Heavenly Interest
Humanity’s interest in the heavens has been universal and enduring [1]
The strides made in astronomical discovery in the last century are truly remarkable. Looking backwards – as recently as 1992, astronomers had no idea that planets existed outside our solar system. Prior to 1947, no living creature had ever ventured into space (as little was known about the effects of cosmic radiation on organic matter). Yet since the moon landing in 1969, the space industry has made enormous strides. Humanity’s astral perception has come a long way since Galileo demolished Aristotle’s cosmology. As a result of these achievements, space today is a far different place than it was just a century ago. If Galileo turned his spyglass skyward today, he’d find a vast network of satellites, spacecraft and even a space station inhabited by humans. Even regular space tourism is becoming a reality, with multiple aerospace companies already accepting bookings for commercial space flights.
Space 4.0 – A revival
Space 4.0 represents the evolution of the space sector into a new era, characterised by a new playing field [3]
Space 1.0 was characterized by humanity’s curiosity about the Sun, Moon, and stars. Space 2.0 saw humanity treading across the Moon’s surface. Space 3.0 resulted in a permanent presence in space with the construction and continuous operation of the International Space Station. Space 4.0 represents the next evolution of space exploration. It has opened the door for commercialization of earth’s orbit (and beyond), creating a renaissance in space and driving new collaborations between international governments, the private sector, and academics. For decades space had solely been the playground of government agencies. No longer.
The recent, unprecedented transformation of the NewSpace (propelled by technological advancements and a new entrepreneurial spirit) has led to a significant reduction in launch costs. In September 2008, the space industry was struck by a shockwave when SpaceX (a private company) sparked a revival by deploying its Falcon 1 launch vehicle at a fraction of the typical launch cost. All while maintaining optimal performance and reliability. These lower barriers to entry are hallmarks of the space 4.0 era, which has opened a new playing field and is driving interaction between governments, the private sector, society and politics.
Space Democratisation
Reducing cost, which wasn’t always the first thing considered when developing space hardware in the past is (now) becoming something that is critical to the development of space hardware going forward
Space is no longer the domain of a few global superpowers with deep pockets and legions of rocket scientists. Instead, we are in an era of space democratisation. Space is now accessible to developing countries, academia and research institutes, the private sector, and citizens alike. Space democratisation was sparked by the advent of lower-cost launch systems developed by commercial organisations that have created a new playing field. The lower barrier to entry into space exploration has democratised space. The time when governments dominated the space markets and national interests dictated space exploration strategy is a thing of the past. From this landscape, a stark reality is emerging – Digital technologies (such as Digital Twins, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), Big Data Analytics, and AR/VRIS) are poised to further drive down the barriers to entry and propel the inevitable entry of more stakeholders.
Space – A Changing Landscape
Today state and private actors alike have access to space. The space sector is undergoing a period of commercialisation. Evidence of this can already be seen amongst the stars. Throughout 2021, SpaceX launched numerous satellites (2000+) [4] using its reusable Falcon 9 rocket. In May 2022, SpaceX performed three separate launch missions in under a week. Major players such as Blue Origin, SpaceX and Virgin Galactic and several start-ups are competing to provide space-based services. The application of digital technologies and cost reductions have changed the direction of space exploration, making the dream of space tourism and recreational spaceflight a reality.
Why Digitise Space?
With the help of digital transformation, NASA will expand its capability to explore the Moon, Mars and the universe beyond—and to understand and improve our modest but precious place in that universe [5]
Digitizing space is crucial to our quest to someday answer the question: Is there life in space? Our world today is undeniably digital. Several digital technologies are already an integral part of the space industry. As we explore the universe for scientific discovery and economic benefits, spacecraft are having to travel further away from earth. Pinging home from millions of miles away for answers to critical questions is not an option for future space travel. Such challenges call for a focus on solutions that digital technologies can offer. Despite decades of significant accomplishments, serious acceleration is required as Space exploration moves from being a geopolitical instrument to becoming an economic activity. The amalgamation of digital technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, cloud and digital twins can provide this acceleration. Digital technology has transformed life on earth, so why not in Space?
