Space Café Radio

Navigating Space Security and the Future of Lunar Exploration with Dr Jessica West Join us in this Space Cafe Radio episode as we sit down with Dr Jessica West, a senior researcher at Project Ploughshares in Canada, recently back from the Outer Space Security Conference in Geneva. Dr West shares insights on changes in the global space security landscape since her first conference in 2007, highlighting inclusivity and the introduction of new topics like cis-lunar space security. We delve into the complexities of space governance, dual-use technologies, and the importance of transparency and dialogue among nations. Discover how the safety and interoperability challenges on the lunar surface can encourage international collaboration and hear perspectives from young experts shaping future space policies. This episode is packed with valuable discussions on the legal, doctrinal, and practical hurdles in ensuring a secure and peaceful use of space. 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!

Space Café Radio - Space Sustainability: Challenges and Future Prospects with Dr Nic Ross In this episode of Space Cafe Radio, host Torsten Kriening sits down with Dr Nic Ross, co-author of the 3rd NIPARO Summit report and a leading voice in space sustainability. Together, they explore the evolving definition of sustainability in the space sector, the challenges of balancing innovation with responsible stewardship, and the philosophical and practical dilemmas facing the industry. Dr Ross shares insights from the recent NIPARO Summit, discussing the importance of holistic approaches to sustainability, the impact of orbital debris, and the often-overlooked environmental costs of space activities—including supercomputing and data analysis. The conversation delves into the complexities of regulation, insurance, and international policy, as well as the ethical questions of who truly benefits from space exploration. You will gain a nuanced understanding of the urgent need for global cooperation, the lessons space policy can learn from Earth’s environmental crises, and Dr Ross’s vision for a sustainable future in orbit and beyond. This episode is essential listening for anyone interested in the future of space, policy, and the shared responsibility to keep the final frontier accessible for all. Useful links: NIPARO 3rd Summit Report 2nd Summit Report 1st Summit Report 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!

Space Café Radio – Poland’s Space Ambitions with Col. Marcin Mazur In this episode of Space Café Radio, host Torsten Kriening is joined by Colonel Marcin Mazur of Polish Space Agency (POLSA) to explore Poland’s fast-rising role in space. Almost half a century after its first astronaut flew into orbit, Poland has returned to human spaceflight with the AX-4 mission – a highly symbolic step that signals the nation’s ambition to be a full partner in global space exploration. But this milestone is only one part of a much broader national effort. Together, Torsten and Col. Mazur discuss: national space strategyPolish Armed Forces and Ministry of Defencespace situational awareness (SSA) CAMILA Earth observation constellationsatcomsovereign space infrastructureEuropean cooperation through ESA and EU programsnational capabilitieseducation and workforce developmentCol. Mazur also reflects on the symbolic power of Poland’s astronaut mission and outlines the next steps for his country’s space ambitions – from lunar exploration to a stronger role in European and transatlantic space partnerships. Tune in for a unique insight into how Poland is shaping its space future, and what it means for Europe’s collective space ambitions. 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!

Space Sustainability and Security: Insights from Dr Peter Martinez In this insightful episode of Space Café Radio, SpaceWatch.Global's Torsten Kriening interviews Dr Peter Martinez, Executive Director of the Secure World Foundation. They discuss space governance, the 2025 Global Counter Space Capability Report, and the indispensable UN COPUOS Briefing Book. The episode delves into the 7th Summit for Space Sustainability in Paris, the EU Space Act, and pressing issues in space traffic coordination and debris mitigation. Dr. Martinez shares his expertise on space sustainability, policy updates, and the evolving landscape of global space security. Useful Links 2025 Global Counterspace Capabilities Report COPUOS Briefing Book 7th Summit for Space Sustainability 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!

Exploring Very Low Earth Orbits (VLEO): The Future of Space Systems with Prof René Laufer In this captivating episode of our Space Cafe Radio, recorded live in Berlin, host Torsten Kriening sits down with Professor René Laufer, Head of Space Systems at the Lulea University of Technology. They discuss the significance of Very Low Earth Orbits (VLEO), exploring whether it is a game-changer or just orbital optimism. They discuss the unique challenges and advantages of VLEO, such as real-time data transmission, minimized space debris impact, and the technological advancements enabling new possibilities. Join us as we uncover how Europe is positioned in this burgeoning field and why policymakers and investors should pay attention to VLEO now. 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!

Poland's Space Strategy and Lessons from Ukraine: Insights from Brigadier General Marcin Górka In this special episode of Space Cafe Radio, host Torsten Kriening and are live from the 8th Prague Space Security Conference with Brigadier General Marcin Górka, Director at the Department of Innovation at the Polish Ministry of National Defense and a key figure in shaping Poland's military space policy. General Górka discusses Poland’s strategic vision for space capabilities, integrating with NATO, and lessons learned from the Ukraine war. He highlights the importance of international cooperation, development of national space assets, and the evolving role of space in modern warfare. The conversation also shed a light into Poland’s space domain awareness, ISR capabilities, and future plans for space control and defense. 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!

