Disruptive Space Technologies

Abstract

The theory of Disruptive Technologies explains the evolution of technologies that disturb the status quo of both dominant technology platforms and competitive market layouts. In this paper, the theory of Disruptive Technologies for the space sector is explored. This exploration is required because the Disruptive Technology theory is currently based upon the innovation dynamics of mass consumer markets, which are significantly different from the dynamics of the low volume, highly governmentally influenced space sector. The objective is to clarify the dynamics of innovation in space (with particular respect to technological disruptions) in order to help decision makers in their effort to support innovation in the development of space technologies. This is done by analyzing the dynamics of the space sector and the theory of Disruptive Technologies in respect to its applicability to the space sector. The result of these analyses leads to the creation of a theory that is tailored to the specific innovation dynamics of the space sector. The theory is termed Disruptive Space Technologies. Key element of this theory is the fact that Disruptive Technologies in the space sector focus mainly on technology disruption rather than market disruption.