FROM BIPOLAR TO MULTIPOLAR WORLD ORDER: THE SHIFT IN GLOBAL SPACE POWER DYNAMICS

Ever since the Sputnik 1 was launched in 1957, space has been a crucial technological frontier for super power rivalry. Over the past 30 years, the space system has evolved from a bipolar and simplistic model of the 20th century to a more complex and multifaceted structure in the 21st century. This paper argues that this transition, following the Cold War, has brought about significant changes in the space system’s key parameters, including its actors, interactions, processes, and trends. This paper utilises a comparative approach to analyse the space dynamics of the Cold War era and the 21st century space age. By contrasting these two periods, the study identifies and explores emergent trends in the modern space age, offering insights into how recent developments are reshaping global space power and influencing international relations. Lastly, this paper offers policy recommendations for Pakistan to overcome current challenges and seize new opportunities in this domain. These suggestions focus on improving the effectiveness and sustainability of Pakistan’s space programme, aligning it with international standards and national strategic objectives.