The revolution of small satellites allows for a space economy in which not only powerful countries or big companies can participate. 

The first space race, which started as a military and propaganda competition in 1957, saw the United States and Russia vying for supremacy. Today, however, the race has been reignited with more players, including small businesses, students, and educators from all over the world making significant contributions. Vicente Díaz and Miguel Ángel Vázquez, who once made photovoltaic solar panels for electricity production on Earth, founded DHV Technology after Chinese companies entered the market. Their company, which manufactures solar panels for space energy generation, now powers over 260 satellites. The advent of smaller, cheaper satellites has democratized access to space, as explained by Jordi Puig-Suari, one of the pioneers of Cubesats. Traditional satellites require significant investment and long-term technology, but smaller satellites can be produced with commercial elements and don’t need to last as long, making it possible for even students to develop and launch their own satellites. Fernando Aguado, a professor at the University of Vigo, pointed out the everyday benefits of space applications, such as improving microcredit systems in countries like Kenya and India. Meanwhile, ambitious plans to return to the moon and prepare for Mars were outlined by representatives from NASA and the European Space Agency at a meeting in Málaga. While state support remains crucial, private companies like SpaceX are increasingly involved in providing services. The lunar base, where astronauts will learn to live off Earth, is set to start construction in the 2030s, paving the way for the feasibility of reaching Mars.