Resources of free space vs. flags and footprints on Mars: an examination of the competing paradigms for human space exploration and development
Article Abstract:
An alternative plan to space exploration and development, known as the free space plan or the Tsiolkovsky/Cole/O'Neill model, is gaining acceptance among policy setters. Space policy has been dominated by the ideal of exploring other earth-like planets and Mars was the goal. In 1969, however, Congress rejected a proposed Integrated Space Program as unrealistically expensive, but manned Mars missions remained a goal for the US and Soviet Union. The alternative plan focuses on developing resources from the space environment, such as asteroids, and is more economically feasible and advantageous to humans.
Publication Name: Space Policy
Subject: Business
ISSN: 0265-9646
Year: 1996
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An economically viable space power relay system
Article Abstract:
A space power relay system (PRS) that uses advanced technologies to transmit power to different parts of the globe was investigated for its economic feasibility. Results showed that providing electric power via the PRS system is not an economically viable business when electricity prices are competitive to those in developed US cities because of a low internal rate of return (IRR). However, when the target market has prevalent electricity prices that are much higher, such as in Japan, the use of the PRS system can yield an IRR over 65%.
Publication Name: Space Policy
Subject: Business
ISSN: 0265-9646
Year: 1999
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Inflection points in the development of energy in space
Article Abstract:
The 1997 Space Power Systems conference held in Montreal, Canada, highlighted changes in the development of energy in space. The deregulation of power distribution coupled with the growing concern over the sustainability of existing power sources have made space power more acceptable. On the other hand, space energy development is hampered by the high cost of launching space vehicles. Participants in the conference are optimistic that the technology will become available during the 1st qtr of the 21st century.
Publication Name: Space Policy
Subject: Business
ISSN: 0265-9646
Year: 1998
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