Space Policy & Ethics
In addition to my work on international human rights related to atrocity prevention and civilian protection, I have the privilege to work with an amazing group of individuals on space policy and ethics. We co-founded Project Lodestar, a community of academics, practitioners, policymakers, and other stakeholders working to address the challenges in pushing the frontiers of outer space.
The efforts of humanity to transition from casual and incremental access to space to a more intentional interaction with what has been called the last "common heritage of humankind" requires a considered and careful approach to how we beings should engage with this relatively unknown environment.
The entirety of humanity needs to be engaged in preparing for these future issues, including underrepresented and marginalized communities, indigenous peoples, and ethnic and national groups from current non-space-faring nations.
I regularly speak to specialist and public audiences about these issues and am happy to engage in both public and private consultations on these topics.
Principles for Ethical Space Exploration & Exploitation
Project Lodestar posits six principles of ethical space exploration and exploitation that need to be engaged with as part of the developing space economy. Those principles include:
Accountability
To build a stable future in space activities, all parties should be willing to take responsibility, including developing reasonable policies and procedures, for their actions and footprints.
Equal Access
Space and its benefits should be accessible for all, regardless of wealth, ability, culture, or education, according to their interest.
Cooperation
Participants in space activities should constructively engage with other actors in the spirit of the stewardship of outer space as a global commons.
Sustainability
Even as we reach for the stars, we should continue building a better Earth and ensure we do not repeat environmental degradation in future space activities.
Risk / Benefit
Space-related activities should weigh the various kinds of risks and their corresponding benefits for the entire community, and seek to ensure that the benefits outweigh the risks.
Foresight
To mindfully pursue a kinder, more ethical path as we anticipate the promise and peril in moving humanity into its next era.
