Communications in Humanities Research ISSN: 2753-7072
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Research Article

The STS Framework for Evaluating the Necessity and Luxuries of Space Exploration

Xiyu LinNorth London Collegiate School（Singapore)*

* Corresponding author: [email protected]

Abstract

Space activities are still one of the most contentious issues for science and technology policy because of their high cost and impact on social development. Using STS, this paper examines whether space exploration is a social necessity or merely a privilege for the rich. The three components of the analytical system proposed in this paper are space utilisation, space exploration and space spectacles, and their respective legitimacies. In short, the legitimacy of any Space project should not be based on its large scale or inspirational quality, but on whether it can generate real public goods, support the long-term social values of choice, and establish an enduring and fair governance system. Space activities should benefit the general public, be open to all sectors of society, have transparent organisation, and fairly distribute the right of participation and benefits among everyone. Only then will they meet the criteria of legality and necessity and be considered legal public investments.

Keywords: Space exploration; Public goods; Space governance; Sociotechnical imaginaries; Distributive justice
Published: August 18, 2026
DOI: 10.54254/2753-7064/2026.HT36217
Volume: CHR Vol.112
pp. 49-55
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