Our new white paper, “Diplomacy in Orbit: The Role of Satellite Technology in Missile Defense Systems”, unveils a deep strategic analysis of the U.S. Golden Dome missile defense initiative. This $175 billion endeavor is more than just a military program. It’s a tectonic shift in how space, defense, diplomacy, and global alliances will evolve over the next decade.

Why should military agencies, government leaders, and private space companies take note? Because the Golden Dome is not just a shield, it’s a signal. It marks the United States’ most ambitious step to date toward space-based missile interception, powered by cutting-edge satellite technology, next-gen sensors, and real-time command architectures.

This white paper dives into:

• The technical blueprint of the Golden Dome’s space-based sensor and interceptor networks.

• Comparative insights into how the U.S. system stacks up against global competitors like China’s BeiDou-driven space diplomacy and Russia’s S-500 systems.

• The economic ripple effect, from contract opportunities to industrial innovation, for Tier 1 to Tier 3 private companies.

• The strategic implications for global diplomacy, alliance-building, and international space law.

We call on private space firms to understand where their capabilities intersect with a once-in-a-generation defense megaproject. We urge military leaders to evaluate how space-based missile defense can be integrated into joint-force operations. And we challenge government agencies to see the Golden Dome not only as a military asset but as a diplomatic lever, industrial catalyst, and geopolitical chess move.

Space is no longer the final frontier, it’s the first line of defense.

Download the white paper now and position your organization at the strategic heart of the future.

About Authors:

Omkar NIKAM, Founder, Access Hub

​Omkar NIKAM is a seasoned consultant, analyst, and entrepreneur based in Strasbourg, France. With over a decade of experience, he has advised governments, private space companies, defense agencies, aerospace, maritime, and media technology companies across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Latin America, and the USA. As the Founder of Access Hub, he leads a platform that combines news, expert consulting, and an online marketplace to drive innovation and business growth in the space, defense, and media technology sectors. Email: omkar@accesshub.space

Rupak Deore, Partner, Access Hub

Rupak DEORE is an interdisciplinary professional and Partner at Access Hub, with expertise in international relations, diplomacy, and commerce. He has spearheaded missions for private companies, international organizations, government’s diplomatic missions, and intergovernmental agencies across Europe and the APAC regions. At Access Hub he helps customers build visibility, credibility, and cross-border partnerships to amplify sales leads. Drawing on core expertise in business, market research, policy, and cross-cultural communication, Rupak bridges innovation, institutions, and global opportunities. Email: rupak@accesshub.space

The Rise of Multi-Domain Warfare: Golden Dome as a Catalyst for Cross-Domain Integration

The unveiling of the Golden Dome missile defense system marks not just a leap in missile interception capability but a profound shift toward multi-domain warfare (MDW) as the new strategic operating norm for 21st-century defense architecture.

In a world where threats can originate from land-based mobile launchers, submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs), low-Earth orbit hypersonic glide vehicles (HGVs), or even AI-coordinated drone swarms, traditional single-domain defense is no longer sufficient. The Golden Dome reflects a transformative pivot: from land-based missile defense systems to a seamlessly integrated network of space, air, cyber, and terrestrial capabilities.

Space as the Strategic Backbone

At the core of the Golden Dome’s architecture is an unprecedented reliance on a layered network of satellites operating in Low Earth Orbit (LEO), Medium Earth Orbit (MEO), and Geostationary Orbit (GEO). These orbits each bring unique advantages:

• LEO satellites provide high-resolution, low-latency missile launch detection and tracking. 
• MEO satellites deliver regional persistence, enabling mid-course threat tracking. 
• GEO platforms serve as sentinels for broader surveillance and persistent command and control.

This layered orbital infrastructure transforms space into a real-time decision domain not just for strategic awareness, but for intercept capability. These platforms serve as the “eyes and ears” of the system, feeding critical data to AI-enhanced command centers.

Moreover, the space-based interceptors currently being prototyped promise a leap forward in the ability to neutralize threats during their boost phase, arguably the most vulnerable point in a missile’s trajectory. This early interception window is especially crucial in a future battlespace dominated by hypersonic glide vehicles and fractional orbital bombardment systems, which can maneuver unpredictably and fly below radar detection thresholds.

Space as the Enabler of Multi-Domain Awareness

The Golden Dome’s layered defense model depends on real-time data from a constellation of satellites across LEO, MEO, and GEO. These satellites serve not only as surveillance sentinels but as early warning nodes, discrimination sensors, and data fusion relays.

