Ep 26: Democratizing access to Space: Why Space tech is the PRESENT and not just the Future

We welcome Mark Boggett, CEO and co-founder of Seraphim Space, Europe's biggest Space tech fund and the world's first space-focused investment fund.

Mark's journey from a career in technology investment to pioneering space venture capital reveals the transformative potential of space tech for our civilization.

Mark's expertise is rooted in his careful monitoring of SpaceX's revolutionary impact on the market, inspiring him to establish Seraphim Space. With significant investments in over 120 space tech companies, including cutting-edge startups like iSci and Hubble Network, Mark shares invaluable insights into the industry's future.

Mark discusses Seraphim's unique approach to investment, focusing on seed and Series A stages, and highlights their accelerator program, which has become the largest space tech accelerator in the world. He elaborates on how Seraphim supports startups, from early-stage university spinouts to scaling established companies, ensuring they are investment-ready and poised for success.

The conversation explores the evolution of space tech, the rise of miniaturized satellites, and the potential for space tech to revolutionize various sectors, including defense, climate, and sustainability. Mark sheds light on the economic and strategic importance of space tech, the role of government R&D, and the impact of global geopolitics on the industry.

We also cover the ethical considerations and regulatory challenges surrounding space tech, emphasizing the importance of sustainable development and the potential for space tech to create a healthier and more resilient planet.

All the topics that we covered in the episode:

* Tech Industry Evolution: Mark's journey from tech investment to pioneering space venture capital.

* Venture Capital Dynamics: Seraphim's investment philosophy and support for startups.

* Space Tech Innovations: Advancements in miniaturized satellites and digital infrastructure.

* Market Conditions and Job Impact: The economic and strategic importance of space tech.

* Future of Space Applications: The transformative potential of space tech in various sectors.

* Regulatory Environment: Challenges and opportunities in space tech regulation.

Join us for an enlightening discussion as we explore the future of space technology with one of the industry's leading investors.

Follow our host, Waheed Rahman (@iwaheedo), for more updates on tech, civilizational growth, progress studies, and emerging markets.

Here are the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players, you should be able to click the timestamp for the episode.

(00:00) - Intro

(01:42) - Mark's background and career journey

(03:09) - Seraphim's investment philosophy and framework

(04:17) - Investment stages and focus areas

(07:35) - Supporting startups post-investment

(11:05) - Space tech innovation waves, market dynamics, and investment landscape

(14:59) - Large constellations of miniaturized satellites

(19:07) - Future potential of space applications

(23:27) - Future direction of space tech regulation

(27:30) - Innovative business models in the space tech industry

(35:15) - LLMs & Space Tech are revolutionizing modern applications & technology

(41:42) - Need for Government-funded R&D in space tech.

(51:52) - Space tech's role in planetary sustainability

(56:29) - Outro

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