Space 2.0: How Private Spaceflight, a Resurgent NASA, and International Partners are Creating a New Space Age

Once when hearing the author give a talk, he used a phrase that will forever echo in my personal lexicon, "The Orphans of Apollo". Meaning, those of us that were old enough to have lived through the US-Russian Space Race where every day brought wondrous news of Space travel break throughs, ultimately leading to a singular moment in history, the first Moon landing and a 2001 future with Moon bases and big rotating Space Stations by the time we were in our mid-twenties. Things did not turn out that way... As the years went by, humankind's future in space seemed more like the butt of a joke than a prediction. After all, we were "The Orphans of Apollo". After reading noted Space Journalist/Historian/Author Rod Pyle's new book "Space 2.0", all these intervening years, what is currently going on (think Elon Musk) and what is needed to get us to be a space faring race is brought keenly into focus. Is "space hard"? Yes, and Pyle lays all of the details out for us on what the technical, geo-political, governmental, human and societal challenges are and the possibilities that are in many cases being currently worked on to solve these. This is a very grounded in reality optimistic look at what our future can be and why, fundamentally, it is the future we need to be working for. As always with Pyle's writing, it is eminently readable and this is obviously a work of passion on his part, the detail and research is impeccable and very compelling to read. I highly recommend this book, for the first time in over 35 years I not only can see humans having a future in space, I feel it is inevitable.

Here we are on the cusp of the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 landing, and space is still the final frontier. Though we still don't have moonbases, orbital hotels or boots on Mars, the efforts of a few daring private companies like SpaceX are working hard to finally make this dream a reality. Along with new efforts from the old stalwarts like NASA and Russia, as well as newcomers like China, India and other nations, space is rapidly opening up. One day, as everyday citizens head to space, the final frontier will be a frontier no longer. To help the average citizen such as me keep track of these rapidly changing developments in space, accomplished author Rod Pyle gives us an excellent guided tour. And what a tour it is! From the halls of SpaceX to NASA to orbit and beyond, we get as close to an insider view of the world of modern spaceflight as an average citizen can get. Well informed and written text, accompanied by the right balance of illustrations and the amazing space art of artist James Vaughn help to give the average reader a current snapshot of the still-changing developments in space exploration as it stands in early 2019. This book's not a ticket to space. But FOR NOW at least, it's the next best thing. Get it!

First of all, I highly appreacited that this book was writen as it brings attention to one of the most important achivement of 20th century - flights to the space. Unfortunately, after end of Apollo program and end of Cold war, it seems that people think about space research and esecially manned mission as something boring and routine. This book tries to reignite interest in space research among wider public. The book discusses both history of space research and possible future ranging from scientific research to economic exploitation of resources in space to possibility the mankind become truly interplanetary species. It describes on one hand obstacles we encounter when entering space such as radiation protection and zero-gravity environment and how to cope with such issues, and on the other hand it shows possibilities the space brings to us. The book is very nice overview of ongoing projects in cosmic research. In US, it focusses not only on NASA but also on corporations like SpaceX, Virigin Galactic, Blue Origin and ULA (Boeing + Lockheed Martin consortium) and many others. The book also shows the latest develompent in space research programs in Russia, EU, China and India, although it is more or less US-focussed. I would recommend the book to everybody interested in space research. It seems that the main purpose of the book was to keep you up-to-date on the latest progress in cosmic research and this aim was more than fulfiled.

I have just finished reading Space 2.0 and Rod Pyle has done a tremendous job of updating the status of the new Space Race. Not only does he present an accurate account of where we are and where we have come from in our attempts to leave what I call “Lifeboat Earth”, but he also paints a very encouraging picture of this new space race. I vividly remember the excitement when we first landed men on the moon but the big difference now is the number and quality of the participants in the race. Elon Musk is unquestionably leading the pack, but there are many other private companies with great ideas and we are seeing at last real participation from countries which we used to call the “Industrializing World” but are fast replacing the old, failing first world.

The most notable change is the burgeoning of private space-launch companies. There always were such companies, of course; you may remember some: Rotary Rocket, XCOR, Kistler Aerospace, & Bristol Spaceplanes are but a few of many startups. But what's changed is the level of funding available. Not only are billionaires like Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk pledging their fortunes to the quest, but investment is becoming acceptable for traditional venture capitalists. Many more nations are also joining the space-launch club; it's no longer just the U.S. and Russia. And along with more widespread and affordable launch services come the satellite builders and the providers of all the related items that go into spaceborne industries. In conjunction with the National Space Society, Rod Pyle gives us here an excellent update on the status of spaceflight. Highly recommended.

This book has a surprising amount of up-to-date and detailed information about the new commercial space race. The author doesn't gloss over details that don't make it past marketing departments either, giving us greater insight and making him feel trustworthy. My only quibble is that I wish the book was twice as long; I'm sure he had to edit things down quite a bit for length. For most readers though the length is probably great. Buy this book.

Rod Pyle has produced a comprehensive review of what is coming in space over the next decades. He covers all major aspects of future private programs with personal interviews with top officials from companies such as Space X, Blue Origin and Virgin Galactic. He describes important endeavors by foreign countries such as China and India. The book explores topics ranging from space medicine to investing in space companies. The book is lavishly illustrated in color with some stunning art by James Vaughan. Pyle has a wonderful conversational writing style which is very readable. I highly recommend this book for an outline of what the future hold for space exploration. A must read!

I really enjoyed this book. There was a lot of interesting things happening with America’s space that I was not aware until I read this book. The author’s writing style made reading all this information and facts very enjoyable. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in wanting to know what is happening and what could be happening in the space programs of the world. A big thumbs UP...

