Podcasts > Shawn Ryan Show > #202 Steve Kwast – CEO of SpaceBilt: Can We Manipulate Space and Time?

#202 Steve Kwast – CEO of SpaceBilt: Can We Manipulate Space and Time?

By Shawn Ryan Show

On the Shawn Ryan Show, Steve Kwast, CEO of SpaceBilt, discusses transformative technologies that could reshape our world. He explains how space-based solar power could provide affordable electricity worldwide, and how quantum technologies—from sensors to computers—could revolutionize detection, computation, and communication capabilities.

Kwast explores the geopolitical implications of these technologies, particularly regarding space dominance and Moon mining. He examines barriers to U.S. technological advancement, including resistance from the military-industrial complex and regulatory challenges. The discussion also covers quantum mechanics' implications for our understanding of reality, and the importance of grounding technological progress in ethical principles.

#202 Steve Kwast – CEO of SpaceBilt: Can We Manipulate Space and Time?

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#202 Steve Kwast – CEO of SpaceBilt: Can We Manipulate Space and Time?

1-Page Summary

Emerging Technologies With Transformative Potential

Steve Kwast explores revolutionary technologies that could reshape our world, focusing particularly on space-based solar power and quantum computing. He explains how satellites could harvest solar energy in space with up to 80% efficiency—far higher than terrestrial solar power—and beam it back to Earth using radio waves. This technology could provide affordable, accessible electricity worldwide.

In the realm of quantum technologies, Kwast describes how quantum sensors could detect any movement on Earth with unprecedented precision, while quantum computing might soon crack existing encryption methods. He also discusses quantum communication's potential for instant information transmission across vast distances.

Geopolitical and Strategic Implications of These Technologies

The race for space dominance, particularly regarding Moon mining and advanced technologies, could dramatically shift global power dynamics. Commentators note China's strategic focus on mining helium-3 from the Moon's far side, which could provide both clean energy solutions and advanced cooling capabilities for quantum computers.

Kwast emphasizes that controlling space infrastructure means controlling crucial sectors like energy, communications, and information. He points out that space systems enable rapid global military response, highlighting examples like Russia's development of mesospheric supersonic weapons.

Barriers to Innovation and Adoption in the U.S.

The U.S. faces significant obstacles in technological advancement, according to Kwast and other speakers. The military-industrial complex often resists innovation that threatens legacy systems, while government agencies tend to prioritize regulation over rapid development. They cite Elon Musk's struggles with bringing innovative solutions to the space industry as an example of this resistance.

The speakers also highlight how the U.S. government often underfunds promising technologies, comparing a $300,000 U.S. project to a similar $1 billion Chinese endeavor, potentially stifling innovation.

Philosophical and Spiritual Implications of Quantum Mechanics

Kwast explores how quantum phenomena challenge our understanding of reality, particularly through quantum entanglement, where particles mirror each other's movements instantly regardless of distance. He notes quantum communication's mysterious ability to "rewrite history" by making events unobservable.

Kwast advocates for approaching these quantum mysteries with humility and openness, emphasizing the importance of grounding technological advancement in moral and ethical principles. He suggests that technology should be used to benefit humanity while protecting sovereignty and cultural values.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • Space-based solar power is still in the conceptual or experimental stages, and there are significant technical and financial challenges to overcome before it can be implemented on a large scale.
  • The efficiency of space-based solar power might be offset by the energy and resources required to build and maintain the infrastructure in space.
  • Quantum sensors' ability to detect any movement on Earth raises privacy concerns and could lead to increased surveillance by governments or other entities.
  • While quantum computing has the potential to break current encryption methods, it also holds the promise for creating new, more secure forms of encryption.
  • Quantum communication's potential for instant information transmission is still largely theoretical and faces significant practical hurdles before it can be realized.
  • The geopolitical race for space dominance may lead to increased tensions and an arms race in space, which could have negative consequences for global security.
  • Mining helium-3 on the Moon is an unproven technology, and the economic viability and environmental impact of such operations are not yet fully understood.
  • The assertion that controlling space infrastructure equates to controlling crucial sectors may be too simplistic, as ground-based alternatives and resilience measures can mitigate such control.
  • The development of mesospheric supersonic weapons and other military technologies in space could contravene international treaties and lead to the weaponization of space.
  • The criticism of the U.S. military-industrial complex and government agencies may not fully account for the complexities of innovation within a large bureaucracy, including the need for checks and balances.
  • Comparing U.S. and Chinese funding for technologies without context may overlook differences in strategic priorities, economic models, and overall budgets.
  • The philosophical and spiritual implications of quantum mechanics are subjective and may not resonate with everyone, especially those who approach the subject from a purely scientific or materialistic perspective.
  • Grounding technology in moral and ethical principles is important, but there may be diverse opinions on what those principles should be and how they should be applied.

