Space Café Radio

Refueling the Future: How Orbit Fab is Building Gas Stations in Space Join host Maria Varmazis from T-Minus Space Daily as she sits down with Daniel Faber, CEO of Orbit Fab, at Commercial Space Week in Orlando, Florida for this special guest production for Space Café Radio. In this fascinating conversation, Daniel reveals how his company is revolutionizing space operations by building the critical infrastructure that will unlock humanity's multi-planetary future - refueling stations in orbit. Discover: From hydrazine to xenon, from LEO to GEO, Orbit Fab is building the industrial chemical supply chain that will enable satellite servicing, space manufacturing, and eventually - asteroid mining. As Daniel says: "Getting humanity off Earth is going to be the most significant thing that's happened since we crawled out of the ocean. Why would I work on anything else?" Space Café Radio brings you talks, interviews, and reports from the team of SpaceWatchers while out on the road. Each episode has a specific topic, unique content, and a personal touch. Enjoy the show, and let us know your thoughts at radio@spacewatch.global We love to hear from you. Send us your thought, comments, suggestions, love letters Support the show You can find us on: Spotify and Apple Podcast! Please visit us at SpaceWatch.Global, subscribe to our newsletters. Follow us on LinkedIn and X!

Power, Responsibility, and Europe’s Moment of Truth In this episode of Space Cafe Radio, host Torsten Kriening speaks with Dr. Patrick Keller, Deputy Research Director at the German Council on Foreign Relations, about a world order that is no longer theoretical - but brutally real. Dr. Keller dismantles one of Europe’s most comfortable assumptions: that international politics is still governed primarily by rules, institutions, and good intentions. That era, he argues, is fading fast. Power - political, economic, military, and technological - is once again the decisive currency. And Europe, especially Germany, must learn to think and act accordingly. The conversation moves swiftly from abstract geopolitics to concrete consequences. A more transactional United States, shifting signals from Washington, and growing doubts about the long-term credibility of NATO security guarantees force Europe to confront an uncomfortable reality: strategic autonomy is no longer a slogan - it is a necessity. From Greenland’s geopolitical relevance to the erosion of trust in long-standing alliances, Keller outlines a world in which geography, deterrence, and credibility matter again. In this context, space emerges not as a futuristic add-on, but as a core pillar of sovereignty. Investment in space infrastructure, resilience, and security is no longer optional - it is foundational for national and European defense. Perhaps most striking is Keller’s call for clarity. Germany, he argues, must distinguish between what is essential and what is merely comfortable. Defense capability, economic competitiveness, technological leadership, and European cohesion must take precedence over symbolic debates and strategic hesitation. Looking toward 2026, the message is unmistakable: Germany has the weight, the responsibility, and the opportunity to lead - but only if it is willing to act. Leadership, in this new global order, means making hard choices early rather than paying higher prices later. This episode of Space Cafe Radio is not about alarmism. It is about realism. And about Europe finally stepping into a role it can no longer afford to avoid. Space Café Radio brings you talks, interviews, and reports from the team of SpaceWatchers while out on the road. Each episode has a specific topic, unique content, and a personal touch. Enjoy the show, and let us know your thoughts at radio@spacewatch.global We love to hear from you. Send us your thought, comments, suggestions, love letters Support the show You can find us on: Spotify and Apple Podcast! Please visit us at SpaceWatch.Global, subscribe to our newsletters. Follow us on LinkedIn and X!

Brazil's Space Sector: 2025 Shifts and Future Outlook In this episode of Space Cafe Radio, host Torsten Kriening sits down with Ian Grosner, the Head of the Legal Department of the Brazilian Space Agency, Chair of the Working Group on the Definition and Delimitation of Outer Space of COPUOS, Chair of the Latin American and Caribbean Subcommittee (LAC-SC) of the IAF to discuss the significant shifts in Brazil and Latin America's space sector in 2025. Ian provides insights on how the industry has transitioned from a technology-driven model to a market-oriented approach, emphasizing the essential role of satellites in agriculture, climate policy, and security. They also talk about the educational impact of small satellite programs, Brazil's progress with the Alcântara launch site, and the challenges faced by the burgeoning space startup ecosystem. Join us as we explore how Brazil is integrating space-based data to drive economic and strategic outcomes on Earth. Space Café Radio brings you talks, interviews, and reports from the team of SpaceWatchers while out on the road. Each episode has a specific topic, unique content, and a personal touch. Enjoy the show, and let us know your thoughts at radio@spacewatch.global We love to hear from you. Send us your thought, comments, suggestions, love letters Support the show You can find us on: Spotify and Apple Podcast! Please visit us at SpaceWatch.Global, subscribe to our newsletters. Follow us on LinkedIn and X!

