A Space Divided: Reflections on the July Launches

1 min read

If this month has taught me anything, it’s that we need to be less dismissive of each other and more considerate of those that may hold opinions regarding the space industry, and commercial space in particular, that are different from our own. 

Events that might be viewed with excitement by some may be painful or triggering for others. I hope we can seek to approach those with perspectives that might not match our own with kindness and openness. I’m afraid some of my worst fears of polarization regarding the space industry have come to fruition over the past few weeks and speak to a broader issue that has been brewing for decades. 

Let’s really hear people when they have concerns about what they are witnessing, and understand that a great deal of work still needs to be done. I don’t want to see “us vs. them” rhetoric anymore, or “if you are not with us you're against us.” Instead, I challenge everyone in the space industry to reflect on why these last two launch events have fallen flat for many, and ask how we can do better, engage more people in the optimism many of us feel about space, and improve Earth society along the way. If you are in a privileged position of being able to effect change, then please listen and reflect on what you have heard from the public with an open mind and heart. 

It will take all of us, it will take time (so much time), but together we can all become Celestial Citizens. 

As always, share your voice and comment on Medium or Twitter @CelestialCitzn!

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