81. The Space-Earth Ecosystem: How Orbits Shape Our Future

Ecosystemic Futures

In this enlightening episode of Ecosystemic Futures, Shelli Brunswick, CEO & Founder of SB Global LLC and former Chief Operating Officer of Space Foundation, reveals the measurable impact of space innovation on Earth's most pressing challenges.

The numbers tell a compelling story: The global space economy, valued at $630 billion in 2023, is projected to reach $1.8 trillion by 2035, with NASA's investments yielding a remarkable 40:1 return through commercialized technologies. Brunswick shares research showing how orbital technologies drive innovation across sectors, with the average person connecting to satellites 45 times daily without realizing it.

Highlights:

• Quantifiable impacts of Earth observation satellites on agricultural productivity, including 10% yield increases through precision farming
• The economic case for orbital debris management and in-space manufacturing
• Research regarding microgravity's effects on medical innovations, including LambdaVision's 3D-printed protein-layered lens replacements for macular degeneration
• Data-driven approaches to international space collaboration and fractional satellite ownership models for emerging space nations
• Metrics-based workforce development strategies for the space economy

For researchers, business strategists, and innovation leaders, this episode provides critical insights into how space-derived technologies are transforming our approach to sustainability, economic development, and global collaboration.

Guest: Shelli Brunswick, Former U.S. Air Force Officer and Chief Operating Officer of Space Foundation | CEO & Founder of SB Global LLC

Host: Dyan Finkhousen, Founder & CEO, Shoshin Works

Series Hosts:

Vikram Shyam, Lead Futurist, NASA Glenn Research Center

Dyan Finkhousen, Founder & CEO, Shoshin Works