Actionables

  • You can support space-based solar power initiatives by switching to energy providers that invest in renewable technologies, including those exploring space-based solutions. By choosing these providers, you contribute to the demand for innovative energy solutions and help fund the research and development of space-based solar power.
  • Enhance your online security by using post-quantum cryptography tools for your sensitive communications and data storage. With the advent of quantum computing, traditional encryption methods may become obsolete, so adopting tools that are designed to be quantum-resistant can protect your information from future threats.
  • Educate yourself on the ethical implications of space and quantum technologies by reading books, articles, and following thought leaders who focus on the intersection of technology and ethics. This knowledge will enable you to make informed decisions about the products and services you use and advocate for responsible development and deployment of these advanced technologies.

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#202 Steve Kwast – CEO of SpaceBilt: Can We Manipulate Space and Time?

Emerging Technologies With Transformative Potential

Steve Kwast highlights revolutionary emerging technologies poised to transform public infrastructure, geopolitical relationships, and the global economy. These include space-based solar power systems and quantum computing.

Space Solar Power Provides Affordable Electricity Via Satellite Beaming

Steve Kwast discusses solar power from space as a solution for energy problems, providing independence from terrestrial infrastructure and potentially revolutionizing access to resources like water and electricity.

Tech Harvests Solar Energy in Space, Converts to Radio Waves For Ground Transmission

Satellites equipped with solar arrays can harness the sun’s energy in space, free from interruptions by night or weather. This energy is then converted into radio waves and beamed down to Earth to a structure called a rectenna, which converts the waves back into usable electricity.

Space-Based Solar Power Can Achieve Up to 80% Energy Conversion Efficiency, Much Higher Than Terrestrial Solar Power

The experiments in space demonstrate energy conversion efficiency levels as high as 80%, significantly surpassing the efficiency of terrestrial solar power.

Quantum Computing and Communication May Reshape Geopolitics and the Economy

Kwast hints at the transformative potential of quantum technologies that could change the strategic situations between countries and affect vital aspects of the economy and military.

Quantum Sensors Threaten Military and Economic Secrets Detection

Quantum sensing could enable the detection of any movement on Earth with extreme precision, threa ...

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Emerging Technologies With Transformative Potential

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Space-based solar power systems involve capturing solar energy in space using satellites equipped with solar arrays. This energy is converted into radio waves and transmitted to Earth for use through a structure called a rectenna. These systems can achieve high energy conversion efficiency levels, surpassing traditional terrestrial solar power methods.
  • When solar energy is captured in space by satellites, it is converted into radio waves for efficient transmission to Earth. These radio waves are then received by a structure on the ground called a rectenna, which converts them back into usable electricity. This method allows for the collection of solar power in space without being hindered by factors like nighttime or weather conditions. The conversion process from solar energy to radio waves to electricity enables the transmission of clean energy from space to Earth for various applications.
  • In space, solar power systems can achieve energy conversion efficiency levels as high as 80%, surpassing the efficiency of solar power systems on Earth. This higher efficiency in space is due to factors like uninterrupted exposure to sunlight without atmospheric interference. Terrestrial solar power systems typically have lower efficiency levels compared to space-based systems due to factors like weather conditions and nighttime interruptions.
  • Quantum sensing utilizes quantum properties to detect minute changes with high precision, potentially revealing hidden movements or activities. This technology could threaten the secrecy of sensitive military operations and confidential economic activities by enabling unprecedented levels of surveillance and detection. Quantum sensors have the capability to disrupt traditional methods of concealing information, posing challenges for maintaining security and confidentiality in both military and economic domains. The advanced sensitivity and accuracy of q ...

