Academia

[Monk]

I am not so sure about a union of scientists flying about. With the technology and resources available I would believe most mainstream scientist would stay planet side.

Scientific resources are probably held very close to the chests of the governing bodies and corporations. The researchers would have the ability to have the military or hired pilots conduct field research while they monitor it at home.

Now, there is definitely room for non-mainstream scientists. These would include researchers that are insane, maniacal, unlawful or just ostracized by the mainstream community. These types would have to rely on more limited resources and would conduct their own experiments in space. However, I don't think these people would organize.

or i could be wrong...just my thoughts