Tag: Space Governance
-
The Perils of Settling Space: Lessons from Mars and Beyond
Introduction: When Humans Reach for the Stars As space exploration accelerates, the idea of settling new worlds—especially Mars—shifts from science fiction to near-future possibility. In conversations with host Jenni Doering, authors Kelly and Zach Weinersmith explore not just the technical challenges, but the societal and geopolitical perils that accompany human expansion beyond Earth. This debate…
-
The Moon Mine Dilemma: Urgent Need for Clear International Rules
The race to mine the Moon is accelerating Interest in extracting resources from the Moon has shifted from science fiction to a serious policy question. Governments, corporations, and international bodies are weighing how to govern activities on and around the Moon as interest in water ice, rare minerals, and perhaps fuel for deep-space missions grows.…
-
Let Jules Verne Crater on the Moon Be a New Point Nemo
Introduction: A Call for Lunar Isolation The Moon’s surface holds many ironies: it is within humanity’s reach, yet still incredibly remote in terms of practical isolation. The idea of declaring Jules Verne crater on the Moon a modern Point Nemo—a place of ultimate remoteness analogous to Earth’s most isolated point—offers a provocative framework for protecting…
-
Crash Clock: How a Severe Solar Storm Could Spark Satellite Collisions—and How Soon
Overview: Why a solar storm matters to satellites As humanity depends more on space-based services—from GPS to high-speed communications—the risks posed by space weather have moved from theoretical concern to practical threat. A severe solar storm can unleash a torrent of charged particles and intense radiation that affects satellite orbits and onboard systems. In an…
-
UN Monitors Interstellar Comet 3I/ATLAS as Close Approach Nears
Global Vigilance as 3I/ATLAS Nears Earth As the interstellar visitor 3I/ATLAS makes its closest pass by Earth on December 19, scientists and policymakers alike are paying close attention. Not only are major space agencies monitoring the comet’s trajectory, but an international framework housed at the United Nations is also tracking potential implications for planetary defense,…
-
Moon Mining: Is It Worth It for Our Space Future
Introduction: A Question That Keeps Orbiting The Moon has long been a symbol of curiosity and a potential source of practical riches. From ancient myths to modern space programs, humans have imagined turning the Moon’s resources into a bridge to a broader off-Earth economy. But as ambitious missions gather pace and commercial interests multiply, the…
-
Why the Moon Is Not the South China Sea: Reframing Lunar Space Ahead of the Next Race
Rethinking the Narrative: The Moon vs. the South China Sea The push toward crewed lunar missions has often been framed as a reprise of the geopolitical race that once swirled around the South China Sea. But equating the Moon with regional sovereignty disputes risks misreading both the goal and the future of space exploration. Rather…