Will There Be Peace in Space?

Several recent events have focused attention on the use of weapons in outer space. The Chines tested a missile to strike satellites in orbit a month or so ago. And the United State military successfully smashed a falling satellite with a missile, breaking up the satellite and preventing it from causing damage upon its return to Earth.

With the ever increasing reliance on all types of satellites from weather monitors to communication satellites, an arms race in space could be disastrous for civilization.

On the other hand, space debris will continue to fall from orbit and endanger sections of the Earth. That issue needs to be addressed and the option to destroy errant space debris by missiles maintained.

Russia and China have proposed that a weapons free outer space treaty be created. I think this is a positive step. A treaty that bans orbiting weapons and deals with space junk is needed. But I suspect we are years from a viable treaty on this subject. And a treaty like this, must also take into account the need for protection for Earth's citizens with respect to the possibility of alien invasions...

For more details on the Russian/Chinese proposal, view the following news story: