Daria Stepanova, an esteemed figure in the battle against climate change, is at the forefront of the fight with her groundbreaking satellite technology at AIRMO. I recently had the privilege of engaging in a discussion with her to delve into her journey as a founder and the evolution of AIRMO, as well as to seek valuable advice for burgeoning entrepreneurs. Below, I provide an overview of our conversation.
Venturing into the Space Sector
Daria’s fervent enthusiasm for space technology has been a driving force in her life for more than a decade. Her tenure at the Swiss space centre and her pursuit of space engineering have laid the groundwork for the establishment of AIRMO. As she immersed herself in the development of small, satellite-based missions, the demand for missions centred on carbon monitoring grew significantly. This realization underscored the complexity of precise emission tracking, paving the way for the birth of AIRMO.
Accurate Emission Tracking from Space
Central to AIRMO’s mission is the delivery of precise and actionable data on emissions. Daria staunchly advocates for a data-driven approach to the transition towards achieving net-zero emissions. By deploying sensors in space and on aircraft, AIRMO acquires vital information on emissions, facilitating informed decision-making and expediting the decarbonisation of infrastructure.
Global Reach and Market Viability
AIRMO’s vision encompasses global coverage through the deployment of a constellation of twelve satellites, providing near real-time insights into emissions. The potential market size for emissions monitoring is estimated to be €22.4 billion globally, with opportunities in environmental sustainability platforms, regulatory bodies, and emitters.
Prominent Position in the Market
Despite the expansive market, Daria underscores the scarcity of direct competitors to AIRMO. Conventional methods involving Excel sheets and ground sensors lack the precision, coverage, and scalability that satellite technology offers, thereby positioning AIRMO as a trailblazer in this domain.
Empowering Change and Overcoming Obstacles
As a female leader in the tech startup landscape, Daria’s challenges have predominantly revolved around technical complexities. Her fervour for effecting significant change in the fight against climate change resonates in her counsel to fellow entrepreneurs – craft a compelling narrative and amass a wealth of evidence. She underscores the pivotal importance of unwavering belief in the cause and effecting tangible change in the world.
In conclusion, Daria Stepanova’s journey epitomises an inspiring tale of unwavering commitment to a cause that transcends boundaries. Her work at AIRMO stands as a testament to the potency of innovation and resolve in combating climate change and shaping a sustainable future for future generations.
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