MSFS 5590: Space Policy and Diplomacy 

This course provides an overview of key space topics and explores how they intersect with the complex landscape of space policy, diplomacy and international affairs.

This course will examine contemporary civil, commercial, and national security space policy issues. Topics include U.S. space policy, international space law and governance, the role of space in international development, strategic competition in space, diplomacy with emerging and established space nations, space sustainability, and the increasing role of commercial space actors in shaping national and international policy.

Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the key actors, policies, and challenges in the space sector, enabling them to critically analyze current events and contribute to contemporary and future policy discussions. This course features guest speakers from NASA, the Department of State, the Department of Defense, international space agencies, commercial space companies, and space nonprofits.