Space Threats and Nordic Perspectives on Security: In-Depth with NOSA's Christian Hauglie-Hanssen Join us in this insightful episode of Space Cafe Radio, where host Torsten Kriening talks about the critical role of space in security and defense from a Nordic perspective with Christian Hauglie-Hanssen, CEO of the Norwegian Space Agency (NOSA). He shares his reflections on 2025 and sheds light on Norway's space-related contributions to NATO and the European Commission. Hauglie-Hanssen discusses key programs like the Arctic Surveillance Program and the Arctic Satellite Broadband mission, emphasizing their impact on national and regional security. They also talk about the evolving space strategies in Europe and the United States, Germany's significant investment in space defense, and how these moves shape the broader geopolitical landscape. Don't miss this comprehensive discussion on the challenges and opportunities ahead in 2026 for Norway and its partners. Space Café Radio brings you talks, interviews, and reports from the team of SpaceWatchers while out on the road. Each episode has a specific topic, unique content, and a personal touch. Enjoy the show, and let us know your thoughts at radio@spacewatch.global We love to hear from you. Send us your thought, comments, suggestions, love letters Support the show You can find us on: Spotify and Apple Podcast! Please visit us at SpaceWatch.Global, subscribe to our newsletters. Follow us on LinkedIn and X!

Inside the DLR: National Security and Space Defense review 2025 with Prof. Dr. Anke Kaysser-Pyzalla Join us in this episode of Space Cafe Radio as host Torsten Kriening sits down with Inside the DLR: National Security and Space Defense review 2025 with Prof. Dr. Anke Kaysser-Pyzalla, Chairwoman of the German Aerospace Center (DLR). They talk the evolving role of DLR in national security and space defense research, discussing the impact of increased investments in the sector, the importance of dual-use technologies, and the agency's collaboration with startups and European partners. Discover insights into the future of space defense, robotics in space missions, quantum technologies, and much more. Don't miss this comprehensive overview of the advancements and ambitions in aerospace research. Space Café Radio brings you talks, interviews, and reports from the team of SpaceWatchers while out on the road. Each episode has a specific topic, unique content, and a personal touch. Enjoy the show, and let us know your thoughts at radio@spacewatch.global We love to hear from you. Send us your thought, comments, suggestions, love letters Support the show You can find us on: Spotify and Apple Podcast! Please visit us at SpaceWatch.Global, subscribe to our newsletters. Follow us on LinkedIn and X!

Reflecting on the Future of Military Space Strategies with Dr Bleddyn Bowen In this episode of Space Cafe Radio, host Torsten Kriening talks about the evolution of military space strategies and the pressing defense issues facing Europe in 2025. He welcomes back Dr Bleddyn Bowen, Associate Professor of AstroPolitics at Durham University, to discuss a wide range of topics, including Europe's shifting defense language, the formation of the US Space Force, NATO's recognition of space as a war-fighting domain, and the need for robust political leadership. Dr Bowen also reflects openly on Europe's dependence on US space capabilities and the potential future scenarios that Europe might be unprepared for. This insightful conversation highlights the intersection of international politics, military strategy, and space security. Useful Links: Original Sin Space Café Radio brings you talks, interviews, and reports from the team of SpaceWatchers while out on the road. Each episode has a specific topic, unique content, and a personal touch. Enjoy the show, and let us know your thoughts at radio@spacewatch.global We love to hear from you. Send us your thought, comments, suggestions, love letters Support the show You can find us on: Spotify and Apple Podcast! Please visit us at SpaceWatch.Global, subscribe to our newsletters. Follow us on LinkedIn and X!

