What happening?
A report on the public’s perception of the value of space was issued. The report can be downloaded at link.
Why this is important?
This is the largest report of its kind ever produced (20,000 people surveyed across 11 countries). It demonstrates that people are confused about space and largely unaware its true value.
What is in it for you?
The report addresses key issues, provides interesting answers and guidance for the space ecosystem such as:
- What do people associate with space today?
Answer: 21% with ‘aliens’, 14% with ‘science fiction’ compared with just 8% for ‘communications & connectivity’ and 3% for ‘broadcasting & television’.
Guidance: work harder to demonstrate the vital role of the space sector in everyday lives and its potential to deliver a brighter future for humanity
- Where are the gaps in people’s knowledge?
Answer: widespread, most people know little or nothing about the most relevant space innovations.
Guidance: same than above
- Are people looking to space for solutions to Earth’s problems?
Answer: yes, there is a great deal of hope for what space can deliver for Earth.
Guidance: look for ways to harness the public’s enthusiasm for space and put it to good use
- Do different countries think differently about space ?
Answer: yes, for instance, 60% in China associate space with tourism (v. 20% on global average).
Guidance: take those clear regional differences into account.
- Which generation is most hopeful about space?
Answer: every generation, but younger people tend to be more concerned about the planet.
Guidance: position space as providing solutions to Earth’s problems
- Any people worried about the future of space?
Answer: yes, people are nervous about what could happen in space (including in terms of space junk and pollution).
Guidance: continue to build trust and alleviate concerns
- Is the space sector famous enough?
Answer: no, people are unclear about what the space industry does.
Guidance: the space sector to publicize its work, inspire the global community and generate a new sense of excitement
- Can the space industry attract the talents it needs?
Answer: yes, younger people are more excited about the potential of space than the oldest
Guidance: re-instill a sense of wonder; find ways to speak to the young generation and recruit the brightest
Next steps
Since the facts are in favor of the space ecosystem (around 10% of the global economy depends upon space), it is time to more clearly define the value of space.