The hottest Aerospace Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Technology Topics

Material science is really important

TP’s Substack • 45 implied HN points • 27 Jun 25
🕹 Technology Aerospace Manufacturing Supply Chain Engineering
  1. Material science is crucial for developing advanced technologies. It helps create stronger and lighter materials used in many industries, especially aerospace.
  2. China leads in synthetic fiber production, making it vital for global supply chains. This dominance impacts many industries, including clothing and advanced manufacturing.
  3. Innovation in materials like carbon fiber is driving progress in various fields, from electric vehicles to robotics. These advancements are essential for future technology and industry growth.

SpaceX Magic

Chris’s Substack • 239 implied HN points • 18 Oct 24
🕹 Technology Space Exploration Aerospace Engineering Innovation Transport
  1. SpaceX successfully launched Starship and caught its returning booster mid-air using a unique chopsticks method. This makes the booster reusable, saving fuel for future launches.
  2. With plans for future flights, SpaceX is addressing small issues found in the last flight to ensure their next mission goes smoothly and demonstrates reliable reentry.
  3. Starship is being designed for missions to the Moon and Mars, and with improved technology, SpaceX aims to make space travel affordable and accessible for many in the future.

SpaceX Evolution (Appendix C: Why SpaceX Not NASA)

Chris’s Substack • 79 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
🕹 Technology Space Exploration Innovation Aerospace Entrepreneurship Commercialization
  1. NASA has become more inefficient over time, losing its ability to innovate and push space technology as its bureaucracy has grown.
  2. In contrast, SpaceX is agile and focused, quickly developing new technology without the red tape that hampers NASA's progress.
  3. NASA's current projects may be less ambitious than what SpaceX could achieve, highlighting SpaceX's crucial role in future space exploration.

Will the China Cycle Come for Airbus and Boeing?

Construction Physics • 33196 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
💼 Business Aerospace Manufacturing Technology Economics International Trade
  1. China has been trying to develop its own commercial aircraft industry for decades but faces many challenges. From technology theft concerns to complex manufacturing processes, it hasn't succeeded like in other industries.
  2. The C919 jet is China's latest attempt to compete with Boeing and Airbus. While it's secured a good number of orders, issues with performance and certification limits its appeal in the global market.
  3. Airbus has been more successful in China due to establishing local assembly lines. This made them more competitive compared to Boeing, which hesitated to set up operations in China.

Reading List 12/28/24

Construction Physics • 11065 implied HN points • 28 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Manufacturing Pharmaceuticals Engineering Infrastructure Aerospace
  1. China is planning to build the world's largest hydroelectric dam, which could produce a huge amount of electricity and help meet its environmental goals.
  2. Chinese manufacturing is becoming very competitive not just in cars, but also in pharmaceuticals, with Chinese companies now creating many new drugs.
  3. In manufacturing, new startups often struggle financially at first, facing a tough phase called the 'valley of death' before they start making profits.
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Reading List 12/21/2024

Construction Physics • 10230 implied HN points • 21 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Energy Transportation Aerospace Policy
  1. Commercial fusion energy is making progress with a new reactor that could generate power for many homes and create jobs.
  2. Boom Technology secured $100 million to develop a supersonic airliner, but its future remains uncertain due to challenges in airplane engine development.
  3. There's growing interest in using airships for cargo transport, as they can be more efficient than ships and planes for certain distances.

Reading List 12/07/24

Construction Physics • 9395 implied HN points • 07 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Energy Battery tech Aerospace
  1. Many of the biggest cities in the U.S. are seeing strong economic growth post-COVID, with Austin being the fastest at 30%. This shows how some areas are bouncing back well after the pandemic.
  2. There are many bans on wind and solar energy projects in certain U.S. counties. This could slow down the growth of clean energy despite its importance for fighting climate change.
  3. SpaceX is breaking records with its rocket launches, planning to launch as many rockets in a year as NASA's Space Shuttle did in its entire history. This shows how quickly the space industry is advancing.

N-1 Block A

Soviet Space Substack • 178 implied HN points • 12 Oct 24
🕹 Technology Aerospace Engineering Modeling
  1. The N1-3L rocket has a complex engine system, with different engines numbered for clarity. Understanding these details is crucial for analyzing the rocket's design and performance.
  2. Grid fins are an important feature of the N1 rocket, providing enhanced control during high-speed flights. Their design has evolved over time to improve stability and effectiveness.
  3. There were various design changes made to the Block A of the N1 rocket to improve its function and control. These updates were likely based on lessons learned from previous flight tests.

