NASA’s Time to Shine: Approaching Procurement in the ‘New Space Age’

Abstract

With the increasing presence of commercial activity in outer space, the dynamics between public and private entities are shifting. Within these changing dynamics, the role of private actors pose novel opportunities and unprecedented challenges to space agencies. This article considers the role National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has undertaken in seeking to redefine and maximize the potential these new relationships. Paying attention to how these innovative mechanisms have enabled NASA to rediscover its direction and regenerate its mission; catapulting itself to the forefront of the New Space Age, the paper analyses whether NASA truly sets a precedent for other nations and agencies to follow-suit. NASA, ESA, JAXA, Procurement, Contracts