The old space economy was primarily focused on government-funded programs, such as NASA’s space exploration and satellite launches for military and scientific purposes. The private sector played a relatively small role, with companies primarily serving as contractors for government projects.
The new space economy, however, is characterized by a growing number of private companies entering the market and driving innovation. Companies such as SpaceX and Blue Origin are developing reusable rockets, drastically reducing the cost of access to space. In addition, the growth of satellite technology and the development of new business models, such as satellite-based internet services, has created new opportunities for private companies.
Another key difference between the old and new space economy is the increasing number of countries, both developed and developing, that are investing in space activities. The rise of developing countries as players in space industry has opened up new opportunities for international cooperation in space exploration and technology development.
The new space economy also has a strong focus on the commercialization of space resources and in-space manufacturing, which has the potential to create new industries and a whole new market for space-based products and services.
Overall, the new space economy is characterized by a growing private sector, a wider range of countries participating in space activities, and a focus on innovation and commercialization. This shift has the potential to greatly expand the economic benefits of space activities and make space more accessible to a wider range of people and organizations.