Drones and popularisation of space

Abstract

The article presents drones as new devices used for military and civil purposes. The brief analysis focuses on civil uses of drones and their possible interrelation with space infrastructures. Unfortunately, drones are often known as “killing machines” having in many cases hit innocent civilians in war theatres. However, they can be used to improve security of citizens, for natural disasters prevention, for borders surveillance and mass migration control.The initial reaction of many people is normally induced by the fear of unknown as often happens for new technologies, especially if they come from the sky. Therefore, it is vitally important to create awareness of aerospace and outer space activities to create social acceptance for such activities. The article presents some actions that can be taken by the competent authorities to help a smooth introduction of drones into the market, including a website to keep a dialogue with the public, actions that can be taken also for any new space activity.Finally, the article examines some economic aspects that can jeopardise the popularisation of space activities, including drones, and the key information that should be passed on the general public to show how the investments in space activities and infrastructures bring enormous advantages to our daily life, promoting in such a way the popularisation of space.