Space as a Strategic Domain for National Security

From global communications and navigation to missile warning and space-based sensing, space is now a critical arena for national defense. The FORGE is shaping how the next generation of space technologies are developed, secured, and integrated into U.S. national security strategy. 

The High Ground Has Changed

Space is rapidly evolving into one of the most dynamic and consequential domains for national security. As the Golden Dome gets underway, commercial constellations expand, and autonomous systems transform operations in orbit, the strategic significance of space continues to grow. In this new era, the ability to develop and deploy space technologies with dual-use potential—those that serve both commercial and defense objectives—is not just an opportunity, it’s a national imperative.

Why The FORGE Has a Focus on Space

UC San Diego is building momentum in space systems research, applications, and leadership development. Through The FORGE, we are aligning that momentum with national security priorities. Our work in autonomy, remote sensing, AI/ML, orbital analytics, and advanced communications positions the university to contribute meaningfully to the future of space power and resilience.

We are focused on:

• Building talent pipelines aligned with defense space agencies and the U.S. Space Force.
• Collaborating with federal and industry partners to ensure mission readiness and systems integration
• Supporting dual-use innovation in space-related tech. 

UC San Diego Technological Capabilities and Critical Use Cases for the Space Domain  

UC San Diego FORGE helps innovators bridge the gap between academic discovery and national security deployment by navigating the critical issues and technologies unique to the space domain. 

Examine Dual-Use Space Applications at UC San Diego Across Industry and Government

The following table outlines several research and technology areas at UC San Diego with dual relevance to government and industry. While not comprehensive, it offers a high-level view of current advancements and applications at the forefront of innovation.

Find Who's Who in Space

Discover and connect with UC San Diego’s top space minds in our searchable talent portal. See the following table for more information. 

Don't see a relevant university faculty member, resource or program listed? Suggest a New Innovation Resource to be considered for inclusion, subject to UC San Diego’s discretion.

Are you a listed faculty member or the owner of a listed program or resource and want to update your information? Use the same form to Submit Your Edit Request to have your suggested changes reviewed and published, subject to UC San Diego’s discretion.

A Launchpad for the Next Generation

Through our ecosystem, UC San Diego students, researchers, and startups gain access to:

• Academic and applied research in aerospace and orbital systems
• Opportunities to collaborate with the DoD, Space Force, DIU, and intelligence community
• Pathways into space-focused SBIR/STTR grants and federal acquisition programs
• Industry engagement with commercial space and defense primes
• Courses, workshops, and internships tailored to space innovation and policy

To learn more, check out our current programs, events, and resources for the latest opportunities. 

Revisiting UC San Diego Space Day 2025

At a Glance

Held on November 20, 2025, the second annual UC San Diego Space Day Forum convened leaders across government, industry, academia, and the startup ecosystem for a high-impact day of collaboration, lightning pitches, and strategic dialogue on the future of space across national security and dual-use applications, life sciences, telecommunications, and emerging technologies.

   

Event Outcomes

• 380+ total unique registrations

• Sold out event with ~200 in-person attendees (50%+ conversion rate)

• 90+ unique organizations represented

• 95% expressed interest in attending again in 2026

• ~50/50 split between industry/government/investors/community and UC San Diego faculty, staff and students

   

Who Joined Us

The Space Day Forum brings together influential decision-makers shaping the national space ecosystem, including such notable speakers as: 

• Viasat – Steve Hart (Co-Founder), Kristi Jaska (Vice President Emeritus), Matt Martinez (VP of Transformation)
• DARPA – Dominic Gallello, Chair, Investment Committee
• CA GO-Biz – Maria Onorato, Associate Deputy Director
• SpaceWERX / U.S. Space Force – Capt. Andrew Ermitano, Ventures Deputy Chief
• City of San Diego – Dan Moore, Chief Global Affairs Officer
• The Aerospace Corporation – Sabrina Steele, Executive Director, Corporate Affairs & Communications
• Varda Space Industries – Michael Reily, Chief Strategy Officer
• UC San Diego Sanford Stem Cell Institute / ISSCOR – Dr. Cat Jamieson, Director 

    

Join Us in Shaping Space Day Forum 2026

UC San Diego is committed to building a long-term, high-impact community at the nexus of space, national security, science, and dual-use innovation. For sponsorship inquiries or to co-develop next year’s event, email Director of Innovation Networks Tulsi Patel, Office of Innovation and Commercialization, UC San Diego. 

   

Download this Space Day Forum Impact Report 2025.

Explore Our Programs

Discover how The FORGE and its programs connect innovation, talent, and mission to shape the future of national security and space.

Learn more!