Everybody's Business to Know About Space: Cross-Disciplinarity and the Challenges of the New Space Age

Abstract

Many commentators have suggested that we are witnessing the advent of a ‘New Space Age’. In addition to the opportunities presented, this New Space Age also brings challenges, many of which are unprecedented, invariably complex, and which are not readily amenable to easy or previously developed tailor-made solutions. Cross-disciplinary approaches have been suggested as a means toward which solutions to such space-related problems may be reached. This qualitative study draws on interviews with 30 policy-makers, industry body representatives, academics, and practitioners to investigate the ways in which cross-disciplinary approaches can contribute to solving the problems presented by the New Space Age. Findings indicate that the type of cross-disciplinary research approach adopted brings with it discernible costs and benefits, as well as palpable differences in the nature and extent of the contribution made to space research, space policy, and space exploration. Conclusions inform both public policy and university research policy, the literature on research collaboration between disciplines, and the effectiveness of cross-disciplinarity in the context of advancing the space sector.