Looking Back and Forward on Space Sustainability Conversations

Space to Grow closed out its first season with a wrap-up episode with hosts Chris Blackerby and Charity Weeden from Astroscale. They looked back on past conversations regarding space sustainability, policy, technology, and more. Then shared what they hope to bring to the show in its second season.“The best part has been the guests we’ve had and the diversity of those voices,” Weeden said. Blackerby echoed this sentiment, highlighting the nine space experts who were on the show.“The space community recognizes the importance, but most people outside of it don’t know how space affects them because it’s hard to grasp. Our speakers explained how orbital environments and space impact society.” - Chris BlackerbyWeeden noted a central theme in their messages on achieving sustainability. “It’s time to change our culture and how we view space to make it more sustainable.”Blackerby also remarked about how their conversations have created awareness of the impact on society. “The space community recognizes the importance, but most people outside of it don’t know how space affects them because it’s hard to grasp. Our speakers explained how orbital environments and space impact society.”While they covered many topics, Weeden said, “We could’ve been more technology focused and explaining how the technology works. Space sustainability is a multi-disciplinary issue.”Blackerby agreed they should prioritize technical topics. He also wants to dig in more on the fundraising, customer development, investments, and business side of space. “There are more stories about the growth of companies, big and small, and how they form and grow to tell.”Ultimately, the resounding emphasis of the show is promoting the responsible use of space and moving to a “leave no trace” culture.