Space Exploration Privatization

Ever since I was a young kid in the fourth grade, I had always been interested in space exploration, and at one point, I even wanted to become an astronaut. Because of this, this topic of the privatization of space exploration is highly intriguing for me. Space exploration has been historically beneficial for our planet, and it has led to many advancements and innovations in technology and science; companies such as SpaceX aim to build onto this and eventually send humans to other planets (Dyne, 2020). There are some benefits to making space exploration private as opposed to relying solely on the government. Firstly, private companies are much more transparent in their goals and actions whereas government agencies are more susceptible to hiding information from the general public (Kakaes, 2018). One drawback to privatization is that there would ultimately be less funding that goes into the International Space Station, and this is not helpful for the end goal to send humans to other planets, which would require a lot more funding. As for ethical issues, government agencies are required to adhere to strict protocols that include proper disposable of space debris and other materials whereas private companies may not be as serious about conservation (Ward, 2020). Although space exploration is highly beneficial for the advancement of our world, it is important to look at whether it should be run by the government or private companies.

Dyne, Bryan. SpaceX Launch of Astronauts Marks New Stage of the Privatization of Space Exploration, World Socialist Web Site Wsws.org Published by the International Committee of the Fourth International (ICFI), 2 June 2020, www.wsws.org/en/articles/2020/06/02/spac-j02.html.

Kakaes, Konstantin. “NASA’s Leader Wants to Privatize the International Space Station. It’s a Remarkably Terrible Idea.” Vox, Vox, 8 June 2018, www.vox.com/the-big-idea/2018/6/8/17438332/privatizing-international-space-station-iss-nasa-bridenstine.

Ward, Peter. “The Unintended Consequences of Privatising Space.” BBC Science Focus Magazine, 26 Aug. 2020, www.sciencefocus.com/space/the-unintended-consequences-of-privatising-space/.