Space-based assets are unique in their ability to:

• Provide global, persistent surveillance across vast theaters. 
• Track high-velocity, maneuverable threats such as hypersonic missiles. 
• Feed fused, multi-sensor data into terrestrial and aerial kill chains in sub-second timeframes.

This makes space the ultimate high ground in multi-domain command and control (C2)—a concept where decision advantage is driven by speed, scale, and synchronization across domains.

Cross-Domain Kill Chains

Golden Dome’s architecture anticipates machine-speed operations, where satellite detection might cue airborne or maritime-based interceptors, or activate electronic warfare countermeasures, all before an incoming threat completes its trajectory. This kind of interoperability across space, cyber, air, land, and sea embodies the MDW doctrine.

In effect, Golden Dome is not merely a missile shield; it is a prototype of cross-domain kill web architecture, combining:

• Space-based Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance (ISR) 
• Cyber-secured data fusion 
• AI-enabled threat discrimination 
• Distributed interceptor platforms across land, sea, and air

Strategic Implications for the U.S.

The implications for American strategic posture are profound:

1. Deterrence by Denial: By denying adversaries confidence in their ability to strike with impunity, Golden Dome may lower the likelihood of missile attacks. 
2. Global Forward Defense: Satellites enable threat detection before missiles reach North American airspace, extending the protective envelope beyond traditional territorial boundaries. 
3. Resilience through Distribution: Space assets reduce reliance on fixed, vulnerable ground-based radars and silos.

But this also demands significant investment in space resilience, including hardening satellites against cyber, kinetic, and directed-energy attacks, and deploying redundancy in orbit to ensure continuity of coverage in contested environments.

Comparative Analysis: How the U.S. Stacks Up Against China and Russia

• China is developing increasingly sophisticated ground-based systems like the HQ-19, and has demonstrated anti-satellite (ASAT) capabilities. However, its orbital sensor layer remains immature by comparison. Its primary focus is still deterrence via saturation attacks and maneuverable reentry vehicles. 
• Russia, through systems like the S-500 Prometey, has a more integrated ground-air-space defense approach, but lacks the orbital density and layered real-time capabilities the U.S. is building. Russia’s edge lies in strategic missile ambiguity, including dual-use space assets and survivable launch platforms.

The Emerging Space Deterrence Doctrine

The strategic future will be defined by “orbital escalation ladders”,  the ability to assert control, defend assets, and hold adversary systems at risk across orbits. Golden Dome isn’t just about shooting down missiles, it’s about building a dominant space-enabled kill chain.

With adversaries like China and Russia investing in counter-space weapons, the U.S. must prepare for the possibility of missile defense becoming entangled in a space conflict domain. This includes integrating disaggregated constellations, resilient communications, and on-orbit servicing to maintain strategic coverage during kinetic or cyber attacks.

Conclusion: Strategic Superiority through Space Dominance

Golden Dome may come to represent more than a missile shield, it could be the foundation of 21st-century deterrence, where space superiority equals homeland security. For the United States, the next frontier of defense is not just above ground, it’s orbital. And if successful, the Golden Dome will redefine the balance of power in a world where missiles, satellites, and strategic decision-making are increasingly interlinked.

This announcement marks a pivotal milestone in SatVu’s journey, following the groundbreaking success of HotSat-1, which launched in 2023 as the world’s first commercial high-resolution thermal imaging satellite. HotSat-1 has since demonstrated the immense value of thermal infrared data, contributing to critical global intelligence efforts — including monitoring activity at North Korea’s Yongbyon Nuclear Scientific Research Center.

From Pathfinder to Constellation

HotSat-2 builds directly on HotSat-1’s legacy, incorporating enhanced technologies and design improvements drawn from in-orbit learnings. Together with HotSat-3, the new satellites will enable SatVu to deepen its coverage and broaden the scope of its analytics — addressing challenges from urban heat resilience and climate adaptation to economic activity tracking and national security.

This constellation is central to SatVu’s long-term vision: a fleet of nine thermal imaging satellites in orbit, capturing near real-time insights into Earth’s changing thermal landscape. As the company scales toward full constellation deployment, these next launches will be key to unlocking recurring revenue and expanding SatVu’s growing base of high-value customers.

