, like building a ground network," Mendler said. "I personally think that’s pretty sexy and fun."
A Conversation with Peter Beck
We also had the chance to speak with Peter Beck, CEO of Rocket Lab. He shared his vision for the future of space and the importance of scaling the space supply chain:
"Spacecraft are way easier to build than rockets," Beck said. "They really are."
He also talked about the company’s plan to enable repeat launches of their own satellites using the Neutron rocket.
Additional Coverage from TechCrunch Disrupt 2024
In addition to our coverage of Rocket Lab and Bridgit Mendler’s company, we had a range of other panels and presentations that explored various aspects of the space industry.
- Selling Defense Tech: A panel discussion featuring CEOs from True Anomaly and Slingshot Aerospace highlighted the challenges and opportunities of selling defense technology.
- Space Investing: Three investors shared their insights on the highs and lows of investing in space, including the importance of understanding market trends and regulatory environments.
- The Future of Space Operations: The Aerospace Corporation’s pitch challenge showcased innovative ideas for improving space operations, from more efficient use of resources to enhanced safety measures.
Contact Us
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