This page hints at the significance of classification in understanding various branches of knowledge. It is widely recognized that an effective classification system is essential for insight in scientific fields. Examples of such systems include Biology’s Taxonomy, Chemistry’s Periodic Table, Astrophysics’ Classification of Galaxies, Earth Sciences’ Geologic Time Scale and Medicine’s Classification of Diseases.

Aristotle’s Theory of the Four Causes

Aristotle’s theory of the four causes offers valuable insights into the nature and origins of things. However, it is important to note that the Greek word aitia, often translated as cause, is difficult to translate into other languages. A more precise translation would be explanation or reason, as Aristotle sought to uncover not only the causes of phenomena but also their purpose, form and material composition.

The four causes proposed by Aristotle can serve as a source of inspiration to offer an explanation or reason for why space programs developed. While they do not provide a taxonomy or classification system, they enable a unique and thought-provoking exploration of different dimensions within the space domain. This approach fosters a deeper understanding of the causes, factors and dimensions that contribute to our comprehension of the space domain, thus offering potential insights for its classification based on unconventional logic.

Consequently, four classes are defined, although they do not claim to directly correspond to the four causes. However, any classification must consider the specificity of the subject matter and its intended purpose. The proposed taxonomy serves the purpose of assisting readers in navigating and exploring specific aspects of the space sector.

The Four Classes

Frameworks

• Regulations: Covers the regulatory and legal frameworks governing space activities, including international agreements, national space policies, licensing and regulation of space operations and intellectual property rights.
• Strategies: Emphasizes the strategic goals and objectives of various actors in the space sector, encompassing their vision, mission and priorities.
• Cooperation: Examines the collaborative efforts among nations in the space sector, including joint missions, shared research initiatives and international partnerships.

Elements

• Transportation: Encompasses the transportation of payloads and humans to space, including the development and operation of launch vehicles, spaceports and associated infrastructure.
• Space-objects: Focuses on the design, manufacturing and deployment of space-related hardware, equipment and technologies, including satellites, spacecraft subsystems, outer space infrastructures and robotics.
• Technologies: Explores space-related technologies, encompassing propulsion systems, advanced materials and innovative solutions driving the industry forward.

Actors

• Governments: Encompasses the role and involvement of government institutions in the space sector, including policy-making, regulation and funding.
• Organizations: Highlights the contributions and initiatives of space agencies and organizations at national and international levels in space exploration, research and technological advancements.
• Private-Sector: Explores the involvement of private companies and commercial entities in the space sector, including commercial space transportation, satellite manufacturing and operations and the development of space-related products and services.

Functions

• Exploration: Focuses on the scientific exploration of space and the pursuit of knowledge about celestial bodies and the universe. This includes missions to planets, asteroids and comets, as well as the study of cosmic phenomena and fundamental physics.
• Uses: Centers on the practical applications and benefits of space technology, encompassing satellite communication services, Earth observation services, remote sensing applications, satellite data analytics and the exploitation of outer space resources.
• Education: Emphasizes the importance of education and public engagement in fostering interest, awareness and understanding of space science and technology. This includes educational programs, public outreach initiatives and media platforms dedicated to promoting space literacy.