Celebrating 50 Years of ESA: Achievements and Future Prospects with Dr. Kai-Uwe Schrogl In this special episode of Space Cafe Radio, host Torsten Kriening talked with Dr. Kai-Uwe Schrogl, ESA’s Special Advisor for Political Affairs. In this capacity Dr Schrogl is coordinating the events throughout the year, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the ESA Convention of 1975. The episode covers European Space Agency (ESA)'s achievements over the past five decades, its ongoing adaptability, and the future goals outlined in its Strategy 2040. Torsten Kriening and Kai-Uwe Schrogl also reflect on the significance of the ESA member states' support, the agency's unique role in the European space ecosystem, and the celebrations marking this milestone, including a major event with high-level representatives signing a Declaration of continued support, as well as plans for public engagement throughout the year. Useful Links: 50th Anniversary Statement 50 Years of ESA ESA Strategy 2040 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!

Europe's Space Power Dynamics: A Dialogue with Juliana Suess In this episode of Space Cafe Radio, Torsten Kriening looks into the critical topic of space security in Europe with Juliana Suess, an associate at the German Institute for International and Security Affairs (SWP). Recorded at the 8th Space Security Conference in Prague, Juliana Suess shares her expertise on the evolving dynamics of space policy and geopolitics. The discussion touches on the similarities and differences between the UK and Germany's approaches to space security, the impact of international collaborations, and the challenges Europe faces in terms of military procurement and public funding. She also highlights the shifting power balance in space, particularly with the rising assertiveness of China and the declining influence of Russia. Tune in for a comprehensive analysis of Europe's readiness to meet future space security challenges. 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!

Space Policy and Global Security: An Interview with Dr Peter Hays Join host Yvette Gonzalez on Space Cafe Radio for an thoughtful conversation with Dr Peter Hays, a leading authority on US space policy and national security, at the eighth Prague Space Security Conference. Explore pressing issues like Russian anti-satellite weapons, Chinese satellite capabilities, and the integration of commercial space activities into national security. Dr Hays discusses the challenges of space domain awareness, the need for government and commercial collaboration, and the importance of lowering the classification level of space programs to foster better international and commercial cooperation. Get a detailed look at how evolving threats and technological advancements are shaping the future of space security. 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 Future of Space Traffic Management: Insights from the US Office of Space Commerce In this episode of Space Cafe Radio from Prague, host Yvette Gonzalez interviews Janice Starzyk, Acting Director and Deputy Director of the US Department of Commerce, and Dr Mariel Borowitz, Head of International SSA Engagement. They discuss the evolution and future of space traffic management, the challenges of launching multiple satellites on a single mission, and the coordination between global SSA systems. Learn about the innovative TraCSS system, its role in collision avoidance and space safety, and the importance of international collaboration in space governance. 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!

Charting the Skies: Germany’s Military Space Command with Major General Traut In this episode from Prague, host Torsten Kriening sits down with Major General Michael Traut, Commander of the German Space Command, to discuss the rapid evolution of Germany's military space operations over the past three years. From becoming an independent command within the Air Force to participating in international initiatives like the US-led Olympic Defender, Germany's approach to space has dramatically shifted in response to new geopolitical challenges. Learn about the integration of commercial space assets, the emphasis on resilience, and the necessity of offensive and defensive capabilities in space. Major General Michael Traut also highlights the importance of a new German space architecture, focusing on real-time tactical operations, and discusses the broader implications for NATO and EU defense collaborations. 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!

EU Space Defense and Security Initiatives: An Interview with Christophe Morand In this episode of Space Café Radio live from Prague, host Torsten Kriening was joined by Christophe Morand, advisor to the European Commission's Directorate-General for Defense Industry and Space (DG DEFIS). As a former French Air Force Colonel with extensive experience in military space intelligence, Morand discusses the EU's current and future projects related to space and defense, the importance of the European Defense Fund (EDF), and the upcoming Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) negotiations. Learn about the EU's strategy for space situational awareness (SSA), space domain awareness (SDA), and the collaboration between EU member states and commercial entities. Discover how the EU plans to balance policy and operational roles in space security to ensure comprehensive preparedness for future challenges. 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!

Legal Insights for the New Space Era: Nathan O'Konek on NSG's Role In this episode of our Space Cafe Radio, host Torsten Kriening has an engaging conversation with Nathan O'Konek , General Counsel of NSG - Neo Space Group. Nathan shares his fascinating journey from a childhood fascination with space to his prominent role in the space industry. We dive deep into the complex landscape of space law, regulatory challenges, and the tension between commercial and regulatory impulses. Nathan also discusses his work in Saudi Arabia, the advancements under Vision 2030, and the promising future of the NSG. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the interplay of law, policy, and innovation in the space sector. Tune in to explore the intricacies of navigating legal and regulatory frameworks in the rapidly evolving world of space exploration. This episode is supported by NSG. Useful Links: Space Cafe Radio - with Martijn BlankenSpace Cafe Radio - with Jason AndrewsSpace Cafe Radio - with Dr Mark DickinsonSpace 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!

