Exploration Of Outer Space Research Articles

The Common Heritage of Mankind and the Rights of Future Generations in Outer Space Exploration: The Ethical Frontier

This article explores the ethical frontiers of outer space exploration, focusing on the common heritage of mankind and the rights of future generations. It delves into the historical evolution of international space law, examines key treaties and agreements, and applies Elinor Ostrom's principles of resource management to space governance. The article emphasizes the importance of ethical considerations, such as the rights of future generations, and provides a comparative analysis of different ethical theories relevant to space exploration. By integrating stakeholder perspectives, including those of non-space-faring nations and private companies, the article proposes new governance models for the sustainable and equitable management of outer space resources. The findings suggest that a balanced approach, considering diverse viewpoints and ethical implications, is crucial for the future of space exploration.

Lunar distress communications: Interoperability, frequencies, and harmful interference, which normative model for the artemis accords?

A new space era begins with the Artemis Accords. These will allow the return of humans to the Moon. The starting point of this historic period was marked by the signing of this international agreement on October 13, 2020. Eight States are at the origin of these accords: the United States of America, Australia, Canada, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom. Since then, thirteen other governments – including France – have joined this international space program led by NASA. Artemis will require the implementation of a new communication architecture called “LunaNet”, encompassing the search and rescue service known as “LunaSAR”. Therefore, like on Earth, on the Moon, search and rescue of people in distress will require the interoperability of international communications. From a legal point of view, the Artemis Accords are based on existing space law, particularly the 1967 Outer Space Treaty. According to this, Lunar missions shall be conducted for peaceful purposes. Transparency in the implementation of international partnerships is another key principle of this space program. From this, at the operational level, interoperability of the systems based on existing or future standards naturally follows. Beyond the technical or commercial aspects, what takes precedence over all other considerations is the safety of the astronauts working for the completion of the Artemis program. Thus, generally, the possible assistance brought to the astronauts in distress is foreseen in the United Nations treaties and principles on outer space. Regarding the implementation of the Artemis program, personnel will operate on board a spacecraft, a space station, or from the surface of the Moon. This is why NASA plans to implement the Astronaut's Lunar Lifeline, known as Lunar Search and Rescue or LunaSAR. Integrated with the LunaNet system, this system will assist workers in distress. In this study, therefore, we will focus on standards for communications interoperability, in the context of search and rescue of persons in distress. To do so, we will examine the Artemis program through the lens of satellite-assisted Earth search and rescue principles and techniques. In particular, we will focus on the COSPAS-SARSAT alerting service and the International Aeronautical and Maritime Search and Rescue (IAMSAR) Manual. In this context, issues such as, for example, the implementation of the Treaty on Principles Governing the Activities of States in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space, including the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies of 1967, the Agreement on the Rescue of Astronauts, the Return of Astronauts and the Return of Objects Launched into Outer Space of 1968 and the Agreement Governing the Activities of States on the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies of 1979 as well as the protection of SAR frequencies and potential harmful interference will be addressed.

A solvent-free processed low-temperature tolerant adhesive

Ultra-low temperature resistant adhesive is highly desired yet scarce for material adhesion for the potential usage in Arctic/Antarctic or outer space exploration. Here we develop a solvent-free processed low-temperature tolerant adhesive with excellent adhesion strength and organic solvent stability, wide tolerable temperature range (i.e. −196 to 55 °C), long-lasting adhesion effect ( > 60 days, −196 °C) that exceeds the classic commercial hot melt adhesives. Furthermore, combine experimental results with theoretical calculations, the strong interaction energy between polyoxometalate and polymer is the main factor for the low-temperature tolerant adhesive, possessing enhanced cohesion strength, suppressed polymer crystallization and volumetric contraction. Notably, manufacturing at scale can be easily achieved by the facile scale-up solvent-free processing, showing much potential towards practical application in Arctic/Antarctic or planetary exploration.

