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, made weeks after Amazon and Blue Origin founder Jeff Bezos suggested that robots would be more cost-effective for space work, has sparked debate about the future of human labor in space and the ethical considerations surrounding it.

The contrasting visions of Bezos and Bruey highlight a fundamental question: Who will be working in space, and under what conditions? Mary-Jane Rubenstein, dean of social sciences and professor of religion and science and technology studies at Wesleyan University, is exploring these questions. She spoke about the implications of space labor with TechCrunch this week.

Rubenstein's work delves into the ethical, social, and philosophical implications of expanding human presence beyond Earth. Her research considers the potential for exploitation, the need for fair labor practices, and the broader societal impact of space colonization. The discussion is particularly relevant given the increasing interest in space manufacturing, resource extraction, and tourism.

Bruey's company, Varda Space Industries, focuses on in-space manufacturing, aiming 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 business model hinges on the idea that the benefits of in-space manufacturing will outweigh the costs of sending humans and equipment into orbit.

The current cost of sending humans to space remains a significant barrier. However, advancements in reusable rocket technology, such as those pioneered by SpaceX, are driving down launch costs. This trend, coupled with potential innovations in life support systems and space habitats, could make human labor in space more economically viable in the coming years.

The debate over human versus robotic labor in space also touches on the issue of risk. While robots can perform tasks in hazardous environments without endangering human lives, they lack the adaptability and problem-solving skills of humans. Some argue that a combination of human and robotic labor will be the most effective approach, with robots handling routine tasks and humans providing oversight and expertise.

As the space industry continues to evolve, the ethical and social implications of space labor will become increasingly important. Ensuring fair labor practices, protecting the health and safety of space workers, and addressing the potential for exploitation will be crucial to creating a sustainable and equitable future in space. The discussion with Rubenstein underscores the need for proactive consideration of these issues as humanity ventures further into the cosmos.