Software Beyond the Screen with Sunil Nagaraj

In this episode of Commercial Space Transformers SpaceNews Senior Staff Writer Jason Rainbow speaks with Sunil Nagaraj, Founder and Managing Partner, Ubiquity Ventures.Nagaraj discusses his early involvement in space startups, including investments in Rocket Lab and Spire Global, and how he assessed risk in the early days of commercial space ventures. He also touches on how the investment landscape has evolved over the years, including the influx of venture capital interest through SPAC’s (Special Purpose Acquisition Company), and the current balanced state of space investment.Nagaraj also shares insights into his investment philosophy at Ubiquity Ventures, emphasizing “software beyond the screen,” which applies to space technology by making physical assets more adaptable and intelligent through software. He highlights the growing role of AI in space, particularly in optimizing satellite operations and data management. Additionally, he offers advice for space startups seeking investment, stressing the importance of demonstrating real-world impact rather than just technical capabilities. The conversation concludes with a discussion on what a space-focused VC fund should prioritize and the challenges of balancing investment across different segments of the space industry.About Commercial Space TransformersThe SpaceNews Commercial Space Transformers video series gives viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the people and companies driving the space industry’s commercial transformation. The weekly series features 15-minute down-to-Earth interviews with key players in space, ranging from the executives at the helm of some of the market’s biggest disruptors to the bankers and investors helping to finance their journey. Join SpaceNews Senior Staff Writer Jason Rainbow as he embarks on a mission to learn where the fast-evolving space industry is heading next.Watch a new episode every Tuesday on SpaceNews.com and on the SpaceNews YouTube channel.Be the first to know when new episodes drop! Enter your email, and we’ll make sure you get exclusive access to each episode as soon as it goes live!