Synopsis
The report discusses the rapidly evolving commercial space industry and opportunities for greater government utilization of commercial space services. Key areas covered:
Communications
- Several companies like SpaceX, Amazon, OneWeb deploying large LEO broadband internet constellations
- Other startups offering IoT connectivity, space data relay, enhanced GPS
- Commercial SATCOM advancing faster than military systems and could augment or replace some DoD capabilities
Sensing
- Proliferation of startups offering variety of sensing services – optical/SAR imagery, weather data, RF monitoring, space domain awareness
- Commercial systems provide additional capacity to augment government systems and support partners like Ukraine
Launch & In-Space Logistics
- Launch costs falling rapidly, especially for medium and heavy launch
- On-orbit servicing, satellite life extension emerging as a new market
- Government can benefit from commercial innovation in these areas
Barriers & Recommendations
- Modify processes and culture to be more inclined toward procuring services
- Increase budget flexibility between procurement and commercial services
- Use commercial services to supplement military systems and exercises
- Streamline regulations to provide clarity for commercial providers
The report recommends the government adopt a “buy before build” approach when viable commercial alternatives exist, as well as steps to reduce barriers to commercial space adoption. Realizing the full promise of commercial space services will enable government agencies to focus resources on specialized capabilities unsuitable for commercial provision.