Counterarguments

  • Space-based solar power systems are an innovative concept, but there are significant challenges to overcome, such as the high cost of launching and maintaining satellites, potential space debris issues, and the efficiency of energy transmission through the Earth's atmosphere.
  • The claim of 80% energy conversion efficiency for space-based solar power may not account for all energy losses in the transmission process, and such high efficiency levels may not be achievable in practical, large-scale operations.
  • Quantum technologies, while promising, are still in the early stages of development, and their practical applications and implications, including reshaping geopolitics and the economy, remain speculative.
  • Quantum sensors may not be as threatening to military and economic secrets as suggested, given that countermeasures and new forms of stealth technology are likely to evolve in response to such advancements.
  • The assertion that quantum computing may soon crack every existing code and encryption overlooks ongoing research into post-quantum cryptography, which aims to develop encryption methods that are resistant to quantum computing attacks.
  • Quantum communication, ...

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#202 Steve Kwast – CEO of SpaceBilt: Can We Manipulate Space and Time?

Geopolitical and Strategic Implications of These Technologies

As discussed by Kwast and both Ryan and Henderson, the race to mine the Moon's helium-3 and the deployment of space technologies could drastically shift global economic and military power dynamics.

China Aims to Mine the Moon's Helium-3 to Power Quantum Computers

According to commentators, China's activities on the far side of the Moon, especially the mining of helium-3, could contribute significantly to future clean energy solutions and advanced technologies like quantum computing. Helium-3's potential as a fuel able to meet humanity's energy needs for thousands of years has been highlighted, and its capacity to cool quantum computers to critical temperatures significantly below those achievable with traditional hydrogen cooling techniques has been underscored.

Although there's no direct mention within the provided transcript of China's specific intention to use Moon-mined helium-3 for powering quantum computers, China's apparent exploration for helium-3 does suggest strategic advantages, including leadership in quantum computing.

China's Moon far Side Activities May Offer Strategic Advantage

The mining of helium-3 by China has the potential to significantly advantage the country within the sector of quantum computing, provided they are able to utilize the resource to cool quantum computers more effectively than competitors. Analysts highlight China's ambition in space, particularly on the Moon's far side, which may provide a strategic advantage through the development of new energy resources like helium-3.

China's Strategy Of Selecting "Winners" For New Space Capabilities Deployment

While specific details of China’s strategy in selecting "winners" for space capabilities deployment were not directly provided, the implication is that a country like China, by focusing on developing certain technologies or resources such as helium-3, can strategically choose to prioritize particular advancements that will ensure its leadership and control in space.

Space Technologies Could Shift Global Economic and Military Power Dynamics

For nations understanding the potential held by space, investments in space-based infrastructure and technologies could be tantamount to historical forms of military power and influence.

Dominating Space Infrastructure Controls Energy, Communications, and Information Sectors

Kwast emphasizes that whoever controls space infrastructure could dominate key sectors such as energy, communications, and information. Analysts discuss the strategic advantages of space-based energy infrastructure over traditi ...

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Geopolitical and Strategic Implications of These Technologies

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • The feasibility of mining helium-3 on the Moon and its economic viability is still uncertain, with significant technical and logistical challenges that need to be overcome.
  • The actual efficiency and practicality of using helium-3 to power quantum computers or as a clean energy source on Earth have not been proven at scale and may not be as transformative as suggested.
  • China's focus on mining helium-3 may not necessarily translate into a strategic advantage in quantum computing, as the field is rapidly evolving and dependent on multiple technological advancements beyond cooling methods.
  • The assumption that activities on the Moon's far side offer a strategic advantage may be overstated, as other nations are also investing in space technologies and could counterbalance China's efforts.
  • The strategy of selecting "winners" for space capabilities deployment is risky and could lead to missed opportunities in other potentially valuable space technologies that are not prioritized.
  • Dominance in space infrastructure does not guarantee control over energy, communications, and information sectors due to geopolitical, regulatory, and market forces that also play significant roles.
  • The idea that space-based energy infrastructure can provide universal energy access overlooks the complexities of international cooperation, regulatory frameworks, and the current reliance on terrestrial energy systems.
  • The capability of sp ...

