As India prepares to launch the NISAR mission in 2025, marking a significant step towards establishing a Helium-3 mining testbed on the Moon's south pole, the nation is poised at the forefront of space exploration. However, beneath the surface of these ambitious endeavors lies a complex web of ethical dilemmas and strategic challenges that must be addressed.

As ISRO’s ambitions stretch beyond Earth’s atmosphere, India is no longer just reaching for the stars—it’s staking a claim in the cosmic gold rush. With lunar Helium-3 mines, Sanskrit-based AI, and geopolitical battles over orbital real estate, the question isn’t whether India will colonize space, but at what ethical cost.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has been a pivotal force in India's space exploration journey since its inception in 1969. Founded initially as the Indian National Committee for Space Research (INCOSPAR) in 1962, ISRO has evolved into a global leader in space technology and research. This introduction will provide an overview of ISRO's history and achievements, followed by the significance of the NISAR mission and its relevance to Helium-3 mining.

Agenda:

• Introduction to India's Space Program: Overview of ISRO's achievements and future goals. Importance of ethical considerations in space exploration.
• Ethical Challenges in Space Exploration: Balancing national interests with global ethical standards. Issues like militarization of space and resource exploitation.
• India’s Evolving Space Policy: Shift from peaceful use to national security considerations. Impact of geopolitical dynamics on India’s space strategy.
• Global Governance and Cooperation: Role of international agreements and forums (e.g., COPUOS). Challenges in implementing a global code of conduct for space activities.
• Future Directions and Recommendations: Strategies for sustainable and responsible space exploration. Importance of inclusive decision-making processes.
• Conclusion: Reflection on the importance of ethical considerations in India’s space ambitions. Future implications for global space governance and cooperation.

Introduction to ISRO's Global Ambitions

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has emerged as a significant player in the global space industry, with a robust portfolio of ambitious missions and collaborations. One of the key highlights of ISRO's global ambitions is the NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) mission, a collaborative project that underscores India's growing influence in space exploration and technology.

Overview of ISRO's Global Ambitions

ISRO's global ambitions are multifaceted, encompassing not only scientific research but also commercial ventures and international collaborations. Here are some key aspects:

• Commercial Launch Capabilities: ISRO has demonstrated its capability to launch heavy payloads using its LVM3 rocket, positioning itself as a major player in the global space launch market. This includes successful launches for international clients like OneWeb, marking a significant step into the commercial space sector.
• International Cooperation: ISRO actively engages in bilateral and multilateral collaborations with other space agencies to advance shared goals in space exploration and resource utilization. This cooperation extends to areas such as climate change research and planetary exploration.
• Technological Advancements: ISRO is pushing the boundaries of space technology with missions like the Gaganyaan program, which aims to send humans to space, and the development of advanced propulsion systems and quantum communication technologies.

The NISAR Mission

The NISAR mission is a joint project between NASA and ISRO, designed to study Earth's surface and subsurface using advanced radar technology. The mission's objectives include:

• Environmental Monitoring: NISAR will provide detailed insights into environmental processes such as ice sheet collapse, sea-level rise, and ecosystem disturbances. Its advanced radar systems can penetrate clouds and vegetation, allowing for precise monitoring of natural hazards and environmental changes.
• Technological Innovation: The mission will utilize S-band and L-band synthetic aperture radar (SAR) to detect movements as small as 1 cm, offering unprecedented detail in Earth observation. This technology will aid in understanding and predicting environmental phenomena more accurately.
• Global Collaboration: NISAR represents a significant collaboration between two major space agencies, demonstrating the potential for international cooperation in advancing space technology and scientific research.

ISRO's Achievements: Past Successes

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has achieved numerous milestones in space exploration, cementing its position as a leader in the global space community. Some of ISRO's most notable past successes include the Chandrayaan missions and the Mars Orbiter Mission.

