Mobility in Space for the Development of a Space Economy

Stef Crum, CEO & Co-Founder, Reditus Space

Democratizing Space: The Next Frontier in the Space Economy

The recent exponential growth of satellites operated by the private space industry has seen a drastic growth in the space economy. While the majority of the international conversation and coverage has been focused on the growing number of mega-constellations, as these now make up the majority of all operating satellites, I would argue that they are not the most critical development. 

Instead, I would argue that the biggest developments in the space industry have been the steps toward further democratization of space. Consequently creating access to space and its benefits more inclusive, affordable and widely available to a broader range of participants. Essentially, providing more individuals the ability to operate in space which in turn solidifies an infrastructure that facilitates innovation. 

The growth of rideshare missions has significantly reduced the cost of launching payloads by allowing multiple organizations to share the expenses of a single rocket, thus making space access more affordable. By providing frequent and flexible launch opportunities, rideshare missions have expanded global access to space, accelerating the accessibility of its benefits. Additionally, end-to-end satellite service providers have made it possible for companies and researchers alike to experiment and operate in space without needing their own space operational expertise. 

The proliferation of equal access to space allows smaller nations, academic institutions and startups to participate, creating a more inclusive and equitable global space community. This fosters innovation by enabling diverse contributors to develop new technologies and solutions, driving economic growth and opening new markets. 

To further promote this development, there are still many improvements to be made within space infrastructure. Missions still remain prohibitively expensive for most operations and nearly all operations occur in Low Earth Orbit. To be able to truly grow the new space economy, the private space industry will be tasked with providing a network of transportation and accessibility within the space domain. Akin to how the development of roads and international transportation networks is a necessity for the economy to take place here on Earth, the equivalent needs to be established in space. 

The next critical step in the democratization of space will be for the private space industry, supported by federal governments, to develop a robust infrastructure for mobility within the space domain. This infrastructure must provide fast, reliable and affordable transportation,  enabling non-space entities—such as manufacturers, researchers and service providers—to  reach any orbital destination or beyond without needing specialized space-expertise. By building this network of in-space logistics and connectivity, we can achieve unprecedented opportunities for innovation and commerce.

“Establishing reliable infrastructure in space is a prerequisite for the emergence of a thriving New Space Economy.”

Much like the development of global transportation networks was essential for creating the modern terrestrial economy, establishing reliable infrastructure in space is a prerequisite for the emergence of a thriving New Space Economy. With reduced barriers to mobility and access, industries ranging from pharmaceuticals and advanced materials to data services and tourism will be able to flourish. By taking these steps, the private space industry will serve as a catalysis for the next great economic revolution, one that expands humanity’s reach and redefines our relationship with space.