Editorial: White House spaces out

Thursday, Oct. 19, 2006 | 7:34 a.m.

Bush's policy could create a slippery slope that leads to a space weapons race

T he Bush administration is taking us where no man has gone before, except for maybe Buck Rogers or Han Solo.

In its recently updated space policy, the administration lays out a plan that could change space from the final frontier to the next battleground. While administration officials have downplayed talk of developing or putting weapons in space, it's clear the option of arming the heavens is open.

"Freedom of action in space is as important to the United States as air power and sea power," the policy boldly states, adding that the U.S. "must have robust, effective and efficient space capabilities."

It also notes that "peaceful purposes" include "U.S. defense and intelligence-related activities in pursuit of national interests."

According to the Washington Post, U.S. officials have expressed concern about satellite security, saying a U.S. satellite was "painted," or illuminated, by a laser in China recently. Security in space is essential, especially as so much of the economy relies on satellites - they're used with everything, from ATMs to trucking companies. It's appropriate to shield and protect satellites, but weapons aren't the first or best answer, and we're concerned that the aggressive tone of this policy may escalate a space weapons race. The U.S. policy's first step should be seeking treaties and agreements with other countries to keep the peace in space.

The new policy mentions cooperating with other countries to keep space safe for peaceful uses, but the underpinning is clear - speak softly and carry a big satellite.