The Arctic Race for Space

CRISIS COMMITTEE

As a result of the desire to colonize another planet such as Mars, understand more about our own planet by studying the Moon, and salvage valuable minerals from asteroids, governments along with the private sector are eager to increase their presence in space. This is evident in the increased collaboration between governments and private companies launching more rockets and satellites into space than ever before. With the exploration of a new frontier comes another area where geopolitical tensions can be demonstrated. Evidence of the competition in space is on our own planet, specifically around the North Pole since nations view the Arctic Circle as a valuable asset for space exploration. Amongst other reasons, it is easiest to study the Earth’s magnetic field at the North Pole and launch satellites into polar orbit. In this committee, we will address challenges in space, such as the congestion in low earth orbit created by satellites, and the challenge on Earth of an increasing military presence around the Arctic Circle by countries large and small alike. As military generals, executives of space exploration companies, scientists, and government leaders, you will be forced to protect both national sovereignty and our Earth and the area around it as a whole.