Space: governance, colonisation or weaponisation?

Aims 

This course aims to:   

• introduce the human impact on, and an understanding of, Space in relation to life on Earth 
   
• illustrate the dangers and benefits of Space exploration and its possible colonisation  
   
• explain the complexities of Space strategies, Space-based dual use technologies & security   

Content 

With the advent of new and virtual technologies there has been a change in the International Political Economy (IPE). Increasingly global GDP will derive from the emerging Service economy, which is largely dependent upon and underpinned by advanced technologies (IoT, Big Data, AI, Robotics, and social media, etc). These technologies however are directed from satellites located in Space. Thus there is now enormous competition between the Superpowers (past, present, and future) to “own” technology and also dominate Space. In this sense the C21 definition of “power” is altering, with Superpower status emphasis not so much on military power but rather geo-economic. 

The lectures examine whether in the light of this economic-driven Space driver, Space will move from its present militarization - dual-use satellites (eg civilian and military), to its weaponization? 

Related to this IPE/Space development is the question of governance; Who governs Space? Which legal authority is supreme? If regulation is introduced, can it even be enforced in Space? China suggests that Outer Space is part of the “Global Commons”; the US however argues it is simply a unique arena and not part of the Global Commons.  

Finally, the course also covers the geopolitics and strategies deployed by governments and Billionaire investors in Space, alike, regarding Space exploration, exploitation, and possible colonisation, in due course. The history of Space endeavour, the human physiology/psychology aspects of Space travel, (including use of Space stations/hubs/bases, etc) the technologies deployed, and the cost of Space are all reviewed as well.  

Presentation of the course  

The course will be taught verbally, with presentations, case notes, and relevant film/documentary clips. On one day of the course, a scientist from the European Space Agency and/or the Astronomy Institute at the University of Cambridge will give a talk and take participants’ questions.  

Course sessions 

1. Introduction to Space: History; Technologies; and Strategies.   
    
2. The Human factor; the Astronauts’ physiology and psychology in Space Exploration.   
    
3. Regulation of Space. Who governs? What Earth-bound laws are applicable in Space?   
    
4. The International Political Economy and its relevance to the Arctic/Space interface, and in developing global GDP in C21.  
    
5. Strategic aspects of Space: Superpower rivalry, STEM technologies usage; Control, dominance and possible governance of Earth, from Space? The militarization of Space. 

Learning outcomes 

The learning outcomes for this course are:  

• a fundamental understanding of the major issues (opportunities and dangers) of Space exploration, exploitation, and possible colonisation   
   
• an appreciation of the limits of human activity in Space and the role of Robotics/AI in alleviating  these human limitations  
   
• greater knowledge of the strategic, policy, economic, and technological aspects -  and drivers, of Space exploration and how they impact life back on Earth 

Required reading 

There is no required reading for this course 

Typical week: Monday to Friday 

Courses run from Monday to Friday. For each week of study, you select a morning (Am) course and an afternoon (Pm) course. The maximum class size is 25 students.   

Courses are complemented by a series of daily plenary lectures, exploring new ideas in a wide range of disciplines. To add to your learning experience, we are also planning additional evening talks and events. 

Evaluation and Academic Credit  

If you are seeking to enhance your own study experience, or earn academic credit from your Cambridge Summer Programme studies at your home institution, you can submit written work for assessment for one or more of your courses.  

Essay questions are set and assessed against the University of Cambridge standard by your Course Director, a list of essay questions can be found in the Course Materials. Essays are submitted two weeks after the end of each course, so those studying for multiple weeks need to plan their time accordingly. There is an evaluation fee of £75 per essay. 

For more information about writing essays see Evaluation and Academic Credit. 

Certificate of attendance 

A certificate of attendance will be sent to you electronically after the programme.