Chandrayaan Missions

The Chandrayaan programme is ISRO's lunar exploration initiative, which has seen significant advancements over the years:

• Chandrayaan-1 (2008): This mission marked India's first lunar exploration effort. Chandrayaan-1 successfully discovered water on the Moon, a groundbreaking finding that contributed significantly to our understanding of lunar geology. The mission included an impactor that crashed into the Moon's south pole, providing valuable data on lunar composition.
• Chandrayaan-2 (2019): Although the lander, Vikram, crashed during descent, the orbiter component of the mission has been highly successful. It continues to study the Moon's surface and exosphere, providing valuable insights into lunar geology and atmospheric conditions.
• Chandrayaan-3 (2023): This mission achieved a historic soft landing near the Moon's south pole, making India the first country to do so in this region and the fourth to land on the Moon overall. The mission included the deployment of the Pragyan rover, which conducted experiments and sent back crucial data on the lunar surface composition, including the presence of sulfur and water molecules.

Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan)

Launched in 2013, the Mars Orbiter Mission, also known as Mangalyaan, was a landmark achievement for ISRO:

• First Attempt Success: Mangalyaan successfully entered Mars orbit on its maiden attempt, making India the first Asian nation and the fourth in the world to achieve this feat.
• Cost-Effective: The mission was notable for its cost-effectiveness, demonstrating that complex space missions could be accomplished with relatively low budgets.
• Scientific Contributions: The mission provided valuable data on Mars' atmosphere, geology, and climate, contributing significantly to global research on the Red Planet.

Other Achievements

• Launch Vehicle Technology: ISRO has developed robust launch vehicle capabilities, including the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV), which have enabled the launch of numerous satellites and spacecraft.
• Satellite Technology: ISRO has launched a wide range of satellites for communication, navigation, and Earth observation, supporting national development and international collaborations.
• International Collaborations: ISRO has engaged in several international collaborations, such as the NISAR mission with NASA, enhancing its global presence and contributing to shared scientific goals.

Space Colonialism: The New Race for Lunar Resources

The concept of space colonialism has evolved significantly from its historical roots in European imperialism to the current era of cosmic capitalism. This shift is driven by the pursuit of lunar resources, which are crucial for future space exploration and potential energy production. The Moon's south pole has become a focal point due to its potential for Helium-3 mining, drawing comparisons to the strategic importance of the Persian Gulf for oil.

Historical Context: From European Imperialism to Cosmic Capitalism

• European Imperialism: Historically, colonialism was about expanding territorial control and exploiting natural resources. This model has been criticized for its exploitative nature and is now being mirrored in space exploration, where nations seek to exploit extraterrestrial resources.
• Cosmic Capitalism: The modern era sees a transition to cosmic capitalism, where space is viewed as a new frontier for resource extraction and economic expansion. This involves not just governments but also private companies investing in space technology and resource utilization.

The Helium-3 Rush—Why the Moon’s South Pole is the Next Persian Gulf

• Helium-3: This rare isotope is considered a promising fuel for nuclear fusion, offering a clean and efficient energy source. The Moon's surface, particularly the south pole, is believed to have significant deposits of Helium-3.
• Strategic Importance: Just as the Persian Gulf is crucial for global oil supplies, the Moon's south pole could become vital for Helium-3 extraction. This has sparked a race among nations to establish a presence and secure access to these resources.

ISRO’s Lunar Mining Ambitions Compared to NASA, China, and Russia

ISRO

• Achievements: ISRO has made significant strides in lunar exploration, including the successful landing of Chandrayaan-3 at the Moon's south pole. This mission demonstrated India's capability to conduct complex lunar operations.
• Future Plans: While ISRO's primary focus has been on exploration and scientific research, there is growing interest in exploiting lunar resources. However, specific plans for Helium-3 mining are not yet detailed.

NASA

• Artemis Program: NASA aims to return humans to the Moon by 2025 and establish a sustainable presence. The Artemis program includes resource mapping and utilization, which could pave the way for future mining operations.
• Resource Exploration: NASA is actively exploring the Moon's resources, including water ice, which can be used for life support and propulsion.

China

• Lunar Exploration: China has been aggressively pursuing lunar exploration, with missions like Chang'e 4 landing on the far side of the Moon. China is also planning to establish a lunar research station.
• Resource Utilization: China is interested in exploiting lunar resources for long-term space missions and potential energy production.

Russia

• Historical Presence: Russia (formerly the Soviet Union) has a long history of lunar exploration. However, recent efforts have been more focused on collaboration with other nations rather than independent resource extraction.
• Collaboration: Russia is working with China on the International Lunar Research Station, which could involve resource utilization in the future.

