Background
The Association of
Space Explorers has conducted a review of the present
status of crew rescue capabilities, the significance and
importance of future improvements in universal space
rescue, and the technical and procedural challenges of
achieving such a capability. The following observations
were made:
1. The UN Outer
Space Treaty and Astronaut Rescue Treaty states that
astronauts are envoys of mankind, and nations that
are in a position to do so are obligated to render
them all possible assistance in the event of
distress. In addition, astronauts of one nation are
obligated to render all possible assistance to
astronauts of another nation in carrying out
activities in space.
2. The
frequency and numbers of people travelling in space
has increased dramatically in the last three decades.
Consequently the likelihood of emergency situations
requiring a rescue effort has also increased.
3. One nation
alone may not always be able to give the needed
assistance to its astronauts in distress. A universal
space rescue capability would unify the efforts of
all space faring nations and provide a more
comprehensive rescue system.
4. Implementing
a universal space rescue capability is a substantial
challenge to the space faring nations. But, if an
effort is made to resolve technical and procedural
questions together, such a capability may be
established through joint enterprises, in the
interest of everyone on the planet.
5. Space rescue
has been a topic of concern in the Committee on
Safety and Rescue of the International Academy of
Astronautics for the past two decades. The
Association of Space Explorers is committed to work
in concert with the Committee in the future to
further the objectives of space rescue. The
Association is also eager to offer its expertise to
all nations and space agencies to advance the
international dialogue on space rescue.
As a result of
these discussion and the increasing worldwide interest in
universal space rescue, the following resolution is set
forth:
Resolution:
The Association of
Space Explorers urges each spacefaring nation to commit
to a principle of providing a universal space rescue
capability for all people travelling and residing in
space, and, furthermore, to implement this principle to
the maximum extend technically, operationally, and
financially practicable.
The Association
appeals to all space agencies to initiate contacts that
would lead to specific solutions to problems associated
with universal space rescue. The following topics should
be included:
1) the
development of international standards to achieve
compatibility among orbital systems;
2) the
consideration of a quick reaction space rescue
capability, and
3) the
establishment of a broader international search and
rescue infrastructure to incorporate those
requirements unique to manned spacecraft reentry and
landing.
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