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> You're missing the fact that if the NRO or similar US government needs launch capacity, the president will bump foreign commercial and government launches. G
by nordsieck 3y ago
> You're missing the fact that if the NRO or similar US government needs launch capacity, the president will bump foreign commercial and government launches.
Given the reality of SpaceX's launch schedule, probably not. Unless someone in Europe wanted 40 extra launches a year or something. SpaceX has shown a willingness to sacrifice Starlink launches for paying customers.
But from a more philosophical standpoint, I do think that Europe is correct to maintain an independent launch capability.
- pfdietz 3y agoSpaceX has redefined what it means to "have a launch capability." They will redefine it even more if Starship succeeds. If the US ends up putting tens of thousands of tonnes into space yearly, build large structures there, will Europe consider the ability to launch a few satellites enough?