I enjoyed reading this book, it got me fired up to be part of the NewSpace industry. The major thing I did not like was that it was entirely credulous about the future of NewSpace and how big it will be and offered very little reasoning to support it.

This book is a comprehensive look at space activity at the end of the second decade of the twenty first century. It describes in detail the major players in the Space industry, both private and public, including a lengthy chapter on Elon Musk. It is fit that begins with the last Shuttle flight and ends with the first Launch of the Falcon Heavy. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in space.

Once when hearing the author give a talk, he used a phrase that will forever echo in my personal lexicon, "The Orphans of Apollo". Meaning, those of us that were old enough to have lived through the US-Russian Space Race where every day brought wondrous news of Space travel break throughs, ultimately leading to a singular moment in history, the first Moon landing and a 2001 future with Moon bases and big rotating Space Stations by the time we were in our mid-twenties. Things did not turn out that way... As the years went by, humankind's future in space seemed more like the butt of a joke than a prediction. After all, we were "The Orphans of Apollo". After reading noted Space Journalist/Historian/Author Rod Pyle's new book "Space 2.0", all these intervening years, what is currently going on (think Elon Musk) and what is needed to get us to be a space faring race is brought keenly into focus. Is "space hard"? Yes, and Pyle lays all of the details out for us on what the technical, geo-political, governmental, human and societal challenges are and the possibilities that are in many cases being currently worked on to solve these. This is a very grounded in reality optimistic look at what our future can be and why, fundamentally, it is the future we need to be working for. As always with Pyle's writing, it is eminently readable and this is obviously a work of passion on his part, the detail and research is impeccable and very compelling to read. I highly recommend this book, for the first time in over 35 years I not only can see humans having a future in space, I feel it is inevitable.

Here we are on the cusp of the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 landing, and space is still the final frontier. Though we still don't have moonbases, orbital hotels or boots on Mars, the efforts of a few daring private companies like SpaceX are working hard to finally make this dream a reality. Along with new efforts from the old stalwarts like NASA and Russia, as well as newcomers like China, India and other nations, space is rapidly opening up. One day, as everyday citizens head to space, the final frontier will be a frontier no longer. To help the average citizen such as me keep track of these rapidly changing developments in space, accomplished author Rod Pyle gives us an excellent guided tour. And what a tour it is! From the halls of SpaceX to NASA to orbit and beyond, we get as close to an insider view of the world of modern spaceflight as an average citizen can get. Well informed and written text, accompanied by the right balance of illustrations and the amazing space art of artist James Vaughn help to give the average reader a current snapshot of the still-changing developments in space exploration as it stands in early 2019. This book's not a ticket to space. But FOR NOW at least, it's the next best thing. Get it!

First of all, I highly appreacited that this book was writen as it brings attention to one of the most important achivement of 20th century - flights to the space. Unfortunately, after end of Apollo program and end of Cold war, it seems that people think about space research and esecially manned mission as something boring and routine. This book tries to reignite interest in space research among wider public. The book discusses both history of space research and possible future ranging from scientific research to economic exploitation of resources in space to possibility the mankind become truly interplanetary species. It describes on one hand obstacles we encounter when entering space such as radiation protection and zero-gravity environment and how to cope with such issues, and on the other hand it shows possibilities the space brings to us. The book is very nice overview of ongoing projects in cosmic research. In US, it focusses not only on NASA but also on corporations like SpaceX, Virigin Galactic, Blue Origin and ULA (Boeing + Lockheed Martin consortium) and many others. The book also shows the latest develompent in space research programs in Russia, EU, China and India, although it is more or less US-focussed. I would recommend the book to everybody interested in space research. It seems that the main purpose of the book was to keep you up-to-date on the latest progress in cosmic research and this aim was more than fulfiled.

I have just finished reading Space 2.0 and Rod Pyle has done a tremendous job of updating the status of the new Space Race. Not only does he present an accurate account of where we are and where we have come from in our attempts to leave what I call “Lifeboat Earth”, but he also paints a very encouraging picture of this new space race. I vividly remember the excitement when we first landed men on the moon but the big difference now is the number and quality of the participants in the race. Elon Musk is unquestionably leading the pack, but there are many other private companies with great ideas and we are seeing at last real participation from countries which we used to call the “Industrializing World” but are fast replacing the old, failing first world.

The most notable change is the burgeoning of private space-launch companies. There always were such companies, of course; you may remember some: Rotary Rocket, XCOR, Kistler Aerospace, & Bristol Spaceplanes are but a few of many startups. But what's changed is the level of funding available. Not only are billionaires like Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk pledging their fortunes to the quest, but investment is becoming acceptable for traditional venture capitalists. Many more nations are also joining the space-launch club; it's no longer just the U.S. and Russia. And along with more widespread and affordable launch services come the satellite builders and the providers of all the related items that go into spaceborne industries. In conjunction with the National Space Society, Rod Pyle gives us here an excellent update on the status of spaceflight. Highly recommended.

This book has a surprising amount of up-to-date and detailed information about the new commercial space race. The author doesn't gloss over details that don't make it past marketing departments either, giving us greater insight and making him feel trustworthy. My only quibble is that I wish the book was twice as long; I'm sure he had to edit things down quite a bit for length. For most readers though the length is probably great. Buy this book.

Rod Pyle has produced a comprehensive review of what is coming in space over the next decades. He covers all major aspects of future private programs with personal interviews with top officials from companies such as Space X, Blue Origin and Virgin Galactic. He describes important endeavors by foreign countries such as China and India. The book explores topics ranging from space medicine to investing in space companies. The book is lavishly illustrated in color with some stunning art by James Vaughan. Pyle has a wonderful conversational writing style which is very readable. I highly recommend this book for an outline of what the future hold for space exploration. A must read!

