Taking a giant leap for a new ethics in outer space

Source: The post is based on the article “Taking a giant leap for a new ethics in outer space” published in “The Hindu” on 21st September 2023.

Syllabus: GS3- Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life.

News: The author discusses the human instinct to explore and claim territories, like the race to the South Pole in the 1900s and current activities in Antarctica. They highlight the regulations in Antarctica and the need for similar rules in outer space. The author suggests India should lead in creating ethical space guidelines.

What is the human instinct to explore and claim territories in Antarctica?

Historical Race: In the 1910s, explorers like Roald Amundsen and Robert Scott raced to be the first to reach the South Pole. Amundsen succeeded on December 14, 1911.

Territorial Claims: Several countries, including Norway and Britain, have staked claims on Antarctica. For instance, Norway claimed an area named Dronning Maud Land.

Scientific Curiosity: 12 countries, such as Argentina and the US, established over 55 research stations in Antarctica, highlighting the human urge for knowledge.

Peaceful Usage: The Antarctic Treaty ensures that the continent is used for scientific research and peaceful purposes, showing a collective agreement on its value.

No Colonization: Unlike historical colonies, there are no native residents in Antarctica, and resources aren’t extracted for the mother country. However, the presence of research stations indicates an undeniable human footprint.

What are the regulations in Antarctica?

Treaty Initiation: Following activities during the International Geophysical Year (IGY) in 1958, US President Dwight D. Eisenhower initiated an Antarctic Conference in 1959 with 12 countries active in Antarctica.

Nuclear Restrictions: Argentina proposed banning all atomic explosions in Antarctica. Initially, the US suggested banning only unnotified tests, but eventually agreed to the complete ban.

Focus on Peace and Research: The Antarctic Treaty emphasizes freedom of scientific research and mandates the peaceful use of the continent.

Demilitarization: The treaty prohibits nuclear testing, military operations, economic exploitation, and further territorial claims.

Monitoring Systems: Close monitoring systems are in place to oversee the activities of countries in Antarctica, ensuring its ecological integrity remains intact.

No New Territorial Claims: The treaty restricts countries from making any new territorial claims in Antarctica.

Why is there a need for regulation in outer space?

Territorial Claims: Like the race in Antarctica, there’s potential for countries to claim territories in space, such as the moon.

Peaceful Use: Like Earth’s natural landmarks, outer space destinations should be used for peaceful purposes only.

Moon’s Environment: Regulations ensure that the lunar environment isn’t disrupted or damaged.

Shared Resources: The moon and its resources are humanity’s common heritage, requiring collective decisions about their use.

Control and Territory: Regulations help curb human desires for domination and first-arrival, promoting collaboration instead.

Avoiding Arms Race: There’s a pressing need to prevent militarization and arms races in outer space, ensuring safety for all nations.

What should India’s role be in space exploration?

Successful Missions: With the achievement of Chandrayaan-3, India has proven its capability in space exploration.

Collaboration over Ownership: India should view celestial bodies, like the moon, as partners in scientific advancement, not territories to claim.

Lead by Example: India can set a pace for global space agendas, emphasizing collaboration and peaceful exploration.

Ethical Leadership: Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized that Chandrayaan-3’s success belongs to all of humanity. This perspective can guide India’s future space endeavors.

Promote Peace: India can champion the non-militarization of outer space, aligning with international treaties.

Address Space Debris: India should advocate for and participate in efforts to manage and reduce space debris, ensuring outer space remains a safe environment for exploration.