Governance in A Vacuum: Norms, Rules, and Regimes for Outer Space
4.0
creditsAverage Course Rating
This course explores the challenges of developing and enforcing rules of behavior in ungoverned and semi-governed spaces, with a particular emphasis on outer space. With the expansion of space activities both in and beyond Earth’s orbit, it is important to understand the regulatory and policy challenges posed by issues like orbital debris, space mining, rescue and recovery of astronauts, planetary defense, and possibly even human settlements. We will examine existing treaties, national regulations and policies, and emerging governance models to help analyze the roles of various stakeholders, including states, private companies, and international organizations as they address some of these challenges. Through readings, discussions, guest speakers, and research, the course will equip students with the knowledge to assess and contribute to the evolving governance of space. Each student will, either independently or in partnership with one other student, develop a proposal for a new set of rules to govern one particular space activity, including how to develop and enforce those rules. Students will then brief their classmates on their proposal. Students in the class will also have an opportunity (if they choose) to participate in a 1- or 2-day workshop at SAIS, during spring break, that will bring together a number of space experts (scholars, government officials, and practitioners) to discuss the future of cislunar governance.
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