Concepts and Methodologies for Measuring the US Space Economy

Abstract An accurate understanding of the size and composition of the space economy is necessary to support effective policymaking and business decisions. Measuring the space economy involves many factors, including defining the scope of the economic production attributed to space-related activities and obtaining data sources to support the chosen definition. There are many ways to measure the space economy, including using input-output tables, using public financial reports, and surveying companies directly. Various metrics to quantify the space economy also exist, such as revenue, output, value added, and employment. This chapter provides an overview of the various concepts and methods used to measure the US space economy from statistical agencies, international space agencies, private industry groups, research institutes, and academia. The strengths and weaknesses of the differing approaches are discussed, along with suggestions for improvement and a discussion about the possibilities for converging on a common framework to measure the space economy.