In this episode of Tech Burst Talks, Charles sits down with Rob DeMillo — former JPL engineer, serial entrepreneur with 7 exits from 9 startups, SparkLabs Venture Partner, and CEO of Sophia Space — to explore the cutting-edge world of orbital data centers and space-based computing.
Rob shares his extraordinary journey from space science at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory to revolutionizing cloud animation, and now pioneering data centers in space. Discover how Sophia Space's innovative modular "tile" technology is built from first principles for the space environment — not retrofitted Earth technology.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Background
00:37 Career Journey and Achievements
01:51 Entrepreneurial Ventures and Exits
04:46 Joining Mandala Space Ventures
08:51 Sophia Space and Orbital Data Centers
09:39 Innovative Tile Technology
12:46 Market and Future Plans
16:29 Challenges and Opportunities in Space
18:08 Why Orbital Data Centers?
19:57 The Heat Problem of Data Centers
20:29 Advantages of Space-Based Data Centers
21:23 Use Cases for Space-Based Computing
22:15 Real-Time Applications and Sensor Fusion
24:23 Technological Advances Enabling Space Computing
25:27 Scaling and Deployment of Orbital Data Centers
27:58 Commercial Applications and Future Prospects
33:22 Advice for Entrepreneurs
34:41 Motivation and Future Plans
38:34 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Rob DeMillo brings decades of experience in aerospace engineering, venture capital, and startup leadership. His track record of 7 successful exits demonstrates deep expertise in scaling space technology companies and identifying breakthrough innovations in the NewSpace economy.
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