I really enjoyed this book. There was a lot of interesting things happening with America’s space that I was not aware until I read this book. The author’s writing style made reading all this information and facts very enjoyable. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in wanting to know what is happening and what could be happening in the space programs of the world. A big thumbs UP...

I enjoyed reading this book, it got me fired up to be part of the NewSpace industry. The major thing I did not like was that it was entirely credulous about the future of NewSpace and how big it will be and offered very little reasoning to support it.

This book is a comprehensive look at space activity at the end of the second decade of the twenty first century. It describes in detail the major players in the Space industry, both private and public, including a lengthy chapter on Elon Musk. It is fit that begins with the last Shuttle flight and ends with the first Launch of the Falcon Heavy. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in space.

Space 2.0 by Rod Pyle is an excellent overview of what humanity has done, is doing now, and has the potential to do in space. An excellent primer for the general public, it clearly explains the key concepts in plain English, forgoing the technospeak that perhaps turns off many people. The book is fantastically illustrated and features comprehensive notes and useful references. Everyone should read it. Imagine what could be done if every kid read this book.

A great presentation of the current state of human space flight and related topics and what's coming next. Written by the best man on the topic.

The book is so so. Reads more like a series of puff piece magazine articles. Prose is a bit monotonous. Takes too long to get to the really revolutionary part of Space 2.0 - the commercial boom. Buy with caution, don't expect much.

This book mentions a lot of aspects of new space. However, I found it's discussions uninviting and vague. I started reading; I got bored. I moved around the pages, got tired reading again, got bored again. Multiply that by 10 and I put the book down. I am hungry for New Space knowledge. This book - for me - just did not deliver.

Grandson like it

Was a gift, the recipient loves it and would give it 5 stars. New info he hasn’t read before.

Very interesting book with great illustrations.

Provides the latest information in an enjoyable format.

very good read and listen when driving.

A most insightful/visionary treatise into the next generation of space exploration!

Really does a great job with giving you the breath of what is going on in Space. I sure hope he does a follow up in 5 years.

This is one of two books I would recommend reading if you want to understand where human Spaceflight is going and how we got here. Great job laying it all out.

Good quality and quick delivery

liked it

Good book

Space 2.0 is not the book I was expecting. Between the photos and large print, the book doesn't even last an afternoon. The subject matter is fascinating, but the writing deliberately targets a casual audience. The first third of the book acts as a "how did we get here?" retrospective. While nice, it chews up quite a bit of the print budget, without directly contributing the title subject. The rest of the book tackles the what, where, when, why, how, and who of the next several chapters of the human race's relationship with space. There's not enough detail in the what, when, why, and how to answer most of your questions. The "who" ends up being the best explained bit by default. Considering the expense of space exploration, construction, and industry, it's important to see who is interested (and contributing) time and resources to those ends. I think this book is well suited for 6-12th grade, but it's probably a bit too basic for an adult (just my opinion).

I received this book specifically to write a review. That said, I try to be honest and open in all my reviews. (Please see the enclosed pictures.) This is a beautifully illustrated book, and it is sturdy too. I have carried it around with me in my backpack during three weeks of intercontinental travels, and the binding has held up well. The book tells the story of how humans got into space and covers the historical aspects of Space 1.0 (up through the last Space Shuttle mission). The book proposes all the reasons that it is both feasible and desirable for a Space 2.0 and talks through both governmental and private current space ventures. The book describes in logical and well provenanced terms what the rationale for getting into and staying in space are from protection of the Earth through gaining resources through exquisite manufacturing and ultimately as a way of exploring the unknown. Everywhere in the book there are absolutely gorgeous full four color pictures. This book is fun to read as well as informative. (Imagine my surprise and delight when the passenger next to me took the book to read when I dozed off on my flight. How many books does that happen to?) I could not be happier with either the presentation or the content. Well done Rod Pyle!

Space 2.0 is a history book that lauds NASA’s human spaceflight program, which means the Mercury through Apollo missions. There still are no commercially operated human spaceflight program. Rotary Rocket, a defunct commercial space startup, had built and test flew a re-useable vehicle for a human spaceflight program. The sub-orbital space tourism programs, including the Russian one that “flew” rich guys such as Dennis Tito, are commercial in the sense that they charged a fee ($US20m) for the training and the ‘ride,’ and the Russian program still charges NASA US$70 per ride to the ISS. But commercial space industry contenders such as SpaceX use the word “commercial” differently. Space 2.0 is not written by or for space industry insiders because it doesn’t talk about the why of decisions (such as cancelling the Apollo program in favor of the Shuttle) and the ramifications of such decisions. The author Rod Pyle might have a long history with the space industry, but he’s a journalist, an observer, reporter, not a participant. It is bad business to diss the NASA deep pocket, to insult one’s most important source of content, so everything must be unfailingly wonderful, wonderful. Buzz Aldrin’s forward said that Apollo 17 ended the US manned space program in 1972, less than 3 years after Neil Armstrong and he landed on the Moon. (The Shuttle and ISS were about transport, NOT space exploration). Nor is it about the “unmanned” space exploration programs such as the Mars explorers, the many fly-bys of Jupiter, Pluto, asteroids, etc. and the many space-based telescopes. This book was published before the Chinese landed on the far side of the moon, so it cannot touch on the historic, nor political nor scientific ramifications of that. This book is not about science, technology, business, politics… It doesn’t talk about why, after decades of adamantine resistance, NASA relented to let contracts to private space companies (thereby saving SpaceX from bankruptcy). It doesn’t touch on what makes SpaceX less expensive than NASA to launch per kilo, its primary competitive advantage. The book does not discuss why the Blue Horizon or Bigelow, or any of the non-American programs aren’t launching as frequently as SpaceX. It does not touch on the many launch programs (plural) that have been booming since the cancellation of all other US launch capabilities in order to reserve launches for the Shuttle. Many countries including France and India have been making a good business by launching satellites for all comers. Space 2.0 doesn’t mention why and how the commercial space industry became possible, but took more than a generation (30 years) to make progress. So, this is a history book for audiences who want a quick, easy overview of primarily the Apollo program.

