I do agree, Tom, competition is a good thing . . .
All I'm saying is that, without government backing, private industries greatest attempts are doomed to fall dismally short of NASA's and ESA's brief, but glorious histories. To come anywhere close to matching Apollo, the Shuttle program, SOHO, Cassini, and all points between would likely require a couple centuries of private endeavor.
It took government support to launch the rail and road networks that span the continents of Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia and the Americas. Government support was needed for the Titanic, for the SST's, as well as the great Boulder Dam.
Industry remains very limited. Granted, it is getting better, but it's sure taking its time.
Cheers.