The use of space surveillance systems to improve global security and international relations
- Paper number
IAC-06-E3.3.05
- Author
Mr. Alexandre Nicolas, Corona Space Surveillance Centre, Canada
- Coauthor
Mr. Shahram Ariafar, Norway
- Year
2006
- Abstract
Many recent events have outlined the importance of space activities ranging from our day to day life (e.g. telecommunication satellites) to national security in crisis times (e.g. surveillance satellites). While space is being extensively used to observe earth, one should not forget that safeguarding space assets is even more important given the fact that the 21st century society is integrating space technology in many of its day to day activities. No matter if space activities evolve around civil, military or dual-use applications a threat on these space assets will have an impact on the country’s economy and/or military capabilities. Furthermore, identifying the cause of the threat to the space assets is vital to the international relations; a wrong assumption will trigger false accusations that will lead to unnecessary international tensions. Surveillance systems in the past have proven their efficiency in avoiding international conflicts and lowering the tension in the relations between the countries (e.g. USA and USSR). Monitoring space assets is important to protect them, identify possible threats and their sources. An early warning will permit an efficient response in order to protect the space asset, alert the international community and take proper actions in case of a hostile attack. The increase usage of space leads to a higher dependence on space technology and a bigger impact on national affairs if these space assets are threatened. Based on these facts, an efficient space surveillance system is essential. This paper will review and discuss the importance of a space surveillance system in protecting space assets against: space environment, accidents and hostile spacecrafts. Plus, it will outline the positive impact of a space surveillance system on the application of international treaties and agreements. The increasing importance of the information provided by a space surveillance system in present and future international relations will be explored and analyzed. Finally, this paper will outline the benefits and the positive impact of a space surveillance system in many fields ranging from science to national policy.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-06-E3.3.05.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.