At a TechCrunch Disrupt conference in San Francisco, Varda Space Industries founder Will Bruey predicted that within 15 to 20 years, it will be more economical to send a working-class human to orbit for a month than to develop more advanced machines for space-based tasks. This projection contrasts with Amazon and Blue Origin founder Jeff Bezos's October statement at an Italian tech conference, where he anticipated millions living in space within decades, largely due to robots being more cost-effective for space labor.

The contrasting viewpoints have sparked debate about the future of space labor and the ethical considerations surrounding it. Mary-Jane Rubenstein, dean of social sciences and professor of religion and science and technology studies at Wesleyan University, addressed these questions in a recent interview.

Rubenstein's expertise lies in the intersection of technology, ethics, and societal impact. She highlighted the importance of considering who will be working in space, and under what conditions, as space exploration and commercialization accelerate.

Bruey's assertion that human labor in space could become cheaper than robotics raises questions about the types of jobs that will be available and the potential for a new class of space workers. This also brings up the need to consider the safety, training, and compensation of these workers, as well as the potential for exploitation.

The current space industry is dominated by highly skilled engineers and scientists. However, if Bruey's prediction holds true, there could be a demand for a broader range of skills, potentially opening up opportunities for individuals from different socioeconomic backgrounds.

Varda Space Industries, founded by Bruey, focuses on in-space manufacturing. The company aims to leverage the unique environment of space, such as microgravity, to produce materials and products that are difficult or impossible to create on Earth. This includes pharmaceuticals, advanced materials, and other high-value goods.

The company's approach involves sending unmanned capsules into orbit to conduct manufacturing processes. These capsules then return to Earth with the finished products. While Varda currently relies on robotic systems, Bruey's comments suggest a potential shift towards incorporating human labor in the future.

The debate surrounding the future of space labor highlights the need for proactive discussions about ethical guidelines and regulations. As space becomes more accessible, it is crucial to ensure that human rights and fair labor practices are upheld. The long-term implications of space commercialization on society and the environment must also be carefully considered.