On-orbit rendezvous and docking constitute one of the most technically challenging activities in the history of space activities. As space endeavours mature to crewed missions, space rendezous and docking technologies (RDT) emerge as an area of technological innovation critical to advances in future crewed space exploration. Anchored around technical and diplomatic exchanges in relation to RDT standards in crewed space exploration, this article seeks to understand the evolution of tech diplomacy through comparing and contrasting developments in establishing the International Docking System (IDS) (2010s to Present) with those of the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project (ASTP) (1970s)—widely considered to be the first major international collbaoration in the history of crewed space exploration.
Policy Implications
- The private sector has always played a role in the history of space exploration since the Cold War. Recent space commercialization reflects that procurement and contracting processes in the sector have become much more competitive, opening up opportunities for new entrants to challenge incumbent market leaders. Policy stakeholders are advised of the shifting dynamics between emerging industry actors and historic market incumbents, noting the potential for new entrants (e.g., SpaceX) to disrupt this established industry.
- Advances in rendezvous and docking standards, coupled with increasingly competitive procurement, allows for further commercialization of space exploration activities at the global level. To advance international co-operation in space exploration, further standardization efforts should be pursued to avoid redundant uses of resources.
- The influence of major private actors in the global space sector now goes beyond that of a mere service provider, directly and indirectly shaping innovation and policy in the space sector. Securing commercial interests in space now become part and parcel in global space policy discussions, including areas that are historically considered to be exclusive topics for sovereign actors.
- The commercial space era will see further developments in tech(nology) diplomacy, as technological and commercialization processes interplay to shape domestic and global governance dynamics. Policy stakeholders are advised to recognize the complex evolution of relationships between conventional diplomatic actors, technology and scientific communities, and industry.
Photo by SpaceX