Space Foundation has released The Space Report 2022 Q3, which examines key global space workforce data, a recruiting bonanza for the U.S. Space Force, a technological leap to treat astronaut injuries, and a new generation of spacesuits designed to fit 99% of the world’s adults.
In a four-part analysis, the Q3 edition offers a deep look at workforce issues from 2021 employment trends in the U.S. and Europe, recent headwinds that could temporarily tighten space hiring, a look at new and unexpected faces joining the space workforce, and an examination of Space Force’s recruiting success. The newest U.S. military branch is seeing just three of every 100 applicants donning the uniform. The 2021 data is the latest year for which annual analysis is available.
The Q3 edition continues more than a decade of reporting by The Space Report on the space workforce, focusing in this edition on 2021 workforce data from across the globe. Ongoing growth in Europe and the United States led hiring, while Asian space firms held the line or saw slight employment declines. The variety of talent required across the space ecosystem is highlighted with a look at workers who tell of their journeys to find jobs tied to space, including some who took unlikely paths.
Included in the Q3 edition is a discussion with Maj. Gen. Ed Thomas, who is finding few challenges in his role as the U.S. Space Force’s top recruiter. Thomas said the service is the most difficult for new recruits to enter, with more than 18,000 applicants for about 500 posts. The Guardians who did gain entry include the largest percentage of women to enter any armed service in U.S. history.
The Space Report also examines technologies that could improve the lives of astronauts as the agency races to reach the Moon and beyond. Advancements in biotechnologies combined with 3D printing could be a boon for injured astronauts with biobandages, a polymer containing astronauts’ own cells that promises quicker healing.
Those astronauts will also be more comfortable on spacewalks and the Moon’s surface thanks to a deal between NASA and Axiom Space. Newly developed Axiom-owned spacesuits promise a better fit than older models along with advancements in mobility and life support. Once approved for spaceflight, the spacesuits will be available for lease to NASA and commercial companies under the agreement.
“The ongoing demands of the growing space industry show the continued need for a steady supply of talent to fill an ever-growing variety of roles,” said Space Foundation CEO, Tom Zelibor. “The good news from Space Force recruiting shows these space jobs have a growing allure for young people, pointing to a bright future across the space industry as its accomplishments inspire a new generation.”
The Space Report is the authoritative report on the global space ecosystem, covering space exploration and space-inspired industries on Earth. Published by Space Foundation since 2006 and operating under Symposium 365 division, The Space Report is available on a subscription basis, providing policy analysts, congressional staff, investors, media, and space industry newcomers with research and insight on trends and opportunities with informative articles and quarterly reports. Highlighting each report is an overview of the latest data available on the space economy, space infrastructure, and other key industry indicators as well as analysis of commercial, government and educational events impacting business, workforce and our daily lives.
Symposium 365, a division of Space Foundation, is the premier source for media and events in the global space ecosystem, offering authoritative news and information and venues for networking and conducting business via the world-renowned Space Symposium, Symposium 365 Digital Platform and The Space Report. Serving commercial, government and education sectors, Symposium 365 produces signature programming —live and online — for professionals, entrepreneurs, educators and students to learn, connect and conduct business 365 days a year.
Space Foundation is a nonprofit advocate organization founded in 1983, offering a gateway to information, education and collaboration for space exploration and space-inspired industries that define the global space ecosystem. Driven by a partnership model, Space Foundation operates three divisions that unite the entire spectrum of stakeholders — business, government, education and local communities — through corporate membership, sponsorship, fundraising and grants. Symposium 365 is the premier source for media and events, including the world-renowned Space Symposium and The Space Report. Center for Innovation and Education is a lifelong learning platform. Global Alliance facilitates collaboration around the world.