The book written mostly as a first-person account is filled with some spectacular pictures that can capture anyone's interest. However, the depth of these narratives seem to be geared towards a total novice, perhaps middle-high school level. The lack of details is made up with the breadth of the topics covered; including a quick summary of key space initiatives of various countries. The narrative is geared towards cheerleading space explorations, so, do not expect any critique on costs, ethics, etc. For a more detailed look at the race that will truly shape up Space 2.0, Space Barons (by Davenport) and Rocket Billionaires (by Fernholz) are excellent choices. For a high school student or a total novice, this book is an excellent starting point (highlights key issues of space travel, such as refueling, reusability, etc..).

If you’re not a fan of aeronautics and space flight, you may not know that one of the most exciting trends in space right now is the explosion of private space ventures. Internet billionaires like Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos have launched successful ventures that are now some of the most advanced systems in the world for launching cargo into space. If everything goes right, a few months from now as I write, SpaceX will be the first private company to launch astronauts into space. This colorful, profusely illustrated book is an introduction to the world of commercial space flight aimed at those who may not have much knowledge of the world of space flight- students looking at a possible career in the new world of commercial space, investors looking for new areas to put money into, and just those with a curiousity about the world. As such, it does a good job, and conveys the excitement of the field and the enthusiasm of its participants and promoters. Those who are already enthusiastically following the world of space flight won’t find anything new here, but they may find this book useful in conveying the excitement to others.

A pretty basic overview of where we are at with large print and pictures, it looks more like an internal promotional feel-good product. The reading age could be construed as 12 or 14+ but I hear the average person reads at that level anyway. If you are out of touch and unaware of Bezos and Musk going into space, then this could serve as a good catchup. If you have heard of neither of these people, perhaps you are in deep space yourself.

Space 2.0 is an all-encompassing look at mankind’s race to space. The writing is accessible and includes everything you could want to know about rockets, space travel, and our future amidst the stars. It feels like a well-done textbook, accented with illustrations, historical photography, and artist renderings of imaginative futures. The book covers a broad scope of topics, diving into every detail of past, present, and future space endeavors. We get a broad range of histories, including the history of space flight, the various space programs throughout the world, the creation of engines and space travel technologies, and the booming private sector. I was floored at how much has constantly been in the works since the beginning of our first space age. There’s no shortage of mysteries in space, and thousands of dedicated people continue to work tirelessly to get us into orbit and beyond. I was most interested in the discussion of what we could do in space, and what it would take to make that achievable. Movies would have us think it’s as easy as hopping in a ship and turning on the engines, but we don’t see the decades of work it takes to create just one of the billion components in a spaceship. There’s so much to consider, and Space 2.0 dives into these many discussions. The book examines the effects of radiation on human space travelers, the effects of gravity on bone density, and the psychological aspects of long-term confinement within a ship, just to name a few. If you’re fascinated by the history and science of space travel, Space 2.0 is the book for you. The author has taken great care to provide a thorough examination of mankind’s efforts, cementing this as an essential guide to what future generations will see as space exploration’s days of infancy. NOTE: I was provided a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest, unbiased review.

I recently saw the new "Apollo 11" documentary (more on that later). It rekindled in am a renewed interest in our country's space explorations, both looking back (check out the excellent Neil Armstrong biography "First Man", which was of course itself turned into a movie last year starring Ryan Gosling) and looking forward. "Space 2.0: How Private Spaceflight, a Resurgent NASA, and International Partners are Creating a New Space Age" (2018 publication; 333 pages) opens with a two page Foreword by none other that Apollo 11 astronaut Buzz Aldrin. We then dive into "Space 1.0, The Final Act", which looks at the last Space Shuttle mission. The next chapters go back even further, examining all aspects of past space travel ("Why Space?", "Destinations", etc.), only to eventually arrive at today, a new dawn of space exploration according to the author. The book is bursting with fantastic full color pictures, truly eye-candy from front cover to back cover. Let me comment as to the book's title "Space 2.0": this is of course a subjective view, but in my mind Space 1.0 concluded with the last Apollo mission to the moon; Space 2.0 is the ho-hum subsequent era that features far less ambitious projects like the Space Shuttle and the International Space Station. Not saying they weren't worth doing, but the scale of ambition just pales when compared to the Apollo program. So are we really at the dawn of a new era for space exploration? At this point, with years of many words and little action, I'm almost at the point of "Show me" and "Actions speak louder than words". The fact that it's been 47 years since we last put a man on the moon (47! think about that!), and there really are no realistic plans to return to the moon, let alone go beyond (to Mars), speaks volumes. Despite all this, I quite enjoyed reading "Space 2.0" for what it is, an optimistic look ahead of what could yet come in space exploration. As to that new documentary "Apollo 11": words are not enough, frankly. Using archival 16 mm, 32 mm. and recently uncovered 70 mm. footage, director/editor Todd Douglas Miller presents it is such a way that, even though we all know the outcome, you still get tense. The fact that it's been 47 years since we last sent someone to the moon successfully, only makes the Apollo 11 accomplishment even more awe-inspiring. "Apollo 11" is a wonderful and appropriate way to celebrate the 50th anniversary of "small step for man, a giant leap for mankind". I ended up seeing the documentary twice in the theater, that's how much I enjoyed it. If you have a chance to see it on the big screen, don't walk, run!