Funding Momentum and Platform Innovation

Supporting this growth is the first close of a new funding round, which will expedite HotSat-3’s build and strengthen SatVu’s ability to deliver on its ambitious roadmap. With proven product-market fit, expanding investor confidence, and a robust demand pipeline, the company is gaining strong commercial traction in a rapidly evolving Earth observation market.

SatVu is also enhancing its proprietary SatVu Platform, aiming to deliver AI-powered insights and analytics-ready data products. These tools are being designed not just for data scientists and analysts, but for decision-makers across government, energy, urban planning, and climate-focused industries — enabling action through accessible, timely intelligence.

Leadership Voices

Anthony Baker, CEO and Co-Founder of SatVu, emphasized the company’s forward momentum:

“With the signing of the HotSat-2 contract, commitment to HotSat-3, huge customer interest, and a robust product plan, we’re accelerating our journey to shape the future of climate technology. Building on HotSat-1’s strong foundation, we’re focused on even greater innovation and impact with our upcoming satellite launches.”

Craig Brown, Investment Director at the UK Space Agency, praised SatVu’s progress:

“Congratulations to SatVu, which is demonstrating the power of satellite thermal imagery and attracting significant inward investment and customer interest. Having supported the company through our National Space Innovation Programme, we’re looking forward to the launches of these new satellites and to more organisations benefiting from the actionable insights they will provide from space.”

Toward a Safer, Smarter Planet

As climate risks intensify and the need for actionable environmental intelligence grows, SatVu’s thermal imaging capabilities are emerging as a vital new layer in Earth observation. With HotSat-2 and HotSat-3 on the horizon, the company is reaffirming its commitment to harnessing the power of space to support a safer, more sustainable Earth — and enabling a data-driven path to Net Zero.

The new entity, Rheinmetall ICEYE Space Solutions, will be majority-owned by Rheinmetall, holding 60% of the shares, with ICEYE retaining the remaining 40%. The formation of the joint venture is subject to the completion of definitive agreements and necessary regulatory approvals.

As part of Rheinmetall’s broader Space Cluster initiative in Germany, the venture will focus initially on the production of SAR satellites, with plans to expand into other space technologies. Satellite manufacturing is expected to commence in the second quarter of 2026, with facilities located at Rheinmetall’s Neuss site, among others.

“With the establishment of the new joint venture, we are making further inroads into the space domain,” stated Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG. “We are not only addressing the growing demand for space-based reconnaissance capabilities among global armed forces but also contributing to Germany’s standing as a leading technology hub. Our highly skilled teams in Neuss are being offered exciting new opportunities for the future. We are thrilled to deepen our collaboration with our trusted partner, ICEYE.”

Rafal Modrzewski, CEO and Co-founder of ICEYE, emphasized the strategic importance of the initiative: “ICEYE aims to be the primary provider of critical infrastructure for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) for allied nations. Establishing a joint venture with Rheinmetall strengthens our commitment to developing space-based technologies that secure sovereign defense capabilities for Europe.”

Context and Strategic Importance

The joint venture reflects a broader trend of growing investment in resilient, sovereign satellite infrastructure amidst increasing global security concerns. SAR satellites are a critical asset in modern defense and security operations. Unlike traditional optical satellites, SAR satellites can produce high-resolution images regardless of weather conditions or time of day—enabling reliable surveillance, reconnaissance, target acquisition, and battlefield situational awareness.

Rheinmetall and ICEYE have steadily strengthened their partnership over the past year. In June 2024, Rheinmetall announced its entry into the world’s largest SAR satellite constellation. By September 2024, Rheinmetall had secured exclusive rights to market ICEYE’s SAR technology to military and government customers in Germany and Hungary.

A key milestone was achieved in November 2024 when Rheinmetall, backed by the German government, brokered a contract to provide Ukraine with advanced SAR imaging satellite capabilities, expanding on ICEYE’s support during the ongoing conflict.

Looking Ahead

The creation of Rheinmetall ICEYE Space Solutions marks a strategic move not just for the companies involved, but for Europe’s broader ambitions to maintain technological independence and strengthen defense resilience. As the global space economy grows increasingly competitive and contested, initiatives like this underscore the critical role of public-private partnerships in securing the next generation of intelligence and surveillance infrastructure.

This acquisition, expected to close in the second half of 2025 pending regulatory approvals, represents a bold move by IonQ to launch the world’s first space-to-space and space-to-ground quantum key distribution (QKD) satellite network. If successful, IonQ will become the first company to operate both a quantum computer and a quantum network in space.

