Evil Genius

Is Commercial Space Tourism a viable industry? Please answer the following questions: 1) Historical background: When did the idea of "space tourism" begin? How has it developed? What have been the hurdles and accomplishments? Start in the 1960's - present day.      The idea of space tourism began back in 1964 when Austrian journalist Gerhard Pistor requested a flight to the moon from a travel agent, who in turn, forwarded it to Pan Am. Pan Am's response was that their first flight would be in the year 2000. (Space Exploration Stack Exchange, 2018) There has been little growth in the space tourism industry. As far as space tourism development goes, it is still a really cool concept, but it isn't close to being a viable mode of public transportation.  . 2) Give a brief summary of the rules and regulations that currently govern the commercial space industry. When and why were they developed? Start with the first rules developed in the 1980s. Do you feel that th

Current Status of UAV Use      The use of UAVs in the civilian sector has been broadening over the years. For instance, smaller UAVs, also known as drones, are being used for such things as inspections of pipelines, towers, and offshore drilling rigs. Drones operated in the U.S. are regulated by the FAA, but some states have additional regulations regarding the use of drones. For example, here in Michigan it is illegal to use a drone to interfere with hunters and to use a drone to locate, hunt, trap, or catch animals. (Meola, 2017) Drones that are used for commercial purposes are regulated by Part 107 of the Federal Aviation Regulations. Commercial UAV pilots must be at least sixteen-years old and are required to have a remote pilot airmen certificate. (FAA, 2016) To fly a UAV for commercial purposes the pilot must have at least three miles visibility and not exceed 400 feet in altitude. However, if the UAV is within 400 feet of a structure, the pilot may exceed that altitude.