The role of space in deterrence

Abstract

Whether or not weapons are actually deployed in space, the era in which satellites could operate without potential threat is over. The question therefore arises: what actions can be taken and what trends encouraged to reduce the possibility of space becoming a theater, or a catalyst, for hostilities? The answer may lienot in the actions of nation states, but in the nature of the space environment on the one hand and the leadership of commercial space operators on the other.