Roberto Battiston, a professor of experimental physics at the University of Trento and former president of the Italian Space Agency (ASI), reflects on the stages of space exploration from Sputnik to the current debate on defense, resource exploitation, and geopolitics. He highlights the growing trajectory of investments in space, estimating it to reach one trillion dollars by 2040, fueled by partnerships with private individuals and ambitious projects like Elon Musk’s Starlink.
Paola Severino, a criminal law professor and member of the National Cyber Security Agency, discusses the legal implications of the space economy. She emphasizes the importance of peaceful and responsible use of space, cybersecurity, and the regulation of AI to prevent conflicts and ensure sustainable exploitation of resources. Severino also highlights Europe’s need for better planning, cooperation, and investment in the space industry to remain competitive on a global scale.
Both Battiston and Severino point out the potential of AI in space exploration, from collision prevention to waste removal, but also warn of the risks in its use for warfare. They agree on the need for legislation, treaties, and international cooperation to address these challenges and ensure the responsible development of the space economy. Ultimately, they stress