Actionables

  • You can start a blog or social media page focused on space technology and its potential impact on everyday life, breaking down complex topics into digestible content for the general public. By doing this, you'll raise awareness about the importance of space exploration and its benefits, such as clean energy and advanced military capabilities. For example, you could write posts that explain how helium-3 mining on the Moon might affect future energy prices or the availability of clean energy solutions.
  • Consider investing in space-related mutual funds or ETFs to financially support and benefit from the advancements in space technologies. This allows you to contribute to the growth of companies involved in space exploration and potentially gain from their successes. Look for investment opportunities that focus on companies developing space infrastructure or those researching quantum computing and clean energy solutions.
  • Engage in ed ...

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#202 Steve Kwast – CEO of SpaceBilt: Can We Manipulate Space and Time?

Barriers to Innovation and Adoption in the U.S.

In the discussion of U.S. innovation, several barriers to the emergence and adoption of new technologies are identified, revealing an environment often resistant to radical ideas and slow to adapt to change.

Entrenched Interests, Inertia, and Barriers Hamper U.S. Tech Transformation

The U.S. is experiencing significant resistance to technological transformation across different sectors. This resistance often stems from entrenched interests, including those deeply rooted in the military-industrial complex.

Military-Industrial Complex Protects Legacy Systems, Resisting Innovations

Steve Kwast and other speakers discuss how the military-industrial complex, including Congress, prioritizes legacy systems and often resists new technologies that threaten to disrupt existing solutions. For example, Kwast brings attention to the cultural barriers within traditional groups, such as the fighter pilot community, and how advocating for unmanned aircraft over manned fighter jets could lead to ostracism. Furthermore, Kwast uses the U.S. military's initial resistance to mechanization as an example of preference for incremental innovation over a paradigm shift, even when evidence suggests otherwise. Additionally, Kwast implies that there might be resistance to space technologies due to the desire to protect legacy systems and suggests that the U.S. approach focuses on creating better satellites rather than investing in new strategies or technologies.

Government Agencies Slow to Adapt, Prefer Regulation Over Rapid Tech Development

Speakers suggest that government agencies often prioritize excessive regulation and control over facilitating rapid technological development. For instance, Kwast discusses the U.S. government's tendency to over-classify and compartmentalize information, which impedes swift adaptation and collaboration crucial for tech advancement. Some agencies are criticized for putting safety ahead of innovation to the point where it becomes counterproductive, as seen through NASA's history with the space shuttle disasters. The reluctance to change and innovate also manifests in difficulty integrating new technologies due to uncertainty about what is required to support these changes. Kwast criticizes governmental bodies like Congress for their overall aversion to rapid tech development and Elon Musk's struggles in bringing innovative solutions to the space industry, given the government's oversight.

U.S. Struggles to Commercialize Advanced Tech Due to Low Investment and Risk Aversion

The conversation identifies a gap between innovation and its adoption in the marketplace. This gap is attributed to a culture that is resistant to investing in and commercializing advanced technology, a reluctance to disrupt established systems, and a lack of necessary funding.

Elon Musk and Other Innovators Face Resistance With Radical Ideas

Speakers refer to innovators like Elon Musk who have experienced skepticism and resistance. The entrenched economic model for space exploration—focused on single-use rockets—was a considerable barrier when Musk ...

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Barriers to Innovation and Adoption in the U.S.

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Counterarguments

  • The prioritization of legacy systems by the military-industrial complex may be driven by proven reliability and the high stakes associated with national security, rather than a resistance to innovation.
  • Regulation by government agencies can be seen as a necessary measure to ensure public safety, ethical standards, and national security, rather than an impediment to technological development.
  • Over-classification of information may be justified in certain contexts to protect sensitive technologies and national interests.
  • The emphasis on safety by agencies like NASA is a response to past tragedies and a commitment to preserving human life, which can be more important than rapid innovation.
  • The gap between innovation and adoption can also be attributed to the natural time it takes for market readiness and consumer acceptance, not just resistance to change.
  • Risk aversion in investment and commercialization can be a prudent approach to avoid wasting resources on unproven technologies.
  • Skepticism towards radical ideas like those proposed by Elon Musk can be a healthy part of the scientific and entrepreneurial process, ensuring that only the most viable innovations succeed.
  • Underfunding of promising techno ...

