From Tarmac to Tomorrow: Ground Systems Driving Satellite Manufacturing and Scalable Space Infrastructure

Thu, January 29
W340B
SpaceCom | Space Congress: ADVANCE

As space missions grow more frequent and commercially integrated, the infrastructure supporting launch, landing, and recovery must evolve just as rapidly. Ground support equipment (GSE), often overlooked in broader space conversations, is emerging as a strategic lever for resilient, scalable infrastructure.

Led by Dr. Melissa Patton, a U.S.-based strategic advisor, this panel convenes GM's, CEOs and COOs from leading satellite manufacturers, launch providers, and innovation hubs to explore how ground systems are being reimagined to meet the demands of the new space economy. Panelists will share how advances in satellite manufacturing and integration, coupled with innovations in GSE design and deployment, are shortening timelines from factory floor to orbit and ensuring interoperability for both commercial and defense missions.

With perspectives spanning satellite production pipelines, modular manufacturing, rapid-launch logistics, and public-private partnerships, this discussion will illustrate how industry leaders are turning ground systems into force multipliers for growth, security, and competitiveness. Whether preparing for rapid response defense missions, enabling safe and efficient commercial launches, or scaling regional manufacturing capacity, the panel will spotlight why next-generation ground service systems are essential to advancing into the next space age.

Speakers
Carol Craig
Carol Craig, CEO - Sidus Space
Melissa Patton
Melissa Patton, CEO - Space Grove
Robert Fabian
Robert Fabian, Chief Operating Officer - Vaya Space
Stephanie Sherby
Stephanie Sherby, Senior Vice President & General Manager - All Points Logistics
Randy Trask
Randy Trask, CEO - Q Station
Mike Curtis-Rouse
Mike Curtis-Rouse, Head of ISAM - Satellite Applications Catapult