Why Space Matters Part 2: Space Is Our Present

DUSTIN WALKER, National Security Relations Lead

4 minute read

The skies have always been a source of inspiration, guiding our ancestors and evoking a sense of wonder within us. In the modern world, space continues to captivate us, urging us to explore its depths and discover its mysteries. This second installment of the three-part Why Space Matters series delves into humanity’s embrace of this still unfamiliar frontier, aiming to illustrate our recent reliance on near-Earth space and why it’s so vital to humanity’s past, present, and future. Part 2 continues our journey from our past to our present. Technological advancements profoundly impact everyone who calls Earth home and drives humanity forward in their pursuits. From the development of satellites to the realization of orbital travel, we are constantly pushing the boundaries of what was once thought unreachable beyond Earth’s atmosphere.

Satellites have a significant impact on our modern world, transforming communication, navigation, and weather forecasting while playing a vital role in addressing global challenges. The first satellite, Sputnik 1, orbited Earth for three months after its launch by the Soviet Union on October 4, 1957, followed by the United States’ Explorer 1 about four months later. Today, over 9,600 satellites orbit Earth, providing significant contributions that make our lives safer, more efficient, and revolutionize our communications, transportation, and disaster preparedness.

Satellite technology has made a substantial impact on global communications. By relaying data from high above Earth, satellites have made instant and reliable worldwide communication possible. This innovation has transformed the way humans communicate and conduct business internationally. Likewise, the use of satellites in Navigation and Global Positioning System (GPS) systems has vastly reformed road trips, business location services, and emergency and disaster response. Weather forecasting has also been greatly enhanced by the use of satellites, providing crucial data that seamlessly integrates with land-based systems to play a critical role in collecting a variety of weather data, including radiation emitted by the Earth and atmosphere, observing lightning activity, and monitoring cloud cover. They have become essential tools for addressing pressing global challenges, from climate change to national disaster response. The extensive and profound impact of satellites has truly revolutionized the world around us.

*View of the Syncom IV satellite in orbit over the Earth (NASA*)

The Apollo 11 moon landing on July 16, 1969, and the intense Space Race rivalry were pivotal moments in human history, showcasing incredible feats of engineering and ingenuity. These efforts led to the development of groundbreaking technologies such as LED lights, scratch-resistant eyeglass lenses, and memory foam, while also paving the way for technological advancements for space utilization. Over the past 25 years, the International Space Station (ISS) continues to be a center for scientific research and technological progress. Its unique microgravity environment and ability to support humans has led to numerous discoveries and innovations, benefiting life on Earth and advancing space capabilities. These innovations range from medical and microgravity agriculture research to the demonstration of 3D printing, communications networks, and innovative space technologies like KMI’s REACCH payload. The ISS serves as the primary long-duration space-based platform for testing and advancing technologies that enhance the capabilities for uncrewed space exploration. Through the collaborative efforts of astronauts representing five different nations, the ISS stands as a testament to what can be achieved through international cooperation and how it drives humanity to look toward the future.

Today, our ultimate goal for human exploration and pushing the limits of our technology is Earth’s neighboring planet, Mars. With its striking similarities to Earth, Mars has captured our fascination, presenting vast potential for scientific discovery and human ambition. This fascination pushes us to develop new methods for understanding its geology, climate patterns, and Earth-like properties from the planet’s surface rather than relying solely on terrestrial computers and telescopes. This scientific journey goes beyond satisfying our curiosity and calls to our perseverance as a species to explore and discover. Exploration of Mars is critical in helping us answer profound questions about the origins of the solar system, the potential for extraterrestrial life, and the future of human civilization. By studying Mars' geological history, we hope to gain insights into the conditions necessary for life to emerge and thrive, shedding light on Earth's past and future. Furthermore, the technologies developed for Mars exploration will have far-reaching implications for improving our own planet's sustainability and resilience. As we work towards sending humans to Mars, we are also advancing technological and medical innovations that will benefit life on Earth. Ultimately, Mars serves as both a scientific frontier and a symbol of our relentless spirit of exploration.

*Three Generations of Rovers in Mars Yard (NASA*)

*Mosaic of the Schiaparelli Hemisphere of Mars (ESA*)

As we continue to explore beyond Earth’s atmosphere and push the boundaries of technology, it is imperative that we take the necessary actions to preserve space and ensure its availability for present and future generations. This is why KMI's mission of “Keeping Space Clear for All” has gathered widespread support by those fostering sustainability as we further explore the cosmos. Humanity’s relentless spirit of exploration and thirst for discovery fuels technological advancements, propels us forward, and inspires us to look toward the future with enthusiasm and ambition. Our inevitable journey into the cosmos stands as a testament to the unwavering spirit of humanity and our endless pursuit of knowledge, as we endeavor to reach new heights and unravel the mysteries of the universe.