Synopsis
Here is a summary of the key points of the paper:
- Space technologies have enabled major scientific advances as well as many practical applications, but progress has slowed in recent decades. Key remaining challenges include:
- Improving space propulsion systems to enable faster interplanetary travel, larger payloads, and cheaper access to space. Hybrid air-breathing rocket engines and reusable launch vehicles are promising technologies being explored.
- Protecting human health for long-duration spaceflights and habitats. Closed-loop life support systems are needed to replenish resources and support human life.
- Developing an international planetary defense system capable of deflecting a catastrophic asteroid impact. Detection and impact prediction capabilities as well as deflection technologies need to be improved.
- There is rapid growth in the commercial “NewSpace” industry aiming to provide new space-based services. Appropriate regulations are needed to manage issues like space debris and overcrowded radio frequencies while still encouraging innovation.
- Technical challenges for smaller satellites include stabilizing platforms, minimizing microvibrations, and improving ground testing to accurately predict in-orbit performance. For large space structures, precision deployment and assembly of huge lightweight structures is key.
- In-orbit servicing using robots offers opportunities for satellite repair and debris removal but faces challenges related to rendezvous, stabilization, grasping, and navigation. Standardized devices are needed.
In summary, advancing space technologies requires overcoming limitations in areas like propulsion, structures, robotics, closed-loop life support systems, and debris mitigation. International cooperation is also essential for progress on issues like planetary defense and regulations.