I've known Rod Pyle for while now, and I knew he was a good writer, I didn't know he was such a comprehensive researcher. I have skimmed through this book for a quick read to provide a review. Based on my first pass, I can state without a doubt that this book is amazing, it is easy to read, provides some fantastic artwork, and historical photography too. What I like the most about this book are the factoids based on interviews from professionals and business owners in the aerospace industry and research details about the myriad of various areas which took me on a ride from private spaceflight, through NASA (some of which I was already familiar) and the new entrepreneurial disrupters of the present and a view into what the future of spaceflight might see. What was also insightful was the historical significance and context which gave me a complete picture. Now that I've skimmed through I'm ready for a slow read to take it all in with hot tea and relax and fully absorb all the deep work Rod Pyle put into Space 2.0. What is really wonderful is how well written this book is, which is refreshing. Don't miss this book as it is great to read but it also is a great desktop reference for spaceflight. If you have teens that are interested in aerospace this is a fantastic book for an overall deep dive into spaceflight, many questions can be answered by reading this book and some that have never been asked.

A beautifully illustrated work of art and science to help lay readers understand why the U.S. needs to invest in space technology and how we’ll get up and stay there. Pyle informs us that we have embarked on Science 2.0, which differs in tone and technology from 1.0- the Apollo era. It was an era in which astronauts hoped to just survive unlike 2.0. Now our technology can do and sustain much more. He uses convincing arguments about the economic need for public investment in space. He also argues that it’s not just about us either; space exploration should be seen as a benefit to the human race. When Pyle next dives into the places in space we should visit, he does so by placing the steps along a logical path without reducing the wonder evoked by the thoughts of such a future. We learn how these steps will take place through the intersection of public and private work. We learn how many more companies exist beyond SpaceX that also see our future in space. Pyle primarily uses charts and illustrations to explain the science. He translates the jargon of engineers who create 3D printers that can print machines on the moon and what we can extract from the places we land on to survive. He’s telling us we have technology to survive hostile places and we know the steps to take to get our machines and us there. By doing so, Pyle imbues the practical science with a feeling of hope. How he accomplished to write on this topic without devolving into jargon marks an impressive accomplishment. Combined with the gorgeous illustrations, Pyle has written an informative book that anyone who has any interest in NASA, space exploration, or space in general needs to read.

When I saw this book I realized just how much I had lost touch with what was happening in the world of space exploration. This was a fascinating way to be reminded of the space programs of the past and to see what is taking place in the present so there will be a space program in our future. The book is written in a very readable way so that non-experts like myself can understand the text. Author Rod Pyle is obviously passionate about our need to continue space exploration and he passes that enthusiasm on to readers. The book is rich with photographs and drawings throughout that illustrate the text. The chapters are a thorough look at the intended subject but not so long and detailed that they risk having the reader lose interest. Even with the subjects I was completely unfamiliar with I never felt bored or considered putting the book aside. I enjoyed the entire book, but favorites are: Chapter Five - which destination for exploration; Chapter Six - humans in space then and now; Chapter Seven - space entrepreneurs; Chapters Eight and Nine - where the money will come from, private corporations. It was exciting to read this book and understand how much is still going on in the exploration, technology and development of the future of space travel for humans.

“When something is important enough, you do it even if the odds are not in your favor” Elon Musk Founder of Space X Rod Pyle takes us on a journey to space in his new book Space 2.0. Mr. Pyle does not only look at where we have been on our journey to space but also to where we are going as both governmental and independent agency look to the sky for the future and protection of planet earth. The photographs and digital graphs are a bonus sharing with us visual examples of today and yesterday in the space program and allow us visual interpretations of what he is sharing. If you are looking for a light read on astronomy this is not the book for you. This book was meant to inform not to entertain even though it is full of information it is written in a way that you will enjoy the reading if you enjoy science and space exploration. This book is a wonderful resource for anyone looking to expand their there knowledge of the exploration to space and where we are going to be exploring next with the space program. I would recommend this book for all ages and it would be an informative reference for all ages whether you are homeschooling, college age or adults in the field or just a child wanting to know more about space exploration. Mr. Pyle goes beyond the norm in this book and covers more than just NASA and US Space program he gives us an overcast of all the programs out there now and in the past.

This is a worthwhile read for anyone interested in the topic of human spaceflight and exploration. It offers a clear and up-to-date overview of the many exciting developments in this rapidly evolving field. The book goes back in time to touch on the key events preceding the “Space 2.0” era. It also gives readers an overview of the current players in today’s space industry; from NASA to private spaceflight companies, and countries developing space programs. In addition, it explains the challenges of getting to space, what it’s like for humans to live in space and the many reasons why space exploration is so crucial. I enjoyed how well-written and well-researched this book is, as well as the interesting full-color photos and artist renderings throughout. The author’s enthusiasm for space comes across in this book and makes it enjoyable to read. This is a book I think will be appreciated by those who follow the space industry, and anyone who’s just curious about news of various rocket launches and would like to learn more about all things space. 5 stars!