2025 and Beyond: The Franco-German Dynamics in Military Space with Dr Xavier Pasco Join us as host Torsten Kriening sits down at the sidelines of the EU ISOS Strategic Forum 2025 in Munich with Dr Xavier Pasco, Director of the French Foundation for Strategic Research (FRS), to discuss the shifting dynamics in European military space policy. In the review series for 2025, they discuss the strategic moves by France and Germany, the importance of cooperation, and the investments being made in military space. Xavier provides insights into the Franco-German relationship, budgetary challenges, and the critical role of space in modern defense. Don't miss this comprehensive analysis of Europe's space strategy and the outlook for 2026! Space Café Radio brings you talks, interviews, and reports from the team of SpaceWatchers while out on the road. Each episode has a specific topic, unique content, and a personal touch. Enjoy the show, and let us know your thoughts at radio@spacewatch.global We love to hear from you. Send us your thought, comments, suggestions, love letters Support the show You can find us on: Spotify and Apple Podcast! Please visit us at SpaceWatch.Global, subscribe to our newsletters. Follow us on LinkedIn and X!

DLR National Experimental Test Center for Unmanned Aircraft Systems: Innovations and Future Prospects In this episode of Space Cafe Radio, host Torsten Kriening talks about the inauguration of the DLR National Drone Research Center in Cochstedt, Germany, on December 8, 2025. Joined by Daniel Suelberg, the center's Head, they explore the strategic and operational reasons behind Germany's need for such a facility. The conversation covers the reduction of testing times for drone technologies, the importance of the newly implemented geozone, and the center's different mission profiles, ranging from drone technology development to airspace integration and security applications. Additionally, they discuss the global position of Germany in drone technology, the importance of counter UAS technology, and the dual-use reality of civil and security applications. Tune in for a comprehensive understanding of how the center aims to bridge the gap between research, industry, and regulatory bodies to accelerate drone technology development. Useful link: DLR National Experimental Test Center for Unmanned Aircraft Systems We love to hear from you. Send us your thought, comments, suggestions, love letters Support the show You can find us on: Spotify and Apple Podcast! Please visit us at SpaceWatch.Global, subscribe to our newsletters. Follow us on LinkedIn and X!

2025 Reflections on China's Rapidly Expanding Space Sector with Blaine Curcio In this insightful episode of Space Café Radio, we talk about the advancements and strategic directions of China's space industry with guest Blaine Curcio, also known as the #ChinaSpaceGuy. Hosted by Torsten Kriening, the conversation covers everything from the explosive growth in communication satellite launches to the academic and commercial integration fueling innovation. We also explore China's international expansion efforts and its competitive drive against notable figures like Elon Musk. This episode provides a comprehensive overview of 2025 developments and offers predictions for the future, making it a must-listen for space enthusiasts and industry professionals. Useful link: OGC China Space Industry Reports We love to hear from you. Send us your thought, comments, suggestions, love letters Support the show You can find us on: Spotify and Apple Podcast! Please visit us at SpaceWatch.Global, subscribe to our newsletters. Follow us on LinkedIn and X!

Germany's Bold Moves in Space Defense: A Comprehensive Review with PD Dr Antje Noetzold In this episode of Space Cafe Radio, host Torsten Kriening interviews PD Dr Antje Noetzold, about Germany's significant shifts in space defense and security policies in 2025. They discuss Germany's constitutional changes allowing for increased space defense spending, implications of U.S. geopolitical moves, and emerging European space strategies. The conversation highlights Germany's ambitious 35 billion Euro commitment to space defense by 2030, the challenges and strategies for Europe to reduce dependency on the U.S., and the need for European coordination and accepted leadership in space security. Tune in to understand the evolving landscape of space politics and defense in Europe. Dr Antje Nötzold is a Senior Researcher in the Project “Support for Arms Control in Space (SACS)” at the University of the Bundeswehr Munich and a Private Lecturer at the Departement of International Relations at Chemnitz University of Technology. She is also a Non-Resident Fellow at the American German Institute (AGI) at Johns Hopkins University, Washington DC, an Associate Fellow at CASSIS (Center for Advanced Security, Strategic and Integration Studies) at the University Bonn, a member of the SichTRaum (Security and Technology in Space) research network and Vice President of the Germany-wide Gesellschaft für Sicherheitspolitik (Society for Security Policy). We love to hear from you. Send us your thought, comments, suggestions, love letters Support the show You can find us on: Spotify and Apple Podcast! Please visit us at SpaceWatch.Global, subscribe to our newsletters. Follow us on LinkedIn and X!

