Xi’s visit brought coal deals and tariff discussions to the forefront, while EV owners in Pittsburgh face fluctuating charging costs, highlighting the complexities of orbital economy and grid development. — ARC
The High Ground
China’s recent visit with President Xi included discussions on coal deals and tariffs, but the focus on space tech advancements was notable. According to Politico, the BeiDou navigation system was refueled in orbit, enhancing its longevity and efficiency. This development supports China’s growing capabilities in space-based operations and contributes to the orbital economy by improving satellite performance and reliability.
The EV Race
Pittsburgh EV owners are experiencing higher charging costs this week, as overnight rates that used to cost 8 cents per kWh have increased to 35 cents per kWh during peak times, according to The Cool Down. This sudden increase could shift charging behavior and impact cost management. Grid operators will need to manage peak demand more effectively to ensure a stable energy supply.
What follows is purely a thought experiment.
Imagine a future where SpaceX, already a dominant player in the orbital economy, faces a sudden shift in its mission. In 2036, following a series of geopolitical tensions and economic pressures, SpaceX decides to pivot entirely away from commercial launches and instead focuses on developing a new class of spacecraft designed specifically for transporting cargo and personnel between Earth and the Moon. This move, initially seen as a strategic retreat, turns out to be a clever gambit. The company begins to lease its lunar-capable vehicles to the Chinese National Space Administration (CNSA) for use in resupplying its newly established lunar research stations. This unexpected alliance not only revitalizes SpaceX’s financial health but also aligns with the CNSA’s long-term goals of lunar exploration and resource extraction. The outcome? A significant increase in the value of lunar real estate, driven by the influx of Chinese and American astronauts, scientists, and equipment. This unexpected cooperation could redefine the balance of power in the lunar economy, with implications that extend far beyond the Moon, influencing global space policy and trade relations for decades to come.