Innovative Space Education: A Deep Dive with Dr Rosa Duran Join todays host Yvette Gonzalez and special guest Dr Rosa Duran on Space Café Radio as they discuss the future of space education. Rosa Duran, president of Nucleo and an expert in science education, shares her journey from studying black holes to leading international space education initiatives. Learn about the transformative Explore mission, which aims to provide students with hands-on experience as analog astronauts, and the importance of preparing the next generation with cutting-edge technologies. Discover her vision for inclusive and personalized education that empowers students to be the best they can be. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that highlights the critical role of innovative teaching in shaping future space explorers. Useful Links: EXPLORE mission - 23-27 June 2025 in Alqueva, PortugalNUGLIOCOSPARSpace 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 Space Strategies Unveiled: A Dialogue with Major General Wolfgang Ohl In this episode of Space Cafe Radio, host Torsten Kriening interviews Major General Wolfgang Ohl, the Deputy Director General for Military Strategy and Operations, about Germany's evolving space defense strategy. The conversation covers topics such as the importance of space situational awareness, the role of Germany's Space Command, developments in space-based communication and ISR capabilities, and the impact of geopolitical events like the Russian War in Ukraine on space security. General Ohl emphasizes the need for resilience, international collaboration, and strategic planning to ensure the usability and defense of space assets. Tune in to gain insights into Germany's current and future space defense capabilities. Useful link: National Security Strategy GermanyNational Security and Defence Industry Strategy GermanyGerman Space CommandSpace SymposiumGermany joins Space Multinational Force-Operation Olympic DefenderSpace 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 Future of Earth Observation: AI, Quantum Sensors, and Industry Insights In this special episode of Space Cafe Radio, recorded at the St. Louis Airport, our host, Torsten Kriening sits down with Sylvain Drillholle, Manager at Novaspace, to discuss the latest trends and future directions in earth observation. From the accelerating role of AI in processing hyperspectral imagery to the importance of governmental budgets in driving industry resilience, the conversation covers key insights from the recent GEOINT 2025 event. They also delve into the evolving space industry landscape, including the significance of SAR imagery, the potential of quantum sensors, and the growing need for European cooperation in space technology. Tune in for an expert analysis on how AI and technological advancements are set to transform the future of earth observation. Useful link: USGIF 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 Future of the Space Economy: Insights from Space Capital's Chad Anderson Join Space Café Radio at the GEOINT Symposium 2025 in St. Louis as Laura Todd sits down with Chad Anderson, founder and managing partner of Space Capital, to discuss the challenges and opportunities of the space economy. Learn about the evolution of space-based technologies, the role of geo-intelligence and satellite communications, and how emerging industries are shaping the future. Discover how Space Capital's frameworks provide valuable insights into infrastructure, distribution, and applications, making space technologies accessible and impactful in various sectors. Chad also shares his thoughts on AI integration, space traffic management, and the exciting potential in the lunar economy. Tune in to understand why space is not just an industry but a vast economy driving global innovation and economic value. 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!

From Space Symposium to Satellite Sustainability: Insights with Ron Lopez Join Torsten Kriening for an intriguing episode of Space Cafe '33 Minutes with...' as he sits down with Ron Lopez, President and Managing Director of AstroScale US, at their Denver facility following an exciting Space Symposium. They dive into how Astroscale is pioneering smaller, lighter satellite designs and discuss their latest advancements in the field of national security and commercial satellite logistics. Ron Lopez shares insights from the 40th Space Symposium, the geopolitical landscape affecting space operations, and the innovative projects Astroscale has undertaken, including their groundbreaking refueling program. Learn about the company's global achievements, their commitment to space sustainability, and what to expect in the next 12 months. This episode is packed with fascinating details on the evolution of satellite technology and space situational awareness. Don't miss out! Useful Links: Astroscale U.S. Astroscale U.S. refueling mission Video podcast 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!

Future Horizons: ISU President Dr. John Wensveen on Moonshot 2030 & the Space Economy Join Senior Editor and Advisor Laura Todd on Space Café Radio for an enlightening conversation with Dr. John Wensveen, President of the International Space University, recorded at the Space Symposium 2025 in Colorado Springs. Dr Wensveen shares his vision for ISU's future, the creation of satellite campuses, and the pivotal Moonshot 2030 strategic plan. He discusses the crucial role of space in everyday life, the importance of global collaboration, and the need for continuous education and re-skilling to meet the demands of the evolving space economy. Tune in to understand how ISU is positioning itself as a central hub for space education and innovation. Useful Links: ISU Homepage Video Podcast 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!

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 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!