FOREWORD
BEAM ME UP SCOTTY
As billionaires blast themselves into space , we can enjoy watching the advancement of technology without having to pay for it
“ The eye in the sky observes , assesses and predicts outcomes , saving lives and aiding solutions in the process ”
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Last month , as William Shatner was travelling where no 90-year-old has gone before , the debate was hotting up down on earth .
George Takei , himself a wispy octogenarian , described his former Star Trek co-star as ' unfit ' for space travel .
Even Prince William took potshots . What were all those billionaires doing blasting themselves into zero gravity , when there ’ s a hole in the ozone layer and disposable face masks are piling up and killing black rhinos in Africa ? he whinged .
However , whether you think these vanity projects of the uber-rich are a waste of time or not , nobody can deny the importance of space exploration .
Currently , satellite technology in the earth ’ s orbit is tracking , observing and predicting all things climaterelated . From devastating floods and forest fires in Australia to volcanic disruption on the island of Palma , the eye in the sky observes , assesses and predicts outcomes , saving lives and aiding solutions in the process .
Earth observation technology is responsible for guiding insurers in their risk modelling . This , in turn , helps the most vulnerable of their customers ( farmers in developing countries , for example ) to take out cover that protects their interests .
And while satellites are a long way from civilian daytrips to the stratosphere , innovation can ’ t happen when it lacks inspiration .
If the first forays into space by NASA had been cancelled because they were deemed a waste of money , we might never have developed the incredible technology circling the earth today . I say go for it , boys . At least this bill isn ’ t on the taxpayer .
JOANNA ENGLAND joanna . england @ bizclikmedia . com © 2021 | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED insurtechdigital . com 5