Lift off: First look at the Space Stage agenda at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025

TechCrunch Disrupt continues to be a premier event where innovation meets opportunity, and this year, it takes a giant leap into the cosmos with the introduction of the Space Stage at San Francisco’s Moscone West on October 27. In collaboration with The Aerospace Corporation, this unique platform showcases the forefront of aerospace technology, including advancements in rockets, satellite systems, defense mechanisms, and artificial intelligence in space. The agenda for this year promises an exciting lineup of founders, investors, and industry leaders who are transforming ambitious ideas into sustainable ventures, even amidst a tightening capital landscape and rising expectations. Whether you are an aerospace enthusiast, an entrepreneur, or an investor eager to discover the latest innovations, the Space Stage is set to provide invaluable insights into the rapidly evolving space sector. Participants are encouraged to register by September 26 at 11:59 p.m. PT to benefit from significant savings on passes for Disrupt 2025. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from notable figures such as Celeste Ford, managing director at Stellar Ventures, and Chris Morales, partner at Point72, along with a yet-to-be-announced speaker. The increasing focus on space by both governmental and private entities presents fresh opportunities and challenges for investors, prompting discussions on capital flow trends, startup differentiation, and the changing funding landscape. In this era of innovation, space exploration transcends mere rockets and satellites; it now encompasses rapid data processing and decision-making capabilities, with AI serving as a crucial element in managing missions at scale. Experts from The Aerospace Corporation will delve into how nascent innovations are catalyzing shifts in the industry and building the framework for a burgeoning space economy. A highlight of the event will be a pitch-off hosted by The Aerospace Corporation, spotlighting startups developing cutting-edge AI applications to tackle some of the toughest challenges in space research, orbital intelligence, and infrastructure. Noteworthy entrepreneur Baiju Bhatt, founder of Aetherflux and co-founder of Robinhood, will share insights from his journey into the aerospace sector and discuss the unique challenges of launching ventures in such a complex field. Discussions will also cover the blurred lines between commercial and defense technologies, with private investment racing to support a new wave of dual-use companies. Startup leaders, including Even Rogers from True Anomaly and Max Haot from Vast, will examine how their organizations are navigating these complexities and the implications for the future of aerospace technology. As the next generation of space startups emerges, their focus shifts from merely constructing rockets to developing comprehensive ecosystems. The leaders of True Anomaly and Vast Space will explore the creation of infrastructure that fosters new market opportunities and supports a robust space economy, ranging from orbital services to advanced satellite networks. This session promises to lay out the essential components necessary for a future where commercial space ventures play a pivotal role in the global tech landscape. Stay tuned for more updates and speaker announcements as the Space Stage prepares to launch into an exciting era of exploration and innovation. Don’t forget to secure your Disrupt pass before the regular registration savings end on September 26 at 11:59 p.m. PT.