In his latest book, space scientist, futurist, and educator Joseph N. Pelton explores a

dozen ways that Planet Earth is at “existential” risk, along with the many ways that

space systems, data analytics, and advanced networking systems can help us cope

with these global challenges.

The chapters examine in a straightforward way how satellite systems and technol-

ogy can drastically transform fields such as pandemic tracking and global medical

responses, cosmic hazard monitoring, nuclear energy and waste disposal, water and

land pollution, tele-education/telemedicine, and military conflict. Such examples

show how orbiting smart systems will play an ever more vital role in our vulnerable

modern world, allowing us to monitor, track, and respond to mounting problems of

the 21st century.

Dr. Pelton takes a broad view, probing the social, economic, and regulatory factors

that are crucial to creating a more sustainable “Spaceship Earth.” This book is a call

to action, promoting more organized international collaboration and investment in

space technologies that can enable global change.