Best-of Interview: Tom Vice, CEO of Sierra Space

Key takeaways

The transition to commercial low Earth orbit will lead to new industries and opportunities in the future.
Microgravity presents unique advantages in research, particularly in drug development and biotechnology.
Sierra Space's goal is to create a platform in space that benefits Earth, focusing not only on exploration but also on practical applications.
A thriving space economy will require partnerships between commercial entities and a focus on real-world applications.
Defense and security in space are critical as humanity moves into a new era of commercial space exploration.
Future generations may have the opportunity to live and work in space, supported by advancements from companies like Sierra Space.

Summary

Life in Low Earth Orbit

Tom Vice discusses the transition from government-operated space missions to a more commercialized approach to low Earth orbit (LEO). He paints an optimistic picture of future possibilities, where factories, cities, and vibrant economies will flourish in space, benefitting life on Earth. He emphasizes the importance of preparing for life in space through research and innovation.

The Role of Microgravity in Research and Development

Vice explains the benefits of microgravity for drug development, biotechnology, and other technologies. He highlights how microgravity allows for unique crystallization processes that lead to better drug formulations and superior materials. He shares enthusiasm for the advancements that could emerge from conducting research in space.

Building a Platform in Space

The conversation delves into Sierra Space's mission of establishing a commercial space platform that effectively integrates with Earth's needs. Vice emphasizes that their work is not merely about transporting astronauts but about creating technologies that can solve problems for billions of people on Earth.

Commercialization and Space Economy

The discussion touches on the importance of developing a sustainable space economy, which includes building partnerships with biotech companies and developing commercial space stations. Vice outlines the potential for pharmaceutical companies to conduct research in space, leading to breakthroughs in health.

Defense and Security in Space

Vice elaborates on how Sierra Space is involved in developing defense technologies related to space superiority and security. He believes that ensuring safety in space is crucial for the sustainable development of a vibrant low Earth orbit economy.

The Future of Space Travel and Exploration

The podcast closes with reflections on future developments in space exploration, including the idea of living in space, traveling to the moon, or even Mars. Vice discusses upcoming commercial missions and the push to democratize access to space.

Show notes

Tom Vice is the CEO of Sierra Space, a company building an end-to-end business and technology platform in space to benefit life on earth. Think, space planes and inflatable space habitats.

Ricky Mulvey caught up with Vice at the Sierra Space headquarters for a show that originally aired on March 30, 2024. They discuss:

- The magic of microgravity, and its impact on everything from biotech and batteries to chemistry and computing.
- How rent works in outer space.
- Defense systems and the hope of a space-based “McDonald’s Effect.”

Companies mentioned: MRK, PFE, MRNA, NVDA

Host: Ricky Mulvey
Guest: Tom Vice
Producer: Mary Long
Engineers: Desireé Jones, Dan Boyd
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