Keywords

Space Privatization, SpaceX, NASA, Space Tourism, Space Launch, Emerging Market Analysis

Disciplines

Business | Economics | Marketing

Mentor

Laudo Ogura

Abstract

This project is important to allow a full understanding of the current environment of the emerging market of space transport and travel. As we continue to move into a more technologically advanced society, we will no doubt have more contact with companies looking to profit from the race to deliver the promise of satellite space to companies all over the world in a more cost effective and powerful manner. To this end, Google and Facebook have already begun cooperation with private companies to propagate the space around our planet, and in addition, the investment and return basis of this work is essential knowledge that must be understood. With the occupation of more and more technology within orbit around our planet will also come some very future oriented problems such as demand and market size potential that must be examined to gain a better understanding of the future for the new industry. The growth of commercial space companies is now burgeoning within the United States and soon the world, and with this poises a unique opportunity to examine both past and current events to illustrate the true nature of this emerging industry in a way that past work has not been able to; mainly in the realm of privatization.

To illustrate these aspects of the growing industry this paper first examines the history of achievements and legislation that lead to the population of the market by commercial firms for the first time in history. Next, the paper analyzes the depth of a new aspect of the market, space tourism, its major players, and estimates for demand and pricing information. After this analysis is a complete illustration of the competitive and general environment of SpaceX and NASA, showing the differences and similarities of the old and new participants in the market. To show the crucial aspects of these firms, multiple analysis are used, including an advanced SWOT, Porter’s Five Forces, and a strategic mapping. Building on these differences brings the next portion of the research, the changes in cost and benefit provided by SpaceX affirming its foundation in the industry. Finally, the implications of this research are implored, followed by conclusions and potential future research that may come from this study.

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