Who owns the moon? AC Grayling on the question that could start war on Earth
Mar 13, 2024
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The podcast explores the complexities of lunar ownership, including valuable resources on the moon and the potential for conflicts. It discusses the historical space race and the need for international regulations in space activities. The episode also delves into the future of space exploration, focusing on private companies' interests in lunar ventures for financial gain.
Increased interest in lunar resources like water ice for rocket fuel drives the new space race towards lunar exploration.
The absence of a comprehensive legal framework risks potential conflicts and escalation of militarization in lunar activities.
Deep dives
New Space Race and Lunar Exploration
Multiple countries and private companies are actively engaged in a new space race towards lunar exploration, with recent groundbreaking achievements including the US landing on the moon after 50 years and India reaching the moon's south pole. Increased interest in lunar resources like water ice for rocket fuel fuels this race, promising advancements in space exploration.
Challenges in Regulating Lunar Activities
The 1967 Outer Space Treaty aimed to prevent unexpected conflicts in space by prohibiting militarization and nuclear testing on the moon. However, the treaty lacks robust enforcement mechanisms, leaving a regulatory gap in the rapidly evolving space activities dominated by private companies and nations. Concerns arise about territorial claims and potential conflicts as lunar resource extraction intensifies.
Future Uncertainties and the Need for International Cooperation
As commercial and state actors intensify lunar activities, the absence of a comprehensive legal framework presents challenges in resolving disputes and preventing conflict escalation on the moon. The militarization of space poses risks, with concerns about advanced weaponry and potential conflicts impacting Earth. Anticipating worst-case scenarios and strengthening international cooperation are crucial for navigating the complexities of lunar exploration.
When the Odysseus lander touched down on the lunar surface last month, it became the first US presence on the moon in more than fifty years. But unlike the Cold War space race between two global superpowers, we now see a growing roster of nations - and private companies - vying to announce their presence on the moon. So with competition for rare resources looking set to intensify…who owns the moon, and could conflict there mean war on earth?
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Guests: Professor Anthony Grayling, Principal of Northeastern University, London, philosopher and author of Who Owns the Moon?
Host: Luke Jones.
Clips: CNBC News, Fox News, NASA, BBC News, CBS News, ABC News, C-SPAN, NBC News, CBC News.