The acquisition of Capella builds on IonQ’s recent momentum, following its purchases of Qubitekk (a quantum networking pioneer) and ID Quantique (a global leader in quantum-safe networking and detection systems), as well as a strategic memorandum of understanding with Intellian Technologies, a specialist in satellite communications infrastructure.

A Vision for the Quantum Internet

IonQ’s CEO, Niccolo de Masi, described the acquisition as a critical accelerator toward creating a secure, quantum-enabled internet:
“We have an exceptional opportunity to accelerate our vision for the quantum internet, where global Quantum Key Distribution will play a foundational role in enabling secure communications. Through our acquisitions of Lightsynq and Capella, and our collaborations with partners like Intellian, IonQ is well-positioned to lead the next generation of quantum networking.”

QKD technology leverages the principles of quantum mechanics to generate encryption keys that cannot be intercepted, copied, or decoded without detection—making communications virtually immune to traditional cyberattacks. Until now, QKD deployment has largely been limited to terrestrial networks and short distances. By integrating Capella’s sophisticated satellite capabilities with IonQ’s advancements in quantum repeaters (via its Lightsynq acquisition), the company aims to achieve global, space-based quantum-secure communications.

Bringing Quantum Technology to Space-Based Operations

Capella Space’s CEO, Frank Backes, emphasized the transformative potential of the merger:
“Quantum technologies will revolutionize space-based operations by enabling ultra-secure communications between platforms. Capella’s proven satellite constellation, combined with IonQ’s quantum leadership, will create enhanced analytics, sensors, and communications security for commercial and defense missions alike.”

Strengthening Defense and Intelligence Capabilities

This strategic acquisition also reinforces IonQ’s growing role in the defense and intelligence sectors. The company has recently:

• Signed a quantum networking contract with the Applied Research Laboratory for Intelligence and Security (ARLIS)

• Partnered with the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) to deploy quantum networking infrastructure in New York

• Secured a $22 million collaboration with EPB in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to create the nation’s first combined quantum computing and networking hub

Through these initiatives, IonQ is positioning itself at the forefront of next-generation cybersecurity, defense technologies, and quantum networking innovation.

Why This Matters

The move to develop a space-based quantum network signals a new phase in both the quantum technology race and the evolving space economy. As cybersecurity threats escalate worldwide, governments and industries alike are seeking quantum-safe communication methods to protect critical data. Space-based QKD networks could underpin secure global communications, cloud computing, military operations, and even financial transactions in the near future.

IonQ’s strategy of integrating quantum technologies with satellite communications highlights a larger trend: the convergence of quantum computing, satellite technologies, and defense modernization. With this bold step, IonQ is not just innovating within quantum computing — it is reshaping the architecture of the future internet.

The Components of the New Space Economy

The new space economy encompasses a wide range of activities and industries, including satellite manufacturing, launch services, Earth observation, and telecommunications. Here are some of the key components:

1. Satellite Technology

Satellites have long been a cornerstone of space activities, providing essential services such as communication, weather forecasting, and Earth observation. The rise of small satellites, or “smallsats,” has revolutionized the industry. Companies like Planet Labs and Spire Global are deploying constellations of small satellites to capture high-resolution images of the Earth and collect data for various applications, from agriculture to disaster response (Planet Labs, 2021; Spire Global, 2021). These satellites are not only more affordable to produce and launch, but also enable a wide range of services that contribute to economic growth.

2. Launch Services

The launch industry has seen significant disruption with the entry of private companies like SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Rocket Lab. These companies have developed reusable rocket technology, drastically reducing the cost of launching payloads into space. SpaceX’s Falcon 9, for instance, has become a workhorse for satellite launches and resupply missions to the International Space Station (ISS) (SpaceX, 2021). The competition in this sector has led to more frequent launches and lower prices, making space more accessible than ever. This accessibility has opened up opportunities for startups and established companies alike to leverage space technology for various applications.

3. Earth Observation

Earth observation satellites play a crucial role in monitoring environmental changes, urban development, and natural disasters. Companies like Maxar Technologies and Airbus are providing high-resolution imagery and data analytics services that are invaluable for industries such as agriculture, forestry, and urban planning (Maxar Technologies, 2021; Airbus, 2021). For instance, farmers can use satellite data to optimize crop yields, while city planners can analyse urban growth patterns. The economic impact of these services is significant, as they enable better decision-making and resource management.