Space 2.O By Rod Pyle with Foreword by Buzz Aldrin How Private Spaceflight, a Resurgent NASA, and International Partners Are Creating a New Space Age Let me just start off by saying this book is worth it just for the pictures alone which are a mix of actual photos of events that have taken place with concept art of what is in the planning stage. We are given a history of humanity's space achieving efforts as well as a glimpse of where the future is and can lead. With more than 300 pages this book doesn't skimp on sharing knowledge about space. If you plan on doing research into the subject of space exploration this is one book that will be on your go-to resource list. Pages 266 -271 offer listings of organizations you as an individual can seek out memberships with. Pages 289 - 293 present a glossary of terms including ISRU, Low Earth Orbit, and Orion. I really enjoyed reading the foreword by Buzz Aldrin which offered his view on where we've been and the promise of a new Space Age just on the horizon. I admit it if it anything that has to do with space exploration in the real day-to-day life of people I'm more than willing to dive into it and this is one of the best I've read and it is perfect with the 50th Anniversary of the Moon Landing coming in just a few short months. I was provided a complimentary copy of this book through Amazon's Vine Program with no expectation but that I offer my honest opinions about this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

Space 2.0 is a detailed account of everything "new" about "new space" from an author with a very long pedigree in documenting the next frontier. If you want to know more about the companies, programs and people that are shaping the future in unexpected ways this is your book. Pyle goes beyond the vague visions of the space billionaires and talks with the project managers, the engineers, the scientists about the nuts and bolts of fulfilling those visions with amazing hardware. Most unexpected was the plethora of color glorious photos, illustrations and charts that enliven the text. I've spent a career researching, writing on and advocating for a commercial space revolution. I make a point to literally read EVERYTHING that comes out on the topic. From that perspective, I strongly recommend Space 2.0 to any space aficionado or curious bystander who has begun to notice that space is where the action is moving. Order this book ASAP. Greg Autry Director, Southern California Commercial Spaceflight Initiative Former White House Liaison, NASA

Most of the members in my family are science and space nerds. I love science, but not much of a space nerd. Hence the reason to get this book. It was totally suited to my level of proficiency in space. It introduces the basics, the road map, and the who's who in space tourism. I found it to be easy to read and tremendously interesting. If you have a busy life, the chapters in this book are of manageable size so you can stop and go as necessary. It is not too technical and the illustrations are fantastic. While it can be easily read by a 5th grader, it certainly keeps the interest going for higher school grades as well as adults interested in knowing more about space explorations and the how, when, where, and who. Highly recommend to read, or to gift to a young and budding scientist/engineer. It's a good gateway book to get the young generation interested in space travel.

This is an excellent, beautiful and generally informative book on current and past, governmental and private activities. It has a wide variety of beautiful illustrations. Two minor nits for which I have detracted two stars: 1. Outside of the big three of the US, USSR, and PRC (China) it is uneven in which other national programs it reports, for example mentioning Iran and India but not Israel 2. Insufficient depth was given to digital technologies especially computer applications and robotics. The technical coverage of propulsion, navigation and human factors was somewhat spotty.

I found Space 2.0 brilliant and fascinating. It is formatted like a text book for Jr. High/High School but don’t let that fool you. This is a book that will offer information and factoids for everyone, no matter the age. I’m in my 70’s and have been spellbound and riveted to all information about the space program since the Sputnik launch when I was young. Author Rod Pyle gives an overview of the history of the space program from its inception and presents a hypothesis of where its future lies. He addresses how current visionaries and futurists like Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos have picked up the reins from the underfinanced federal programs and may be the ones to lead us into the commercialism of Space. The book is stuffed to the gills with pictures, both illustrations and actual photographs, which are in themselves sufficient to provide a photo essay of this enthralling story as it unfolds. Pyle does an excellent job of not only telling a story but of conveying his personal excitement about this topic. If you’re interested in the space program this is a one-stop-shopping offering & overview of it – past, present and future.

Arthur C. Clarke would be proud! As this book so well describes we are finally on the cusp of realizing his dream of commercial space flight for every person who can afford it. This book is written and illustrated for a general audience and that's a good thing. As the public has taken its eye off of space exploration other influential players have not. Virgin Space, Space X, and other visionary companies realize the commercial and economic possibilities this book so well describes. Early commercial aviation was expensive and only the few who could afford it flew. Now we fly at prices bus and train companies can't match. This book helps us imagine a future where we travel in space, colonize space, discover and exploit virtually unlimited energy and mineral resources, and extend our species beyond the reach of extinction inducing events. Highly recommended.

For decades, spaceflight has been in the stranglehold of government politics. Instead of capitalizing on the successes and abilities of NASA, we take a huge steps backwards and change plans every few years. Now, some spaceflight companies are not content with simply fighting over government contracts just to make work. These new companies actually want to open the final frontier, and they are forcing the old guard to rethink their place in this new world. Pyle's book is a concise and up-to-date book on the history of spaceflight, its current state, and where we could be going, and why we should. As the editor of Ad Astra, the magazine of the National Space Society, he also challenges readers to join efforts to make Space 2.0 a reality. For more on the new space age, check out The Case for Mars and The Case for Space (Zubrin), Return to the Moon (Schmitt) and The Survival Imperative (Burrows).

To quote astronaut Takao Doi in his remarks during the last UN Expert Meeting on Human Space Technology held in Vienna last December. The study of the evolution of technology is essential in the understanding of the relationship between humans and the universe. In other words, space exploration as a societal phenomenon is better understood trough the study of its history. This is exactly what Rod Pyle’s latest book does. It takes the reader into a journey to understand the origins, the present situation and future prospect of the so-called new space or space 2.0 era. As we have grown accustomed form Rob Pyle’s previous publications this study on new space is rigorous and yet written in an accessible language making it perfect for both the space enthusiast and the professional seeking to gain a better grasp of this new era in space exploration and commercialization. Starting with a foreword by Buzz Aldrin and following a chronological tale complemented by renown experts’ opinions on the historical events leading to the new space era, following by the main players in today’s space business ecosystem and finishing with an overview of potential game changers and new actors. The book covers pretty much everything essential to the new space phenomenon. Finally, the beautiful illustrations and artwork are the cherry on top of the cake just, the right ingredient to bring out the inner geek in every space enthusiast and professional.

