Space Engineering: Power Systems and Orbital Data Centers – Al Tadros
Do you want to know how an experienced space tech CTO solves space’s toughest problems? Keep listening because that’s what I’m discussing with today’s guest, Al Tadros.
Al is a Space Technology Innovator and the CTO of Redwire Space. In this role, he is focused on making strategic investments that support Redwire’s customers, advance technology development, and maintain a collaborative technical culture. Al has three decades of experience in space systems engineering, including satellite and space systems for exploration, national security, and commercial missions.
On today’s episode, Al talks about his passion for solving tough problems, which led him to pursue engineering in the space industry. During our discussion, he shares information on designing space-based power systems, roll-out solar arrays, and orbital data centers.
Al shares his insights on redundancy and risk strategies when developing systems that operate in space. He also discusses challenges when dealing with space industry innovation.
Al provides his thoughts on the evolution of power systems for space missions and how those power systems may change in the future. He also talks about challenges when scaling up power generation for orbital data centers, lunar systems, and other systems.
Whether you’re an engineer, a tech leader, or just curious about the future of space, this episode will provide inspiration and practical insights from an industry leader.
Today on the Tech Leader Talk podcast:
- Techniques for solving hard problems
- Scaling up power systems for space
- Designing with redundant systems
- High-efficiency, roll-out solar arrays (ROSA)
- Requirements and challenges for orbital data centers
Resources:
Orbital Data Centers white paper: https://rdw.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/RDW26-053-ODC-Power-Thermal-Study-White-Paper-R11-Digital.pdf
Video: Deployment of Roll-Out Solar Array (ROSA): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0CFejld5r_I
Connect with Al Tadros:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/al-tadros-986a583/
Website: https://rdw.com/
Thanks for listening!
Be sure to get your free copy of Steve’s book, Cracking the Patent Code, and discover his proven system for identifying and protecting your most valuable inventions. Get the book at https://stevesponseller.com/book.