4. Telecommunications

The telecommunications sector has been transformed by advancements in satellite technology. Companies like OneWeb and Starlink (a subsidiary of SpaceX) are working to provide global internet coverage through satellite constellations (OneWeb, 2021; SpaceX Starlink, 2021). This technology is particularly beneficial for remote and underserved areas where traditional internet infrastructure is lacking. By expanding internet access, these companies are not only creating new markets, but also enabling economic development in regions that were previously disconnected.

5. Space Research and Development

Government agencies and private companies are investing heavily in research and development to advance space technologies. NASA, for example, collaborates with private companies to develop new technologies for space exploration and scientific research (NASA, 2021). This collaboration not only drives innovation but also creates jobs and stimulates economic growth. The knowledge gained from space research has applications beyond space exploration, contributing to advancements in materials science, robotics, and telecommunications.

Driving Forces Behind Growth

1. Technological Advancements

Rapid advancements in technology, particularly in miniaturization, propulsion systems, and materials science, have made space exploration and commercialization more feasible. The development of reusable rockets has significantly lowered launch costs, while innovations in satellite technology have enabled a new generation of applications (McKinsey & Company, 2021). These advancements are making it easier for companies to enter the space market and contribute to the economy.

2. Increased Investment

Investment in the space sector has surged in recent years, with venture capitalists, private equity firms, and government agencies pouring billions into space-related startups. According to a report by Space Capital, the space economy attracted over $41 billion in investment in 2020 alone (Space Capital, 2021). This influx of capital is fuelling innovation and enabling companies to bring their ideas to fruition, further driving economic growth.

3. Global Collaboration

International collaboration in space exploration has become more prevalent, with countries recognizing the importance of working together to achieve common goals. Initiatives like the Artemis program, which aims to return humans to the Moon and establish a sustainable presence there, involve partnerships between NASA and various international space agencies and private companies (NASA Artemis, 2021). This collaborative approach not only enhances technological capabilities but also fosters economic opportunities across borders.

4. Growing Demand for Data

The demand for data-driven insights is driving the growth of satellite services. Industries such as agriculture, logistics, and urban planning are increasingly relying on satellite data for decision-making. For example, farmers can utilize satellite imagery to monitor crop health, optimize irrigation, and manage resources more efficiently, leading to increased yields and reduced costs (European Space Agency, 2021). In logistics, companies are using satellite data to track shipments in real-time, improving supply chain efficiency and reducing delays (McKinsey & Company, 2021). Urban planners are also leveraging satellite data to analyse land use, monitor urban sprawl, and assess environmental impacts. This data-driven approach allows for more informed decision-making, ultimately leading to smarter and more sustainable cities (NASA, 2021). As more industries recognize the value of space-based information, the demand for satellite data is expected to continue to grow, further propelling the new space economy.

The new space economy represents a transformative shift in how we view and utilize space. With advancements in technology, increased investment, and a growing demand for data, the potential for economic growth and innovation is immense. However, addressing the challenges of regulation, space debris, competition, and public perception will be crucial for the sustainable development of this sector. As we continue to explore the final frontier, the new space economy holds the promise of not only expanding our understanding of the universe, but also creating new opportunities for businesses and society as a whole.

About Author

Srikara Datta is an Assistant Editor and Correspondent at Access Hub. Prior to joining Access Hub, he has held position as a Data Engineer and Researcher at several Dutch public and private institutions.

Point Nemo: The ISS’s Final Resting Place, What It Is, and Why It’s Astonishingly Undiscovered

Point Nemo is classified as one of Earth’s points of inaccessibility. But what exactly is a point of inaccessibility?

It refers to locations that are farthest from any coastline or landmass, and multiple such locations are referred to as POIs (Points of Inaccessibility). Specifically, Point Nemo is the oceanic pole of inaccessibility, located in the South Pacific Ocean, surrounded by 22 million square kilometers of water.

Other notable POIs include:

• Australia’s Pole of Inaccessibility: 23.17°S, 132.27°E

• Africa’s Pole of Inaccessibility: 5.65°N, 26.17°E

Point Nemo’s importance stems from its status as the final resting place for many satellites and spacecraft from various space agencies, due to its great distance from any landmass. For context, it is quite far from:

• South: Maher Island (Antarctica)

• North: Ducie Island

• Northeast: Motu Nui

At approximately 2,688 kilometers away from any nearest land, Point Nemo is so remote that when the ISS passes overhead at an altitude of about 400 kilometers, the astronauts aboard are closer to Point Nemo than anyone else on Earth.

