Commercial Space · CU Boulder
Madison
Pearce
Astrophysical and Planetary Sciences student and aspiring space business professional — bridging the science of the cosmos with the strategy of getting there commercially.
Astrophysical and Planetary Sciences student and aspiring space business professional — bridging the science of the cosmos with the strategy of getting there commercially.
I'm an Astrophysical and Planetary Sciences student at the University of Colorado Boulder, with a Minor in Philosophy and an expected graduation in December 2026. My path has been a deliberate one: I came to astronomy for the science, and I'm staying for the business of making space access real.
I'm drawn to the operational and strategic side of the commercial space industry — how early-stage teams build, how partnerships form, and how ambitious ventures turn physics into a business model. I bring strong analytical thinking, clear communication, and a comfort with technical material that makes me effective in rooms where science and strategy meet.
This site is a living record of that journey: writing, research, experiences, and moments from a career just getting off the ground.
Long-form analysis, short takes, and everything in between — on the business of getting to space and what happens when we get there.
An examination of the structural challenges facing commercial space startups and the operational decisions that separate those who endure from those who don't.
The commercial case for active debris removal and the emerging market dynamics around solving one of space's most pressing collective challenges.
A look at the internal fault lines that bring early-stage space companies down, and how thoughtful organizational design can hold them together.
How satellite operations sit at the center of commercial success — and why the companies that treat ops as a strategic asset outperform those that treat it as overhead.
A visual record of the people, events, and places that shape my work and perspective. Including my woodworking certification for TEDxCU — which unlocked access to the BTU Lab at CU Boulder.
Leadership roles, research, and milestones along the way.
Supporting planning and execution of TEDxCU programming — coordinating logistics, setup, and attendee-facing operations across speaker, production, marketing, and volunteer teams.
LeadershipWorking with a small undergraduate group studying concepts in quantum field theory and particle physics through structured reading, discussion, and collaborative problem solving.
ResearchImproved store workflows and operational processes, contributing to the store becoming profitable after several unprofitable years. Managed staff coordination, inventory flow, and daily operations.
OperationsPromoted from lifeguard to supervisor based on consistent performance and judgment. Scheduled staff, monitored safety procedures, and maintained incident documentation across high-traffic operations.
ExperienceRelevant coursework: Astrophysics, Computational Physics, Atmospheric Science, Scientific Modeling, Advanced Mathematics.
Lifeguard Certification
First Aid & CPR / AED
Life Support Certification
YMCA Swim Lesson Instructor (YSL)
Microsoft Office Specialist — Word
Microsoft Office Specialist — Excel
Microsoft Office Specialist — PowerPoint
Supporting planning and execution of TEDxCU programming. Coordinating logistics, setup, and attendee-facing operations across speaker, production, marketing, and volunteer teams. Contributing to audience engagement strategy and building interactive elements.
Studying concepts in quantum field theory and particle physics through structured reading, discussion, and collaborative problem solving. Translating complex theoretical material into clear notes and explanations.
Improved store workflows and operational processes, contributing to the store becoming profitable after several unprofitable years. Managed day-to-day operations including staff coordination, inventory flow, and cash handling.
Promoted from lifeguard to supervisor based on consistent performance and judgment. Scheduled staff, monitored safety procedures, and maintained incident documentation across high-traffic operations.
Planned adaptive lessons across ages and skill levels. Tracked progress and provided feedback to support measurable skill development and confidence.
Whether you're working in commercial space, building something ambitious, or just want to trade ideas — I'd love to hear from you.
Email[email protected] LinkedInlinkedin.com/in/madison-pearce-13b078304 Phone305-570-5230