The Advent of Space Weapons

Abstract

The issue of space weaponization is an increasing concern. Current debates become convoluted over differing definitions of ‘weapon’, ‘space’, and ‘space weapon’, as well as differing perceptions of current international laws, policies and capabilities. This article attempts to lay a clear foundation for the debate. An unambiguous definition of space weaponization illuminates the fact that space is currently militarized but not weaponized, and so clarifies the fundamental issue: can we reasonably expect to form a secure international environment on the frontiers of space without weapons available to those who would seek to secure that environment? The work proceeds to delineate the poles of this debate. The conclusion is ambivalent, favoring the theoretical position of banning space weapons but questioning the practicality of accomplishing it.