A Pathway to a Thriving Commercial Space Economy
- Paper number
IAC-16,D3,1,1,x34604
- Coauthor
Mr. Robert Pittman, NASA Ames Research Center, United States
- Coauthor
Dr. Dan Rasky, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), United States
- Year
2016
- Abstract
After over 50 years of human spaceflight and an investment of half a trillion dollars in space exploration the United States has no well accepted overarching rationale for its human space exploration program. This paper will explore recent events that not only point to this overarching rationale but will also layout a framework for its implementation. The essential role that a thriving space economy plays in the sustainable development and settlement of space will be examined and several historical analogs are explored that offer insight into how the future program could best be structured and executed. Finally the evolving roles of government and industry as they morph during the maturation of a robust space economy will be described from government led and industry supported to industry led and government supported.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-16,D3,1,1,x34604.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.