Date : 21/09/2023
Relevance: GS Paper 2 - International Relations
Keywords: Polar Rivalry, The Antarctic Treaty (1959), The Moon Agreement (1979):
Context-
The innate human drive to explore and excel, coupled with the political ambition to establish dominance, has historically propelled nations into fierce races. A striking example is the early 20th-century rivalry between British naval officer Robert Scott and Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen in their quests for polar supremacy. This competitive spirit, while often inspiring remarkable feats, also leaves an indelible mark on the course of history.
Outer Space
- Outer space, often referred to as space or celestial space, denotes the expansive realm lying beyond Earth's atmosphere and amidst celestial bodies.
- It constitutes a vacuum that extends infinitely across the universe, featuring remarkably low density and pressure, and devoid of air and other atmospheric components.
UN Treaties on Outer Space:
The treaties commonly referred to as the "five United Nations treaties on outer space" are:
- The Outer Space Treaty 1967: Treaty on Principles Governing the Activities of States in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space, including the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies.
- Rescue Agreement 1968: Agreement on the Rescue of Astronauts, the Return of Astronauts, and the Return of Objects Launched into Outer Space.
- Liability Convention 1972: Convention on International Liability for Damage Caused by Space Objects.
- The Registration Convention 1976: Convention on Registration of Objects Launched into Outer Space.
- The Moon Agreement 1979: Agreement Governing the Activities of States on the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies.
India is a signatory to all five of these treaties but has ratified only four. India did not ratify the Moon agreement.
Polar Rivalry: Scott vs. Amundsen (1910-1912)
In 1910-12, two pioneers, Robert Scott and Roald Amundsen, prepared for daring expeditions to the South and North Pole, respectively. While both shared similar goals, Amundsen abandoned his North Pole pursuit after dubious claims by others. The South Pole remained an uncharted territory, a prize worth pursuing. Amundsen's team, utilizing sleds and dogs, reached the South Pole on December 14, 1911, 34 days ahead of Scott's team. The Norwegian flag flew, and the Antarctic Plateau was renamed King Haakon VII's Plateau. Tragically, Scott and his team perished during their return journey, a poignant reminder of the perils of exploration.
Antarctica: A Complex Territory
Over time, various nations, including Norway and Britain, staked claims on Antarctic regions. Today, seven countries, including Australia, Argentina, Chile, France, and New Zealand, maintain territories on the continent. Unlike colonial-era colonies, Antarctica has no indigenous population or resource exploitation. Instead, it serves as a unique platform for scientific research and international collaboration.
The Antarctic Treaty (1959): A Blueprint for Cooperation
In 1959, amidst Cold War tensions, President Dwight D. Eisenhower convened an Antarctic Conference, resulting in the Antarctic Treaty. This landmark accord prioritized scientific research and the peaceful use of Antarctica while prohibiting nuclear tests, military operations, and territorial expansion. Today, 54 nations are treaty parties, with 29 having consultative status, including India. Rigorous monitoring systems safeguard Antarctica's ecological integrity.
Outer Space: A New Frontier
As technology advanced, a similar race emerged in outer space. Nations competed to explore and conquer the cosmos, emphasizing the need to prevent an arms race beyond Earth. The Moon, much like Antarctica, drew nations' attention.
The Moon Agreement (1979): A Vision of Peaceful Lunar Exploration
The Moon Agreement, adopted by the UN General Assembly in 1979, echoes the principles of the Outer Space Treaty. It promotes the peaceful use of the Moon, environmental preservation, and international cooperation. It declares the Moon and its resources the common heritage of humanity, anticipating the need for responsible lunar exploitation.
India's Role in Shaping Lunar Ethics
India's Chandrayaan-3 mission's success marks a significant milestone, reflecting India's commitment to space exploration. However, this achievement must pave the way for a mature lunar policy. India should lead the world in defining the Moon's role as a partner with Earth, not as property. Collaboration in scientific endeavors should supersede any colonial ambitions.
A Declaration of Outer Space Ethics
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's acknowledgment that Chandrayaan-3's success belongs to all of humanity is commendable. Now, India can take a transformative step by championing a declaration of fundamental rights for outer space. This declaration should establish ethical guidelines for human activities beyond Earth, with a strong emphasis on non-militarization. Aligning the Outer Space Treaty and the Moon Agreement with a moral compass for the stars is imperative.
Mission Shakti
- On 27 March 2019, India tested an anti-satellite weapon during an operation code-named Mission Shakti. The target of the test was a satellite present in a low Earth orbit, which was hit by a kinetic kill vehicle.
- The ASAT test utilized a modified anti-ballistic missile interceptor code-named Prithvi Defence Vehicle Mark-II which was developed under Project XSV-1. The test made India the fourth country after the United States, Russia, and China to have tested an ASAT weapon.
- India’s successful demonstration of the ASAT capability is said to signify its ability to intercept an intercontinental ballistic missile. The ASAT weapon is meant to act as a deterrent.
Conclusion
India must refrain from competing for outer space hegemony. Instead, it should uphold the common heritage of humanity and the cosmos at large. In charting this ethical frontier, India has the opportunity to set an example for responsible lunar exploration, ensuring that outer space remains a realm of peace and cooperation rather than conflict and dominance.
Probable Questions for UPSC Mains Exam-
- How does the history of polar rivalry between explorers Scott and Amundsen and the subsequent establishment of the Antarctic Treaty in 1959 provide lessons and insights for the ethical exploration of outer space? (10 Marks, 150 Words)
- In light of India's successful space endeavors and its commitment to space exploration, what steps can India take to lead the way in shaping ethical guidelines and promoting non-militarization in outer space, aligning international agreements like the Outer Space Treaty and the Moon Agreement with a moral compass for space exploration? (15 Marks,250 Words)
Source- The Hindu
