Journal articles
THE SUSTAINABILITY ODYSSEY: CRAFTING GOVERNANCE FOR SPACE FRONTIERS. SUSTAINABILITY, GOVERNANCE, AND INORBIT ACTIVITIES
E. Koellner
SMD. 2025;(1):104-111
Including sustainability in the administration of space activities is not just a question of obeying rules but also a fundamental basis for the direction of human activities in outer space (1). This paper systematically examines the complicated issues and potential benefits of the growing use of satellite constellations, the growing problem of space debris, and the general need for robust governance mechanisms to ensure the sustainable use of space as a resource. The objective includes a thorough examination of the present circumstances, as well as an assessment of the significance of international law, the success of current governance structures, and the opportunities for new legal and cooperative solutions presenting a reasonable assessment of the direction for the future. The quick development and deployment of satellite constellations underline the critical need for sustainable management techniques that successfully balance technical development with space environment protection (2). This exponential outer space economic development stresses the need for global cooperation and regulatory frameworks to address the dual difficulties of reducing space debris of space junk in low earth orbit (LEO) and managing space traffic (3). This paper seeks to identify and underline the shortcomings in present governance models and stresses the need for adaptive reforms that can adjust to the changing character of the burgeoning space economy. The global community’s ability to provide a coherent and common direction will determine the course of sustainability and government involvement in space activities (4). Today is a good beginning to propose a comprehensive strategy that includes sustainability in space management through legal reorganization, technical development, and global cooperation. Policymakers, space agencies, and international organizations advise adopting sustainability and cooperation as guiding concepts for controlling space activities ensures that the exploration and use of outer space continue to demonstrate mankind’s collective ambition, responsibility, and ability to anticipate future needs (5). The decisions make now will define the long-lasting effects of the cosmic endeavors for future generations as the inhabitants of Earth get ready to enter a new age of space travel. This paper offers a strategy for establishing a well-balanced approach to space administration that promotes the long-lasting viability of outer space as a domain for peaceful exploration, scientific study, and group human achievement.
OPEN ACCESS