In the timeframe from 2009 to 2011 we will know whether the new efforts to lower launch costs has been successful. Spacex plans to get costs down to $3000/kg to Low earth orbit (LEO) and $8000/kg to Geosynchronous orbit
China is developing the Long March 5 rocket which should be able to put 25 tons into LEO in 2010-2012. The current Long March 4 rockets cost about $110million to launch. The Long March 2E booster can place 12,000kg into LEO. China’s launch costs are about $1000/kg.
Brian Wang is a Futurist Thought Leader and a popular Science blogger with 1 million readers per month. His blog Nextbigfuture.com is ranked #1 Science News Blog. It covers many disruptive technology and trends including Space, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, Medicine, Anti-aging Biotechnology, and Nanotechnology.
Known for identifying cutting edge technologies, he is currently a Co-Founder of a startup and fundraiser for high potential early-stage companies. He is the Head of Research for Allocations for deep technology investments and an Angel Investor at Space Angels.
A frequent speaker at corporations, he has been a TEDx speaker, a Singularity University speaker and guest at numerous interviews for radio and podcasts. He is open to public speaking and advising engagements.