Only revolutionary concepts, out-of-the-box thinking and radical innovations have the chance to expand thefrontiers of human exploration and exploitation of space. Disruptive Space Technologies (DSTs) is the collectivenames of technologies which contribute to this goal (also called game changing, cross cutting and radical spacetechnologies). Within the space sector already some DST candidates are visible, which can boost the performance ofspacecraft applications and even establish new functions and mission options. Just some examples of possible theseDSTs include; Additive Layer Manufacturing, Metal foams Electrodynamics tethers, Quantum communication,Electroactive Polymers, Aerographite, Quantum-Dot Solar cells. DLR has performed a study for ESA, analysing andidentifying DSTs. Within this project, several factors were analysed which could indicate the potential for disruptionand thus, function as success factors for space technologies. These indicators result from both literature research andan analysis of the space sector. The indicators are ranked according to the different macro-environmental factors ofthe STEP-Analysis (Social, Technical, Economic and Political).
展开▼
