In the contemporary era of power politics, both geopolitics and astro-politics reflect the strategic competition among states for dominance, resources and influence. Traditionally, geopolitics has focused on territorial control, natural resources and economic interests, whereas astro-politics extends this competition into outer space. Astro-politics highlights the growing rivalry among major powers such as China, Russia and the US in the domain of outer space. Although outer space is not subject to national sovereignty under the Outer Space Treaty, which declares it the common heritage of mankind, recent developments suggest an increasing trend toward militarisation and strategic competition. The Artemis Accords and missions like Artemis II reflect both cooperation and underlying competition.
The extension of power politics into outer space raises serious concerns regarding militarisation, environmental sustainability and the equitable use of space resources, posing significant challenges for the future of humanity.
Abdul Rehman
Islamabad
