Just when we believed we had gleaned lessons from our history, humanity appears poised to replicate its most destructive tendencies, this time beyond Earth’s confines. As we stand on the brink of a profound transformation in the global space industry, projected to reach a staggering valuation of $1.8 trillion by 2035, a coalition of Indigenous and allied scholars is sounding alarms that humanity’s next significant frontier threatens to mirror a long-standing legacy of exclusion and exploitation that has characterized so much of human history.
The recent commentary published in the prestigious journal Nature captures the insights of eleven researchers from various disciplines, who collectively voice their concern over how a narrow spectrum of interests is dictating the trajectory of space exploration. Ultimately, the steering committee largely consists of wealthy nations and private corporations, resulting in the sidelining of Indigenous peoples and nations, particularly in the global South. The rhetoric of exploration and discovery, often romanticized in popular discourse, starkly contrasts with the troubling reality that space is evolving into a new platform for conquest and appropriation.
As Associate Professor Adam Fish, a cultural anthropologist at UNSW Sydney’s Faculty of Arts, Design & Architecture, points out, the language surrounding space initiative mirrors imperialistic practices of the past. Phrases such as "planting flags," "claiming territory," and "resource extraction" evoke a colonial playbook, betraying an alignment with historic patterns that disregarded the sovereignty of Indigenous communities. Once again, these communities, along with their rich knowledge systems, are being marginalized, with their rights overshadowed by the ambitions of the powerful.
The researchers, well-versed in fields including space law, anthropology, and Indigenous knowledge, warn that the current trajectory of space development is distressingly similar to historical patterns of land appropriation and ecological devastation. They call for a fundamental rethinking of how we govern activities in space, advocating for a paradigm that prioritizes collaboration, consultation, and mutually beneficial relationships between stakeholders in the unfolding space economy.
Though there are currently 77 national space agencies around the world, authority and decision-making powers are incredibly centralized among a select few nations and corporations. Low- and middle-income countries, as well as Indigenous nations, frequently find themselves excluded from the international discourse and policy-making processes that govern space exploration and exploitation. This lack of inclusivity stifles the potential for innovation and collaborative exploration that could also yield benefits for these historically marginalized communities.
Notably, Australia possesses unique advantages for conducting space initiatives, owing to its geographical location near the equator and its clear skies. Daniel Joinbee, a proud Gunggandji man, space entrepreneur, and founder of Gunggandji Aerospace, underscores the importance of integrating Indigenous communities into the burgeoning space industry. He highlights initiatives led by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, such as the Centre for Appropriate Technology and the National Indigenous Space Academy, which showcase the immense potential when First Nations lead in the realms of space science and STEM-related fields.
However, despite a tide of promising initiatives on the horizon, Indigenous communities in Australia face myriad systemic barriers that hinder their ability to fully harness the benefits of the space economy. A significant impediment is the absence of a structured engagement framework for First Nations, which has resulted in missed opportunities, including the unfortunate closure of the Arnhem Space Centre—a facility built on limited consultation with Indigenous communities that failed to address their concerns comprehensively.
Joinbee warns that if the challenges facing Indigenous communities are not addressed through collaborative efforts, these populations stand to be excluded from both the economic and cultural opportunities presented by space development. Moreover, the space industry itself risks forfeiting valuable Indigenous wisdom and perspectives that could enrich endeavors in this expansive frontier, leading to more innovative and sustainable outcomes.
The authors emphasize the necessity of addressing the historical and ongoing legacies of colonialism in discussions about space exploration. For example, the 1967 Outer Space Treaty, which serves as the foundational legal framework governing activities in outer space, neglects to acknowledge the rights of Indigenous peoples or confront the ramifications of colonial histories. As such, they do not argue against space exploration; rather, they advocate for a new model—one characterized by inclusivity, respect for Indigenous rights, and ethical responsibility.
These scholars propose a framework grounded in five core principles: collaboration, consultation, respect, responsibility, and mutual benefit. This framework advocates for the active involvement of Indigenous communities in the governance of space activities, while also emphasizing the necessity of respecting sacred sites and cultural values intrinsic to Indigenous heritage. Further, they stress the importance of integrating varied cosmologies into scientific paradigms and policy discussions about space exploration.
Co-author Peter Swanton, a Gamilaraay-Yuwaalyaay man, Indigenous Research Associate, and PhD student at the Australian National University, affirms Australia’s unique position to be a leader in spearheading ethical and sustainable space initiatives. However, they recognize that the journey toward achieving a more equitable space landscape will be fraught with challenges, particularly considering the industry’s entrenchment in systems that prioritize profits and geopolitical dominance over social equity and justice.
Swanton emphasizes the importance of ensuring that space exploration does not become an exclusive domain for a privileged few. Instead, he advocates for a vision in which space is viewed as a shared resource—one governed by principles that reflect the diverse experiences and dignities of all humanity. As we move forward into this uncharted realm, the dialogue surrounding space must evolve to encompass broader societal values, ensuring that it does not repeat the mistakes of the past.
In essence, the commentary sheds light on a vital discussion concerning the direction of space exploration and the imperative of incorporating Indigenous knowledge systems and practices into the mainstream narrative. Space holds immense promise for humanity; however, realizing this promise requires a monumental shift in how we approach its governance, ensuring inclusive policies that honor the rights and wisdom of all communities involved.
Recognizing the intersection of the past and present serves as a crucial reminder of our collective responsibilities as we prepare to venture into the next great frontier. By fostering inclusivity and ethical practices, we can pave the way for a future in space that transcends the patterns of exclusion that have marred human history. Only through mutual respect and collaboration can we hope to fulfill the true potential of space exploration—a venture that belongs to all of humanity.
Subject of Research: Not applicable
Article Title: Why space exploration must not be left to a few powerful nations
News Publication Date: 22-May-2025
Web References: https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-025-01574-2
References: 10.1038/d41586-025-01574-2
Image Credits: Not applicable
Keywords
Indigenous knowledge, space exploration, colonialism, ethical responsibility, inclusive governance, mutual benefit, space economy.
