"As nations compete to reach the moon’s southern pole, an equally important race for commercial outcomes will shape Earth’s future markets and create immense opportunities for astropreneurs (space entrepreneurs). Private investments are fueling this commercial race"

Gonzalez, S., Heracleous, L. (2024) 'The new space race is not what you think'. California Management Review.

A few words on the Article
 
In 'The New Space Race is Not What You Think', Steven Gonzalez and Loizos Heracleous highlight the shift of goals in the current space race. The latter, particularly targeting the Moon's South Pole for its water resources, pursues commercial and resource-driven goals - as opposed to the first space era, characterized by motives of national prestige. NASA views the Moon as a stepping stone to Mars, while commercial players see it as a profitable destination. 

In the current space landscape, the commercial space industry is growing rapidly, with venture financing for space startups increasing significantly. Every upcoming lunar startup will mutually shape strategic plans for lunar activities and the utilization of NASA assets. The introduction of new capabilities will foster an environment conducive to the emergence of additional startups.

Beyond the commercial network model, as technological advancements in the commercial industry grow vastly, and as direction of Low Earth Orbit and lunar activities will shift from NASA to the commercial sector, NASA's ability to excel in space exploration will depend on the effective transition to the role of Human Space Exploration Integrator, focusing on partnerships and innovative programs.

​Beyond NASA, companies such as SpaceX, Blue Origin, and more, are now supporting the emerging lunar economy, creating strong new market opportunities and infrastructure. These will enhance NASA's future exploration capabilities.