Definition
The CEO of Iridium Communications who gambled his company’s future on a $3 billion replacement constellation (Iridium NEXT) to be launched primarily by SpaceX.
Why It Matters
Desch’s leadership at Iridium during the SpaceX partnership proved that ‘legacy’ companies can successfully pivot to the New Space era by embracing the risks and efficiencies of reusable launch technology.
Core Concepts
- Background: Telecommunications executive who took over Iridium in 2006 when it was emerging from Motorola-era bankruptcy.
- The “High-Stakes” Customer: Recognized earlier than any other CEO that SpaceX was the key to Iridium’s survival, signing the Iridium NEXT Contract in 2010.
- Stress Endurance: Endured years of SpaceX delays, including two launch failures, while his old satellites were failing in orbit.
- Transparency: Became a respected figure in the space community for his willingness to speak openly about the risks and benefits of being a “SpaceX first-mover.”