Space Café Radio

Exploring the Future of Space Missions: Biomass Satellite and Earth's Observation

In this episode, Torsten Kriening dives deep into the importance of data in space missions with Dr. Nicolaus Hanowski, Head of the Mission Management and Ground Segment department at the European Space Agency (ESA). They discuss the innovative Biomass satellite, part of the Earth Explorer program, which uses advanced P-band radar to measure forest biomass and carbon dioxide storage. Discover how ESA's missions contribute to environmental monitoring, technological advancements, and geopolitical autonomy. 

Space Café Radio brings you talks, interviews, and reports from th...

ESA Strategy 2040: A Conversation with Dr. Josef Aschbacher at the Space Symposium 2025

In this episode of Space Cafe Radio, SpaceWatch.Globals Senior Editor and Advisor, Laura Todd, bring you an engaging conversation with Dr. Josef Aschbacher, Director General of the European Space Agency (ESA), recorded at the 40th Space Symposium in Colorado Springs, April 2025. Dr. Aschbacher discusses ESA’s recently presented Strategy 2040, covering key areas such as protecting our planet, exploring the universe, strengthening European autonomy, boosting competitiveness, and inspiring the next generation. He also shares insights into the significance of pa...

From Dreams to Reality: Ron Garan's Journey Back to the Moon

In this episode of our Space Cafe Radio, Torsten Kriening speaks with Ron Garan ofispace US, the recently appointed chairman of ispace US and former NASA astronaut. Garan shares his inspiration for joining ispace, the progress and challenges ahead, and his vision for a sustainable lunar economy. 

He emphasizes international cooperation, commercial market development, and his personal motivations stemming from a lifelong dream to explore the moon. Tune in to hear about ispace’s ambitious missions, including the...

Exploring Space Law: Insights from Experts at Space Tech Expo 2024

Welcome to the final episode of our Space Law miniseries, recorded live at the Space Tech Expo in Bremen on November 22, 2024. Moderated by Torsten Kriening of SpaceWatch.Global, this episode delves into space sustainability with 

Tune in to understand how these l...

Exploring Space Law: Insights from Experts at Space Tech Expo 2024

Welcome to the second episode of our Space Law miniseries, recorded live at the Space Tech Expo in Bremen on November 22, 2024. Moderated by Torsten Kriening of SpaceWatch.Global, this episode delves into the world of space startups. 

Tune in to understand how these legal structures foster innovation and robust growth in the space industry. The Workshop was organized by Prof. Dr. Lesley Jane Smith, Leuphana University & Dr. Ingo Baumann, BHO Legal.

Part 2 – SPACE Start-Ups

Dr. Matthias Creydt, Cre...

Exploring Space Law: Insights from Experts at Space Tech Expo 2024

Welcome to the inaugural episode of our Space Law miniseries, recorded live at the Space Tech Expo in Bremen on November 22, 2024. Moderated by Torsten Kriening of SpaceWatch.Global, this episode delves into the interplay between procurement and national space laws. This session offers a comprehensive exploration of innovative procurement strategies, anchor customer roles, Liechtenstein's Space Act, and the Dutch legal framework for space activities. Tune in to understand how these legal structures foster innovation and robust growth in the space industry. The Workshop was organized...

Modern Satellite Technology: A Chat with Industry Leader Dr Mark Dickinson

Join our Torsten Kriening in our Space Cafe Radio today as we dive into an exciting conversation with Dr Mark Dickinson, the new Chief Technology Officer of NSG - Neo Space Group - with a career spanning top aerospace giants like Airbus, Boeing, and Inmarsat. In this episode, Mark discusses the evolution of satellite technology, the integration of 5G and 6G, and NSG's ambitious vision for the future of space. Learn about software-defined satellites, disaster response, and the role of satellites in enhancing defense...

Inside Europe's Weather and Climate Monitoring: Exclusive with Dr. Richard Engelen

Join Torsten Kriening for an insightful episode featuring Dr. Richard Engelen, Deputy Director of the Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Services (CAMS) at the European Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecast (ECMWF). Recorded live in Bremen at OHB, we discuss the role of ECMWF in providing top-tier weather forecasts and its integration with European space and environmental programs like Copernicus. Discover how satellite data is pivotal for weather and air quality predictions, the novel advancements of the Sentinel-4 and MTG-S satellites, and future projects including greenhouse...