This is a fabulous book that is packed with information about spaceflight--where we have been, where we are going, and future possibilities. This is a book that is meant for the general public. It is free from technical jargon so it is perfect for young adults and adults alike. I appreciated that it gave background information so that there was some context for explaining new developments. I was particularly interested in learning about the different goals of Elon Musk vs. Jeff Besos. Each has an interesting vision of space and its function in relation to humans. Highly recommended!

I'm finding this book very interesting. There are reviewers who think it is too basic, for grade school children, and can be read in an afternoon. I agree that this is probably not the book for those already well-versed on the subject, but for people with a casual interest, like me, it's informative and interesting. There is no way I could read this "in an afternoon." This is about the history of the space age, what is happening now, but most importantly, what the future may hold. It is written so that it's easy to understand, but I don't feel it is "dumbed down," just not for people who already knew a good deal more than I did. The photographs and illustrations are lovely and numerous. It's well worth reading for most of us interested in the resurgent space age.

I'll admit to being a little biased. I adore space! Just a few short years ago, I decided astronomy and astronautics were what I wanted to do for the rest of my life, so I'm sure this book is written directly for me. The most important part is how effectively it shares the information the general public needs to know on what's been happening in space in recent years and what's to come. The general public all too often believes that NASA is no more and that SpaceX is the only other game in town. Pyle does an excellent job getting the reader up to speed with his easy-to-digest writing style and the stellar work on photo and illustration selection accentuating the finer points. You'll find yourself breezing throught the read, asking for more. Thankfully, he's got about a half dozen new books out this year, so go grab Interplanetary Robots or one of the others once you're finished. This is a must-read if you want to understand the ins and outs of humanity's rapidly expanding presence in space.

As we approach the 50th anniversary of Apollo 11, I've been reading a number of books on the current state of affairs with respect to the space program. This is the most colorful, illustrated in a manner reminiscent of Chesley Bonestell and the books that made me feel, in the 1960s, that I'd be cheerfully living my life in orbit or on a moon or Mars base. I hope the optimism is more realistic this time around, and it's nice to know of all the competition and interest in the field beyond that of the various national governments. This particular text does an excellent job of summarizing the current environment; it leaves the math/science largely out of the presentation (to the extent possible, anyway) making this easily digested even for those without much interest in figuring out what escape velocity might be from any given orb.

As someone who grew up with the Mercury and Apollo programs, NASA still remains my ideal of managing our space program. I don't like the private industry emphasis and priorities that sometimes mix science with oommerce. So this is actually a very important book to me--presenting a very different viewpoint from my own about the current direction of the space program--through private industry and other countries' space programs. The author's enthusiasm for the changes--and new possibilities which he explores in a way that captures the excitement of exploration, even in this new way--this is a good point of view and very informative. It helps, too, that the text is so vibrantly illustrated. I enjoyed this book because it shook up my ideas and helped me see (if not 100% agree with) some of the new and, yes, eciting potential.

Pyle does a fantastic job of giving readers insight to a highly probable scenario based on what is happening in space. We are on the cusp of the new wave, thus Space 2.0. Leaders and experts in the commercial space industry share insights on new projects in development. Much of what the commercial sector is doing is based on the developments of NASA, ESA, JAXA, Roscosmos and ISRO, all documented in the book. You don't have to be a rocket scientist to comprehend, but you will empathize and gain expertise while exploring this comprehensive and engaging book. The book is packed with amazing and realistic space art from James Vaughan.

Rod Pyle takes us on a ride into space's future; explaining in an accessible way what started Space 2.0, what to expect, and where we hope to wind up! From the very start he engages with an enjoyable wrap-up of the space age prior to this new age. For those of us who are already space fans, its a great trip down memory lane with lots of 'fun to know' info we might not have been aware of. For those who aren't already fans, but just curious... Rod will turn you into fans. From there, Rod gets into the meat and potatoes of Space 2.0 and leaves us all with a 'solid-ground' understanding that equips us for informed opinions and effective communication. The wrap-up is a thrill-ride into the future, full of hope and vision, without losing sight of the realities of space exploration. Cant recommend this book enough!

This is such an interesting volume. Written truly to inspire, this book is really written as a expression of past space history, and a view to the future. From the foreword by Buzz Aldrin to the wonderful pictures, this is a great and interesting book. I loved how the book encompasses so much of the history including manned and unmanned programs. Highly recommended especially for any space fan. A young person would be lucky to get the book for inspiration into STEM fields. However it is still so enjoyable to read and look through.

Space 2.0. There has been much written about the hurculean efforts of mankind 50 years ago to put a man on the moon, during the ‘golden era’ of space flight. This incredible endeavor still remains the pinnacle of human space exploration. Yes there has been tremendous advances since then; building and manning of the ISS, development of a reusable human transportation system, robotic exploration of planets, meteorites ... but for most people, putting a man on the moon and returning him safely, still defines our brief exploration of space. If like me, you appreciate the incredible achievements of the past but prefer to look forwards to the next era of space exploration, then Rod Pyle’s Space 2.0 is the comprehensive text of our time. Like all of Rod’s books, it is written in a very personal, sometimes humorous style which is meticulously researched and scientifically accurate. Rod, details the main players that are leading the charge and making space exploration a very viable, cost-effective industry. He highlights some of the ‘supporting’ companies that are enabling this boom and may be good speculative investment opportunities. He also details what the future of this new era in space exploration is likely to look like with permanent bases on the moon and Mars and potential mining activities at these locations or on roaming meteorites. The pace of development in this exciting field is exponential, however, Rod concludes the book with a potential timeline of developments for the next 20 years. He also includes a list of resources where we all can play a part in creating Space 2.0. This is the comprehensive text on the current state of space flight and what the exciting new era of space exploration, Space 2.0, will look like. A highly recommended read.

