Outer Space as a Military-Diplomatic Field

Abstract

The second part of the spatial geopolitical analysis focuses on the traditional political and military aspects. This part is, consequently, more focused on the nature of human activity and its interaction with the physical side of the domain. The first part deals with the introduction of space law as a basic framework of the operation of actors inside the outer space. The discussion is followed by an introduction of the basic concepts related to the diplomatic relations among space actors and space’s relation to warfare. Finally, the issue of space security – mainly of orbital debris and planetary defense – is tackled. This chapter presents the reader with a comprehensive analysis of the “hard power” side of outer space activities as well as the issues related to the securing of the environment.