Zach Weinersmith, author of “A City on Mars: Can we settle space, should we settle space, and have we really thought this through?” discusses the legal and economic feasibility of building settlements on Mars or the Moon. The podcast explores the challenges and complexities of space exploration and settlement, the concept of space law and international norms, the practicality and dangers of establishing a territorial moon base, and the economic viability of intergalactic space travel.
Space law prohibits the formation of nations in space and the claiming of sovereignty over celestial bodies, establishing outer space as a global commons.
International law requires the consent and buy-in of participating nations for the establishment of a presence on celestial bodies, and actions without signing international treaties may be seen as violations of international norms.
While individuals or entities can make claims to land or territorial rights in space, they do not hold official title without the acknowledgment and empowerment of a government.
Investment in the construction and operation of space bases or settlements is possible for corporations or organizations, but their claims may hold limited legal weight without recognition and support from a government.
Deep dives
Space Law and Nation Formation
Space law refers to the body of documents and cultural norms that govern the behavior of nations in outer space. The Outer Space Treaty, signed in 1967, prohibits the formation of nations in space and the claiming of sovereignty over celestial bodies. This treaty establishes the principle that outer space is a global commons. While there is no enforcement mechanism for international law, nations generally abide by these agreements due to the international consequences of noncompliance. However, there are debates and loopholes surrounding the interpretation and application of space law, especially in relation to potential future settlements on celestial bodies.
International Law and Autonomy
International law is a system of intergovernmental treaties and agreements that regulate the conduct of nations. It is important to note that international law does not supersede national laws, but rather requires the consent and buy-in of participating nations. While it is possible for a nation or entity to attempt to establish a presence on celestial bodies without signing international treaties, their actions could still be seen as provocations and may be seen as a violation of international norms and standards.
Territorial Claims and Titling
Under space law, nations are not allowed to claim sovereignty or territory in space. However, there is a distinction between claiming territory and claiming temporary rights or access to certain areas for scientific or economic purposes. While individuals or entities can make claims, they do not hold official title to celestial bodies without the acknowledgment and empowerment of a government. Without the granting of title, claims to land or territorial rights in space carry limited legal weight. However, organizations or entities can invest in the construction and operation of space bases or settlements, provided they adhere to the established laws and regulations in place.
Real Estate and Corporate Sovereignty
While corporations or organizations may not be able to claim official sovereignty or title to land in space, they can invest in the construction and operation of space bases or settlements. They can claim rights to specific areas or portions of celestial bodies for their activities, as long as they comply with international agreements and regulations. However, without the recognition and support of a government, these claims may hold limited legal weight beyond self-governing activities within their establishments.
The Wait and Go Big Approach
The author advocates for a wait and go big approach to space exploration, emphasizing the need for more scientific research and a larger population in space. He argues that more research is needed in areas such as human reproduction and closed-loop ecosystems before sending large numbers of people to space. Furthermore, a larger population would allow for specialization, reduce the risk of disastrous problems, and provide more economic opportunities. The author acknowledges that there is no rush and highlights the awe and wonder of venturing into space as one of the main reasons to pursue large-scale human expansion.
Feasibility and Dangers
The author points out that many proposed economic reasons for space exploration, such as resource extraction or asteroid mining, are not economically feasible due to the high costs, technical challenges, and limited economic returns. He also highlights the potential dangers of human expansion into space, including radiation exposure, mental and physical health risks, and the need for careful management of resources and waste. The author emphasizes the importance of addressing these challenges and utilizing careful planning and regulation to ensure the safe and sustainable exploration of space.
Space Spinoff Technology
The author discusses the oft-cited argument that space exploration leads to technological spinoffs with practical applications on Earth. While acknowledging the existence of spinoff technologies, the author expresses skepticism about their economic impact and suggests that the multiplier effects of such technologies can vary greatly depending on the assumptions and circumstances. He also notes that the economic benefits of space exploration should be considered alongside other factors such as scientific advancement and human expansion into the cosmos.
The Coolness of Space Exploration
The author acknowledges that one of the most compelling reasons to explore space is simply because it is cool. The prospect of venturing into the unknown, discovering new worlds, and expanding human civilization beyond Earth holds a sense of awe and wonder. While acknowledging the challenges and risks involved, the author suggests that the inherent coolness of space exploration is an important motivator that should not be overlooked.