Weekly Dose of Optimism #146

Not Boring by Packy McCormick • 97 implied HN points • 30 May 25
🕹 Technology Biotech Aerospace Genetics Startups Innovation
  1. A startup called Orchid helps parents select embryos with lower disease risks using genetic testing. This raises both hope for healthier babies and ethical questions about how much we should design our kids.
  2. Doctors successfully transplanted a gene-edited pig kidney into a man, helping him avoid dialysis. This could change the future of organ transplants, as pig organs might be a solution to the shortage of human donors.
  3. Radiant, a nuclear startup, raised $165 million to develop a small reactor that can power remote areas and possibly aid in future Mars colonization. This shows growth in clean energy innovations.

Containerized Missile Systems Without Cranes

Tapa’s Substack • 4 HN points • 05 Oct 24
🕹 Technology Defense Logistics Engineering Aerospace Innovation
  1. Containerized missile systems aim to fit missiles into shipping containers for easy transport. This could help with quick deployment and keeping them hidden.
  2. Most missiles are too tall for standard shipping containers, requiring them to be laid down horizontally. This makes launching them more complicated.
  3. A new idea suggests using a small jump jet to lift and angle the missile for firing, making it faster and potentially cheaper than using a crane system.

Of falling door plugs and missing bolts and holes in fuselages and 737 Max 9's

Lucian Truscott Newsletter • 3655 implied HN points • 06 Feb 24
💼 Business Aerospace Manufacturing Corporate culture Quality control
  1. Private equity in aircraft manufacturing can lead to cost-cutting measures that compromise safety.
  2. Recent accidents involving Boeing 737 models point to potential flaws in design and manufacturing processes.
  3. Pressure to speed up production in the aviation industry can result in quality control issues and safety risks.

Brainstorming Solutions for Aerospace Sector Challenges

Space Ambition • 259 implied HN points • 02 Aug 24
🕹 Technology Aerospace Innovation Startups Engineering Investment
  1. An online brainstorming session is being organized to find solutions for challenges in the aerospace industry. Everyone is welcome to join, regardless of their experience level.
  2. The discussions will be moderated by someone with a strong background in aerospace and venture capital. This helps ensure the session is productive and insightful.
  3. There are two scheduled sessions on August 10 to accommodate different time zones, making it easier for people around the world to participate.

Space Industry Stories and Fibs

Ill-Defined Space • 19 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🕹 Technology Space Industry Engineering Innovation Aerospace Market Trends
  1. Some claims in the space industry are exaggerated or misleading, often to attract investment or support without solid proof. It's important to be critical of what you hear.
  2. Cheap launches are often a myth; while SpaceX may offer lower prices, many other companies do not match that, and the real cost can be hidden.
  3. Many small satellite launchers struggle in the market because they face tough competition and higher costs. The trend is shifting back towards larger rockets that can handle multiple satellites at once.

Choosing Wisely: NRO and SDA Acquisitions

Ill-Defined Space • 38 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics National Security Military Aerospace Intelligence
  1. The National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) is ahead in deploying satellites compared to the Space Development Agency (SDA). This is important because faster satellite deployment can improve national security.
  2. The missions of the NRO and SDA are different. The NRO supports a wide range of intelligence needs, while the SDA is focused mainly on helping U.S. military forces detect missile threats.
  3. Both agencies are trying to fix slow satellite acquisition processes. The NRO's partnership with SpaceX is helping them deploy quickly, while the SDA is still working on building a robust supply chain for their satellites.

Picking a Proven Winner: NRO and Starshield

Ill-Defined Space • 47 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Aerospace Defense Space Manufacturing Intelligence
  1. The National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) is rapidly deploying satellites using SpaceX's Starshield, increasing its satellite fleet significantly in a short time. This means they are becoming more reliant on a single company for their satellite manufacturing needs.
  2. In contrast, the Space Development Agency (SDA) is struggling to build a solid supply chain and is concerned about its satellite manufacturers. They need to make and deploy a larger number of satellites than currently planned.
  3. The NRO's approach may help it quickly achieve its goals, but it raises questions about the risk of depending heavily on SpaceX for critical military capabilities.

