The Commercialization of Outer Space

The spectacular achievements of space exploration have long overshadowed the commercial impacts of space development. Here, Jonathan Goodrich brings together, in a single source, detailed information about the significant business aspects of space commercialization. Intended for top executives in the space and aerospace industries--as well as for firms contemplating entering the space business--the book addresses the marketing, legal, economic, technological, and insurance issues involved in space exploration and development. Throughout, Goodrich focuses both on opportunities in and obstacles to space business in order to help firms tailor their decision-making and strategic planning activities appropriately and profitably.

Following an introductory chapter on the uses and importance of outer space to America, Goodrich devotes separate chapters to such important facets of space business as space operators, materials processing in space, spinoffs from space technology that can be incorporated into products for ordinary use, the potential profits offered by the Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI) program, identifying customers for orbital facilities, the role of space insurance, and major space laws. Of particular interest is a chapter entitled How to Market to NASA which identifies the major NASA field operations and their needs, explains the procurement process, offers practical guidelines for marketing your capabilities to NASA, and lists available special assistance programs. In his conclusion, Goodrich assesses the future of space business. Two appendixes list space business publications and firms involved in space commerce respectively. Invaluable for any firm that seeks to capitalize on the opportunities presented by space exploration, this book offers a clear-headed appraisal of the potential profits possible as well as a guide to minimizing the substantial risks involved in pursuing those profits.