The US Space Industry: A Qualitative Analysis of Its Economic Impacts

OGUZ KARASU, YUKSEL BAYRAKTAR, MARC VENTRESCA

2026.79.0167

DOI https://doi.org/10.59332/jbis-079-05-0167

The U.S. space industry accounts for more than half of the global space economy, reflecting its significant economic influence. It has been realized that quantitative data have been used as the existing literature to analyse the spaceindustry’s economic impact. This study, which is based on qualitative data, aims to reflect in-depth expert knowledge and analysing through topic modelling. The main purpose of this study is examining NASA’s role, the involvement of other US government institutions, the growing presence of private enterprises and the public benefits gained through space expenditures in the US. This study examines all contributing factors within the space economy that impact the broader economy. This research is based on the qualitative data collected through semi-structured interviews along with broad contextual information. A total of 17 professionals from academia, government, and private industry in the United States shared their knowledge. Key themes emerged such as the relationship between the space industry and economic structures, economic benefits and growth, the role of the U.S. government in space economics, and the future of thespace economy. The analysis of the qualitative data through topic modelling indicates that the U.S. government’s strategic shifts and the rise of commercial space enterprises have reinforced economic interconnections within the industry, positioning it as a driver of innovation and growth. Moreover, the study addresses the economic impacts via projects andexamples from the space industry and shows its relationship with economic growth. This study contributes to the broaderdiscussion of how economic, technological, and geopolitical forces are reshaping the global space landscape from the USA experience. The paper offers important insights into the economic undercurrents driving the U.S. space sector’s role ininternational space collaboration and competition.

Keywords: U.S. Space Industry, NASA, Space Economy, Qualitative Analysis, Topic Modelling, Economic Impact