What a week it was at SATShow Week 2026! As your guest host, I had a front-row seat to the energy and momentum that defined this year’s event, and I want to start by thanking all of you for being part of it.

From the opening U.S. Space Force keynote that set the tone to the conversations across the Finance Forum, Tech Seminar, and VIP sessions, it was clear from day one that this industry is moving fast. When the exhibit hall opened, our largest show floor in 45 years, the pace only accelerated. Across general sessions, fireside chats, and Startup Space, we saw how innovation is evolving, from multi-orbit strategies to direct-to-device connectivity, and how leaders across commercial and government sectors are shaping what comes next. The week closed on a high note with Bridgit Mendler of Northwood Space, who shared a compelling vision for the future of ground infrastructure.

What stood out most to me was the strength of this community. The show floor was buzzing with more than 500 companies connecting, while events like Startup Space and the Via Satellite Awards highlighted the people and technologies driving the industry forward—including Adel Al-Saleh of SES as Satellite Executive of the Year, Firefly Aerospace’s Blue Ghost Lunar Lander as Satellite Technology of the Year, and Matteo Vismara of SatEnlight as our Startup Space grand prize winner. From the Via Satellite Rising Stars & Women in Satellite Champagne Toast to Young Professional Mixers, the connections being made were meaningful and lasting. 

Thank you again for being part of such an impactful week. What starts at SATShow Week doesn’t end here, and I’m excited to see where these conversations lead next.

The Downlink will continue, bringing you more exclusive content, key moments from the show, and updates as we look ahead to SATELLITE x GovMilSpace 2027, taking place March 8–11 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C. We’re already building on the momentum from this year, and we can’t wait to see you next year. 

Sarah Cruddas

Guest Host

SATShow Week