471: Relative Valuation, Perplexity AI, RIP Artifact, Hertz Sells Teslas, Marc Andreessen, DARPA Plane, Uranium, LEDs, and Jake Gyllenhaal

Liberty’s Highlights • 1041 implied HN points • 17 Jan 24
🕹 Technology AI Electric Vehicles AI Applications Renewable Energy Aerospace
  1. Opportunity cost is often invisible but significant, so consider it in decision-making.
  2. Relative valuation in investing can be misleading, so always dig deeper.
  3. Mixing children of different ages in schools could offer benefits in learning and social development.

How to Build a Satellite: A Comprehensive Guide

Space Ambition • 179 implied HN points • 24 May 24
🕹 Technology Space Tech Engineering Innovation Aerospace
  1. Building satellites is getting easier, which is why there are so many more in space now. A lot of companies are able to provide satellite services without even owning a satellite.
  2. Planning is really important when developing a satellite. You need to decide its goals, select the right orbit, and choose if you will build or buy your satellite components.
  3. Testing is a crucial step in satellite assembly. After building, you have to run various tests to make sure everything works properly before sending it to space.

SpaceX is Killing It

startupdreams • 105 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Aerospace Innovation Satellites Space Exploration Startups
  1. SpaceX has stopped taking new Starlink customers in some US cities, which shows how far its internet service has come in just a decade after being doubted.
  2. Starlink has over 6,000 satellites in space and 5 million active users, meaning it brings in a lot of cash that can support SpaceX's other projects.
  3. With the successful launch of the Starship rocket, SpaceX plans to have over 400 launches of Starship in the next four years, showing their commitment to advancing space technology.

Chinese Commercial Aircraft Reading List

Construction Physics • 208 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
🕹 Technology Aerospace Manufacturing Reports National Security Industry Trends
  1. Learning about China's aircraft industry can be challenging, but there are valuable resources available. These include government reports, media articles, and books that cover the topic.
  2. RAND reports are particularly useful for understanding the progress of Chinese aerospace. They provide in-depth analysis on various aspects of commercial aircraft manufacturing in China.
  3. If you're interested in this field, starting with reputable reports can give you a solid foundation, even if they are not easily readable like a typical book.

Gateways to the Cosmos: From Gigantic Spaceports to Unconventional Methods of Reaching Space

Space Ambition • 419 implied HN points • 01 Sep 23
🕹 Technology Space Exploration Aerospace Satellite Technology Innovation
  1. There are many active launch sites around the world, with a total of 66 launch sites identified, including 46 currently operational. These sites are crucial for space exploration and are usually equipped with necessary facilities.
  2. The rise of private companies is changing how rockets are launched. Smaller rockets and satellite launches are becoming more common, leading to the creation of smaller spaceports tailored to these needs.
  3. Some countries are considering building spaceports far from home due to advantageous geography or legal reasons. Launching rockets closer to the equator, for example, can make the process more efficient.

The SDA’s Inertia-imposed Challenges

Ill-Defined Space • 19 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Defense Military Aerospace Policy Industry
  1. The Space Development Agency (SDA) is struggling with supply chain issues for satellite manufacturing. This is partly due to a past focus on slow production, which created a system that favors large companies over smaller, more agile ones.
  2. The SDA's contracts often go to established companies that have experience writing proposals but may lack the capability to produce satellites quickly. This means the SDA risks getting solutions that aren't as effective as what smaller, more innovative companies could offer.
  3. The SDA aims to increase the number of satellites produced swiftly, but many contractors may not be able to meet these high demands. This situation emphasizes the need for a more responsive and effective satellite manufacturing base.

Space Ambition 1st Anniversary: We Got a Bit Closer to the Stars

Space Ambition • 279 implied HN points • 15 Sep 23
🔬 Science Space Tech Astrophysics Aerospace Innovation Research
  1. Space Ambition attracted over 8,000 readers and completed more than 50 research projects in its first year. It's great to see such a big community focused on space and technology!
  2. The team believes that space technology can solve many of Earth's problems and aims to make it more understandable and accessible for everyone. They want to connect space with everyday life.
  3. Readers have shared inspiring stories about how the blog has influenced their careers, which shows the positive impact of their work in the space sector. It's awesome to see people motivated to pursue their dreams!

