Foreword

In our interconnected world, science and technology activities are a major source of innovation, productivity and economic growth. The space sector has been playing its part, having been for decades a driver of scientific exploration and knowledge, a sector with cutting-edge technologies, and a source of innovation diffused in other economic sectors. Many essential activities would be almost unthinkable today without satellite technology, like weather forecasting, or global communications and broadcasting. This new report highlights innovation dynamics that are transforming the space sector. New OECD analysis and indicators contribute to answering some of the following questions: Is the space sector still a driver for innovation in the 21st century? What are the determinants for an innovative space sector? And what are the policy responses to better harness and encourage space-related innovation?