Mark Williamson

Space ethics and protection of the space environment

The construction of the International Space Station in low Earth orbit and the formulation of plans to search for life on Mars indicate that mankind is intent on making the space environment part of its domain. Publicity surrounding space tourism, in-space ‘burials’ and the sale of lunar ‘real estate’ suggests that, some time in the 21st century, the space environment will become an extension of our current terrestrial business and domestic environment. This prompts the question of our collective attitude towards the space environment and the degree to which we should regulate its use and protect it for future generations. This article offers a pragmatic view of an ethical code for space exploration and development, as far as it relates to the protection of the space environment.

Planetary spacecraft debris — The case for protecting the space environment

Abstract In the early years of the Space Age spacecraft debris and spent rocket stages were deposited on the surface of the Moon, ostensibly in the name of space science. Although this was not considered ‘pollution’ then, as we look forward to further manned lunar missions and subsequent development, the status of the lunar surface and orbital environment should be of greater concern, not least with regard to the safety of future travellers. By extension, the effect of spacecraft impacts on the surfaces of other planetary bodies and the formation of planetary orbital debris should be of similar concern to the wider space community. In addition to a commentary on the origins and objectives of the Scientific-Legal Round Table of which this paper is a part, the paper presents an initial catalogue of spacecraft impacts on planetary bodies and the resulting debris that may still be found on their surfaces. It also considers the future of scientific exploration and commercial exploitation of the planetary bodies and presents the case for protecting the space environment. In conclusion, the paper calls for the formation of an international consultative study group, or similar body, to consider the issues relevant to ‘Protection of the Space Environment’ and to raise awareness of the subject among the growing body of space professionals and practitioners.

Corporate mergers — Lifeline for the space industry

Abstract The worlds major space companies have undergone continual evolution, through a process of mergers and acquisitions, since their creation from their aerospace parents. Although much of this evolution occurred in the early years of the Space Age, the process seems to have become particularly dynamic in the 1990s, as companies have striven to become ever more competitive in an increasingly global business environment. This article reviews some of the most important mergers and traces the recent development of the worlds leading space contractors.

Space Terminology — Agreement and Dissemination

Abstract As part of the creation of a database of space-related terminology, a mechanism for agreement of the terms to be included is a primary requirement. Moreover, once agreed, the contents of the database must be disseminated amongst the various users of space terminology. This paper reviews the problems associated with agreement on the scope and form of definitions in a space terminology database with particular regard to the needs of the wide variety of potential users. It then considers the questions of agreement and dissemination in relation to the IAAs Multilingual Terminology Data Base (MTDB), concluding that a mechanism for coordination of requirements, agreement of definitions and dissemination of conclusions should be accorded a higher priority.

Space terminology—the way forward☆

Abstract The IAA Multilingual Space Dictionary has reached a watershed in its development: this year should see the long-awaited publication of the Dictionary, on computer-readable disk, in 14 languages. This paper reviews the importance of the compilation and production of the IAA Space Dictionary in the context of mutual understanding between disparate space-related disciplines, and makes recommendations for the future of the IAA terminology initiative. It considers the difficulties associated with updating a dictionary in the light of the pace of both technological developments and the evolution of the associated terminology. It further considers the future of the Dictionary in terms of commercial and production-related aspects, including the potential of the Dictionary as a commercial product.

UK and European space policy

Abstract UK space policy has often been characterized as nuclear-if not unwise-by industry commentators and independent observers. ‘Putting Space to Work’, a conference presented on 9 November 1993 by the Royal Aeronautical Society (London), helped shed some light on the subject. Sponsored by the United Kingdom Industrial Space Committee (UKISC) and the British Association of Remote Sensing Companies (BARSC), and supported by the Parliamentary Space Committee (PSC), the conference offered delegates the opportunity to absorb the views of some of the leading lights of the European space community.

The UK parliamentary space committee: The emergence of a space lobby?

Abstract In the past few years the UK has become increasingly active as the financial conscience of the European Space Agency. This is not because the UK government has a wish to spend more on its national space effort; it is because it remains unconvinced of the benefits of certain European space activities, notably manned endeavours. In the absence of an effective UK space lobby, the governments policies have remained largely unchallenged. This article traces the growth of the Parliamentary Space Committee in the context of developments in recent European space policy and highlights the need for an active UK space lobby.