The application of Critical Theory to space science—examining how space exploration and research are shaped by power, politics, and economics. Critical Theory of Space Science asks: Who funds space science? For what purposes? How do military and corporate interests shape space agendas? Whose dreams of space are realized, whose are excluded? How might space science serve humanity rather than nationalism or profit? Drawing on critical geography and science studies, it insists that space is never just "out there"—it's an extension of Earthly politics, power, and inequality.
"Space exploration is for all humanity, they say. Critical Theory of Space Science asks: funded by whom? Controlled by whom? Billionaires racing to space while people starve—that's not 'all humanity.' Space science serves power, just like everything else. Critical theory insists on asking: who benefits from space, and who's left behind on Earth?"
by Abzugal Nammugal Enkigal March 4, 2026
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