Fishing for Data in a Sea of Stars

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 Moon Landing. In 1969, Neil Armstrong’s first steps inspired advancements that led to everything from modern kitchen appliances to the Internet. But 50 years later, space exploration isn’t limited to government-funded missions, launches, and astronauts. Now, private companies are leading today’s “space race” and will help us enter a new era of growth—with satellites. In our season finale, we look toward the stars to see how the satellites of the future could help improve life here on Earth.  We start in Washington State with Chris and Libie Cain, a husband and wife fishing team, whose albacore tuna business is strained by illegal fishing practices — one of the many problems that may soon be solved by satellites. Then, we talk to Mike Safyan, the V.P. of Launch at Planet Labs, a start-up that’s revolutionizing how satellites scan the Earth. Planet currently has over 150 satellites capturing data that it licenses to scientists and industry leaders who want the latest information on everything from forest fires to fish migratory patterns. David Kroodsma, an environmental data scientist with Global Fishing Watch, is one of the beneficiaries of the satellite data. He explains how satellite technology can help prescribe preventative medicine for the seas ​and h​elp people like the Cains, who rely on the economy of the ocean. Morgan Stanley Managing Director of Equity Research Adam Jonas tells us that satellites may soon disrupt the economy of data, shifting information away from some of the largest tech companies in the world to some of the smallest. Along the way, he helps us understand why we should all be excited about the new focus on the humble satellite, and what a booming New Space Economy will mean for Planet Earth. The host Ashley Milne-Tyte is a contractor of Pineapple Street Media.  The guest speakers are neither employees nor affiliated with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. (“Morgan Stanley”). The views and opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of Morgan Stanley. The information and figures contained herein has been obtained from sources outside of Morgan Stanley and Morgan Stanley makes no representations or guarantees as to the accuracy or completeness of information or data from sources outside of Morgan Stanley. Morgan Stanley is not responsible for the information or data contained in this podcast. This podcast does not provide individually tailored investment advice and is not a solicitation of any offer to buy or sell any security or other financial instrument or to participate in any trading strategy. It has been prepared without regard to the individual financial circumstances and objectives of persons who receive it. © 2019 Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC and Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC.  Members SIPC.