Even though most of us probably don’t think about it often, space has become increasingly significant in our everyday lives, helping us find answers to some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

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For over two decades, the International Space Station, for example, has provided a laboratory for space operations and scientific breakthroughs. Thanks to the space station, researchers from around the world can utilize the distinctive environmental conditions of low Earth orbit (LEO) to advance technological innovation and facilitate scientific research in unique environments like microgravity. Over 3,300 experiments have been conducted aboard the space station, including ones that have improved X-ray technologies and other medical devices; developed drugs, cancer treatment strategies, and new types of artificial blood grown from protein crystals; found ways to reduce heat absorbed by city surfaces, reduce fire risk, and help farmers more efficiently utilize water; and advanced DNA sequencing, robotics, satellites, and 3D manufacturing.

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The final frontier not only cultivates groundbreaking research, but the growing commercial space economy and marketplace is expected to be extremely profitable.

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The consulting firm McKinsey & Company estimates the global space economy will be “worth $1.8 trillion by 2035 (accounting for inflation), up from $630 billion in 2023. This figure includes both ‘backbone’ applications – such as those for satellites, launchers, and services like broadcast television or GPS – and what they term ‘reach applications’ – those for which space technology helps companies across industries generate revenues.”

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Naturally, there are a ton of issues to work through as we navigate space. Since it was created on December 20, 2019 – making it the newest branch of the U.S. armed forces and the first new military service to be created in over 70 years – the U.S. Space Force (USSF) is now responsible for everything from our operating missile detection networks to monitoring the 13,000+ active satellites in space to the Geographic Positioning System (GPS) constellation that helps you send a pin to your friends or find your way to that new restaurant you’ve been wanting to try.