At a TechCrunch Disrupt conference in San Francisco, Varda Space Industries founder Will Bruey predicted that within 15 to 20 years, sending a working-class human to orbit for a month will be more cost-effective than developing advanced machines for space-based tasks. This projection, made weeks after Amazon and Blue Origin founder Jeff Bezos suggested millions would inhabit space within decades due to robots handling most work, sparked debate about the future of space labor and the ethical considerations surrounding it.

The contrasting visions of Bezos and Bruey highlight a critical juncture in the space industry, prompting questions about who will ultimately work 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, addressed these concerns, emphasizing the need for ethical frameworks to guide the burgeoning space economy.

Rubenstein noted the potential for exploitation if space labor is not carefully regulated. She argued that the focus should not solely be on technological advancement and cost reduction, but also on ensuring fair labor practices and equitable access to the benefits of space exploration. The discussion comes as companies like Varda Space Industries are pioneering in-space manufacturing, aiming to leverage the unique environment of orbit for producing materials with enhanced properties.

Varda's approach involves sending automated factories into space to manufacture products like pharmaceuticals and high-performance alloys. The company's business model hinges on the premise that certain materials can be produced more efficiently and effectively in the microgravity environment of space. However, Bruey's prediction suggests a future where human workers could play a more direct role in these manufacturing processes, raising questions about the skills, training, and compensation required for such jobs.

The debate also touches on the broader implications of space colonization and resource utilization. As the space industry expands, issues of governance, environmental protection, and the potential for conflict will need to be addressed. Rubenstein advocates for a multidisciplinary approach, involving ethicists, policymakers, and scientists, to develop comprehensive guidelines for responsible space development.

Currently, international space law provides a basic framework for activities in outer space, but it lacks specific provisions for labor standards and environmental regulations. As the commercialization of space accelerates, there is a growing need for updated legal and ethical frameworks to ensure that space exploration benefits all of humanity and does not exacerbate existing inequalities. The discussion surrounding Bruey's prediction underscores the importance of proactively addressing these issues as the space industry continues to evolve.