The Future of Missile Defense: Analyzing Trump's 2025 Executive Order

In this episode of Space Cafe Radio, Torsten Kriening, Publisher at SpaceWatch.Global talks with Dr. Jessica West, Senior Researcher at Project Ploughshare on the impact of President Trump's executive order issued on January 27, 2025, which proposes an advanced missile defense shield dubbed the Iron Dome for America. The discussion dives into the technical and financial feasibility of such a comprehensive, multi-layered missile defense system and its potential global implications. 

Comparing it to past efforts like Reagan's Strategic Defense Initiative, experts analyze the risks of a...

Building Saudi Arabia's Geospatial Future: Insights from Jason Andrews

In this episode of Space Café Radio, Torsten Kriening speaks with Jason Andrews, the first employee and division leader of the geospatial division of the Neo Space Group (NSG) of Saudi Arabia. Jason shares his journey from founding multiple space companies to becoming a pivotal figure in Saudi Arabia's push to enhance its geospatial capabilities. The discussion covers the formation of the division, the strategic acquisition of TAQNIA ETS and UP42, and the broader Vision 2030 initiative aimed at diversifying the Saudi economy t...

Explore the evolving landscape of space technology and artificial intelligence with Shelli Brunswick, CEO and founder of SB Global LLC, in this episode of Space Café Radio.

Shelli, a luminary in the space sector, shares her journey from the U.S. Air Force to founding her own company, highlighting the importance of leadership in adopting emerging technologies. She emphasizes how AI is revolutionizing industries, urging boards to prepare for this technological shift.

Shelli also discusses her book, "What's Space Got to Do with It? 10 Life Lessons for Personal Growth" inspired by her experiences and global t...

Tracking Nature’s Signals: An Interview with TALOS CEO Gregor Langer

Join us for an insightful episode where Torsten Kriening sits down with Gregor Langer, Co-Founder of TALOS, to discuss their groundbreaking work in satellite IoT technology. Learn how TALOS is utilizing ultra-compact IoT devices and proprietary satellite communication to track wildlife and livestock, contributing to conservation and sustainability efforts. Discover the inspiring journey of this Munich-based startup, their unique technology, and their vision for the future. Tune in to understand the broader implications of space technology on our planet and explore the exciting opportunities it...

In dieser deutschen Folge von Space Café Radio spricht Torsten Kriening, Herausgeber von SpaceWatch.Global mit Christoph Seidler.

Christoph Seidler (*1979) gehört zu den renommiertesten Raumfahrtjournalisten Deutschlands. Als Reporter des SPIEGEL kennt er Startrampen von Cape Canaveral bis Kourou, von Baikonur bis Boca Chica. Neben seiner journalistischen Tätigkeit hat er mehrere Sachbücher sowie einen Krimi veröffentlicht.

Im Gespräch geht es um sein neues Buch "Armstrongs Erben". Christoph Seidler ist Wissenschaftsjournalist und Raumfahrtexperte, und gemeinsam mit Torsten Kriening diskutiert er die Bedeutung des neuen Wettlaufs zum Mond. 
Sie bel...

Cislunar Challenges and Opportunities: Insights from Dr. Angie Bukley

Join Torsten Kriening, publisher at SpaceWatch.Global, as he sits down with Dr. Angie Bukley, Technical Fellow at the Aerospace Corporation. They discuss the future of cislunar space exploration, international agreements, the Artemis Accords, and China's lunar ambitions. The conversation looks into the challenges of space policy, the importance of establishing norms of behavior in space, and the role of commercial entities in this rapidly evolving domain. Recorded in December 2024 before Dr. Bukley's retirement, this episode provides insights from the study 'Moonstruck: International Aspirations in Cislunar...

Space Debris and the Global Space Economy: Insights from the Center for Space Future

In this episode of Space Café Radio, join Torsten Kriening, Publisher at SpaceWatch.Global as he interviews Mishaal Ashemimry, Managing Director of the Center for Space Future, during the 'Connecting the World from the Skies' conference in Riyadh, November 2024. They talk about the critical issue of space debris and its impact on the space economy, discussing the Center's mission, regulatory measures, technological advancements, and cross-sector collaboration. Ashemimry shares her extensive background in aerospace engineering and outlines the Center's goals and future plans, emphasizing gl...

Welcome to the last episode of our special five episodes podcast mini-series, crafted in collaboration with PSSI, the Prague Security Studies Institute.   In this episode, Emma speaks with Dean Cheng, a consultant on Asian affairs and senior advisor to the U.S. Institute of Peace. Dr. Cheng delves into the complexities of the China-Russia relationship, highlighting their shared antipathy towards the West but differing ambitions and capacities.