The Spacecraft Cemetery

Point Nemo is labeled as a “space cemetery” due to its extreme remoteness. The location ensures that deorbited spacecraft can rest there safely without posing a risk to land or maritime activity. This isolation is crucial, providing a safe “graveyard” for satellites and large spacecraft.

It is for this very reason that Point Nemo has been designated as the final resting place for the International Space Station (ISS), which, after decades of service, will be deorbited and submerged into these remote waters—a structure made to soar, destined to sink.

Why Was Point Nemo Selected as the Final Resting Place for Our Artificial Space Marvel?

Its selection stems from its unrivaled safety profile. The vast expanse of 22 million square kilometers of open water provides plenty of room for reentries without risking populated areas. As of 2025, over 260 spacecraft have already been sent to their final rest at Point Nemo.

This information, alongside insights from explorer Chris Brown—who was the first individual to travel to Point Nemo and document his journey on YouTube—emphasizes its significance.

He remarked:

“There may actually be more spacecraft there than fish.“

This statement underlines how little is known about the region. Beyond being a graveyard for spacecraft, Point Nemo may potentially harbor untapped opportunities for scientific discovery, a notion that stems from our overall limited understanding of Earth’s oceans, particularly in isolated regions like this.

The Untapped Mystery: Could There Be More to Point Nemo?

During my self-paced studies in astrobiology through a NASA Astrobiology Institute-recommended course at San Jose State University, I explored the survival mechanisms of extremophiles—organisms thriving in Earth’s harshest environments, such as hydrothermal vents and deep-sea trenches.

Although scientists classify Point Nemo as one of the least biodiverse places on Earth due to its scarcity of nutrients, unexpected observations hint otherwise. Birds such as albatrosses, capable of traveling hundreds of miles, have been seen interacting with explorers like Chris Brown and his son.

I’m not challenging established scientific findings; rather, I’m wondering: Why has this region remained so astonishingly underexplored?

From videos like Chris’s expedition, it’s clear that the area’s remoteness plays a significant role. His journey took three weeks, involved immense financial costs, and introduced physical challenges such as seasickness—factors that deter frequent exploration. Typically, it requires 10 to 11 days just to reach Point Nemo.

Moreover, the surrounding convergence of three major ocean currents further limits the nutrient supply, making the area biologically barren—or so we assume.

Drawing Parallels from Recent Discoveries

Studies in microbiology inspired me to connect these insights to broader astrobiological questions.

Consider the 2024 discovery of “dark oxygen” at 4,000 meters depth—oxygen generated by polymetallic nodules through seawater electrolysis. These nodules, referred to as “seawater batteries,” produce oxygen deep beneath the ocean’s surface without photosynthesis.

Given that such groundbreaking discoveries were made less than a year ago, could similar unknown phenomena be lurking in Point Nemo’s depths, waiting to reshape our understanding of life on Earth—and perhaps beyond?

Space Debris Management and the Role of Point Nemo

What Exactly Is Space Debris?

Space debris includes obsolete satellites, upper rocket stages, defunct spacecraft, and fragments resulting from collisions.

To manage this growing problem, agencies like the European Space Agency (ESA) aim to safely dispose of objects either via atmospheric reentry or by directing them toward isolated oceanic zones like Point Nemo. ESA has achieved a disposal success rate exceeding 90%.

Deorbiting is currently one of the most practical methods for mitigating space debris buildup, ensuring old satellites and other remnants do not pose risks to active missions.

Why Satellites in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Are Especially Dangerous

Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites operate between 160 to 1,500 kilometers above Earth’s surface and are crucial for applications like remote sensing, scientific research, and telecommunications.

Satellite types include:

• SSO (Sun-Synchronous Orbit): Useful for climate and weather observation.

• GEO (Geostationary Orbit): Critical for telecommunications and broadcasting.

However, with LEO being highly congested—housing approximately 84% of operational satellites—the risk of collision is substantial. Small debris (even fragments smaller than 1 centimeter) have caused significant incidents, including damaging spacecraft and ISS windows.

Over 1.2 million debris fragments currently orbit Earth. The density is only set to increase with massive satellite deployment plans by:

• SpaceX (42,000 Starlink satellites),

• China’s Hongyan constellation,

• Amazon’s Project Kuiper,

• and OneWeb Corporation.