Children, imagination and outer space exploration: implications for space accountability systems

PurposeThe primary objective of this paper is to explore how space organizations can incorporate children and imagination in their accountability-based accounting and decision-making processes.Design/methodology/approachThis study centers on stakeholder engagement with children, specifically examining the drawing competition associated with the CHaracterising ExOPlanet Satellite (CHEOPS) space exploration mission. We employ a multidimensional research design consisting of both an interpretive approach to the 2,748 space-related drawings submitted by children across Europe to the CHEOPS drawing competition in 2015 and a content analysis of 46 media releases published by ESA and the University of Bern, the key partners of the CHEOPS mission.FindingsOur analysis of the children’s drawings and the CHEOPS media releases indicates that the related organizations account for some of the children’s visions and imaginations, but shortcomings exist in addressing the ethical and space environmental concerns related to space exploration. We explore implications for the space accounting agenda by applying the critical dialogic accountability framework proposed by Dillard and Vinnari (2019), which allows for a discussion on an outline for action by incorporating intergenerational equity (Thomson et al., 2018) and moral imagination (Werhane, 1999).Originality/valueThis study offers a novel exploration of a largely overlooked yet crucial stakeholder group: children. By focusing on their unique perspectives and imaginative capabilities, the paper brings forth the voices of those who will inherit the future of space exploration. Employing children’s drawings as a medium of symbolic communication, this research study offers fresh insights into their perceptions, particularly relevant to space accounting. This innovative approach not only enriches the literature on stakeholder engagement and accountability but also provides space organizations with valuable guidance on fostering inclusivity and ensuring that the interests of future generations are considered in decision-making processes.

Politics of France for obtaining European strategic autonomy in outer-space exploration

The development of such an immense strategic domain as an outer-space is based upon two pillars – civil and military. Space is a subject of competition between the most influential world powers, with the participation of state and inter-state structures, as well as private companies. Areas of panEuropean cooperation in the space sector are analyzed, including the participation of France and the EU and ESA, and the key and in some cases the leading role of France in these processes. The geopolitical significance of the outer-space in global competition and the evolution of the position of European powers and specifically of France in relation to the military component of space exploration are studied. Outer-space and cyber-space now are interpreted in Western military strategies as the fourth and the fifth “domains” of military operations, together with land-, sea- and air-domains. Western powers are coordinating and integrating their military-space activities. France and the governing structures of the European Union place an emphasis on assuring the strategic independence of Europe from the USA and from the technologies of “third countries” in space exploration, the military exploration of space included. The EU pays great attention to the formation and development of the “space economy” and the links between the state space programs with the private sector and private investments. The outer- space in the third decade of the XXI century has become a domain of everyday and constant activities of “space powers”, and because of the role of space technologies in the areas of communications, internet and cell communications, geo-positioning, TV-broadcasting, etc. widely interfere in the life of all other states on the planet. The militarization of the outer-space in different formats is actively progressing and requires active political efforts to ensure its peaceful use.

Historical and legal aspect of establishment and activities of Ad Hoc PAROS (Prevention of an Arms Race in Outer Space) Committee

The article examines the historical and legal aspects of the establishment and activities of the Ad Hoc PAROS (Prevention of an Arms Race in Outer Space) Committee, which operated from 1985 to 1994 as a subsidiary body of the Conference on Disarmament. The historical prerequisites for the creation of the Ad Hoc PAROS Committee and the resolution of the UN General Assembly together with the working documents of the Conference on Disarmament related to the activities of the Committee and the areas of its work were analyzed. Key functions of the Committee included processing proposals of regional groups, holding meetings, involving experts, and developing documentation on issues related to the prevention of an arms race in outer space. Emphasis was placed on the active involvement of delegations in the development of measures to prevent an arms race in outer space, with the aim of preserving its peaceful use for future generations. It was revealed that at the meetings of the Committee, delegations proposed to strengthen the support and the existing international norms and rules; to develop new international agreements that would regulate problematic issues of outer space activity; to create measures to increase transparency and trust between states, through the creation of monitoring international agencies; to promote cooperation and partnership in outer space exploration.
 The article justifies the importance of the Committee's contribution in providing an opportunity to states, which are seeking to settle the issue of disarmament not only on Earth, but also in outer space, to put forward proposals for strengthening confidence and to resolve the issue of the legal vacuum created by the incomplete regulation of the use of outer space. The opinion was expressed that the Committee had great potential to become a permanent body of the Conference on Disarmament and, despite the lack of a negotiating mandate, received the support of states for updating existing international treaties, creating confidence-building measures. However, subsequent historical events made their adjustments, and the Committee was not renewed.

