Evaluation of space science R&D via disruptive space technology (DST)

Abstract

The world advances its global space activities through greater participation of private companies, high-level technology, entrepreneurial ventures, novel R&D models, commercialisation, funding, new explorations and frontiers. It leads to a brand-new trend in space science R&D, which endeavours to utilise space resources. Through an exhaustive analysis of the literature associated to Disruptive Space Technology (DST), which works as the conceptual context in this research, this paper aimed to develop a theoretical understanding of the Space Science R&D programme. Literature analysis confirmed that it is exigent at a preliminary phase to maximise the advantages of space science R&D and to link with the other national program without an appropriate assessment process. It would result in lacking constant government support and jeopardising the existing national space program. It might affect the country that could cause the loss of social-economic potential benefits from space science R&D activities, although space is also a high-return potential imperative domain especially with the emerging of “new space” phenomenon. The conclusion from the reviewed literature helped to understand how Destructive Space Technology (DST) could be an essential theory in the development of the evaluation framework for the benefits of space science R&D in Malaysia. Next, this framework could be employed to examine the brand-new Malaysia space programme.