Why Should Anyone Care About the Space Sector?
Hi everyone,
This is my first post, and when I think of a learning kit, I envision more than just hardware and software. I want it to truly transform lives and open new opportunities for everyone. Before starting, I want users to ask themselves an essential question: Why? Why does the space sector matter, and why should I invest my time in learning about it?
Every person will have their own "why," and for me, it’s deeply personal. I’ve always been fascinated by the stars, imagining the incredible adventures and discoveries waiting beyond our planet. As someone who has dreamed of becoming an inventor, space represents the perfect blend of exploration and innovation. Two passions that collide in this next great frontier.
That’s my "why." It’s why I want future generations, including my own children, to learn about space. I believe humanity’s destiny lies among the stars, and I want to contribute to making that vision a reality. But how do we spark that curiosity in others? How do we inspire people to get into this industry and to dream about the future?
Let’s try by looking at what the space sector has done for us and what lies ahead.
What Space Has Already Done for Us
Space exploration has already revolutionized life on Earth, often in ways we don’t realize. Consider these examples:
Smartphone Cameras: The CMOS sensor technology in your phone’s camera originated as a NASA innovation. [1]
Weather Forecasting: Since 1975, satellites have provided invaluable data to predict weather and track environmental changes. [2]
Wildfire Monitoring: Space imagery helps track and manage natural disasters, saving lives and ecosystems. [3]
Agriculture: Tools like EOS Crop Monitoring use satellite data to improve farming practices and boost efficiency. [4]
Global Connectivity: Companies like Skyloom (where I’m fortunate to work) are pioneering laser communications to enhance our connectivity. [5]
And I didn't even mention companies like SpaceX or companies with the mission of developing a “searchable earth” like Satellogic [6]. If you want to dive deeper I would check out these resources:
What Is The Space Economy Going To Do For Us
Okay, we’ve seen how the space sector has transform and is continuing transforming our lives, but you might think everything has already been achieved. On the contrary, the opportunities are just beginning. There’s still so much waiting to be discovered and created. Let’s look at some of the estimations, trends, and plans for the future.
The space economy is projected to reach a $1.8 Trillion market for 2035. This growth offers countless opportunities for innovation and advancement. [McKinsey Report on the Space Economy]
Expected Growth of the Global Space Economy [McKinsey Report on the Space Economy]
This growth is partly driven by the dramatic reduction in launch costs. The cost of sending things to space is dropping rapidly, thanks to innovations like reusable rockets. For instance, Starship could reduce the cost of sending a kilogram of mass to space to just $200. [Visual Capitalist]
The Expected Reduction in the Cost of Sending Mass to Space [Visual Capitalist]
We are also setting the groundwork for Mars exploration. NASA is actively developing the technology and infrastructure needed to put humanity on track to reach Mars. I highly recommend checking out the Moon to Mars Architecture that NASA is preparing to get a clearer picture of what’s coming.
With our journey to Mars, many new technologies will emerge. I discovered Erik Kulu’s profile and his webpage, Factories in Space. He has some fantastic infographics that provide insight into the next few decades. The one I’ve shared below, in particular, highlights the many promising technologies ahead.
Wide View of the Future of In-Space Economy [Factories in Space]
This visualization shown below makes the future of the space economy even more compelling, showcasing the market sizes and timelines for some transformative technologies.
Future In-Space Economy Technologies by Market Size and Timeline [Factories in Space]
We are at the perfect moment to witness the future unfolding. Satellites and related technologies are already improving life on Earth, enabling everything from climate monitoring to global connectivity, and this is just the beginning. The future of the space industry is undoubtedly full of promise.
Conclusion
Space exploration pushes our technological and societal boundaries, and the next big transformation is happening right now, with space leading the way. I honestly believe everyone should care about the space sector. Why? Because it’s going to help us adapt to the future and grab hold of the incredible opportunities coming our way. It doesn’t matter what your background is, whether you’re a doctor, an architect, or in a field nobody’s even thought of yet, there’s a place for you in this industry.
Now’s the time to jump in. The challenges are going to be tough, no doubt about it, but the rewards? They’re going to blow your mind. We’re living in a once-in-a-lifetime moment, packed with adventures and opportunities waiting to be taken. I’ve found my "why" in this journey, and I hope this article lights a spark in you to find yours. The space sector isn’t just fascinating; it’s a chance to be part of something bigger than ourselves and shape the future.
