Private Lunar Lander Set to Launch Amid Ownership Questions

In January 2024, the private aerospace company Astrobiotic is poised to make a significant milestone in space exploration with the launch of its lunar lander, Peregrine. This mission, which will be carried out aboard a United Launch Alliance Vulcan Centaur rocket, aims to be the first instance of a privately-developed lander successfully reaching the lunar surface.

Among the scientific instruments included on Peregrine, many are developed in collaboration with NASA and its research partners. However, the mission also features a unique aspect: a small payload that includes space for remains sold by companies Celestis and Elysium Space. These companies offer space burials, allowing individuals to have their ashes sent into orbit or to the moon.

The inclusion of these commercial payloads raises questions about the implications of private ownership in space. Currently, no legal framework exists that defines ownership of celestial bodies, including the moon. The 1967 Outer Space Treaty, which was signed by over 100 countries, including the United States, states that celestial bodies cannot be claimed by any nation. This ambiguity could lead to complications as more private companies engage in lunar exploration and exploitation.

Astrobiotic’s mission reflects a growing trend in the space industry, where private companies are taking on roles traditionally held by national space agencies. The launch of Peregrine signifies not only technological advancement but also a potential shift in the landscape of space ownership. As commercial interests expand, the question of who controls resources on the moon and other celestial bodies becomes increasingly relevant.

According to space policy experts, the lack of clear ownership guidelines may lead to conflicts in the future. Dr. Sarah Conner, a researcher at the International Institute of Space Law, noted, “As we move towards a future where commercial entities are launching missions to the moon, we must address the legal frameworks that govern these activities.”

The Peregrine lander is designed to carry a variety of scientific instruments to conduct experiments and gather data on the lunar surface. Its success could open the door for more private ventures, fostering innovation and collaboration between commercial and governmental entities. The mission is a testament to the potential of public-private partnerships in advancing space exploration.

As the launch date approaches, attention is focused not only on the technological aspects of the mission but also on the broader implications for space governance. The combination of scientific exploration and commercial interests could redefine humanity’s relationship with the moon and beyond.

With the Peregrine lander, Astrobiotic aims to demonstrate that private companies can contribute significantly to space exploration. The mission could pave the way for future endeavors that challenge existing norms and develop new frameworks for ownership and collaboration in outer space. As humanity looks to the stars, the question of who owns the moon may demand urgent answers.