#134: On-Orbit Services | Chris Blackerby, Astroscale

Space Business Podcast

Astroscale is a prominent space company from Japan, focused on a variety of on-orbit services incl. active space debris removal. My guest is their Group Chief Operating Officer, Chris Blackerby.

🕰️ Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction

01:41 - Elevator Pitch

03:22 - On-Orbit Servicing Categories

06:53 - Core Competency of Astroscale: RPOD

09:00 - Tech Stack of current Mission

12:41 - Automated Space Operations and Safety

17:53 - Space Situational Awareness

20:46 - Space Debris

29:22 - Regulations

32:25 - What if we had a catastrophic event in orbit?

35:53 - Astroscale's Vision for a Circular Space Economy

38:19 - Astroscale's Future Plans

41:10 - Astroscale's IPO

43:35 - Chris's journey from NASA to Astroscale

46:23 - U.S. vs. Japanese Space Sector

50:34 - Other Commercial Space Opportunities

52:06 - Chris’ Sci-Fi Favorites

📍 About the Guest:

Chris Blackerby, Group COO of Astroscale. Astroscale is a pioneering company focused on space debris removal, ensuring the sustainability of Earth’s orbits. Based in Tokyo, Chris manages strategic planning, global operations, and the company’s activities across Japan, the UK, and the U.S. He also draws on his extensive experience as NASA’s Attache for Asia, where he forged international partnerships and advised on space policy.

🔗 Connect with Chris:

🤝 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-blackerby-0111695/

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🏠Website : https://www.e2mc.space/

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🔷LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/raphaelrottgen/

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To Learn more about Space & the Space Economy:

1. "To Infinity" – Raphael’s Revised Introduction to the Space Economy
   This book provides an insightful look into the space economy, its current trends, and future opportunities.
   📚 https://a.co/d/6jIQ2LO
2. edX/EPFL's Space Economy MOOC
   This course offers a detailed understanding of the New Space Economy, covering key concepts and market developments.
   🎓 https://www.edx.org/course/new-space-
3. Space Business Newsletter
   📬 https://spacebusiness.substack.com/