An Analysis of the Competitive Advantage of the United States of America in Commercial Human Orbital Spaceflight Markets

Abstract

Abstract

The Public/Private Human Access to Space/Human Orbital Markets (HOM) Study Group of the International Academy of Astronautics has established a framework for the identification and analysis of relevant factors and structures that support a global human orbital spaceflight market. The HOM Study Group has called for analysis at the national level to be incorporated in their global study. This report, commissioned by the Federal Aviation Administration's Office of Commercial Space Transport, provides a review of demonstrated and potential HOMs and an analysis of the U.S. industrial supply chain supporting commercial human orbital spaceflight. We utilize a multimethod, holistic approach incorporating primarily qualitative methodologies that also incorporates relevant statistical data. Our methodology parallels the national competitive advantage diamond model pioneered by economist Michael Porter. The study reveals that while the United States currently possesses significant competitive advantage in commercial human orbital spaceflight, there are several areas of note that present a challenge to the sustainability of this advantage.