Italy: A Rising Star with Significant Contributions to the Space Industry

Space Ambition • 259 implied HN points • 22 Sep 23
🕹 Technology Space Industry Aerospace Innovation Startups Research
  1. Italy has a strong aerospace industry, especially in Turin, which is a major global hub with over 160 companies and thousands of workers. It plays a key role in space projects, including working on the International Space Station.
  2. Italy is an important player in the European Space Agency, contributing significant funding and securing contracts for projects like Earth observation satellites and lunar studies. This shows Italy's growing influence in the space sector.
  3. The Italian space community is supported by a mix of government, academic institutions, and private companies. This collaboration helps foster innovation and growth among startups in the space industry.

Spotlight: John Bucknell – CEO of Virtus Solis

Space Ambition • 199 implied HN points • 04 Aug 23
🕹 Technology Energy Space Aerospace Innovation Startups
  1. Virtus Solis is working on space-based solar power satellites. These can provide continuous energy, unlike traditional solar panels that depend on sunlight.
  2. The technology aims to solve global energy challenges by making clean energy accessible and affordable for everyone, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
  3. John Bucknell, the CEO, suggests that starting a business early in your career can make it easier, but experience also helps in understanding how to manage teams and solve problems.

Jet Propulsion: Evolution of Technology & the Future of Interplanetary Travel. Part 1.

Space Ambition • 319 implied HN points • 14 Apr 23
🕹 Technology Space Exploration Engineering Aerospace Innovation
  1. Jet propulsion is a key technology for space travel. It works by pushing gas out one way to move in the opposite direction, based on Newton's third law.
  2. There are two main types of engines: high-thrust engines for fast launches and low-thrust engines for long, efficient journeys in space. Each type has its own use depending on the mission.
  3. The market for propulsion systems is growing rapidly, with innovations like 3D printing helping to make production cheaper and more efficient. This growth is driven by increasing satellite launches and the need for better space technology.

Spotlight: Noemie Alliel – Managing Director @ Starburst

Space Ambition • 219 implied HN points • 30 Jun 23
🕹 Technology Aerospace Startups Investing Consulting Innovation
  1. Starburst Aerospace runs accelerator programs to help startups connect with large companies and secure funding. These programs provide valuable services and expertise to entrepreneurs without requiring direct investment.
  2. Successful startups often need a strong team and a well-researched idea, along with the ability to communicate their vision clearly. Investors look for uniqueness, innovation, and a solid understanding of the market.
  3. Emerging trends in the space industry include remote sensing, in-space manufacturing, and food production in space. These areas hold potential for significant growth and investment opportunities.

What to make of China's 6th gen?

TP’s Substack • 53 implied HN points • 26 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Aerospace Defense Engineering Innovation Research
  1. China's 6th generation fighter jets may be larger and more powerful than previous models, possibly able to carry more fuel and advanced electronics.
  2. The future of air warfare might rely on a mix of manned aircraft and unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs), potentially changing the typical roles and payloads expected of fighter jets.
  3. The anticipated design and capabilities of these new jets suggest they will need significant power for advanced technologies, allowing them to perform a variety of missions effectively.

Spotlight: Adrien Michaud – Rocket Lab Space Ambassador

Space Ambition • 319 implied HN points • 03 Mar 23
🕹 Technology Space Tech Engineering Startups Aerospace Innovation
  1. Space tech isn't just for engineers; there are many paths into the industry. You can find roles in areas like HR or business development even if you don’t have a traditional aerospace background.
  2. The future of space tech may resemble civil aviation or the car industry, with either a few big players or many smaller companies. This means a lot of new ideas and technologies may emerge, but they also need solid ways to make money.
  3. Watching inspiring films like Apollo 13 can ignite passion for space and problem-solving. Many people find their calling early and choose careers that let them work on real-world challenges in space tech.

More thoughts on 6th generation projects

TP’s Substack • 43 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Aerospace Military Innovation Engineering Defense
  1. The J-36 aircraft is designed to handle very high power demands for its various technologies, like radar and electronic warfare. This means it needs advanced electrical systems to support all its capabilities.
  2. The J-36 is a multi-role aircraft that acts as a central hub, coordinating various other unmanned vehicles and aircraft during missions. This makes it a crucial part of modern combat strategies.
  3. With its potential long range and high speed, the J-36 can launch attacks from great distances while remaining hard to detect. It's designed to be a tough target for enemies, making it a valuable asset in air operations.

