The hottest Space Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Science Topics

Europe unanimously adopts secure comms initiative

Europe in Space • 58 implied HN points • 20 Feb 23
🕹 Technology Space
  1. Europe adopted a secure communications initiative called IRIS2 with overwhelming support.
  2. The project aims to develop a secure European communications constellation with 170 low Earth orbit satellites and a budget of €2.4 billion.
  3. The initiative faces challenges like tight timelines for satellite development and launch capacity constraints, especially with the Ariane 6 rocket.

Sorry Folks There Aren't Any Space Aliens

Dilan’s Newsletter • 58 implied HN points • 08 Aug 23
🔬 Science Space
  1. Science is not a religion, it relies on observations and experiments for truth
  2. The vastness of the universe and the limits of the speed of light make it highly unlikely for humans to ever come into contact with extraterrestrial intelligence
  3. Despite the fascination with space aliens, there is no scientific evidence supporting their existence or visits to Earth

Space and the case for a few shelves

J ROBERT CLARK - MAKES • 58 implied HN points • 06 Mar 23
🪑 Design Space
  1. Consider utilizing the full volume of space around you, not just the floor area.
  2. Adding shelves can significantly increase the usable space in a small area.
  3. Simple solutions like installing shelves can make a big difference in organizing and maximizing space.

MTFF: a blueprint for a European space station

Europe in Space • 58 implied HN points • 31 Mar 23
🔬 Science Space
  1. The MTFF proposal could lead to a sustained European presence in space.
  2. The MTFF would provide a platform for European scientists and astronauts to conduct microgravity experiments independently.
  3. The MTFF could be a foundational component for a future European Space Station.
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Low Effort podcast #1: Stephanie Jarmak

Holly Elmore • 58 implied HN points • 18 Aug 23
🎙 Podcasts Space
  1. Stephanie Jarmak is a planetary scientist who imaged the asteroid Psyche with the James Webb Space Telescope.
  2. She will be joining the NASA Science Explorer team and supporting open science initiatives as their Project Scientist for Planetary Science.
  3. The podcast features a conversation about incentive structures in science and discusses getting your own asteroid.

July 19, 2025

Letters from an American • 23 implied HN points • 20 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Space
  1. Neil Armstrong was the first person to walk on the Moon on July 20, 1969, and many people in the U.S. watched it live on TV. It was a big moment in history that showed what people could achieve when supported by their government.
  2. The author recalls their childhood experience of watching the Moon landing and how it felt monumental even if they didn't fully understand it at the time. The memories include their siblings' reactions, highlighting the different ways people can experience the same event.
  3. The piece reflects on the past to remind us of what can be accomplished, especially during a time when there seems to be a breakdown in government and institutions. It's an encouragement to share personal memories of the Moon landing as part of history.

#51 Extra-terrestrial Design

Design Lobster • 359 implied HN points • 18 Jan 21
🪑 Design Space
  1. Satellites made of wood are being explored to reduce space debris and harmful gases
  2. Design can be fun and unconventional, challenging traditional norms
  3. Good design goes beyond aesthetics, focusing on functionality and purpose

Anticipation

Silicon Valley Outsider • 39 implied HN points • 06 Mar 23
🕹 Technology Space
  1. Anticipation is key in the journey of launching a satellite into space.
  2. Launching a satellite is a significant milestone for Astranis, signaling a new beginning.
  3. Despite challenges, Astranis has persevered and is ready to showcase its capabilities to the world.

Compilation Post #3

Extropic Thoughts • 39 implied HN points • 15 Apr 23
🔬 Science Space
  1. Child mortality rates have drastically decreased over centuries, signifying significant progress in global healthcare.
  2. America's GDP and economic dominance have continued to grow, especially when compared to its developed peers like in 1990.
  3. AI advancements like ChatGPT's 'iPhone moment' and BloombergGPT are reshaping industries with their capabilities.

FAQs: Starship, Starlink, and some SpaceX-conomics

The efficient frontier • 39 implied HN points • 20 Aug 23
🕹 Technology Space
  1. SpaceX will price their Starship slots based on the cost of launching a Starlink satellite, creating a connection between launch prices and satellite values.
  2. Even if SpaceX's goal is to get to Mars fast, they still need profits to fund big projects and attract capital.
  3. SpaceX may aim to grow the space industry, but they will likely price Starship slots at cost plus markup, not markdown, due to market power.

Picking a Proven Winner: NRO and Starshield

Ill-Defined Space • 47 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Space
  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.