This intricate relationship poses questions for Europe and the U.S., particularly in the space sector. Dr. Cheng emphasizes the importance of Western countries recognizing the geopolitical and economic intricacies a...

The Race for Space: European Initiatives and Innovations

Join our host Torsten Kriening, Publisher at SpaceWatch.Global as he sits down with Dr. Gérald Schockmel, a member of the Luxembourg parliament, about the dynamics of the global space race, Europe's initiatives in space legislation, and the role of universities in advancing space technologies. In this episode, they talk about the European Interparliamentary Space Conference's (EISC) efforts, challenges, and future prospects for sustainability in the European space sector. Dr. Schockmel also touches upon the importance of innovative projects and collaborations in the field.

Navigating Space: Insights from Martijn Blanken on Global Leadership and Technology

In this episode, Torsten Kriening, Publisher of SpaceWatch.Global, meet Martijn Blanken, CEO of the Neo Space Group (NSG), at the 'Connecting the World from the Skies' conference in Riyadh. Martijn discusses NSG’s mission to become a global leader, emphasizing customer-centric services in satellite communications and space technology. He elaborates on the company's innovations in AI, geospatial technologies, and the strategic importance of global partnerships. Martijn also shares NSG's progress in establishing itself within various markets, including inflight communication se...

Welcome to the latest episode of our special podcast mini-series, crafted in collaboration with PSSI, the Prague Security Studies Institute. As we delve into the economic and financial dimensions of the global space landscape, it is a pleasure to host Kari Bingen, Director of Aerospace Security Projects at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS).

Bingen sheds light on the transformative power of the commercial space sector due to the seamless collaboration between intelligence, defense, and commercial spheres, offering new prospects for maritime domain awareness, climate change assessments, and more.

However, integrating these capabilities...

Navigating the Future of Space: Insights from ESA's Dr. Josef Aschbacher

Join us on Space Cafe Radio as SpaceWatch.Global's Publisher, Torsten Kriening, sits down with Dr. Josef Aschbacher, the Director General of the European Space Agency (ESA). Discover the critical role of advanced technologies like quantum computing, AI, and propulsion systems in maintaining Europe's competitive edge in space. Dr. Aschbacher discusses the impact of U.S. space policies, Europe's strategic priorities, and the significance of international collaborations. Learn about ESA's ambitious Strategy 2040, the upcoming ESA ministerial conference, and the potential for European autonomy in space. Tune...

Aarti Holla-Maini's Insights on Space Sustainability and Security: An Exclusive Discussion

Join host Torsten Kriening as he sits down with Aarti Holla-Maini, Director of the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA), to discuss critical topics in the space sector. This episode give an insight view into space sustainability, traffic management, the role of private companies, and global cooperation for peaceful space usage. Holla-Maini highlights the recent UNGA resolution, the Pact for the Future, the importance of equitable access to space resources, and the initiatives UNOOSA is undertaking to ensure s...

In this episode, Special Envoy for Space, Ambassador Marjolijn van Deelen, discusses with Torsten Kriening the European Union's approach to space security, the importance of multilateral engagement, and the urgency of addressing contemporary challenges in space. She explores the parallels between space and nuclear sectors, the current global space security issues, and the EU's new space strategy focusing on security and defense. The discussion also looks into the diplomatic measures available to the EU and the need for international cooperation to ensure the sustainable and peaceful use of outer space. This interview was recorded during the 7th...

In the third episode of our special PSSI Space Security podcast series, experts shed light on critical space security issues from the Indo-Pacific region. The episode featured insightful interviews with Dr. Jong Shinn Wu, Director General of the Taiwan Space Agency, and Dr. Il Seok Oh, Vice Chairman of KASS, the Korean Academy of Space Security.

Dr. Wu highlighted the geopolitical risks facing Taiwan due to its strategic location and the challenges posed by China's influence in international space organizations. The need for cooperative frameworks amongst Indo-Pacific nations was emphasized as a means to bolster Taiwan's role...

Join us in this episode as Torsten Kriening dives into the latest in space investments and the evolving commercial space industry with Gary Dunow, Executive Vice President for Strategic Development at USGIF. Learn about the 'GoldRush 2024 Commercial Remote Sensing Global Rankings' report, China's growing influence, and the role of public and private investments in maintaining U.S. competitiveness.
They also discuss Europe's response, emerging market trends in Earth observation, and key players like Maxar, Capella, and IceEye. Explore the impact of human-machine teaming on decision-making, geospatial education initiatives by the US Government...

