Opinion
Opinion section includes op-eds, columns, commentaries and editorials on all things related to the global space business enterprise.
Op-Ed | It’s Time to Rescind the Moratorium on Regulation of Commercial Spaceflight
As commercial human spaceflight enjoys a breakout 2021, it doesn't make sense for Congress to keep safety regulators handcuffed through 2023, argues the author of "Bringing Columbia Home."
A new test facility for the new Vega E engine
On Tuesday October 5th Avio has inaugurated the Space Propulsion Test Facility at the Experimental Range for Joint Training of Salto di Quirra
Op-ed | Automation a key enabler of the future space economy
Robotics and automation are playing a huge role across the rapidly evolving new space economy and value chains adjacent to space
Is Netflix’s Inspiration4 docuseries a new era in Space Age media relations?
While the exclusive footage and the interviews were fascinating, Netflix's "Countdown: Inspiration4 Mission to Space" docuseries lacks drama. By the time the final episode was released, the crew had been safely back for a week and a half.
Enhanced Proton M Launch System – New Features
In 2021 the enhanced Proton M launch system celebrates the 20th anniversary since the start of its operation. Since then, 100+ missions have been completed with the last 21 launches being successful (no issues reported by customers).
Op-ed | Putting the UK’s new space strategy into action
The UK's National Space Strategy has not come a moment too soon as orbits become increasingly important and competitive for technology, communications and security. The UK cannot afford to be left behind. Nor can it afford to be subscale.
Op-ed | Can we backhaul our way to space?
If the market grows large enough, a dedicated lunar-to-LEO tanker industry could evolve – which might never happen if the infrastructure for supplying space facilities with lunar water had to be paid for up front and from scratch, before any water was delivered.
Op-ed | Sound space industry regulation matters for the 4th Industrial Revolution
What role is there for space and satellite industries in Industry 4.0? Plenty.
Op-ed | GPS Offers Lessons for the Infrastructure of Tomorrow
Today, some of the more innovative uses of GPS are those that work together with other emerging technologies, thereby enabling smarter, more efficient functionality.
On National Security | Small businesses doing big things in DoD space programs
Catalyst Campus is giving space startups early exposure to Department of Defense buyers.
Henry Ford Heads for the High Frontier
For decades, skilled engineers and technicians have been building satellites designed for unique missions and making them one at a time.
Op-ed | While satellites are cool, military space networks must focus on interoperability
How satellites are stitched together in a highly complex, multi-band and multi-network system needs to be at the forefront of SDA's Transport Layer discussion. .
Connecting the Dots | Achieving sustainable space
The visibility and attention space missions often get work to the industry’s advantage, from helping to attract top engineering talent to top investment dollars. But it also comes with heightened scrutiny that risks tripping up young space companies rushing to the commercial market.
Delta II and SLC-2: A Remarkable Era
The launch of NASA’s Ice, Cloud, and land Elevation Satellite-2 (ICESat-2) on September 15, 2018, marked the end of a remarkable era for the venerable Delta II launch vehicle and SLC-2.
Op-ed | Can Frank Kendall help the Space Force win the space race against China?
Kendall’s perception of what was needed for success in DoD procurement has largely tracked with what venture and private equity investors have pursued.
Op-ed | Pentagon finally embracing the idea of buying ‘good enough’ space solutions
Private sector advances put the Space Development Agency in a position of strength due to its vision of acquiring capabilities quickly
