Farewell to TechCrunch Space: A Look Ahead at the Cosmic Frontier

As we bid adieu to the TechCrunch Space newsletter in 2024, we reflect on a year filled with thrilling developments in the cosmos. To our devoted readers, we wish you a delightful holiday season and can't wait to reconnect next year.

The Upcoming Year in Space Exploration

The upcoming year promises to be an exhilarating time for space enthusiasts. SpaceX is set to make significant strides with Starship, aiming for ambitious missions that could reshape our exploration of the universe. With Jared Isaacman stepping in as NASA’s new administrator, we can anticipate transformative changes at the agency, particularly in space exploration and partnerships with private companies. Furthermore, Rocket Lab is gearing up for the much-anticipated debut of its Neutron rocket, which could open new avenues for satellite deployment and space missions.

Emerging Startups and Industry Shifts

But that's not all! Impulse Space, Varda, and numerous startups are ready to launch innovative missions, contributing to a rapidly evolving space economy. There are also whispers that Boeing might offload its space division, a move that could trigger a seismic shift in the aerospace landscape. If true, this could herald a new era of competition and innovation.

Venture Financing and Regulation Changes

In the realm of venture financing, a recovery from the lows experienced in 2023 is on the horizon. Should Elon Musk's recently proposed Department of Government Efficiency succeed in even a fraction of its objectives, we could see a loosening of regulations that have long constrained infrastructure-heavy sectors like space. These changes may yield swift and profound impacts on the industry.

Exciting Updates from Blue Origin

In regulatory news, Blue Origin is making headway toward its inaugural launch of the New Glenn rocket. The company recently reported that they are now just waiting on regulatory approvals for the crucial hot fire test and subsequent launch. With only two weeks left in the year, a 2024 launch still looks feasible, hinging largely on the success of the hot fire test.

Funding Highlights

This week's funding spotlight shines brightly on Fleet Space Technologies, an Australia-based company that just locked in a whopping $100 million in Series D funding. Specializing in mineral prospecting technologies from space, Fleet's initiatives are vital as global demand for critical minerals, like lithium for batteries, continues to rise. This breakthrough could play a pivotal role in supporting the renewable energy industry and driving advancements in technology.

Throwback to Space Milestones

A nostalgic glance back at our space history this week invites reflection on how astronauts celebrate Christmas aboard the International Space Station. For the past 18 years, astronauts have brought holiday cheer into the cosmos with Christmas trees, Santa hats, and stockings adorning the station, showcasing the human spirit even amid the vastness of space.

Looking Ahead

As we prepare to close this chapter, we remain excited about the immense possibilities that await us in the universe. Stay tuned as we embark on new adventures next year!