Today marks a pivotal moment in U.S. history as presidential power transitions to the newly elected President. As this significant political change takes place, our focus turns to the future of initiatives spearheaded by the outgoing administration, including the executive order issued on 16 January 2025, titled Strengthening and Promoting Innovation in the Nation’s Cybersecurity. This order focuses on bolstering the cybersecurity of critical infrastructure, particularly space systems. The conti…
The World's First Wooden Satellite and its Sustainability Potential As a DIY guy and hobby carpenter in love with wood I was fascinated reading about the first wooden satellite that made it to space and even to the ISS! Here are my thoughts: A New Chapter in Sustainable Space Technology The world’s first wooden satellite, LignoSat, arrived at the International Space Station (ISS) on November 5, 2024. This innovative project, developed by researchers at Kyoto University in partnership with Sumi…
THE Aerospace LÄND – The Aerospace Strategy of Baden-Württemberg [German version below] Baden-Württemberg, known as the "Ländle" or more recently "The Länd," has established itself as a leading aerospace hub. With its new strategy, the state aims to expand its strengths in research and industry, with a focus on sustainability, digitalization, and cooperation to ensure both national and international competitiveness. Around 16,000 employees generate over €5 billion in the aerospace sector. The…
At the recent Munich New Space Summit, I had the pleasure of meeting Evgeny Onutchin from Spacefood, a Berlin-based startup bringing an exciting twist to space nutrition. Spacefood is transforming the concept of astronaut meals, creating food that’s not only packed with essential nutrients but also tastes delicious—a rare feat for space-ready nutrition. Designed for the rigors of space travel, their meals are equally appealing here on Earth, offering a convenient, healthy option for anyone with…
Building upon its Space Strategy released in 2023, the German government recently shared their initiative (in German) to create a dedicated Space Act (Weltraumgesetz, or WRG), identifying six key areas in their Key Points of the Federal Government for a Space Act (Eckpunkte der Bundesregierung für ein Weltraumgesetz) of 4 September 2024 (published in German only). The proposed German Space Act shall address the expanding role of private actors in space and the need for a legal and regulatory fra…