In the previous years of space station development the focus for utilization has been on research under Space Conditions, primarily basic research. Considerations for commercial utilization were mostly regarded as getting the non-space industry to use the station for application-oriented research or even manufacturing. Now as the ISS has made its first step of assembly the plans being drawn up for ISS utilization will acknowledge even business beyond any yet accepted commercial activity in manned space systems of the Western world. This is a great chance to make real progress in the commercialization of manned systems which has been discussed for a long time. Future commercial initiatives will have to reflect the specialties of the ISS, which are: - It is a manned system with an exceptional international character - It is a highly sophisticated research centre - It will have very high public attention every day - It is a low Earth orbiting platform with ample resources and regular manned access - It has the capability to grow.
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