Avoiding Collisions in Space: Is It Time for an International Space Integration Center?
Abstract
For decades the "Big Space-Little Satellite" theory has maintained that there is adequate room in space to operate an ever-increasing number of satellites. According to this theory, which is believed by many governments and commercial organizations, it is possible to maintain spacecraft and space debris separation and ensure that there are no collisions. Currently, there are hundreds of satellites in space operated by dozens of international organizations and no standard process or organization established to integrate, communicate, or analyze threats to these valuable assets. As the global economy continues to rapidly expand, connecting billions of people, organizations, and machines with the ability to transfer and process information at an ever-faster rate, world governments, militaries, nongovernmental and international organizations, and even individuals are endangered by a threat that no one sees and few are aware exists. The potential consequences of the loss of space-based capabilities in communications, navigation, timing, imagery, surveillance, warning, reconnaissance, weather and/or scientific satellite payloads are catastrophic. This paper will identify current space surveillance, tracking, and collision avoidance and deconfliction programs and processes that are currently in use. In addition, it will review space law and its application to freedom of navigation and spacecraft operations. Finally, the author proposes a solution that would significantly reduce the likelihood of collisions in space, the establishment of an International Space Integration Center (I-SPIC). The discussion opens with an overview of the space operating environment followed by a review of applicable space law and policy. The final section focuses on creating an I-SPIC, including challenges and benefits to its establishment.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 30, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA469676
Entities
People
- Lee-volker Cox
Organizations
- United States Army War College