AI at the Edge: Space Startups at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025

TechCrunch Disrupt 2025: A Deep Dive into the Future of Space Technology

The countdown is on! With only three days remaining, TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 is poised for launch. The dedicated Space Stage is fully prepared to delve into the evolving landscape of space technology and other groundbreaking innovations.

AI's Impact on Space Exploration

Leading figures in the space industry – Adam Maher of Ursa, Dr. Lucy Hoag from Violet Labs, and Dr. Debra L. Emmons representing The Aerospace Corporation – will be present. They will analyze the significant ways in which artificial intelligence is reshaping activities in orbit.

This session promises to offer valuable perspectives and inspiration for attendees. It’s an opportunity to witness firsthand the direction of future advancements.

Secure Your Spot and Save

Don't miss out on this exclusive event! Significant savings of up to $444 are available on passes purchased before the event begins on October 27th.

• Take advantage of a 60% discount on guest passes.
• Explore group rate options, offering discounts between 15% and 30% for teams.

For those seeking knowledge, motivation, and a privileged view of what lies ahead, the Space Stage is the place to be. Secure your pass today to participate in this pivotal discussion.

The New Space Race: Artificial Intelligence Beyond Earth

The future of space exploration extends far beyond traditional rockets and satellites. A significant shift is occurring, focusing on the implementation of intelligent systems within space itself.

Space is now recognized as a critical source of data. Effectively utilizing this data requires more than just transmission capabilities; it demands intelligent processing directly in orbit. We are entering an era of on-orbit computation and autonomous operations, where sophisticated edge systems rapidly convert satellite data into valuable, actionable intelligence.

AI is not merely improving space missions; it is fundamentally changing their nature. It serves as the driving force behind increased velocity, improved efficiency, and enhanced robustness, allowing for mission management and scalability previously unattainable.

This session, “Space Stage,” exclusively at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025, will highlight the leading innovators in this field. These are the companies extending intelligence to the furthest reaches of space, thereby redefining operational speed, efficiency, and resilience.

The event is just three days away. Secure your tickets to Disrupt 2025 now to take advantage of significant savings. You can save up to $444 on individual passes before October 27th, and a companion ticket is available at a 60% discount.

Furthermore, team discounts ranging from 15% to 30% are offered on group passes.

Dr. Debra Emmons: Leading Technology and Innovation at Aerospace

Dr. Debra Emmons currently holds the position of Vice President and Chief Technology Officer at The Aerospace Corporation.

Her primary function involves providing crucial direction in the formulation and implementation of the organization’s technological strategy and associated investments.

Key Responsibilities and Office Leadership

Dr. Emmons oversees the operation of four distinct offices, each playing a vital role in Aerospace’s innovation ecosystem.

• eLab: This office is tasked with establishing the technical investment strategy and defining the company’s technological priorities.
• xLab: xLab focuses on the creation, construction, and operation of functional prototypes.
• Commercial Space Futures (CSF): The CSF office is dedicated to leveraging commercial sector solutions to support government space missions and bolster U.S. space capabilities.
• Solution Accelerator: This newly established office is focused on the rapid delivery of independent, groundbreaking solutions with significant national implications.

Through these offices, Dr. Emmons ensures that The Aerospace Corporation remains at the forefront of technological advancement and continues to serve its national security mission.

Her leadership is instrumental in driving innovation and adapting to the evolving landscape of the aerospace industry.

Ursa Space Systems: Pioneering a New Era in Radar Technology

Adam Maher is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Ursa Space Systems, a company dedicated to providing enhanced data for improved decision-making. Established in 2014, Ursa was built on the principle of delivering access to valuable insights obtained through synthetic aperture radar (SAR) technology.

Prior to founding Ursa, Mr. Maher honed his expertise at Maxar Technologies (formerly Space Systems Loral) where he functioned as a systems engineer involved in the full lifecycle of satellite construction.

Educational Background and Expertise

Adam Maher’s academic foundation includes a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering and a Master of Engineering degree, also in Mechanical Engineering, both earned from Cornell University.

His background demonstrates a strong technical skillset crucial to the development and implementation of Ursa’s innovative radar capabilities.

The Core of Ursa’s Mission

Ursa Space Systems focuses on transforming raw radar data into actionable intelligence. This allows clients across various sectors to gain a more comprehensive understanding of dynamic events and conditions.

The company’s core competency lies in its ability to collect, process, and analyze SAR data, offering a unique perspective that complements traditional observation methods.

Key Capabilities and Applications

• Global Monitoring: Ursa provides consistent observation of locations worldwide.
• Data-Driven Insights: The company delivers information that supports strategic planning and operational efficiency.
• Independent Data Source: Ursa offers a valuable, alternative source of information.

By leveraging the power of radar, Ursa empowers organizations to respond effectively to evolving circumstances and optimize their performance.

Violet: Transforming Complex Hardware Design with Data Intelligence

Violet Labs, a startup headquartered in San Francisco, is pioneering a new approach to the design and construction of intricate hardware. The company, founded by Dr. Lucy Hoag, has developed Violet – a groundbreaking data orchestration platform tailored for the unique challenges of complex hardware development.

The Vision Behind Violet

Dr. Lucy Hoag, the CEO of Violet Labs, recognized a critical need for improved data management in hardware engineering. Violet addresses this need by providing a centralized system for handling the vast amounts of data generated throughout the hardware lifecycle.

Before establishing Violet, Hoag contributed her expertise to significant projects involving satellites, drones, and autonomous vehicles. Her previous affiliations include DARPA, Google, Waymo, Lyft, and Amazon.

Dr. Lucy Hoag’s Background

Lucy Hoag’s academic credentials include both a Bachelor of Science and a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Astronautical Engineering from the University of Southern California. This strong educational foundation underpins her innovative work at Violet Labs.

Key Features of the Violet Platform

• Data Orchestration: Violet streamlines the flow of data between different stages of hardware development.
• Hardware Focus: The platform is specifically designed to handle the complexities of hardware data.
• Centralized System: It provides a single source of truth for all hardware-related information.

Violet aims to accelerate development cycles and improve the quality of complex hardware systems. By leveraging the power of data, Violet Labs is poised to reshape the future of hardware engineering.

Don't Miss Out: TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 Launching in 3 Days – Secure Your Spot Now!

Ticket prices for TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 are set to increase soon. Take advantage of current savings and purchase your pass today. You can save as much as $444 on individual passes before the event begins on October 27th.

Furthermore, a companion ticket can be acquired at a 60% discount. This provides an excellent opportunity to attend with a colleague or partner.

Group Discounts Available

Organizations sending teams to the conference can benefit from additional cost savings. Group passes are offered with discounts ranging from 15% to 30%, depending on the size of the team.

Don't delay – these offers are time-sensitive. Secure your tickets now to avoid higher prices and ensure your participation in TechCrunch Disrupt 2025.

Image Credits:Kimberly White / Getty Images