NISAR & India’s Space Strategy: More Than Just Science

The upcoming launch of the NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) satellite in March 2025 marks a significant milestone in India's space strategy, extending beyond scientific research into strategic and economic realms. This mission not only enhances Earth observation capabilities but also underscores India's growing role in the global space economy.

NISAR’s 2025 Launch: A Game-Changer for Earth Observation

• Advanced Technology: NISAR will revolutionize Earth imaging by using dual-frequency Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) technology, capable of detecting surface changes as small as an inch. This allows for precise monitoring of ecosystems, ice sheets, and natural hazards, even in adverse weather conditions.
• Global Impact: The mission will provide critical data for climate research, disaster management, and resource management. Its ability to scan nearly all of Earth's land and ice surfaces twice every 12 days will offer unparalleled insights into environmental changes.

India’s Growing Stake in the Global Space Economy: Collaboration vs Competition

• Collaboration: The NISAR mission exemplifies India's collaborative approach in space exploration. By partnering with NASA, ISRO demonstrates its ability to engage in high-level international cooperation, enhancing its global reputation and access to advanced technology.
• Competition: Despite collaborative efforts, India is also positioning itself competitively in the global space market. ISRO's commercial launch capabilities and satellite technology advancements are key components of this strategy, allowing India to compete with other major space-faring nations.

The Silent Weaponization of Geospatial Data and Orbital Positioning

• Geospatial Data: The strategic value of geospatial data collected by satellites like NISAR cannot be overstated. This data can be used not only for scientific purposes but also for military and strategic applications, such as monitoring border regions and tracking environmental changes that could impact national security.
• Orbital Positioning: The ability to launch and maintain satellites in strategic orbits provides a nation with significant advantages in terms of surveillance, communication, and navigation. India's growing presence in space enhances its orbital positioning capabilities, contributing to both civilian and military objectives.

In summary, the NISAR mission is a pivotal element of India's space strategy, combining scientific research with strategic and economic objectives. It highlights India's collaborative approach while also positioning the country competitively in the global space economy. The mission's potential for enhancing geospatial data capabilities and orbital positioning underscores its broader implications beyond scientific research.

Sanskrit AI & Space Traffic Management: Science or Soft Power?

The concept of using Sanskrit in artificial intelligence (AI) for space applications, particularly in satellite governance, raises intriguing questions about the intersection of science, technology, and cultural assertion. While there are discussions about NASA exploring Sanskrit for AI programming, ISRO's involvement in this area is less clear. However, the idea itself touches on broader themes of cultural identity, technological innovation, and the potential limitations or benefits of using an ancient language in modern AI systems.

ISRO and Sanskrit-Based AI

• Cultural Assertion: The use of Sanskrit in AI could be seen as a form of cultural assertion, highlighting India's rich linguistic heritage and its potential contributions to modern technology. ISRO's chairman has praised the role of Sanskrit in India's knowledge society, suggesting a cultural interest in leveraging ancient languages for contemporary purposes.
• Technological Innovation: There is no concrete evidence that ISRO is actively developing Sanskrit-based AI for satellite governance. However, if such efforts were underway, they would likely focus on exploring the structural and logical properties of Sanskrit that might offer advantages in programming or algorithm design.

Political Undertones: Cultural Assertion or Linguistic Limitation?

• Cultural Assertion: Using Sanskrit in AI could be a way to assert India's cultural identity and historical contributions to science and mathematics. This aligns with broader national narratives about India's civilizational greatness.
• Linguistic Limitation: Critics might argue that focusing on Sanskrit could limit the adoption of more widely used programming languages and frameworks, potentially hindering collaboration with international partners who prefer standardized AI protocols.

Can Sanskrit-Based Algorithms Outperform Global AI Protocols?

• Theoretical Advantages: Proponents of using Sanskrit in AI argue that its grammatical structure and logical precision could provide advantages in certain types of programming tasks. However, these claims are more theoretical and have not been widely tested or proven in practical applications.
• Practical Considerations: In practice, AI development is often driven by the need for interoperability, scalability, and compatibility with existing systems. Sanskrit-based algorithms would need to demonstrate significant performance advantages to justify their use over established protocols.

