Fourth Episode of “Global Canvas” from JOI
Imagine spending over 60 days in space, floating 260 miles above Earth, far from the comforts of home, facing mechanical uncertainties. That’s the reality for Indian American astronaut Sunita Williams and her colleague Butch Wilmore. Their extended mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS) isn’t just a human story of endurance—it’s a glimpse into the evolving space industry, where private companies like Boeing and SpaceX are steering the course of exploration. This case study delves into the growing influence of non-state actors in space, their role in geopolitics, and the global implications of Williams’ extraordinary mission.
Context and Background
Astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore launched aboard Boeing’s Starliner on May 25, 2024, for what was initially planned as an eight-day mission. However, due to a helium leak and thruster malfunctions, NASA deemed the spacecraft unsafe for their return journey, leaving the astronauts stranded on the ISS for an extended period. In recent developments, NASA has now equipped the two astronauts with SpaceX’s Crew Dragon suits, preparing them for their upcoming return on Crew-9’s emergency capsule, expected in early 2025.
This situation highlights the increasing reliance of NASA on private companies like Boeing and SpaceX, underscoring the growing role of non-state actors in space exploration. As private companies step into traditionally state-dominated sectors, their involvement raises important questions about safety, accountability, and the long-term governance of space missions.
Key Players and Stakeholders
NASA, Boeing, and SpaceX are at the centre of this mission. Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft marked the company’s first crewed mission, but it encountered multiple technical setbacks, delaying the astronauts’ return. On the other hand, SpaceX’s involvement has grown increasingly important as it provides the emergency return spacecraft. Sunita Williams, for the first time, has been fitted with SpaceX’s Crew Dragon suit as preparations for their return are underway.
Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, both experienced astronauts and retired Navy captains, have been adapting to their new role aboard the ISS. They’ve assisted with daily maintenance and scientific experiments while awaiting their return. Their resilience and positive outlook are remarkable, as both astronauts have faced personal sacrifices, including missing family milestones during their extended stay.
Globally, the involvement of private companies like Boeing and SpaceX has piqued the interest of spacefaring nations such as Russia and China. The increased participation of non-state actors in space exploration signals a shift in power dynamics, where governments are no longer the sole controllers of space technology and policy.
Major Concerns and Consequences
The extended mission has raised concerns about the physical effects of prolonged space exposure, including muscle atrophy, bone density loss, and spatial disorientation. Despite these challenges, both astronauts have extensive experience in space, which has helped them adapt quickly to their extended stay aboard the ISS. Beyond the immediate health risks, this mission has broader implications for the role of non-state actors in space exploration.
Boeing’s Starliner experienced multiple technical issues, including thruster failures and helium leaks, raising questions about the safety and reliability of private spacecraft. NASA’s decision to leave the astronauts aboard the ISS rather than risk a return on Starliner underscores the need for rigorous safety protocols. The astronauts’ upcoming return on SpaceX’s Crew-9 capsule signals the growing trust in SpaceX’s capabilities, positioning the company as a crucial player in NASA’s future missions.
From a geopolitical standpoint, this incident highlights the growing influence of non-state actors in space exploration and the need for robust international regulations. As private companies take on more significant roles in space missions, the traditional lines between state and non-state actors are blurring, creating new challenges for governance, accountability, and safety.
Political Perspectives and Understanding
Understanding this mission through the lens of global politics emphasises the role of non-state actors like Boeing and SpaceX in shaping the future of space exploration. Traditionally, space exploration was the domain of state actors like NASA, but with the rise of private companies, the dynamics of power are shifting. This trend can be examined through liberal internationalism, which highlights the importance of cooperation between state and non-state actors to achieve shared goals.
However, these developments also invite concerns from a realist perspective, as the influence of private companies introduces new uncertainties. Non-state actors like Boeing and SpaceX operate according to their own interests and are not always subject to the same regulatory frameworks as state agencies. This raises questions about accountability, governance, and the equitable distribution of benefits in space exploration.
For students of geopolitics, this case provides a valuable example of how private companies are reshaping global space policy and the need for international cooperation to ensure safety and transparency in the rapidly evolving space industry.
Takeaways
The extended stay of Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore aboard the ISS underscores the growing role of non-state actors like Boeing and SpaceX in space exploration. While private companies are driving technological innovation, the technical difficulties faced by Starliner reveal the potential risks of integrating non-state actors into state-led missions. For students of global politics, this case offers insights into the evolving power dynamics of space exploration and highlights the need for strong regulatory frameworks to ensure safety and accountability.
As space exploration becomes more privatised, the global community must adapt its regulatory frameworks to account for the increasing role of private companies in space missions. The Starliner mission serves as a case study on the importance of monitoring these developments closely, especially as non-state actors take on more central roles in the space industry.
Compiled by Commodore (Dr) Johnson Odakkal (with support from Ms Ruchita Gaikwad and Ms Supriya Mishra)
Stay Tuned for More!
As the Global Canvas series continues, we will explore more key moments in global politics, technology, and the evolving role of non-state actors. For those interested in contributing or learning more, visit us at www.johnsonodakkal.com or email us at ceo@johnsonodakkal.com . Stay tuned as we dive deeper into the geopolitical landscape of space exploration and beyond.
References and Sources
- [Times of India]
- [Indian Express]
- [CNBC TV18]
- [Hindustan Times]
- [Livemint]
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