The Wild West of Outer Space: The New Space Race
A new space race is unfolding—not only between nations, but among commercial giants, defense contractors, and emerging players staking claims in increasingly crowded orbits. Welcome to the Wild West of Outer Space.
From thousand-satellite constellations to space-based missile defense systems, the contest for orbital dominance is accelerating. Control of space isn’t just about rockets—it’s about who shapes the next era of global power and defense strategy.
What’s Fueling the Revolution in Space?
The transformation is driven not only by rocket science, but by:
- Economic scale in satellite manufacturing
- Exotic propellants such as methane
- Miniaturized, high-functioning satellites that make billion-dollar constellations possible
But with growth comes risk: orbital debris, catastrophic collisions, and the looming specter of space warfare. This is the reality of today’s orbital frontier.
Exclusive Conversation with Tory Bruno, CEO of United Launch Alliance
In this episode of The Aerospace Executive Podcast, I’m joined by Tory Bruno, CEO of United Launch Alliance (ULA), who has led some of the most ambitious rocket launches in history.
From transforming ULA away from reliance on Russian engines to pioneering modular rockets that serve both commercial and defense missions, Tory offers unmatched insight into the future of space exploration and security.
Key Insights We Cover:
- The real space cost revolution: not in launch, but in satellite architecture
- The 300% launch price drop myth—and what’s actually happening
- How mini satellites are creating both opportunity and orbital traffic jams
- The quiet arms race: anti-satellite weapons, Kessler syndrome, and debris fields that could destroy constellations
- Why directed energy weapons and lasers may be the only answer to hypersonic threats
- How methane propulsion became viable—and why it matters now
- Why the greatest competitive edge in aerospace isn’t rockets—it’s people
The Bigger Picture
As the space industry shifts from exploration to militarization and commercialization, understanding the risks and opportunities in orbital real estate is critical. Whether you’re in aerospace, defense, or global business, the rules of this new frontier are being written right now.