In summary, while the idea of using Sanskrit in AI for space applications is intriguing, it remains largely speculative without concrete evidence of ISRO's involvement. The discussion highlights broader themes of cultural identity, technological innovation, and the potential challenges of integrating ancient languages into modern AI systems.

ESA Lawsuits: The Hidden War Over the Space Spectrum

The electromagnetic spectrum is a critical resource in space exploration, enabling communication between satellites and Earth. However, this shared resource is increasingly becoming a point of contention, with allegations of signal interference and disputes over orbital sovereignty. This scenario highlights the legal gray areas in international space law and the challenges of managing the space spectrum.

The Electromagnetic Spectrum Conflict: Why Europe is Accusing India of "Hijacking" Space Signals

• Background: The electromagnetic spectrum is a finite resource used for satellite communications. With more countries launching satellites, the risk of signal interference increases. There have been no specific reports of ESA accusing India of "hijacking" space signals, but the general concern about signal interference is a pressing issue.
• Potential for Conflict: As more nations enter the space sector, the potential for conflicts over spectrum allocation and interference grows. This can lead to legal disputes and diplomatic tensions between countries.

The Legal Gray Areas of Orbital Sovereignty

• International Law: Current international space law, primarily based on the Outer Space Treaty of 1967, does not provide clear guidelines on issues like spectrum allocation or signal interference. This legal vacuum creates challenges in resolving disputes over orbital sovereignty and resource management.
• Regulatory Challenges: The lack of specific regulations on spectrum usage in space makes it difficult for countries to enforce their rights or resolve conflicts. This situation necessitates the development of more comprehensive international agreements to manage space resources effectively.

How International Law Lags Behind Technological Dominance

• Technological Advancements: The rapid advancement of space technology has outpaced the development of international law. As more countries launch satellites and engage in space activities, the need for updated legal frameworks becomes increasingly urgent.
• Future Directions: To address these challenges, there is a growing need for international cooperation to establish clear guidelines and regulations for space resource management. This includes developing protocols for spectrum allocation, signal interference prevention, and dispute resolution mechanisms.

In summary, while there are no specific lawsuits or accusations from ESA regarding India "hijacking" space signals, the broader issue of managing the electromagnetic spectrum in space is a critical concern. The lack of clear international regulations highlights the need for legal reforms to ensure equitable access to space resources and prevent future conflicts.

Ethical Dilemmas of India’s Space Colonialism

India's space program, led by ISRO, has achieved numerous milestones, but its expansion raises ethical concerns, particularly regarding the displacement of indigenous communities and the impact on local ecosystems. This dilemma is exemplified by the expansion of rocket launch sites, such as Sriharikota and Kulasekarapattinam, which highlights the tension between national pride and indigenous displacement.

Adivasi Land Rights vs Rocket Launch Sites

• Background: The establishment and expansion of rocket launch sites often require large tracts of land, which can lead to the displacement of local communities, including Adivasi populations. These communities have traditional rights to their land, which are protected under Indian law, but these rights are frequently overlooked in the name of national development projects.
• Ethical Concerns: The displacement of indigenous communities raises ethical questions about the balance between national progress and the rights of marginalized groups. It is crucial to ensure that any development project respects the rights and interests of local populations, providing fair compensation and rehabilitation when necessary.

The Expansion of ISRO’s Facilities—Who Gets Displaced?

• Sriharikota: The Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota is one of ISRO's primary launch sites. While it has contributed significantly to India's space achievements, its expansion has led to concerns about environmental impact and local displacement.
• Kulasekarapattinam: This site in Tamil Nadu has been proposed for future space-related activities. However, like Sriharikota, it poses similar challenges regarding land acquisition and potential displacement of local communities.

Case Study: Sriharikota, Kulasekarapattinam, and the Silent Struggles of Local Communities

• Sriharikota's Impact: The expansion of Sriharikota has resulted in the displacement of several fishing villages, affecting the livelihoods of local communities. Despite efforts to provide compensation, many residents feel that their cultural and traditional ways of life are being eroded.
• Kulasekarapattinam's Future: As plans for space activities in Kulasekarapattinam advance, there is a growing need to engage with local communities proactively. This includes ensuring that any development is sustainable, respects local rights, and provides adequate compensation and support for those affected.