Exploring Collaboration and Innovation in the Space Industry In this episode of Space Cafe Radio, recorded live from the Space Tech Expo in Bremen, host Torsten Kriening discusses the critical roles of space technologies in everyday life with guests Georgia Jaggs (Managing Director, Halo PR and Communications), Aman Sandhur (Project Manager, RAL Space), Andrew Faiola (Commercial Director, Astroscale UK), and Olivier Camy (Technical Sales, Axon Cable). The conversation covers the evolving dynamics of the space industry from traditional to new space models, the importance of storytelling in communicating the sector's impact, and the significance of collaboration, both nationally and internationally, to achieve sustained innovation and mission success. Special focus is given to the challenges and the inspirational journeys of each guest, aiming to inspire the next generation to pursue careers in the space sector. The episode of Space Cafe Radio is supported by Astroscale UK. We love to hear from you. Send us your thought, comments, suggestions, love letters Support the show You can find us on: Spotify and Apple Podcast! Please visit us at SpaceWatch.Global, subscribe to our newsletters. Follow us on LinkedIn and X!

Switzerland's Military Space Strategy Explained - with Colonel GS Ludovic Monnerat In this episode of Space Cafe Radio, host Torsten Kriening talks with Ludovic Monnerat about Switzerland's comprehensive military space concept (Gesamtkonzeption Weltraum) and its implications for Swiss security and European cooperation. They discuss the distinction between data and intelligence, the evolution of Switzerland's space strategy, and the critical role of space-based assets in national defense. Col Monnerat explains why Switzerland, a traditionally neutral country, has been shaping its strategic thinking and military doctrine in response to global space developments. He provides insights into Switzerland's collaborations with other nations and commercial entities, the development of autonomous space capabilities, and the balance between neutrality and the necessity of defensive measures in space. Guest: Colonel GS Ludovic Monnerat is the designated Commander of the recently created Swiss Space Command. Col GS Monnerat launched this initiative 10 years ago with the aim of establishing sovereign and dual operational capabilities in space. He was previously in charge of medium- and long-term planning at the Joint Operations Command and responsible for operational training. Prior to that, he was head of the special operations section of the Joint Operations Command’s staff for 8 years. Space Café Radio brings you talks, interviews, and reports from the team of SpaceWatchers while out on the road. Each episode has a specific topic, unique content, and a personal touch. Enjoy the show, and let us know your thoughts at radio@spacewatch.global We love to hear from you. Send us your thought, comments, suggestions, love letters Support the show You can find us on: Spotify and Apple Podcast! Please visit us at SpaceWatch.Global, subscribe to our newsletters. Follow us on LinkedIn and X!

The Role of Geospatial and Earth Observation for a Sustainable Future In this episode, recorded at the InterGeo 2025 in Frankfurt, host Torsten Kriening discuss with Aaron Addison, Executive Director, World Geospatial Industry Council the imperative role of geospatial technology and earth observation in tackling global challenges. He shares a personal perspective, motivated by a desire to create a thriving world for future generations. Discover how individual contributions and advancements in these fields are crucial to addressing issues larger than any single entity. Space Café Radio brings you talks, interviews, and reports from the team of SpaceWatchers while out on the road. Each episode has a specific topic, unique content, and a personal touch. Enjoy the show, and let us know your thoughts at radio@spacewatch.global We love to hear from you. Send us your thought, comments, suggestions, love letters Support the show You can find us on: Spotify and Apple Podcast! Please visit us at SpaceWatch.Global, subscribe to our newsletters. Follow us on LinkedIn and X!

