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For centuries and decades, the exploration of space has been one of the biggest dreams of humanity. With the introduction of new technologies and cutting-edge innovations, we have managed to reach the point where not only can we explore space, but use it to our own advantage. Although space tourism is still in its infancy, humanity has already learned how to use space and technologies for better communication and connectivity, environmental monitoring, navigation, disaster management, and so on.
The prospects of space exploration are unlimited even if not all new companies are going to follow the space tourism trends. There are still a lot of vital things to discover up there. That’s why Y Combinator encourages ambitious entrepreneurs to launch their startups in the aerospace industry, claiming that it is not harder than launching a software company. If that is true, let us take a closer look at the current space trends and inspirational examples of the startups that have already started their journey.
Space Tourism Development
The official date of the space tourism start is believed to be April 2001. Dentist Tito, an American businessman and engineer, joined the board of a Soyuz-TM32 spacecraft and became the first to make a commercial flight to space. Back then, the space industry was valued at around $97.7 billion. Over the years, it has grown immensely and reached the point of $423.8 billion before the pandemic, and as of today, it is estimated at $518.48 billion. Experts expect the sector to hit the point of $1,110.84 billion by 2030.
Clearly, the development of space tourism is not the only factor that facilitates the overall sector growth, as the space tourism niche is believed to take only up to $1 billion. However, it goes without saying that it generates immense attention from the public, and that is why experts predict its growth in the future. Partially, this trend is caused by the reduction of expenditures on space travel. This makes the entry point more affordable for ambitious startups that are ready to bring about some vital innovations and increase competition.
It is although believed that NASA and other state-control organizations supported this trend by enabling easier access to the International Space Station. As a result of this trend, private companies have gained a lot of valuable experience and are able to make these travels much safer and more cost-efficient.
Machine Learning
Machine learning development is revolutionizing space exploration by enabling the analysis of vast datasets, enhancing astronaut capabilities, and fostering scientific innovation. The autonomous ML-based navigation system of Deep Space 1 and the AI-assisted exoplanet discovery by the James Webb Space Telescope exemplify how AI is reshaping space missions. Initiatives such as NASA’s Parker Solar Probe and the creation of AI-driven monitoring systems and robotic assistants highlight the limitless potential for uncovering cosmic mysteries and broadening access to space. The future of space exploration relies on the integration of ML to reveal the universe’s secrets and make space exploration accessible to all.
Reusable Launch Systems
One of the biggest factors in space exploration becoming more affordable and sustainable is the advancement of reusable launch systems. These systems launch a new era of accessibility and cost-efficiency for space companies as the innovations help to overcome many traditional challenges. Here are three major characteristics of reusable launch systems that push the industry forward:
- Cost Reduction: Reusable launch systems dramatically lower the expenses associated with space missions, enabling more organizations and nations to partake in space exploration endeavors. By amortising costs over multiple launches, these systems offer a financially sustainable approach to accessing space, fostering innovation and growth in the industry.
- Increased Launch Frequency: The adoption of reusable launch systems facilitates a higher launch frequency, allowing for rapid deployment of satellites, scientific instruments, and crewed missions. This heightened launch cadence accelerates scientific discoveries, commercial ventures, and infrastructure development in space, driving progress in various fields.
- Environmental Sustainability: Reusable rockets minimise the environmental impact of space launches by reducing the need for disposable vehicles and decreasing carbon emissions. By promoting eco-friendly practices, reusable launch systems contribute to a greener approach to space exploration, aligning the industry with global sustainability goals.
The efficiency of reusable launch systems is not just a theoretical concept. We can witness clear evidence of their wider implementation in the sectors. Consider that since 2022 the reusable launch vehicle market has increased from $1.61 billion to $1.94 billion. No wonder that experts expect it to reach the point of $5.41 billion by 2030.
The Growth of the Private Sector and Use of AI
It seems obvious that the two points mentioned above are impossible without technological advancements and the introduction of innovations. The private sector seems to be more efficient in developing reusable rockets and supporting systems than governments. They have access to new solutions and can foster cross-border collaboration, which is extremely important for cost reduction and efficiency growth.
Moreover, as in any industry, the aerospace sector grows when there is strong competition there. Private competitors motivate each other to look for more efficient and cost-friendly solutions that will allow them to achieve their goals, generate more revenue, fulfill the expectations of stakeholders, and keep generating more profits. This is not always possible from the perspective of governments as they do not have stakeholders and can compete only with other countries.
It is also notable that both commercial companies and NASA see the potential capabilities of AI-driven solutions. AI can process data very effectively by filtering and prioritising the most important features. This facilitates better information analysis and allows companies to make data-driven decisions. It is also obvious, that the growth and further implementation of AI and ML solutions will cause the growth in the use of robotic technologies for space exploration. This is already becoming a game-changing factor, especially in terms of scientific exploration of space.
Case Studies
Over the last decades, the competition in the commercial space sector has vastly increased. New startups keep emerging as they see great opportunities for their further growth. So, let us take a closer look at some notable examples of such startups to understand why the launch of new space companies is a worthy idea.
Astranis
Based in San Francisco, Astranis has been revolutionising the satellite sector by pioneering a cost-efficient and highly effective method for internet connectivity. Unlike conventional satellite manufacturers grappling with soaring expenses linked to large-scale satellites and extensive fuel demands, Astranis has distinguished itself by crafting smaller, more adaptable satellites, expediting both production and deployment.
The hurdles encountered by Astranis offer invaluable insights for the satellite industry at large, highlighting the unsustainability of traditional methods amidst a rapidly evolving technological landscape. Astranis’ triumph stems from its adeptness at harnessing technological advancements, streamlining manufacturing procedures, and embracing a dynamic approach.
Relativity Space
Relativity Space is a company that specialises in rocket manufacturing. However, similar to the previous startup, it decided to streamline the manufacturing process by implementing the technology of 3D printing. The founders of the company believed that 3D printing would make the rocket manufacturing process more automated and would decrease the duration of this process to two months.
The history of the company dates back to 2015. It was founded by Tim Ellis and Jordan Noon in Los Angeles. In 2016, the startup of these two young and ambitious men took part in Y Combinator, which helped them launch the first version of their first rocket Terran 1.
Relativity Space introduces Terran 1 as its inaugural rocket tailored for constellation deployment and supply missions. This two-stage, expendable rocket boasts a dedicated mission cost of $12 million and boasts a payload capacity of approximately 2.8K lbs to Low Earth Orbit (LEO), equating to a cost per kilogram for LEO missions at $9.6K. Driving its propulsion are nine 3D-printed Aeon 1 engines powering the first stage, complemented by a singular 3D-printed Aeon Vac engine propelling the second stage.
The Bottom Line
As we see, even small emerging startups can find their niche in the evolving space industry. They can either consider the implementation of digital solutions, such as ML and AI-driven technologies or try to fill the sector with so much-needed equipment. We believe that there are still a lot of things to discover about machine learning in the space industry if we strive to boost the efficiency of exploration. Besides, it can be efficiently integrated into the manufacturing process, increasing its overall productivity.