The Paradox of Progress—National Pride vs Indigenous Displacement

• National Pride: India's space achievements are a source of national pride, reflecting the country's technological prowess and global influence. However, this pride must be balanced against the ethical implications of development projects.
• Indigenous Displacement: The displacement of indigenous communities highlights a paradox where national progress is achieved at the cost of local well-being. It is essential to address these ethical dilemmas by prioritizing inclusive development that respects the rights and interests of all stakeholders involved.

In summary, while India's space program is a symbol of national achievement, it also poses ethical challenges related to indigenous displacement and environmental impact. Addressing these dilemmas requires a nuanced approach that balances national interests with the rights and well-being of local communities.

The Caste Dynamics of Gaganyaan’s Astronaut Selection

The selection of astronauts for India's Gaganyaan mission raises interesting questions about representation and social dynamics. While ISRO's selection process emphasizes technical expertise and physical resilience, it is essential to analyze whether social barriers, including caste dynamics, play a role in who gets to represent India in space.

Who Gets to Represent India in Space?

• Current Selection Process: Currently, ISRO's astronaut selection is primarily from the Indian Air Force, with a focus on test pilots. This approach ensures that candidates have the necessary flying experience and technical skills. However, this also means that the pool of potential candidates is limited to those with military backgrounds, which may not fully reflect India's diverse social landscape.
• Potential for Broader Representation: ISRO has hinted at expanding the selection pool beyond military personnel, which could lead to more diverse representation in future missions. This expansion could potentially address social barriers by including candidates from various backgrounds.

Analyzing ISRO’s Selection Process—Are Social Barriers at Play?

• Technical and Physical Requirements: The selection process is rigorous, focusing on technical expertise, physical fitness, and psychological resilience. While these criteria are essential for space missions, they do not inherently exclude candidates based on caste or social background.
• Implicit Barriers: However, implicit barriers might exist due to the current reliance on military backgrounds. Access to quality education and military careers can be influenced by socio-economic factors, which might indirectly affect representation from marginalized communities.

What Space Travel Means for India’s Internal Hierarchies

• Symbolic Representation: Space missions can serve as powerful symbols of national achievement, potentially bridging social divides by promoting a sense of shared pride and identity.
• Challenges and Opportunities: While space travel offers opportunities for social mobility and representation, it also highlights existing social hierarchies. Expanding the selection process to include more diverse candidates could help address these challenges and promote inclusivity.

Weaponizing Weather: The Dark Side of Satellite Control

The concept of weaponizing weather through satellite control and weather modification techniques has long been a topic of debate, often relegated to the realm of science fiction. However, with advancements in technology and ongoing projects like India's Mission Mausam, this idea is becoming increasingly plausible. Here, we explore India's growing capabilities in weather modification, the potential uses of cloud seeding and geoengineering, and the ethical dilemmas associated with controlling rainfall.

India’s Growing Capabilities in Weather Modification—Science Fiction or Near Reality?

• Mission Mausam: India's Mission Mausam aims to enhance weather forecasting and develop techniques for controlling weather phenomena like rainfall and hail within five years. This includes using cloud seeding and advanced AI-driven tools to improve weather management.
• Current Status: While weather modification is not new, with countries like the U.S., China, and Australia already using cloud seeding, India's efforts are part of a broader push to become a leader in weather forecasting and climate resilience.

How Cloud Seeding and Geoengineering Could Be Used for Economic or Military Advantage

• Economic Advantage: Weather modification could be used to enhance rainfall in drought-prone areas or suppress it during critical events like agricultural harvests or public gatherings. This could provide significant economic benefits by protecting crops or ensuring the success of outdoor events.
• Military Advantage: Theoretically, weather modification could be used to disrupt enemy operations by creating unfavorable weather conditions. However, this is highly speculative and not a stated goal of current weather modification projects.

The Ethical Dilemma: Can a Nation Control Rainfall Without Global Consequences?

• Global Consequences: Controlling rainfall can have unintended global consequences, such as altering regional climate patterns or affecting neighboring countries' weather systems. This raises ethical questions about the responsibility of nations to consider the broader impacts of their actions.
• International Cooperation: Addressing these ethical dilemmas requires international cooperation and agreements to ensure that weather modification techniques are used responsibly and with consideration for global implications. This includes establishing clear guidelines and regulations for weather modification activities.

