robotic space probes

Man at Play in the Cosmos

A who’s who of space-exploration contenders wouldn’t be complete without capitalists, NGOs, big government and the clinically insane.

Not long ago, space seemed the almost exclusive purview of governments†specifically those of the United States and the Soviet Union. Now, with private rocket companies building relatively inexpensive launch vehicles and entrepreneurs hawking the notion of sending tourists into space, anyone with a grand vision, a feasible plan and a big bankroll can take a shot at the great beyond. Here’s our map of this brave new world. Influence is measured by distance from the Sun—the closer a group is, the more important it is.

[ Read Full Story ]

Flickr Block Header

Share your photos in the Pop Sci pool at www.flickr.com!
Current theme: Seasonal Science
Our latest winner

Subscribe for 2 free issues!

may2008_cover.jpg