Fresh Air, Wide-Open Space

Abstract

This article focuses on space-based observations that are taking on unprecedented importance in national security strategy. The high cost of launching payloads to Earth orbit has impeded progress in the exploration of space, as well as in its commercial use and development. The application of biological concepts and principles to the development of technologies for engineering systems has led to the emergence of biomimetics, neuromimetics, and neuromorphic engineering. System integrity is absolutely essential to achieving this kind of far-reaching vision. The airspace system can be integrated with the other two sets of transportation services to form a comprehensive intermodal transportation system, functioning as one seamless whole, maximizing passengers’ and shippers’ options for convenience, efficiency, and reduced cost. A systems-engineering approach must be used to define requirements, reinvent processes, formulate operational concepts, evaluate them, and then launch goal-oriented technology activities to transform the concepts into realities.