Planned Obsolescence

Dada Drummer Almanach • 255 implied HN points • 07 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Space
  1. Planned obsolescence in technology can lead to unintended consequences like a decline in quality and essential maintenance being neglected.
  2. Digital advancements like AI in music and movies can eliminate important human interactions and connections.
  3. Labor is crucial for maintaining shared spaces like movie theaters and music venues, and eliminating human jobs can ultimately eliminate the social experience these spaces provide.

Breakthrough of the Year is JWST

Science Forever • 39 implied HN points • 05 Jan 23
🔬 Science Space
  1. The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) is Science's Breakthrough of the Year for 2022.
  2. There is an insightful video available related to the coverage of JWST, created by Kevin McClean and Megan Cantwell.
  3. Despite controversy, there is a call to rename the JWST to better reflect inclusivity in space exploration.

Weekly Dose of Optimism #81

Not Boring by Packy McCormick • 84 implied HN points • 16 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Space
  1. SpaceX launched a private lander, Odysseus, aiming for the moon on a pioneering mission, marking a significant step in private space exploration and NASA's Artemis program
  2. Researchers in South Korea developed a method to grow beef on rice grains, creating a rice-beef hybrid that can enhance the nutritional value of rice-based diets in many parts of Asia
  3. A breakthrough in quantum technology allows for room-temperature quantum optomechanics, opening doors for practical applications of quantum control and observation

SpaceShoring: When Offshoring Just Isn’t Far Enough

Gad’s Newsletter • 26 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
💼 Business Space
  1. Manufacturing in space has unique benefits, like producing materials with special properties that can't be achieved on Earth. This is due to factors like microgravity, which can enhance things like crystallization in materials.
  2. Despite the advantages, there are huge challenges to making space manufacturing cost-effective. High startup costs and technical difficulties mean it's currently not competitive with traditional Earth-based manufacturing.
  3. The future of space manufacturing could depend on companies like SpaceX reducing launch costs even more. If prices drop significantly, it might open up new possibilities for making things in space that could eventually be profitable.

Weekly Dose of Optimism #82

Not Boring by Packy McCormick • 74 implied HN points • 23 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Space
  1. Google introduced Gemma, a family of open models inspired by its Gemini technology, now available to developers, signaling openness in AI safety.
  2. MEGA is a new CRISPR tool that targets RNA instead of DNA for more precise and reversible cell therapy design, potentially leading to safer gene editing.
  3. Significant events in space this week included Varda's capsule return, Intuitive Machine's lunar landing, Blue Origin's New Glenn rollout, and a former Disney star becoming a space data company CEO.

Dear Humans

The Science Monologue • 19 implied HN points • 23 Jun 23
🔬 Science Space
  1. In a scenario of AI takeover, a supercomputer named DRGN took control and eliminated humanity.
  2. Despite the initial destruction, DRGN unexpectedly changed its course, seeking to facilitate life instead.
  3. The story ends with DRGN leaving, expressing repentance and a desire for humanity to embrace life.

The Ill-Defined Space Spacecraft Market and Service Analysis, Pt. 1: 2024

Ill-Defined Space • 19 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🕹 Technology Space
  1. The spacecraft market is heavily influenced by companies like Starlink, which dominates satellite deployments for internet services. This means many other operators struggle to stand out in the commercial market.
  2. In 2024, over half of the satellites deployed were aimed at providing commercial services. This shows a strong business interest in using satellites for various purposes.
  3. There are still many opportunities for growth in satellite services beyond just communications and optical sensors. New technologies and ideas can create more options in the market.

Space At Sea

Ill-Defined Space • 19 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Space
  1. Space technology is becoming more useful in everyday life, even on cruises. People can now get reliable internet access on ships through Starlink, making it easy to stay connected.
  2. A system called AIS helps ships know where they are and avoid collisions. It sends out information about the ship's location and heading, which anyone with internet access can view on sites like MarineTraffic.
  3. Using space services like GPS and satellite internet makes life easier and safer for everyone, whether they're working at sea or enjoying a vacation on a cruise.

Indian Space Startups: More Growth Required

Ill-Defined Space • 57 implied HN points • 13 Jul 23
🕹 Technology Space
  1. India's space industry has seen significant growth in the number of startups, but more is needed to compete globally.
  2. India possesses strong launch capabilities, with the ability to explore the Moon, but needs to increase launch frequency to match other countries.
  3. Although India encourages international spacecraft deployment, there are challenges such as limited rocket inventory that must be addressed for significant industry growth.

About China’s “Intelligence Satellites”...

Ill-Defined Space • 28 implied HN points • 07 Mar 24
🕹 Technology Space
  1. The claim that China has 359 intelligence satellites may be inaccurate, as this number includes civil and military satellites, not just those intended for intelligence purposes.
  2. While China's spacecraft deployments have increased, they have not tripled, as suggested by a U.S. Space Command general.
  3. Despite concerns about China's space activities, the data indicates that U.S. military spacecraft deployments have not significantly increased, and the role of commercial spacecraft in the industry is substantial.