In summary, while India's weather modification capabilities are advancing, the ethical implications of controlling rainfall are complex and require careful consideration. As technology continues to evolve, it is crucial to engage in global discussions about the responsible use of weather modification techniques.

Strategic Recommendations: India’s Path to Ethical Space Expansion

As India continues to advance in the space sector, it is crucial to adopt a strategic approach that balances national interests with ethical considerations. This involves ensuring fair astronaut selection, sharing space resources equitably, strengthening space diplomacy, and leading in ethical space mining and environmental sustainability.

Policy Solutions for Fair Astronaut Selection and Space Resource Sharing

Inclusive Astronaut Selection:

• Diverse Recruitment: Implement a selection process that actively seeks candidates from diverse backgrounds, including non-military personnel and individuals from marginalized communities. This can be achieved by partnering with educational institutions and promoting space careers among underrepresented groups.
• Merit-Based Criteria: Ensure that selection criteria are transparent and based on merit, with a focus on skills and qualifications rather than background.

Space Resource Sharing:

• International Cooperation: Engage in international agreements to ensure that space resources are shared equitably among nations. This includes participating in forums like the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) to establish global standards for resource utilization.
• Domestic Regulation: Establish a regulatory framework through entities like IN-SPACe to oversee resource allocation and ensure that private entities operate responsibly.

Strengthening Space Diplomacy to Avoid Legal and Geopolitical Disputes

International Agreements:

• Participate in Global Forums: Actively participate in international forums to shape global space policies and prevent conflicts over resource access or territorial claims.
• Bilateral and Multilateral Agreements: Foster agreements with other space-faring nations to establish clear guidelines for cooperation and conflict resolution.

Legal Frameworks:

• Domestic Legislation: Develop and refine domestic laws to align with international standards, ensuring compliance with global norms while protecting national interests.
• Dispute Resolution Mechanisms: Establish robust mechanisms for resolving disputes related to space activities, both domestically and internationally.

How India Can Lead in Ethical Space Mining and Environmental Sustainability

Ethical Mining Practices:

• Sustainable Resource Extraction: Develop guidelines for sustainable resource extraction from space, ensuring minimal environmental impact and adherence to international environmental standards.
• Transparency and Accountability: Implement transparent reporting and accountability measures for space mining activities to prevent exploitation and ensure equitable distribution of benefits.

Environmental Sustainability:

• Green Technologies: Invest in the development of green technologies for space exploration, focusing on reducing waste, conserving resources, and minimizing the carbon footprint of space missions.
• International Collaboration: Collaborate with other nations to establish global standards for environmental sustainability in space activities.

Impact on Future Generations

The space policy decisions made today will have profound impacts on India's next generations:

• Economic Opportunities: A thriving space sector can create new economic opportunities, driving innovation and employment across various industries.
• Environmental Legacy: Ethical space mining and sustainability practices will determine the environmental legacy left for future generations, influencing global climate and resource management.
• Global Influence: India's leadership in ethical space practices can enhance its global influence, positioning it as a responsible and innovative player in the international community.

In summary, India's path to ethical space expansion involves a multifaceted approach that addresses fair selection processes, resource sharing, diplomatic engagement, and sustainable practices. By adopting these strategies, India can ensure that its space endeavors not only advance national interests but also contribute positively to global well-being and environmental sustainability for future generations.

"Our children might not farm the land but mine the Moon. The question is—will they do so as free pioneers or as cosmic laborers under a new space empire?"

Disclaimer: This content aims to spark meaningful discussions about India's space ambitions and the ethical considerations surrounding its space program. The views and examples provided highlight systemic challenges and potential solutions without targeting or defaming specific individuals, groups, or nations. While rooted in research and observations, it reflects a broader analysis and should not be construed as absolute or exhaustive. Readers are encouraged to approach the content critically, seek additional perspectives (such as insights from experts in space law and policy), engage constructively in conversations about fostering responsible space exploration—and consider exploring resources like those offered by organizations focused on space governance and sustainability (e.g., the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs).

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