The History of Commercial Space Comes of Age

Article

“The History of Commercial Space Comes of Age” by Scott Sacknoff
Published in Quest Volume: 32 #4 (2025)

Abstract

More historians and historical researchers are turning their attention to documenting what has been typically referred to as “commercial space.” It is an area that is ripe for investigation—with decades of stories, projects, personalities, and projects waiting to be explored. Yet, uncovering these stories will present a number of new challenges. This article aims to impart the reader with a greater understanding of:

(a) What exactly is “commercial” space? As a term without a formal or consensus definition, we will attempt to provide the reader with understanding of what it is and how it fits in the broader space ecosystem.

(b) An understanding of when commercial space activities began and how it evolved over time.

(c) How researching commercial space compares and contrasts with research into government-led programs, including the drivers and motivations of these activities.

(d) The challenges associated with locating and accessing primary source materials on commercial space subjects.

(e) Prior historical research that has occurred and identifying some primary and secondary source materials.

Citation

Sacknoff, Scott. “The History of Commercial Space Comes of Age.” Quest: The History of Spaceflight Quarterly 32, no. 4 (2025): 48-63.