StarTalk Radio Cosmic Queries – NASA v. Billionaires with Lori Garver
Jun 21, 2022
Lori Garver, the former Deputy Administrator of NASA and author of 'Escaping Gravity,' dives into the thrilling intersection of public and private space exploration. She discusses the implications of mining asteroids and lunar resources, and the evolving role of billionaires in this new space race. Garver shares insights about the complex relationship between NASA and commercial ventures, the cultural impact of high-profile launches, and the legal challenges surrounding space law. Her expertise offers a fascinating perspective on the future of human spaceflight.
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Cost of Human Spaceflight
- NASA's human spaceflight has cost roughly $1 billion per person launched since Apollo.
- This includes total costs, not just marginal costs, but highlights expensive government spending.
Branding in Space
- Private companies like SpaceX now prominently display their branding on spacecraft, unlike traditional contractors.
- NASA even allowed SpaceX to use Teslas, showcasing a shift in their approach.
Private Space Companies and Innovation
- Private space companies drive innovation, leading to technological advancements in related fields.
- Many new companies emerge but face the funding challenge as space exploration is not profitable.