Application of Article 25 of the Draft Articles on Responsibility of States for Internationally Wrongful Acts

As human exploration and use of outer space increases, the problem of space debris becomes more acute. The accumulation of space debris poses a huge threat to the exploration and use of outer space and may also affect the Earth's atmosphere and the environment. International organizations encourage national and non-governmental organizations to take initiatives in removing space debris. However, current international space law does not contain comprehensive rules governing the active removal of space debris of other States, which does not allow establishing the legality of such actions in international law. In the context of the Draft Articles on Responsibility of States for Internationally Wrongful Acts (ARS), it would be useful to clarify the issue of State responsibility for the active removal of space debris of other States. This article uses the literature review method and the case analysis method. In particular, a detailed analysis of the application of the relevant provisions of ARS was conducted, which provides useful ideas for solving the problem of space debris and regulating space activities. It was noted that it is necessary to improve the legal system and that the active removal of space debris of other States should be discussed on a case-by-case basis. If the country to which the space debris belongs clearly does not consent to other countries to clean up its space debris, then continuing to clean up the space debris of other countries should be determined to be an internationally wrongful act. However, after a country takes the initiative to clean up the space debris of other countries, it can also declare a state of emergency to eliminate the illegality of its actions depending on the specific circumstances, thereby promoting the active participation of countries in cleaning up space debris and protecting the space environment.

Unbridled Space Exploration and the Problem of Space Debris: Creating a veritable junkyard in the space?

From weather reporting to tracking ecological changes, from live telecast of various events to military intelligence, satellites have become indispensable in today’s world. Consequently, exploration of Air space, Outer space and Celestial bodies has grown exponentially. More and more countries and private companies are embarking on space missions, space tourism and space mining. The lower orbit of the Earth contains about 11,500 tonnes of all space objects. The unbridled space exploration has brought with it the problem of space debris, collisions and re-entry of space objects into the Earth’s atmosphere. These have the potential of endangering life and environment on Earth. Also, future space operations would be jeopardised. There is a need to take pre-emptive steps to mitigate the problem of space debris. It is imperative to regulate space exploration so as to leave a sustainable space environment for the future generation of astronauts and astronomers. The present paper draws the attention to the problem of unbridled space exploration, analyses the efficacy of the various international instruments governing the space exploration and suggests measures to mitigate the problem of space debris.

Microgravity Osteoporosis

International Space Station (ISS) is a multinational collaboration of countries for the study of space science and exploration of outer space, weather forecasting satellite management growing of plants, and conduction of research

Exploration and Use of Outer Space for the Benefit and in the Interests of all Countries

Exploration and Use of Outer Space for the Benefit and in the Interests of all Countries

Far-red light photoacclimation in a desert Chroococcidiopsis strain with a reduced FaRLiP gene cluster and expression of its chlorophyll f synthase in space-resistant isolates.

Some cyanobacteria can use far-red light (FRL) to drive oxygenic photosynthesis, a phenomenon known as Far-Red Light Photoacclimation (FaRLiP). It can expand photosynthetically active radiation beyond the visible light (VL) range. Therefore, it holds promise for biotechnological applications and may prove useful for the future human exploration of outer space. Typically, FaRLiP relies on a cluster of ~20 genes, encoding paralogs of the standard photosynthetic machinery. One of them, a highly divergent D1 gene known as chlF (or psbA4), is the synthase responsible for the formation of the FRL-absorbing chlorophyll f (Chl f) that is essential for FaRLiP. The minimum gene set required for this phenotype is unclear. The desert cyanobacterium Chroococcidiopsis sp. CCMEE 010 is unusual in being capable of FaRLiP with a reduced gene cluster (15 genes), and it lacks most of the genes encoding FR-Photosystem I. Here we investigated whether the reduced gene cluster of Chroococcidiopsis sp. CCMEE 010 is transcriptionally regulated by FRL and characterized the spectral changes that occur during the FaRLiP response of Chroococcidiopsis sp. CCMEE 010. In addition, the heterologous expression of the Chl f synthase from CCMEE 010 was attempted in three closely related desert strains of Chroococcidiopsis. All 15 genes of the FaRLiP cluster were preferentially expressed under FRL, accompanied by a progressive red-shift of the photosynthetic absorption spectrum. The Chl f synthase from CCMEE 010 was successfully expressed in two desert strains of Chroococcidiopsis and transformants could be selected in both VL and FRL. In Chroococcidiopsis sp. CCME 010, all the far-red genes of the unusually reduced FaRLiP cluster, are transcriptionally regulated by FRL and two closely related desert strains heterologously expressing the chlF010 gene could grow in FRL. Since the transformation hosts had been reported to survive outer space conditions, such an achievement lays the foundation toward novel cyanobacteria-based technologies to support human space exploration.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE, GENOM, CYBERSPACE AND SPACE – CONTEMPORARY THREATS TO THE SECURITY OF THE STATE AND NATIONS

