Table of Contents
Introduction:
In the ever-evolving landscape of Space exploration, the debate surrounding the classification of space as terrestrial critical infrastructure has gained momentum. As we stand on the cusp of unprecedented space missions and the establishment of sustained settlements beyond low Earth orbit (LEO), the binary discourse on whether space should be the 17th terrestrial critical infrastructure sector under Presidential Policy Directive 21 (PPD-21) has dominated discussions. In this article, we delve into the complexities of this debate, exploring the need for a nuanced approach that considers the unique challenges and opportunities presented by the vast expanse of Space.
Breaking the Binary Debate: A Call for Space Council Action
In a September 2023 op-ed, the call was made to transcend the simplistic dichotomy of designating Space as terrestrial critical infrastructure. The proposed model suggested the creation of a comprehensive framework, independent of PPD-21, to manage the security and maintenance of Space-critical infrastructure. As humanity gears up for missions to distant celestial bodies and the establishment of sustained settlements, the current debate falls short in addressing the full spectrum of activities beyond LEO.
Image Source: wired.com
Beyond Satellites: Expanding the Scope of Critical Infrastructure
The ongoing discourse has fixated on the role of satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO) and their increasing significance in terrestrial activities. While acknowledging their importance, this debate overlooks the broader implications of upcoming crewed missions and space activities beyond LEO. A terrestrial critical infrastructure designation, by definition, limits itself to assets impacting terrestrial systems or populations, posing a potential risk to Future space endeavors.
Space Needs its Governance: The Call for SPD-8
Unlike terrestrial critical infrastructure, Space lacks a dedicated governance model. Drawing parallels with PPD-21, a proposed Space Policy Directive 8 (SPD-8) could lay the groundwork for a space-specific critical infrastructure model. This document would define the parameters and guidelines for building critical infrastructure tailored to the unique challenges posed by space activities, including those outside the immediate influence of terrestrial systems.
Long-Term Sustainability: A Guiding Principle
Existing agencies have highlighted the importance of considering the long-term sustainability of space activities. The Novel Space Activities Authorization and Supervision Framework emphasizes the need to ensure the outer space environment remains suitable for exploration and use across generations. This broad perspective extends beyond LEO, necessitating a paradigm shift in how we conceptualize and manage space-critical infrastructure.
A Framework for SPD-8: Domains and Sectors
To effectively manage space-critical infrastructure, a framework under SPD-8 is proposed, delineating domains based on the location of space assets. These domains recognize the unique challenges posed by different orbital distances:
LEO Domain: Orbit between 100 and 2,000 kilometers above Earth Sea level.
MEO/GEO Domain: Orbit between 2,000 and 35,786 kilometers above Earth Sea level.
Cislunar Domain: Orbit between 35,786 and 384,399 kilometers above Earth Sea level.
Planetary Domain: Surface or subsurface, or in orbit around any celestial body inside our Solar system.
Interplanetary Domain: In between the gravitational influence of planets inside our Solar System.
Interstellar Domain: Beyond the limit of the heliosphere.
Organizing and Owning Space Domains
Under SPD-3, the Department of Commerce and the Department of Defence play crucial roles in managing specific space domains. Designating federal agencies as Response and Governance Agencies for each domain ensures a coordinated and specialized approach to space activities. The National Space Council serves as the central coordinating body across all domains and sectors, leveraging expertise for optimal management.
Image Source: nasa.gov.
Space Council’s Role: Coordination and Resolution
The National Space Council assumes a pivotal role in coordinating responses to incidents across space domains. Incidents before launch fall under the purview of the Department of Homeland Security, while those occurring after entering internationally recognized space are governed by the space critical infrastructure model. SPD-8 becomes the instrument to settle the binary debate through policy, offering guidelines for the treatment of space assets based on their distance from Earth.
Beyond LEO: Ensuring Comprehensive Coverage
The current binary debate disproportionately focuses on LEO activities, neglecting more distant regions of space. Designating space as terrestrial critical infrastructure risks excluding critical activities like asteroid mining or lunar habitation, threatening the success of groundbreaking scientific endeavors. SPD-8’s inclusive framework recognizes the diverse nature of space activities and ensures comprehensive coverage for both current and Future missions.
Conclusion: Navigating the Future of Space Exploration
As humanity stands at the threshold of extraordinary achievements in space, the National Space Council’s recognition of the need for a tailored space-critical infrastructure model is paramount. The proposed SPD-8 framework offers a nuanced, comprehensive approach that considers the diverse challenges and opportunities presented by space activities. By transcending the binary debate, we position ourselves for a Future where the boundaries of space exploration are not confined by Earth-centric classifications but driven by a vision that encompasses the vast cosmos.
