Skip to content

Module Catalogue

Breadcrumbs navigation

IR5071   Outer Space Security

Academic year(s): 2025-2026

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 11

Semester: 2

Availability restrictions: Enrolment is limited to students in MLitt programs within the School of International Relations, as well as the MLitt in Legal and Constitutional Studies (subject to availability).

Planned timetable: To be confirmed

This module examines outer space as a key domain for contemporary global security. Access to space is rapidly expanding, with a growing number of state and non-state actors involved in space launch and satellite applications that are critical enablers of modern life on Earth. There are also emerging opportunities for space mining, tourism, and even human habitation on the Moon or Mars. Outer space is inextricably implicated in the social, political, economic, legal, and military processes that characterise relations within and between communities on Earth. The module applies IR theories and concepts to assess the security dynamics of activities in Earth orbit and beyond. Equally, it uses space activities as a context for thinking about key themes in IR including the nature of strategy and power, forms of security and insecurity, technology and warfare, great power rivalries, the interaction of state and non-state forms of agency, and the development and impact of governance mechanisms.

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: Seminar (x 11 weeks)

Scheduled learning hours: 22

Guided independent study hours: 288

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework = 100%

As defined by QAA
Coursework: 100%

Re-assessment: Examination = 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr A S Bower
Module teaching staff: Dr Adam Bower
Module coordinator email asb20@st-andrews.ac.uk

Intended learning outcomes

  • Understand the basic physical features of outer space, properties of orbit, and principles of spaceflight
  • Understand the range of contemporary spacefaring actors and activities
  • Assess the role of space technologies and operations in various forms of (in)security
  • Identify and evaluate the legal, normative, and organisational structures that characterise contemporary international space governance
  • Demonstrate further refinement in their research, writing, and presentation skills