The New Space Race: Unraveling the Sino-American Cosmic Duel

Eva Lund -

In the midst of what many term the Cold War II era, a new arena of competition has emerged far beyond Earth’s stratosphere. As cosmic pursuits intensify, the rivalry between China and the United States has expanded beyond technological advancements to a battle over space law. This intriguing contest is poised to shape not only the path of space exploration but also dictate the celestial rules that govern humanity’s next frontier.

As China selects its taikonauts for a historical manned mission to the Moon, a remarkable juxtaposition emerges — one that pitches Beijing against Washington in crafting the future laws of space. The Outer Space Treaty of 1967 laid the groundwork decades before the tech for mining cosmic treasures became a reality. However, the explosion of space capabilities brings forth urgent calls to reassess these ancient rules. Despite attempts, international treaties remain ensnared by debates, leading countries to chart individual courses of space law.

Chinese Space Ascendancy

China’s rapid ascent as a formidable space power is not just a result of technological prowess but also a calculated strategy. Over six decades, it has leaped from 1960s stagnation during the Cultural Revolution to a pioneering role in space policy today. Beijing’s approach embraces project-centered initiatives — commissioning lunar bases and expanding alliances, ultimately redefining the rules through practice and presence rather than mere legislation.

The United States contrasts sharply with its comprehensive strategy — building legal frameworks and multilateral partnerships, often circumventing traditional UN channels. With the SPACE Act of 2015 and the Artemis Accords, Washington leans heavily on law-based initiatives to foster a sustainable and commercially viable space industry. Yet, its reliance on voluntary codes from bilateral agreements exhibits both boldness and vulnerability to external skepticism from critical space-faring actors.

Governance Gaps and a Resource Gold Rush

The burgeoning space economy, already valued at $630 billion and expected to triple by 2035, reflects a growing race for extraterrestrial riches. As countries and private firms eye celestial bodies for their vast resources, the absence of stringent international law opens avenues for unilateral policy by powerful nations. The United States and China, despite their different methods, embody the struggle to harmonize space exploration’s promises with its challenges.

Projecting Future Norms

China’s commitment to the UN with project-driven initiatives and the United States’ legal maneuvering highlight their diverging philosophies and geopolitical ambitions. This rivalry underscores an evolving cosmic order. It is no longer about the first footprints on extraterrestrial soil but about whose rules will guide the next explorers into the vast unknown.

As stated in ChinaTalk | Jordan Schneider, navigating this intricate web of treaties and strategic imperatives demands careful steerage to ensure that space remains a domain for all humanity, not just a select few. The trajectories cut by these superpowers will set precedents for the global community as we dare to dream of living among the stars.