On Point with Meghna Chakrabarti | Podcast How private companies are influencing the new space race
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Sep 25, 2025 
In this conversation, Christian Davenport, a NASA and space industry reporter for The Washington Post, and Ariel Ekblaw, founder of the Aurelia Institute, delve into the intricate relationships between private companies and public space agencies. They discuss how NASA's support was crucial for SpaceX's survival and the implications of commercial firms’ dominance in launch services. The duo also explores the balance of benefits and risks posed by industry reliance, visionary projects like space-based solar power, and the future of U.S. space leadership amid growing competition.
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SpaceX's Near-Death Rescue
- SpaceX failed three times before reaching orbit and nearly went bankrupt in 2008.
- NASA then awarded a $1.6 billion cargo contract that effectively saved the company.
NASA's Strategic Bet On Industry
- NASA deliberately shifted to outsourcing to test whether private firms could handle cargo and crew missions.
- That gamble birthed a new commercial space paradigm and reduced costs through competition.
Space Launches Shift Airspace Costs
- Commercial launches impose real costs on aviation infrastructure like airspace management.
- The commercial space sector currently pays little or nothing into the FAA's aviation trust fund.
