IPOL-3400: Space Security & Militarization of Space

The actor Mark Hamill, also known as Luke Skywalker, recently partnered with the Department of State to talk about living life in International Space Station. While this is an exciting time for innovation in space, Luke Skywalker had an energy-based weapon to destroy the Empire. Is that where we are heading?

This course asks a series of questions, such as, is the threat to militarize space real? What does Security Studies have in its arsenal to explain the current threat environment in space? Can security dilemma explain the current arms race in space? Lastly, how effective are existing legal instruments, such as the 1967 Space Treaty?

As we talk about weaponization of space from both theoretical (security dilemma, balance (re- balancing) of power) and prescriptive angles, in this course, we endeavor to locate vulnerabilities and opportunities in theory, policies, treaties, strategic plans and agreements. We will also look at new and old strategic partners and how, if at all, will shift balance of power.