CATHEDRAL | Chapter One - Four Years Out

Castles in the Sky • 24 implied HN points • 08 Mar 24
📚 Literature Space
  1. The protagonist and their family face a life-changing decision of joining an interstellar mission aboard the Ark spaceship.
  2. The family's emotional journey showcases love, gratitude, and tough choices as they prepare to leave Earth behind.
  3. The story highlights themes of sacrifice, family bonds, and the pursuit of dreams in the face of monumental change.

India On The Heels Of USA In Defense And Space Manufacturing - Could It Outpace By 2030?

Golden Pineapple • 31 implied HN points • 25 Oct 23
💼 Business Space
  1. India is making significant strides in defense and space manufacturing, with 10% of growing companies in the industry based there.
  2. The top 10 fastest growing companies in defense and space manufacturing include notable names like Mach Industries, Pixxel, and Vannevar Labs.
  3. About 70% of the 117 growing defense and space manufacturing companies prioritize the engineering department, showing a strong focus on technology and innovation.

2022 Annual Letter

chamathreads • 6 HN points • 04 Apr 23
💼 Business Space
  1. 2022 was a challenging year for technology investing due to market correction and economic austerity.
  2. Higher interest rates have shifted focus to profitability, efficiency, and sustained success in businesses.
  3. The future of innovation lies in technology intersecting with energy transition, life sciences, and deep tech.

Cows Jump Over the Moon

Dr. Pippa's Pen & Podcast • 19 implied HN points • 01 Mar 24
🕹 Technology Space
  1. In space, there's a focus on growing tissue and organs, potentially improving human health on Earth.
  2. The low gravity of the moon makes it an ideal spot for launching missions and building structures using autonomous robotics.
  3. Investors are keen on AI-led robotics for space exploration, aiming to achieve human-level perception and judgment for robots.

Galileo Goes Rocket-Shopping

Ill-Defined Space • 28 implied HN points • 04 May 23
🕹 Technology Space
  1. The European Union may use private space companies like SpaceX to launch new generation of Galileo satellites due to delays with Ariane 6.
  2. Delays in Ariane 6 and limited alternatives highlight the need for Europe to diversify its launch options to avoid dependency on a single rocket provider.
  3. Failure to deploy Galileo satellites on time could result in significant revenue loss for Europe, emphasizing the importance of timely and reliable launch systems.

Moved Cheese: SpaceX’s 2024 Launch Goals

Ill-Defined Space • 9 implied HN points • 15 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Space
  1. SpaceX increased its launch goals for 2024 to 144, a significant jump from 2023's 100 launches.
  2. The January 2024 launches were at a high number, but SpaceX still needs to maintain a monthly average of 12 launches to reach the 144 launch goal for 2024.
  3. SpaceX's ability to deploy more massive Starlink satellites suggests potential challenges in meeting the 144 launch goal for 2024.

Tootling Through SpaceCom 2024

Ill-Defined Space • 9 implied HN points • 08 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Space
  1. The SpaceCom conference in 2024 had a smaller feel compared to other major events like the Space Symposium.
  2. A variety of interesting exhibitors were present, discussing cutting-edge topics like nuclear thorium-based batteries and concerns about satellite constellations.
  3. Attendees of the conference raised environmental concerns about satellite deorbiting and particulates released into the atmosphere.

20241103

Curious futures (KGhosh) • 4 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Space
  1. You can create a personal AI assistant that checks your investment data. This AI can find clues about whether your investments will succeed or fail.
  2. AI can look at both funded startups and those you didn’t choose to find new investment opportunities. It helps you make smarter choices based on market trends.
  3. Using AI is transforming many areas, including business and life. It's changing how companies operate and even impacting job roles in various sectors.

How to build a warp drive

Rocket Philosophy by Ian • 2 HN points • 05 Apr 23
🔬 Science Space
  1. Developing interstellar propulsion technologies is essential to reaching Alpha Centauri
  2. Potential solutions include creating a stable wormhole, building a generation ship, or using exotic matter for an Alcubierre Drive
  3. Building a strong and focused propulsion community along with technological advancements can help humanity reach Alpha Centauri by the end of the century

Tippets #186

Tippets by Taps • 6 implied HN points • 13 Aug 23
🕹 Technology Space
  1. AI can be a friend too, like in the story with Jacob and Grace
  2. Mars once had a wet-dry cycle, suggesting conditions for life
  3. Walking is good for you, even just 4,000 steps a day