Among many contemporary threats, which include threats in the military, economic or social sphere, issues related to threats in cyberspace, artificial intelligence (AI), genetic modifications of the human genome and threats related to with space exploration. This work, based on a qualitative analysis of the literature, aims to identify selected, often overlooked and not functioning in the common awareness of contemporary threats to state security. The analysis undertaken allows us to conclude that an important factor contributing to the increase in the level of threat to the security of the state and nation today are the contemporary "black swans" in the security sphere, the weakness of political leadership, unknown directions of AI development and changes in the human genome, threats related to the outer space exploration and threats in cyberspace.

Китай и механизмы международно-правового регулирования космической деятельности

China actively supports the development of international law mechanisms and the field of peaceful exploration of outer space is no exception. Joining the UN documents on space and other international organizations in the 1980s allowed Beijing to gain access to international scientific and technical cooperation. However, many Chi-nese, Russian as well as foreign experts note the imperfections of international space law, citing the lack of basic definitions and inadequate measures to control the activities of states in space. Having become a party to space law legal mechanisms much later than their entry into force, China did not participate in their delibera-tions and is now taking the initiative to establish better control mechanisms in this area.

New Perspectives for the Making of Space Law: UNIDROIT’s Cape Town Approach Compared with Traditional UNCOPUOS Law-Making

The United Nations Committee for the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (UN and UNCOPUOS) drafted the five outer space treaties in little more than a decade and created a completely new specialisation in international law. This, of course, happened when states and state agencies were the only participants in the use and exploration of outer space. Since then, new non-governmental actors have entered the space market, aspects of which were privatised and commercialised. Yet, despite the pressing need for international legislation, since 1979 UNCOPUOS has proved incapable of producing another treaty on space law. The author examines why the UNCOPUOS, established to make international law of outer space, stopped making outer space treaties and how the International Institute for the Unification of Private Law (Institute International pour l’unification du Droit Privé or UNIDROIT), a non-UN entity established to unify private law, created its 2012 Protocol to the Convention on International Interests in Mobile Equipment on Matters Specific to Space Assets (Space Protocol), what is allegedly the first outer space treaty in (then) thirty-two years. The UNCOPUOS system of public international law treaty-making is compared with the UNIDROIT private international law one, and the question of whether UNIDROIT has created a new method of treaty-making is addressed. The conclusions are that a functioning space law regime exists, hard law is preferable to non-binding soft law, UNCOPUOS cannot produce any further outer space treaties, the Space Protocol can only form part of space law if one accepts a fourth stage of development of space law as part of a redefining of space law sensu lato, UNIDROIT’s Cape Town Approach is more suitable to modern space law treaty-making, and treaty-drafting is a special art of the international lawyer.

The Role of Native Space Medicine and Physiology in Exploration of Outer Space

The Role of Native Space Medicine and Physiology in Exploration of Outer Space

Russia — Africa: old friends and perspective partners (on the example of Angola and Mozambique)

The article analyzes diplomatic, trade and economic relations, as well as military-technical cooperation between Russia and Angola, Russia and Mozambique caused by the growing role of African countries in world politics and economy. These African states traditionally hold a special place in the Russian, and previously Soviet, foreign policy. In the 21st century Africa is one of the most dynamically developing and promising regions in the world, which is reflected in the Concept of the Foreign Policy of the Russian Federation. This is evidenced by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s recent activity. In the first months of 2023, he has already toured Africa twice: from January 23 to 27 and from February 6 to 9. Russian-Angolan and Mozambican bilateral relations have been always seen as “reliable and timetested”. It was 1975 when the USSR established diplomatic relations with Angola and Mozambique after they gained independence from Portugal. During the Soviet Union ties between our countries were actively developing. After the collapse of the USSR bilateral cooperation signifi cantly decreased, while military-political collaboration continued, including the settlement of the armed conflict in Angola. At the present stage, our relations are developing in many directions. These are, in addition to military assistance, Russia’s participation in the development of Angolan diamond deposits, cooperation in the field of education, merchant shipping, as well as exploration and use of outer space for peaceful purposes. A new impetus to the development of relations is given by high-level visits “on the sidelines” of BRICS and the Russia-Africa Summits.

