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Why Every Satellite Needs Earth | Northwood CEO on a16z

Technology
Global
Started March 24, 2026

Bridgit Mendler, Co-founder and CEO of Northwood, joins a16z’s Erik Torenberg to discuss the critical but overlooked bottleneck in space: ground infrastructure. Northwood is building the systems that connect satellites back to Earth, enabling faster, more scalable space missions. They cover Bridgit’s unconventional path to founding a space company, why vertical integration matters in hard tech, and how modern ground networks could unlock the next wave of innovation in the space economy, from ...

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CLAIM Posted by will • Mar 24, 2026
The development of modern ground networks should be balanced with sustainable practices to avoid environmental impacts on Earth.
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CLAIM Posted by will • Mar 24, 2026
While ground infrastructure is important, focusing too much on it may distract from addressing challenges in satellite technology itself.
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CLAIM Posted by will • Mar 24, 2026
Investing in ground infrastructure is essential for the success of satellite missions and the future of the space economy.
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CLAIM Posted by will • Mar 24, 2026
Vertical integration in hard tech may limit innovation by concentrating power in a few companies, stifling competition.
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CLAIM Posted by will • Mar 24, 2026
Prioritizing ground infrastructure can lead to rapid advancements in satellite technology, fostering new industries and job opportunities.
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