By Dr. James M. Minnich
December 2, 2024

The space race isn’t over; it has simply evolved into a new, more complex phase. While Cold War rivalries may have faded, a different kind of competition is now underway – a race to ensure the long-term sustainability of this critical domain. With the number of satellites and space actors growing exponentially, the need for responsible behavior and international cooperation has never been more pressing.

This was the central theme of Dialogue 33, where experts Dr. Namrata Goswami and Sam Wilson joined DKI APCSS professors Dr. James Minnich and Dr. Al Oehlers to explore the critical challenges and opportunities in securing the future of space.

What Does Sustainability in Space Really Mean?

Space sustainability goes far beyond environmental protection. It encompasses efforts to ensure that space remains accessible and usable for all nations, now and in the future. This includes addressing the proliferation of space debris, promoting ethical and responsible behavior in space activities, and ensuring equitable access to space-based resources for all countries, regardless of technological advancement.

Dr. Namrata Goswami described the multifaceted nature of sustainability: “Sustainability means that we utilize space in ways that are not destructive… so that others can use it.” This requires preventing actions that create hazards in orbit, such as the accumulation of debris while ensuring fair access for emerging space nations.

Sam Wilson emphasized the urgency of addressing these challenges: “Since I’ve been working in the Center for Space Policy and Strategy over the last six years, the number of spacecraft has more than tripled.” This exponential growth highlights the immediate need for responsible practices to prevent collisions and preserve the space environment for future generations.

The Debris Dilemma: A Growing Threat

One of the most critical challenges facing the space community is the growing threat of space debris. Generated by launches, maneuvers, and collisions, even tiny fragments of debris, like a fleck of paint, can cripple satellites or endanger astronauts.

The uncontrolled accumulation of debris poses the risk of a catastrophic chain reaction, known as the Kessler Syndrome, which could render entire orbits unusable for generations. As Wilson explained, the rapid growth of space activities underscores the urgent need for stricter international regulations, responsible disposal practices, and the development of innovative technologies to track and remove debris.

Can We Cooperate? Finding Common Ground in a Contested Domain

Despite increasing geopolitical tensions, there is hope for international collaboration in space. Dr. Goswami drew parallels with air traffic management, suggesting that the growing commercialization of space could incentivize nations to cooperate. “It will be in the incentive of nations… that they will be forced by their own companies and their own citizens to come to some level of consensus,” she explained.

Regional efforts are also gaining momentum. Dr. Al Oehlers pointed to the late-November Asia-Pacific Regional Space Agency Forum (APRSAF) meeting in Perth, where stakeholders focused on “collaborating to build a sustainable and responsible regional space sector.” These initiatives reflect a growing recognition that sustainability must be tackled collaboratively, with every stakeholder—civil, military, and commercial—playing a role.

Balancing National Interests with Global Cooperation

One of the key challenges in space governance is balancing national interests with the broader need for global cooperation. While nations and companies are understandably driven by strategic and commercial goals, the long-term health of the space environment requires a shared commitment to sustainability and responsible practices.

Achieving this balance involves finding innovative solutions that promote both technological advancement and responsible stewardship. It also requires establishing clear norms and guidelines for behavior, ensuring that the benefits of space are equitably shared among all nations.

A Shared Responsibility for a Sustainable Future

The future of space hinges on our collective commitment to sustainability and responsibility. By embracing international collaboration, investing in innovative technologies, and establishing clear behavioral norms, we can preserve space as a domain for peaceful exploration, scientific discovery, and shared benefits.

Regional initiatives, like those highlighted by APRSAF, offer a model for the kind of cooperation needed to tackle these challenges. “Collaborating to build a sustainable and responsible regional space sector” not only reflects the aspirations of the Asia-Pacific region but also serves as an example for global efforts to secure the future of space.

As Dr. Goswami aptly noted, “This is a defining moment for space governance.” The choices made today will determine whether space becomes a zone of conflict or a realm of shared opportunity. With shared responsibility and collaboration, the promise of a sustainable and inclusive future in space is within our reach.