Seeking Sustainable Solutions for Space Debris

Given the challenges, I ask:

Could we find better methods to permanently remove or recycle satellites rather than letting them decay in orbit or sink to the ocean floor?

In studying ion engines and orbital mechanics, I became fascinated with the idea that satellites could be engineered for repurposing or recycling at the end of their operational lives—maximizing their value and minimizing environmental impacts.

Recycling space materials could:

• Reduce space debris accumulation,

• Preserve the ecological sanctity of Earth’s oceans,

• And foster a circular, sustainable model of space infrastructure.

Legal and Financial Incentives for Change

According to the 1972 Liability Convention, the nation responsible for launching a space object retains liability for any damage it causes—even years later.

As the number of satellites increases, the risk of collisions—and thus legal and financial repercussions—will rise. This should incentivize stronger international standards for satellite deorbiting, repurposing, or recycling rather than abandoning them in orbit or sinking them into Point Nemo.

Final Reflections and Open Questions

As a concluding thought:

• Why not prioritize sustainable propulsion systems for controlled deorbiting?

• Why not repurpose dead satellites into useful infrastructure rather than sinking them into the sea?

• Could we establish a new industry around space material recycling to minimize environmental and financial costs?

Exploring these possibilities could ensure a cleaner, safer future—not only for our orbit and oceans but also for humanity’s long-term ambitions beyond Earth.

About the Author

Maryam Badran is currently pursuing a degree in Aviation Management, viewing it as a strategic foundation for bridging the aviation and space sectors. As the CEO of an NGO and the National Coordinator for the Mars on Earth Project, she combines leadership with a growing technical understanding of space. By complementing her aviation background with specialized courses and hands-on experience in space initiatives, she’s building a unique executive profile aimed at contributing to the future of the space industry.

The U.S.’s earliest engagement with the outer space domain was shaped by Cold War politics, during which orbital space was utilized for various reconnaissance programs supporting both the armed forces and the intelligence community. During that period, the primary concern was intelligence collection and analysis. However, this changed when space-based assets, in use since the Vietnam War, played a decisive role in the 1991 Gulf War. These assets enabled a swift and overwhelming victory, prompting the incorporation of space-based maneuvers that could deny adversaries access to their own space systems.

The restructuring of armed forces—a key element of the militarization of outer space—has been continually pursued to integrate lessons from the 1991 Gulf War and to address the evolving technological and geopolitical landscape. Created in 2019, the USSF is the sixth and newest military branch of the U.S. Armed Forces. It is tasked with organizing and training personnel for the combatant commands and safeguarding the United States’ growing space-based assets, which include military systems and vital commercial interests, particularly those of the private space sector.

Artemis Accord: Proactive Norms for Celestial Exploration

Current developments in the outer space domain, much like during the Cold War, reflect a strategy of proactively advancing both technological capabilities and normative instruments. The Artemis Program, initiated under President Trump, plans a series of missions to the Moon, with the eventual goal of reaching Mars. The United States has been negotiating the Artemis Accords with several countries to promote principles for cooperation in the peaceful civil exploration and use of the Moon, Mars, comets, and asteroids.

These proactive norms are intended to protect national interests in international forums. The Artemis Accords aim to establish a common understanding among civilian space agencies of signatory states on conducting activities in outer space. Their primary goal is to shape norms for the peaceful extraction and utilization of space resources. Strategically, the Artemis Accords challenge provisions in existing international space law that prohibited the demarcation and appropriation of celestial objects. By permitting the establishment of “safety zones” on the lunar surface, the Accords have potentially transformed the Moon into a contested space.

In the distant future, conflicts over the right to extract resources from celestial bodies may remain limited to international forums, unlike terrestrial conflicts fought over natural resources. Through the Artemis Program, co-developed with SpaceX’s Human Landing System (HLS), the United States aims to lead the next manned mission to the Moon. China, planning a similar mission by 2030, signals that the next space race will center on contested access to and exploitation of celestial resources.

The Geopolitical Role of Private Enterprises in the New Space Age

Similar to the Cold War, the modern space race has strong geopolitical undertones. However, unlike the past, today’s competition is not confined to two superpowers. The private sector, commercially available space-based assets, and emerging spacefaring nations now play significant roles in shaping the New Space Age.

