Dual Imperatives in Celestial Governance: Managing Innovation and Militarization in a Privatized Space Domain Defined by Technological Asymmetries, Strategic Risk, and Governance Gaps

Abstract

This thesis takes a qualitative approach to investigating contemporary outer space governance and the need to balance innovation with the rise in space militarization. The outer space landscape is constantly changing. From the beginning of the Space Race to present day dynamics, the private sector has grown tremendously in its role as a leading force in space technology and innovation.

The guiding question of this thesis is how can the United States effectively promote innovation while also deterring the onset of space militarization between nations. Through historical context examining early teachings of Galileo, the Space Race, and the first lunar landing, this thesis is framed to dissect the ways in which early space dynamics have impacted contemporary space exploration.

This thesis also examines the different militarizing factors shaping outer space dynamics such as celestial appropriation, space debris, anti-satellite weaponry, and multilateral governance gaps. By dissecting two case studies regarding cybersecurity and their relation to outer space infrastructure, seven policy recommendations were formed to suggest various ways outer space governance can be altered to fit the evolving celestial landscape.

In addition, this thesis also engages with the ethics and legality behind space exploration. As technology continues to evolve, the use of artificial intelligence in outer space rises leading to both exciting innovations and ethical concerns. Space mining and biosecurity risks also tie into the ethics and legality behind outer space exploration and future missions.

As the private sector continues to grow in outer space exploration, there will be a rise in space militarization, but also a boom in technological and infrastructural innovations. As the leading country in space endeavors, the United States is primed to lead international cooperation in perpetuating peaceful exploration of outer space and promoting a unified celestial governance framework.