• IEEE SPACE conference highlights growing international collaboration in space.
• Private rocket launches, like Skyroot's, are driving down launch costs.
• Lower launch costs may enable new space activities, including manufacturing and mining.
• IEEE SpaceTech initiative aims to create international standards for space development.

The growth of private launch services may indicate a shift towards a more competitive and sustainable space industry. The IEEE SpaceTech initiative could play a key role in establishing international standards and best practices, which suggests a more collaborative and coordinated approach to space development. This may lead to increased investment and innovation in the space sector.