The renewed race to the moon between the United States and China is driven as much by geopolitical rivalry as by scientific aspiration. Examine the strategic significance of lunar resources, particularly water ice, and analyse the implications of this space competition for global governance of outer space and for India's space policy.

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INTRODUCTION

The renewed lunar race, led by the U.S. (Artemis Programme) and China (ILRS initiative), reflects a blend of scientific ambition and geopolitical competition. Central to this contest is the strategic value of lunar resources, especially water ice, which could redefine space exploration and governance.

STRATEGIC SIGNIFICANCE OF LUNAR RESOURCES

Water Ice as a Critical Resource

Can be converted into hydrogen and oxygen for rocket fuel
Enables in-situ resource utilisation (ISRU), reducing dependence on Earth

Support for Sustained Human Presence

Provides drinking water, oxygen, and radiation shielding
Essential for long-term lunar bases and deep-space missions

Geopolitical and Economic Value

Control over resource-rich regions (e.g., lunar poles) may confer strategic advantage
Potential to create a cis-lunar economy and space-based supply chains

IMPLICATIONS FOR GLOBAL GOVERNANCE OF OUTER SPACE

Erosion of Multilateral Norms

Competing frameworks like Artemis Accords and China-led initiatives bypass UN consensus
Weakens the universality of existing treaties

Ambiguity over Resource Ownership

Outer Space Treaty prohibits sovereignty claims but is unclear on resource extraction
Risk of “first-mover advantage” leading to de facto appropriation

Fragmentation and Strategic Rivalry

Emergence of parallel blocs may lead to regulatory fragmentation
Increased risk of conflict over strategic lunar zones

Need for Updated Legal Regime

ضرورة for clearer rules on resource utilisation, benefit-sharing, and environmental protection
Strengthening role of UN-COPUOS and global cooperation mechanisms

IMPLICATIONS FOR INDIA’S SPACE POLICY

Balancing Strategic Autonomy and Partnerships

India’s participation in Artemis Accords offers norm-shaping opportunities
Must maintain flexibility amid U.S.-China rivalry

Enhancing Indigenous Capabilities

Build on Chandrayaan missions and future lunar exploration plans
Invest in ISRU, robotics, and human spaceflight technologies

Norm Entrepreneurship and Global South Leadership

Advocate equitable access and “common heritage” principles
Position as a bridge between developed and developing space actors

Regulatory and Institutional Preparedness

Develop comprehensive domestic space legislation
Facilitate private sector participation in lunar economy

CONCLUSION

Lunar resources like water ice have transformed the Moon into a strategic frontier, intensifying geopolitical competition. For India, the challenge lies in leveraging this moment to enhance capabilities, shape global norms, and safeguard equitable access while navigating an increasingly contested space order.

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