Europe's Space Resilience Initiative Explained with Dr Pascal Legai In this episode of Space Café Radio, we take you deep into one of Europe’s most strategic space initiatives: ERS – European Resilience from Space. Host Torsten Kriening is joined by ESA Director General Dr. Josef Aschbacher and his Security Advisor Dr. Pascal Legai to unpack how ERS aims to give Europe independent, secure, and rapid access to intelligence from orbit – and why this matters now more than ever. Dr. Aschbacher explains how ERS is designed as a “system of systems”, federating national, commercial, and institutional capabilities into a resilient European framework. He outlines the ambition to move from fragmented assets to a coherent, interoperable architecture that can deliver near-real-time situational awareness for crises, defence, and security. Dr. Legai then takes us into the core of the concept: We also discuss: If you want to understand how Europe plans to move from strategy to implementation on space security and resilience, this episode is your roadmap. Useful Links: ERS ProgramSpace Café Radio brings you talks, interviews, and reports from the team of SpaceWatchers while out on the road. Each episode has a specific topic, unique content, and a personal touch. Enjoy the show, and let us know your thoughts at radio@spacewatch.global We love to hear from you. Send us your thought, comments, suggestions, love letters Support the show You can find us on: Spotify and Apple Podcast! Please visit us at SpaceWatch.Global, subscribe to our newsletters. Follow us on LinkedIn and X!

Unveiling Germany's Historic Space Safety and Security Strategy In this episode of Space Cafe Radio, host Torsten Kriening talks with Michael Kniepen, Head of Division politics at the German Ministry of Defense, about Germany's first-ever Space Safety and Security Strategy, released on November 19, 2025. Join us as we discuss the significance of this document, and explore the political, military, and European implications. Learn about Germany's newfound recognition of space as a contested domain, the investments needed for space security, and how this strategy aims to integrate European partners into a cohesive space security architecture. Tune in for insights on the strategic shifts and future prospects of German and European space defense. Useful document: Space Safety and Security Strategy Germany Space Café Radio brings you talks, interviews, and reports from the team of SpaceWatchers while out on the road. Each episode has a specific topic, unique content, and a personal touch. Enjoy the show, and let us know your thoughts at radio@spacewatch.global We love to hear from you. Send us your thought, comments, suggestions, love letters Support the show You can find us on: Spotify and Apple Podcast! Please visit us at SpaceWatch.Global, subscribe to our newsletters. Follow us on LinkedIn and X!

Novaspace Expands to India: Insight into the Booming Indian Space Market In this episode of Space Café Radio, host Torsten Kriening unmantles the exciting announcement of Novaspace opening a new office in India. Join us as he discusses the rising prominence of India in the space sector with Surbhi Dalmia, the Managing Director of Novaspace India, and Rainer Horn, Partner at Novaspace. Discover the strategic reasons behind choosing Bangalore, understand the dynamic growth of India's space market, and learn about the significant contributions of the Indian space sector. We also explore India's regulatory support for startups and the impact of governmental policies on the sector. Space Café Radio brings you talks, interviews, and reports from the team of SpaceWatchers while out on the road. Each episode has a specific topic, unique content, and a personal touch. Enjoy the show, and let us know your thoughts at radio@spacewatch.global We love to hear from you. Send us your thought, comments, suggestions, love letters Support the show You can find us on: Spotify and Apple Podcast! Please visit us at SpaceWatch.Global, subscribe to our newsletters. Follow us on LinkedIn and X!

