Space defense, gravity, and connectivity with Bridgit Mendler, Even Rogers, and Max Haot at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025

Summary

The space economy isn’t just about rockets and satellites anymore — it’s about building resilient infrastructure, deploying autonomous systems, and creating entirely new models for how we operate and defend assets off-Earth. At TechCrunch Disrupt 2025, taking place October 27–29 at San Francisco’s Moscone West, the Space Stage is where these seismic shifts in space innovation come to life. Save big this week by registering as a group. Save up to 20% on your ticket if you register with a group of 4-9 before today at 11:59 p.m. PT. Or, if you’re going solo, secure your pass to save up to $444 before doors open. Inside the next era of space tech This must-see panel brings together three of today’s most influential space tech leaders to map out what’s next for the orbital industry. Bridgit Mendler, co-founder and CEO of Northwood Space, returns to the Space Stage after her standing-room-only debut at Disrupt 2024. Mendler is back to share how Northwood Space is scaling ground station networks to power the next generation of satellite connectivity. Known globally as a former Disney star, she’s now making headlines for her pivot to space tech entrepreneurship, focusing on building resilient, scalable communications infrastructure. Even Rogers, co-founder and CEO of True Anomaly, is a former Air Force officer and space systems strategist. Rogers helped shape the foundational doctrine of the U.S. Space Force as a DARPA Service Chiefs Fellow. Now he’s deploying cutting-edge space defense technologies to protect orbital assets and reimagine how the U.S. ensures freedom of action in space. Max Haot, multi-exit entrepreneur across aerospace, livestreaming, and connected devices; founder of Launcher (acquired by Vast); and CEO of Vast, is now leading Vast’s mission to build artificial gravity space stations. His track record of turning bold science fiction concepts into venture-backed reality makes him one of the most ambitious voices in commercial space. The future of space isn...