Private enterprises have become crucial actors in military operations, thanks to the dual-use nature of many space technologies. Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, companies like SpaceX, Palantir, Planet Labs, Capella Space, BlackSky Technology, Maxar Technologies, Google, and Microsoft provided satellite communication, imagery, and cyber defense to Ukraine’s armed forces. Elon Musk’s unilateral decision to assist Ukraine was unprecedented, demonstrating the power of private individuals and corporations to influence the course of a conflict. His supply of Starlink satellite terminals enabled Ukraine to resist non-kinetic attacks and maintain operational capability.

However, the involvement of commercial satellites in conflict has also increased their vulnerability to attack. Starlink’s role in military operations has prompted China to develop countermeasures against SpaceX-provided assets. Given Elon Musk’s close ties with the Trump administration, SpaceX is likely to remain a key player in addressing national security concerns. The Starshield initiative, offering Earth observation, communications, and payload services to the U.S. government, highlights the expanding role of private actors in fulfilling functions once monopolized by the state.

United States, China, and the Politicization of Outer Space

A continuity of contingency planning across U.S. administrations has ensured predictability in space policy, which is expected to persist in Trump’s second term. The Artemis Accords and the ongoing militarization of outer space—through doctrines, strategies, and force restructuring—aim to meet current and emerging national security needs. The USSF and the broader combat readiness of the U.S. Armed Forces reflect the larger reform trends observed in China and other major powers.

China’s former People’s Liberation Army Strategic Support Force (PLASSF), which focused on cyberspace, outer space, and the electromagnetic spectrum, has now evolved into the Information Support Force (ISF). By emphasizing information technologies, China is countering U.S. dependence on space-based assets, both military and commercial. Meanwhile, China and Russia’s direct-ascent and co-orbital anti-satellite (ASAT) tests have rekindled memories of Cold War-era arms races.

Just as Cold War technological demonstrations fostered both deterrence and cooperation, today’s space competition is also prompting contested negotiations over legally binding arms control treaties. China and Russia’s disapproval of the Artemis Accords reflects broader geopolitical resistance to U.S.-led space governance initiatives.

Conclusion: Private Sector at the Heart of Outer Space Contestation

With space-based assets now integral to military operations, outer space has undeniably become a force multiplier. The prominent role of private enterprises during the 2022 Russia-Ukraine War underscores the trajectory of future warfare. The private sector is poised to:

• Influence the outcomes of armed conflicts,
• Build resilient space systems for the U.S. military, and
• Help shape international norms for space activity.

The increasing involvement of private entities in civilian and commercial missions makes them essential stakeholders in the Artemis Program. As outer space becomes a potential theater of conflict, the lack of cooperation between adversarial states like the U.S. and China could hasten such developments. With President Trump’s known skepticism toward multilateralism, the evolving roles of the USSF and the Artemis Accords may serve as platforms to challenge the normative expectations of rival states.

While norms governing strategic interests have traditionally been shaped by states, private enterprises are now increasingly driving the agenda. Their interests are becoming deeply intertwined with those of governments. SpaceX, in particular, stands to benefit if a second Trump administration prioritizes cost-cutting in civilian space missions. The reduced role of NASA in the Artemis Program could easily be supplanted by SpaceX’s Space Launch System (SLS), cementing the private sector’s central role in future space endeavors.

About the Author

Divy Raghuvanshi has submitted his Ph.D. thesis (Evolution of Norms for Outer Space: Examining the Strategic and the Political Aspects of its Militarisation) at the Department of Strategic Technologies, School of National Security Studies, Central University of Gujarat, India. He can be reached on LinkedIn.

Dr. Chaitanya Giri brings an insider’s perspective on whether India’s emerging space industry can overcome challenges such as limited infrastructure, reliance on imports, and gaps in R&D investment. We also explore how India stacks up against global giants like the USA and China, and what it will take to create a self-reliant, innovation-driven, and globally relevant space ecosystem.

Is India on the cusp of a space-tech renaissance or are we overestimating what’s realistically achievable in the current landscape?

Tune in for a grounded, no-hype analysis of India’s space future.

Questions covered in this episode:

1. Are Indian private space companies investing adequately in R&D, human capital, and technical expertise, to foster innovation, or is there a reliance on existing technologies and partnerships?​ How competitive are Indian private space companies on the global stage in terms of cost, technology, and reliability?
2. Given the reliance on imported components for critical technologies, what steps are being taken to develop a self-reliant supply chain within India?​
3. Considering the current challenges and achievements, what should be the strategic priorities for India’s private space sector in the next decade?
4. From your perspective, can the Indian space industry maintain long-term growth while pushing for affordable services?

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