Space Launch technology: are we stuck?

Space Ambition • 399 implied HN points • 21 Oct 22
🕹 Technology Space Tech Aerospace Engineering Innovation Startups
  1. Many companies in the space launch industry are not innovating much. They are mostly making small changes to old ideas instead of developing new technologies.
  2. The space launch market is complex and requires a lot of money and time to create viable products. This makes it hard for new businesses to compete with big players like SpaceX.
  3. There are new ideas in space launch technology that may change how we send things into space. Some companies are exploring different methods, like using external energy sources, which could make launches more efficient.

South Bay LA is Ground Zero for the Hard Tech Wave and Here's Why

Nathan’s Substack • 79 implied HN points • 15 Dec 23
🕹 Technology Startups Aerospace Automotive Networking Hardware
  1. South Bay LA, including areas like Redondo Beach, El Segundo, and Torrance, is experiencing a boom in hard tech innovation. The region is home to a growing number of young founders and engineers leveraging decades of experience and innovative tools from companies like SpaceX.
  2. The concentration of talent in South Bay is reminiscent of Richard Florida's theory on talent clusters, where talent attracts more talent, leading to a cycle of innovation and success. The region's history in aerospace has also played a significant role in shaping this talent pool.
  3. The alumni networks of SpaceX and Tesla have significantly contributed to the entrepreneurial spirit in South Bay, with many new hard tech companies emerging from these connections. The presence of these networks has made South Bay a hub for hard tech innovation and collaboration.

News from Space Ambition

Space Ambition • 79 implied HN points • 01 Dec 23
🕹 Technology Aerospace Startups Investment Education Networking
  1. Space Ambition hosted a successful pitch session with 11 startups and over 25 investors from around the world. It was a great opportunity for entrepreneurs to showcase their innovative ideas.
  2. A spacetech internship for high school students in Singapore gave them hands-on experience in venture capital and inspired them to consider careers in the aerospace sector. Learning directly from experienced professionals can really spark interest in young minds.
  3. The recent Spacetech meet-up connected people online and offline in six countries, focusing on important aerospace topics. Events like these help build a community and keep passion for space exploration alive.

From J-10 to J-XD - History

TP’s Substack • 27 implied HN points • 26 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Aerospace Military Engineering Innovation History
  1. China's fighter jet development has evolved significantly from earlier models, with newer jets like the J-10 and J-20 showing vast improvements in technology and performance.
  2. The transition from 4th to 5th generation fighter jets has been important for the PLAAF, highlighting advancements in stealth, electronics, and weaponry.
  3. Looking ahead, the next generation of fighters, like the J-XD, will likely rely on AI and integrate with drones for enhanced combat capabilities.

Hybrid Technology is better than ICE

TP’s Substack • 26 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Electric Vehicles Aerospace Defense technology Energy Efficiency
  1. Hybrid technology, like plug-in hybrids, is better for many situations than traditional gasoline engines because they can be more efficient and provide longer ranges.
  2. Electrical systems in hybrid vehicles are more compact and can react faster, making them easier to integrate with advanced technology.
  3. There is growing interest in hybrid technology for various applications, including air travel and military vehicles, as they are seen as more efficient compared to fully battery electric options.

The sound epistemics behind Boom's breaking of the sound barrier

Building the Builders • 7 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
💼 Business Entrepreneurship Innovation Startups Aerospace Leadership
  1. Blake Scholl started from scratch in the aerospace industry. He had no prior experience but was determined to learn everything necessary to build a supersonic jet.
  2. Instead of accepting common reasons why supersonic flight couldn't work, Blake researched thoroughly and found that many of those reasons were outdated or inaccurate.
  3. He embraced his confusion and used it as motivation to improve his understanding. Keeping a 'confusion list' helped him tackle and clarify tough concepts over time.

A Radical Approach to Handle Your Mistakes

Ruben Ugarte's Growth Needle™ • 19 implied HN points • 23 Jan 24
💼 Business Management Innovation Safety Aerospace Organizational Behavior
  1. Volunteering mistakes can lead to safety improvements. In aviation, encouraging staff to report errors has made flying much safer over the years.
  2. Boeing's decline from an innovator to a company facing serious issues shows the consequences of neglecting quality and safety.
  3. The airline industry adopted new practices that prioritized transparency, leading to a safer environment for both passengers and employees.