Commercial Avenues for Space Utilization | Dittmar Associates (2003)

By Mary Lynne Dittmar, PhD, Posted 03/13/09

Link: http://www.dittmar-associates.com/Publications/Commercial%20Avenues%20for%20S...

“Interest in the commercial development and utilization of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) has increased significantly over the past ten years with the advent of relatively advanced technologies including telecommunication and satellite applications as well as high-resolution sensor development for topographical surveys, environmental impact studies and community planning. Access to space remains a challenge; both in the high cost to orbit and in the dearth of commercially-viable transport mechanisms which can fully address the varying analytical and physical integration needs of a burgeoning market. This paper addresses these concerns and posits an innovative business approach to commercial placement in LEO of scientific, engineering, and new product projects utilizing existing platforms and examines the promise of new commercial programs which will expand the resources available on-orbit.”