Hello SpaceWatchers! In a recent episode of Space Café Radio, Emma Gatti, Editor in Chief of SpaceWatch Global, engaged in a fascinating conversation with Bob Richards and Christian Fidi from TTTech Aerospace.

The conversation covered key topics such as Ariane-6, European independence, interoperability, modularity, scalability, and secure connectivity, shedding light on the advanced technologies driving the industry forward. Bob also touched on the significant changes in the roles of space agencies, with an increasing focus on commercial contracts and services.

Christian shared insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by the European space sector, emphasizing t...

The Business of Space: Pacôme Révillon on Market Trends and Innovations

In this episode of Space Café Radio, host Torsten Kriening sits down with Pacôme Révillon, CEO of Novaspace, to review the 27th edition of the World Space Business Week held in Paris. They discuss key trends, including market transformations, mergers, and acquisitions, the impact of new EU DG DEFIS Commissioner and defense activities on the space sector. Pacôme shares insights into the challenges faced by the space and finance markets, the importance of standardization and interoperability, and Novaspace's growing involv...

Bridging the Atlantic: A Deep Dive into Global Space Security Collaboration

In the first episode of our new PSSI podcast series, produced in collaboration with PSSI, the Prague Security Studies Institute, we explore the  advancements in international cooperation in space security with Deanna L. Ryals, Director, International Affairs at the  Space Systems Command of the US Space Force. They discussed Key Challenges in Space Security after the Ukraine conflict, how to strengthen transatlantic ties throu data-sharing, and how to expand alliances including additional nations in these security conversations.

For a deeper un...

In this episode of Space Cafe Radio, host Torsten Kriening interviews Kevin Pomfret, partner at Williams Mullen Law Firm and founder of the Center for Spatial Law and Policy.
Kevin leverages his 30 years of experience in corporate and transactional law to help companies in the space and spatial sectors grow and innovate. He works with a wide range of businesses that use technologies such as small sats, cloud computing, 5G, ML/AI, 3D and UAVs to develop commercial, government and societal applications.

They discuss the critical gap between the space and geospatial sectors, particularly focusing on...

The Future of Space Diplomacy: Disarmament and Security Strategies with Dr. Jessica West

Join Torsten Kriening and renowned expert Dr. Jessica West in this engaging episode as they delve into the complexities of space diplomacy. Explore the outcomes of recent meetings of governmental experts (GGE) on space security and their discussions on definitions, verification, and potential legal frameworks. Learn about the essential behavioral approaches to maintaining peace and security in space and the promising developments ahead of the UNIDIR Outer Space Security Conference 2024. Tune in to Space Cafe Radio for an...

Preserving the Night Sky: Addressing Satellite Interference with Astronomer Ian Muirhead

In this episode of Space Café Radio, host Torsten Kriening interviews Ian Muirhead, a researcher from the University of Manchester's Space Systems Research Group. They discuss the growing concerns about satellite interference with terrestrial astronomy, the importance of preserving the natural night sky, and the impacts of radio and optical interference caused by satellite constellations. The conversation delves into potential solutions and the need for collaboration between astronomers, policymakers, and satellite operators to find a balance between technological advancement and e...

Addressing the Threat Landscape to Secure Space Stability: Insights from Major General Philippe Adam

In this episode of the PSSI-SpaceWatch.Global mini-series host Torsten Kriening speaks with Major General Philippe Adam, the Commander of the French Space Command, about the shifting landscape of space security, particularly in light of the ongoing Ukraine conflict. They discuss the new sense of urgency in addressing space threats, the role of European nations in maintaining stability and sustainability in space, and the need for coordinated defense solutions. The conversation also touches on data-sharing challenges, the impact of...

The Intersection of Geography, Intelligence, and Health

Join us for an insightful discussion with Dr. Enbal Shacham, professor and associate dean for research at the College for Public Health and Social Justice at St. Louis University (a USGIF-accredited university) and a member of the USGIF Board of Directors. Dr. Shacham explores the intersection of geospatial intelligence (GEOINT) and health outcomes, particularly among populations living with HIV. Recorded at the USGIF GEOINT Symposium 2024, this episode delves into the role of neighborhood structures, the impact of social and geospatial data, and how AI...