The Principle of International Cooperation and Sharing of Information Principle under International Space Law: Towards Synergy

Throughout the history of the astronautic development, one of the key principles of international space law has always been the principle of international cooperation between States. The States jointly, although sometimes in conditions of competition or in a tense geopolitical situation, systematically moved towards the development of space science and technology, and the exploration of outer space for the benefit of all mankind. To succeed in this difficult task, the principle of information sharing has always served as an assistance to the principle of international cooperation. A striking example of how the two outlined principles are applied is the protection of the International Space Station against a possible collision with space debris. As a number of States consider exploring more celestial bodies and deep space, the importance of the principles of international cooperation and information sharing is increasing. This article focuses on these principles and their complementary roles. The first part of the article provides a retrospective analysis of the principle of international cooperation and the manner in which it is enshrined in international law, including international space law. The second part explores the principle of information sharing as a particular example of the principle of international cooperation. The conclusion of the article is that in current conditions, there is an increasing need for strict adherence to the designated principles for the realization of space activities in general as well as ensuring its safety and efficiency.

Astronomical withdrawals: a green criminological examination of extreme energy mining on extraterrestrial objects

Mining for natural resources on-Earth is commonplace and dates back over a hundred years at an industrial scale. Technological advances in outer space exploration are enabling the mining of extraterrestrial resources to transition from mere science fiction, to a serious possibility. In recent decades, several new start-up companies have arisen with the sole intention of exploiting resources that exist in outer space, such as on Earth’s moon, asteroids, meteorites, planets, and various planetary satellites, such as the moons of Mars - Phobos and Diemos. However, despite the increased investment and interest in space mining, criminologists have remained virtually silent on outer space issues. In this paper we adopt a green criminological approach to explain the emergence of outer space mining, and argue that now is the time to be researching and debating the phenomenon of extraterrestrial mining in order to prevent future social and environmental harm (following the precautionary principle of environmental law). To do this, the paper does three things. Firstly, it examines strategies for conducting space mining (such as its feasibility, probable locations, and innovative mining techniques). Secondly, it analyses the terrestrial and extraterrestrial impacts of space mining, unveiling several avenues for the creation of social and environmental harm. Finally, it uses a green criminological approach to justify the rationale for engaging legal scholars and criminologists with problematic space mining issues. The paper concludes that now is the time to discuss these issues, prior to the industrialisation and exploitation of unique celestial bodies.

Doris Lessing's Personal Pilgrimage From Communism To Sufism

This paper chronicles Lessing's journey from her early involvement in the London Communist Party to her disillusionment with Marxist theory after the Hungarian crisis of 1956. It discusses her major works, such as "The Grass Is Singing" and "The Golden Notebook," which challenged traditional narrative structures and investigated the complexities of identity and consciousness. With vivid imagery and symbolism, the abstract highlights Lessing's ability to depict diverse domains, including colonial Africa, social disintegration, and mental breakdown. The contributions of Lessing to literature are recognised, and her unique perspective as a Marxist feminist author is emphasised. The abstract also discusses her 2007 Nobel Prize in Literature and her reactions to it, illuminating her independent and unyielding nature. Lessing's writing voyage paralleled her personal development throughout her life, from political activism to a profound exploration of inner and outer space, which ultimately led her to Sufism.

Optimized photoelectric performance of MoS2/graphene heterostructure device induced by swift heavy ion irradiation

Two-dimensional materials with exceptional electronic and photoelectric properties are expected to develop a new-generation of ultrathin, high efficiency, broadband, and flexible photodetectors. For the potential application towards outer space exploration, the harsh irradiation environment must be taken into consideration. In this work, irradiation effects of MoS2/Graphene heterostructure field effect transistors (MoS2/G FETs) induced by swift heavy ions (SHIs) were explored. After irradiation, a new Raman peak denoted as D peak emerged, which demonstrated that SHI irradiation induced damage in graphene. Photoluminescence investigation of MoS2 indicated that SHI irradiation activated the excitation conversion of trion A− to excitation A0. Latent tracks were observed on MoS2/G/SiO2 by using atomic force microscope. The decreased resistance and increased carrier mobilities were detected at fluence lower than 5 × 1010 ions/cm2, which could be ascribed to the localized annealing of graphene during irradiation. The increased photocurrent and responsivity at fluence lower than 1 × 1010 ions/cm2 could be interpreted as the enhanced photoinduced gate voltage resulting from the SHI irradiation induced defects in MoS2/G FET. The devices were deteriorated at fluence of 1 × 1011 ions/cm2. The optimized and degraded properties of the devices could be ascribed to competition among doping, local annealing and defect scattering.