What is it about?

Space tourism is moving from science fiction to reality, with private companies racing to make commercial trips beyond Earth accessible, at least to those who can afford them. But while the technology is advancing quickly, there has been little academic research on the long-term sustainability, safety, and governance of this emerging industry. This paper examines the state of the space tourism sector, identifying the key players, market drivers, and technological innovations pushing it forward. It also highlights critical challenges, including environmental impacts, legal and ethical considerations, and the lack of a cohesive international regulatory framework. The study proposes a research agenda that addresses these gaps, focusing on safety standards, sustainability practices, and equitable access.

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Why is it important?

The space tourism industry is expected to grow rapidly in the coming decades, potentially opening up new economic opportunities and inspiring technological breakthroughs. However, without careful regulation and sustainability planning, it risks exacerbating environmental damage, both on Earth and in space, and deepening inequalities in access to these opportunities. By setting out a structured research agenda, this paper provides a foundation for academics, industry leaders, and policymakers to anticipate and manage the risks of commercial space travel while maximising its benefits.

Perspectives

For me, space tourism is not just about the thrill of travel beyond Earth’s atmosphere, it’s a test case for how humanity handles emerging frontiers. This research was an opportunity to think critically about how innovation can be balanced with responsibility, ensuring that the “final frontier” is explored in a way that benefits more than just a privileged few. I believe that if we start building sustainability, safety, and inclusivity into the foundations of space tourism now, we have a chance to avoid the mistakes made in earlier technological revolutions on Earth.

Dr Krish Saha
Birmingham City University

Read the Original

This page is a summary of: The quest for sustainability in lower orbit: Conceptual models for space tourism, International Journal of Tourism Research, January 2023, Wiley,
DOI: 10.1002/jtr.2568.
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