Behind the Scenes with the NGA: Humanitarian Missions and Geospatial Intelligence

Join Torsten Kriening, Publisher at SpaceWatch.Global, in an engaging conversation with Sandra Auchter, head of the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) office in Denver, Colorado. Recorded during the 39th Space Symposium in Colorado Springs, this episode dives into the mission of the NGA, its role in providing crucial geospatial data for humanitarian efforts, and the integration with other federal agencies. Discover how the NGA leverages satellite imagery and cultural insights to support disaster response, both domestically and internationally, and learn...

The Evolution and Future of Geospatial Intelligence with Robert Cardillo

In this episode of Space Café Radio, Torsten Kriening sits down with Robert Cardillo, Chair of the USGIF Board of Directors and former Director of the NGA, to discuss the history, impact, and future of the geospatial intelligence community. Robert reflects on the evolution of the National Geospatial-Intelligency Agency (NGA) from a secretive entity to an inclusive community with myriad applications beyond national security. They delve into the importance of partnerships, advancements in technology like AI, and the role of education in GEOINT. Robert shares i...

Innovating Space with Expandable Architecture: An Interview with Max Space''s Aaron Kemmer and Maxim de Jong

Join Torsten Kriening, Publisher at SpaceWatch.Global, in an enlightening conversation with Maxim de Jong and Aaron Kemmer from Max Space. Delve into the groundbreaking technologies behind expandable and inflatable space structures, their applications, and the future of real estate in space. Learn about Max Space's mission to maximize usable space in orbit, from initial small modules to potentially vast habitats in space and on the Moon. This episode explores the challenges and innovations in creating habitable volumes for...

Grand Opening of Morpheus Space's New Production Facility: A Conversation with the CEO and Co-Founder Daniel Bock

Join Torsten Kriening, Publisher at SpaceWatch.Global, during the grand opening of Morpheus Space's new production facility in Dresden, for an engaging discussion with Daniel Bock, CEO and co-founder. They discuss Morpheus Space's expansion, innovative propulsion systems, the company's journey from a small lab to a global player, and their holistic approach to tackling space mobility and debris issues. This episode provides an in-depth look at how Morpheus Space is making space travel safer and more sustainable.
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Exploring the Future of Space Computing with Avi Shabtai, CEO of Ramon.Space

Join Torsten Kriening, Publisher at SpaceWatch.Global in a thought-provoking conversation with Avi Shabtai, CEO of Ramon.Space, as they discuss the infinite opportunities in the space communication sector. Learn about the evolution of space networks, the potential of 5G in orbit, and the concept of a 'cloud in space.' Discover how Ramon.Space is spearheading innovations in space computing, building infrastructures that could revolutionize satellite communications and applications. Don't miss this insightful episode, produced in collaboration with Ramon Space.

Ramon...

Ariane 6 Maiden Flight: A New Era in European Spaceflight

In this episode of Space Cafe Radio, Torsten Kriening speaks with with Ruedeger Albat freshly retired ESA Ariane 5 Project Manager. They discuss the significant milestones, challenges, and future of the Ariane family of launchers. From the pioneering days of Ariane 1 to the introduction of Ariane 6, explore the technological advancements, sustainability goals, and the strategic vision that define Europe's space transportation future. Discover how Ariane 6 prepares for its maiden flight and what makes it a revolutionary leap in space access for commercial and institutional missions. Don't miss...

Protecting Human Heritage in Outer Space: A Conversation with Michelle Hanlon

In this episode of Space Cafe Radio, Torsten Kriening speaks with Michelle Hanlon, co-founder and CEO of For All Moonkind, about the importance of protecting cultural heritage sites in outer space. Recorded at a busy coffee shop at the UN in Vienna, Michelle discusses the legal and practical challenges of safeguarding lunar landing sites such as Apollo and Luna missions. She explains how her organization is influencing international policies and calls for grassroots support to preserve history in space. Join us to learn about...

Unveiling the Importance of Space and Global Cooperation: A Conversation with Hannah Ashford

Join us in this insightful episode of Space Café Radio as we explore the profound impact of space on various aspects of life, from climate monitoring to global communications. Our host, Torsten Kriening, sits down with Hannah Ashford, the Managing Director of The Karman Project, to discuss the significance of international cooperation in space, the rigorous selection process for the Karman Fellowship, and the remarkable projects generated by these global collaborations. Learn more about the initiatives slated for 2024 and the exciting events w...