This is one of those books that almost reads like a great science fiction, but it's real. And that's the best part. Written for everyone to read, for ages 13 and up. The generally positive mood of the book helps to move it along with excellent insights by Mr. Pyle, with a superb forward by Buzz Aldrin, is a must read for all who are concerned about the future of space flights and exploration, along with the future of the Earth. It focuses not only on American space flights, but all over the Earth, what every country is doing, along with discussion of private enterprise assisting NASA and other countries. What will be the future of space flight and exploration? This book is an excellent primer for that.

This is a good book that bridges the gap between what we learned about space in school (well, if you went to school in the 70's and 80's, like me) and what's going on with space right now, which is truly a whole new ballgame, especially since some of what we thought was absolutely unreachable may actually be fairly accessible. The book has an interesting format- sort of a mix between magazine article and textbook, but it's very informative and interesting. My husband, who is a true space geek and up to speed on almost everything space-related, enjoyed it, as well.

Author Rod Pyle has a knack for explaining things in a way that’s enjoyable, accessible and understandable to all. His latest book Space 2.0 is no exception. This is a well-researched overview of humanity’s spacefaring history and future. This book is especially recommended for those readers who are interested in space exploration but may not be all that familiar with this complex subject. Space 2.0 draws you in and covers pretty much everything you need to know about where we’ve been, where we’re going, why we’re going there, and who the key players are. James Vaughan’s compelling illustrations add a sense of optimism for the space adventures that lie ahead. This book is highly recommended!

"Space 2.0: How Private Spaceflight, a Resurgent NASA, and International Partners are Creating a New Space Age" by Rod Pyle (foreward by Buzz Aldrin) has a good range of topics of the future of space. It does concentrate a chunk on private enterprise (like Virgin Galactic, Space X, etc) but it does give time to the international space race as well. It is highly readable with an abundance of color pictures. This is a book worth a look by anyone who is interested in the future of space.

As a life long space enthusiast, I’ve read countless books about the history of space exploration. Rod Pyle has written the most comprehensive record that provides context not only of our history but also our present and future. Rod introduces to those less familiar, the players and details the capabilities of their spacecraft and launch vehicles. Space 2.0 provides the reader with the clearest blueprint for our future. It should be required reading for every member of Congress. I am delighted to add this book to my library. Tim Gagnon KSCartist

Several generations of us are interested in spaceflight. We don't care if it's private or public, we still love it. This is an interesting book because it covers spaceflight with a slightly different slant. Helps to show what the potential and possibilities are out there now that government isn't active in spaceflight in the way it was during my own youth. Very educational.

I have always been fascinated with space, ever since I was a kid watching Star Trek and Star Wars. This book is a great overview of space exploration. I read every page and enjoyed every picture. It is a very complete and well-written book. The paper is high quality and the pictures are amazing. I strongly recommend this book for space aficionados.

I served as the public affairs manager for the Phoenix Mars Mission, led by Peter Smith at the University of Arizona, and I’ve read my share of space publications. Rod Pyle’s “Space 2.0” is a virtual encyclopedia of space travel and exploration. He carefully chronicles the players in today’s world of space beyond our blue planet and gives informed insight into the commercial players and the burgeoning international interest in staking an exploration claim in our universe. He poignantly notes that the rationale for space exploration is the very survival of humanity. This book is an important volume for anyone interested in the great beyond, for its compendium of facts and thought-provoking and easily consumed narrative about what’s next.

A most worthwhile compilation of article-style coverage of today's public and private space efforts. As his readers have come to expect from him, Rod Pyle's Space 2.0 is timely, detailed, and diligent, with terrific illustrations. It's a snapshot that captures this extraordinary moment between Space Ages, groundbreaking past and unlimited future.

My teen daughter is hoping to go into aerospace engineering, so ordering this book was a no-brainer. It's a paperback, with a strong cover, very thick pages, large typeface and breathtakingly beautiful photographs. We are reading this together. We're a few chapters in and greatly enjoying so far. This is a very interesting and timely read, and it's accessible to all ages.

In "Space 2.0," the author lays out a compelling case for a new space age, and the benefits of this for all of us. Tracking humanity's efforts in spaceflight from the space race forward, the book looks at early newspace efforts, the rise of the space entrepreneurs, the international sector (including a look at too-seldom covered Asian programs), where we should go, and perhaps most importantly, why we should go into space. Commerce would appear to be the driving factor to get us into space to stay. Highly recommended. This review is of an advance review edition provided by the publisher.

Rod Pyle’s “Space 2.0” is the book I’ve been wanting for a long time. Early in the book, he writes about reasons that space exploration is important to humanity. He lays out everything in an easy to understand manner, writing in a way that is accessible for those who are unfamiliar with spaceflight history yet still full of great information for those who have been following the subject for years. In addition to excellent writing, there are numerous photos from NASA and beautiful illustrations by James Vaughan. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is interested in the history and future of spaceflight.

When I think of Space I often think about when we went to the moon and our old missions, this book documents those but also the recent private ventures into space sponsored by NASA. Great book with tons of history.

I love Rod Pyle's books. I'm a former aerospace worker and these books are so super pleasing and fun to read. I love it when learning is fun, and these books hit the spot!

A great effort in every respect. This work details the real future of manned spaceflight.

Space 2.0 is a Pandora’s box filled with the past, present, and future of the business of space. If you have never read a book by Rod Pyle, make this your very first one!

Absolutely a must read for any space enthusiast ! Great detail from start to finish....

I am a space enthusiast who has enjoyed many of Rod Pyle's books. This book is full of illustrations. and stories that take you on a journey in space.

Well researched with excellent images. A must read for anyone interested in space exploration.