Actionables

  • You can foster a culture of innovation by starting a small-scale investment club focused on emerging technologies. Gather a group of friends or community members interested in technology and pool resources to invest in startups or crowdfunded projects that are pushing the boundaries of innovation. This not only supports the growth of new technologies but also educates the group about the challenges and opportunities in the tech sector.
  • Encourage collaboration and knowledge sharing by creating a local meetup group for technology enthusiasts. Use platforms like Meetup or Facebook Groups to organize regular gatherings where members can discuss the latest technological advancements, share insights, and potentially collaborate on projects. This grassroots approach can help break down barriers to information sharing and foster a community that values and supports innovation.
  • Advocate for innovation-friendly policies by enga ...

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#202 Steve Kwast – CEO of SpaceBilt: Can We Manipulate Space and Time?

Philosophical and Spiritual Implications of Quantum Mechanics

Quantum mechanics, with its ability to challenge our traditional understanding of physics, also has profound philosophical and spiritual implications that inspire both wonder and caution in how we perceive the universe and utilize advancements in technology.

Quantum Phenomena Challenge Our Understanding of Space, Time, and Causality

Steve Kwast discusses the unusual nature of quantum phenomena like quantum entanglement and their challenge to conventional concepts of space, time, and causality. He notes the profound and invisible connectivity within the universe suggested by quantum entanglement, where two particles mirror movement instantly regardless of distance. This seems to defy the concept that the speed of light is the ultimate speed limit.

Quantum Communication's Ability to "Rewrite History" By Making Events Unobservable Suggests Deeper Mysteries

Kwast also explores the enigmatic qualities of quantum communication, including its ability to elude observation by a third party. He mentions the ability to "rewrite history" with quantum phenomena, stating that if quantum communication is observed when it wasn't intended to be, the communication effectively disappears as though it never happened. This property of quantum communication indicates mysterious aspects of quantum mechanics that confront our conventional understanding and perception of reality.

Kwast emphasizes the need to approach the mysteries of the universe, particularly quantum phenomena, with humility and openness to avoid arrogance or pride in claiming a complete understanding. While explicit statements regarding the need for rigor in navigating quantum technologies or embracing curiosity over arrogance were not found in the provided transcript, Kwast does advocate for using our brains to harness the realities revealed by quantum mechanics and suggests maintaining a curious and open mindset.

Embrace Openness and Curiosity, Not Arrogance, In Exploring Quantum Mysteries

He further speaks to the importance of maintaining an open mind and a humble heart in the f ...

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Philosophical and Spiritual Implications of Quantum Mechanics

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • Quantum phenomena do not necessarily challenge traditional concepts of space, time, and causality; rather, they may require an expansion or refinement of these concepts within a different context or framework.
  • The suggestion of invisible connectivity through quantum entanglement does not imply a universal connectivity in the classical sense, as the phenomenon is limited to specific quantum states and conditions.
  • The idea that quantum communication can "rewrite history" is a misinterpretation of quantum mechanics. More accurately, it changes the way we must describe the past events in light of new information, consistent with the quantum mechanical framework.
  • While navigating quantum technologies requires humility and wisdom, it also demands a robust scientific and technical understanding that goes beyond philosophical contemplation.
  • Embracing openness and curiosity is important, but it must be balanced with critical thinking and skepticism to ensure that scientific inquiry remains grounded in empi ...

Actionables

  • You can foster a mindset that embraces the interconnectedness of the universe by starting a daily journal where you reflect on instances where you felt connected to something larger than yourself. This could be a moment of synchronicity, a feeling of being part of a community, or an experience of nature that made you feel part of a vast, interconnected system. The act of writing these down can help you internalize the concept of invisible connectivity and see your place within a larger whole.
  • Develop a habit of questioning your assumptions by setting aside time each week to challenge one thing you believe about the nature of reality. For example, if you've always thought of time as linear, spend some time reading about or watching videos on the concept of time in quantum physics and then reflect on how this new perspective might change your view of past and future events. This practice can help you cultivate the humility and wisdom necessary to navigate complex ideas like those found in quantum technologies.
  • Engage in ethical technology use by evaluating your personal tech gadgets and apps throu ...

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