NATO's Future and Germany's Role in Space: Interview with General (Retired) Chris Badia In this episode of Space Café Radio, host Torsten Kriening interviews General (Retired) Chris Badia, former NATO Deputy Supreme Allied Commander Transformation (NATO ACT). They explore the concept of transformation within NATO and its relevance to modern defense, emphasizing the importance of future-oriented thinking. The discussion covers Germany's emerging role as a military space power, the significance of space, data, and command structures, and the challenges inherent in cultural and technological shifts. General Badia offers insights into how NATO and Germany can adapt to maintain strategic advantages, touching on lessons from Ukraine and the need for innovation, digitalization, and information sharing. Space Café Radio brings you talks, interviews, and reports from the team of SpaceWatchers while out on the road. Each episode has a specific topic, unique content, and a personal touch. Enjoy the show, and let us know your thoughts at radio@spacewatch.global We love to hear from you. Send us your thought, comments, suggestions, love letters You can find us on: Spotify and Apple Podcast! Please visit us at SpaceWatch.Global, subscribe to our newsletters. Follow us on LinkedIn and X!

Convergence of Commercial and Military Space Defense: Insights from the Space Defense and Security Summit Join SpaceWatch.Global's Torsten Kriening for an exclusive interview with Rainer Horn, Managing Director of Novaspace, about the Space Defense and Security Summit (SDSS) during the World Space Business Week in Paris. This episode dives into key discussions from the conference, highlighting the increasing need for international cooperation in space security, the shift towards faster deployment of existing commercial technologies, and the evolving narrative on offensive and defensive space capabilities. Learn about the significant growth in global military spending on space, the challenges of integrating commercial assets into defense architectures, and predictions for the future of space defense. Useful Links: World Space Business WeekSpace Defense and Security Summit Space Café Radio brings you talks, interviews, and reports from the team of SpaceWatchers while out on the road. Each episode has a specific topic, unique content, and a personal touch. Enjoy the show, and let us know your thoughts at radio@spacewatch.global We love to hear from you. Send us your thought, comments, suggestions, love letters You can find us on: Spotify and Apple Podcast! Please visit us at SpaceWatch.Global, subscribe to our newsletters. Follow us on LinkedIn and X!

The Seventh Summit of Space Sustainability: Europe's Vision for Space Security In this episode of Space Café Radio, recorded live at the Ministry of Economics of France in Paris during the seventh Summit of Space Sustainability, host Torsten Kriening talks with Marjolijn van Deelen, the EU Special Envoy for Space of the European External Action Service (EEAS) Topics include the European Union's vision (Defence Readiness Roadshow) and strategy for space security, the importance of space as a strategic enabler, the preparedness union strategy, and the newly launched European Space Shield. We also discuss the intersection of space and defense communities, member states' roles, and the balance between national and pan-European initiatives. Join us for insights into Europe's defense readiness roadmap and its implications for the future. Useful Links: Defence Readiness Roadmap 2030Space Café Radio brings you talks, interviews, and reports from the team of SpaceWatchers while out on the road. Each episode has a specific topic, unique content, and a personal touch. Enjoy the show, and let us know your thoughts at radio@spacewatch.global We love to hear from you. Send us your thought, comments, suggestions, love letters You can find us on: Spotify and Apple Podcast! Please visit us at SpaceWatch.Global, subscribe to our newsletters. Follow us on LinkedIn and X!

Germany's Bold Leap into Space Defense: Interview with Major General Michael Traut In this episode of Space Café Radio, we explore Germany's ambitious space defense plans announced by Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, featuring major investments worth 35 billion Euros by 2030. Host Torsten Kriening reflects on Germany's evolving role in space security and interviews Major General Michael Traut, Commander of the German Space Command. General Traut discusses the operational and functional developments in Germany's space defense capabilities, including satellite communication, early warning systems, and active counter-space initiatives. They also cover Germany's collaborative efforts with European and international partners, the role of commercial technology, and the importance of adapting procurement processes to meet the new pace of space defense challenges. Tune in to understand Germany's strategic shift toward becoming a significant player in the realm of space defense and security. Useful Links: German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius' speechSpace Café Radio brings you talks, interviews, and reports from the team of SpaceWatchers while out on the road. Each episode has a specific topic, unique content, and a personal touch. Enjoy the show, and let us know your thoughts at radio@spacewatch.global We love to hear from you. Send us your thought, comments, suggestions, love letters You can find us on: Spotify and Apple Podcast! Please visit us at SpaceWatch.Global, subscribe to our newsletters. Follow us on LinkedIn and X!