The Briefing Room

Original version

BBC Radio 4 FM

BBC Radio 4 is a radio channel that started transmitting on the 30th September 1967. It replaced BBC Home Service.

BBC Radio 4

Radio 4

Radio 4 (FM)

Factual

David Aaronovitch presents in-depth explainers on big issues in the news.

David Aaronovitch and a panel of experts and insiders present in-depth explainers on big issues in the news.

David Aaronovitch and a panel of experts and insiders present in-depth explainers on big issues in the news

BBC Radio 4 LW

The Briefing Room: Space Wars and Laws

23/12/2021

Space Wars and Laws

BBC Radio 4 - The Briefing Room, Space Wars and Laws

Could space be the next frontier for conflict? And what would it look like?

Space satellites destroyed by missiles or blinded by lasers. Could that be the future of conflict above our heads? David Aaronovitch talks to the experts about war in space.

Could space be the next frontier for conflict? And what would it look like?
Recently the astronauts in the International Space Station had to shelter in their escape pods, after Russia destroyed one of its own satellites using a missile and leaving a dangerous  trail of debris orbiting the earth. While not a deliberately aggressive act, the destruction of the satellite was an indication of the kind of weaponry that could be used in space. This summer, on the occasion of the official opening of UK Space Command, the head of the RAF, Air Chief Marshal Sir Mike Wigston, warned that any global conflict would “most likely be won or lost in space.”
What is the likelihood of a space war, what form would it take and what are the laws that govern activity in space?

Joining David Aaronovitch in the Briefing Room are:

Dr Bleddyn Bowen, lecturer in International Relations, University of Leicester
Michelle Hanlon, Professor of Air and Space Law at the University of Mississippi, United States
Alexandra Stickings, Space Strategy Lead at the consultancy Frazer-Nash
Shashank Joshi, Defence Editor, The Economist

Producers: John Murphy, Ben Carter and Kirsteen Knight
Sound Engineer: Andy Garratt
Production Coordinator: Siobhan Reed
Editor: Richard Vadon

Image: The International Space Station in orbit 
Credit: Nasa / EPA

Intelligent speech, the most insightful journalism, the wittiest comedy, the most fascinating features and the most compelling drama and readings anywhere in UK radio.

Accessibility links

Programme Index

The Briefing Room

Space Wars and Laws

Genres

Brand

BBC Radio 4 FM

About BBC Radio 4