The second space race and the astropolitical aspects of sino-american competition

Starting from the assumption that the United States and the People's Republic of China are engaged in competition for space primacy through the establishment of a permanent and dominant presence on the Moon, with the possibility of future exploitation of space resources, this paper aims to examine and explain the competition in question in its basic outlines. The analysis primarily focuses on the opposing Artemis and ILRS coalitions from both geopolitical and astropolitical perspectives. To that end, and within a realpolitik framework, the paper employs the methods of comparative analysis of the ongoing space activities of the two superpowers, their strategic documents and legislation, as well as the narratives of key actors. The research findings indicate that the world is currently witnessing the Second Space Race, which gives astropolitics increasing importance for understanding contemporary international relations. The conclusion emphasizes that, owing to new technological capabilities and emerging strategic circumstances, outer space is no longer primarily an area of scientific interest, but is increasingly manifesting itself as a distinct strategic domain of interstate competition. This entails numerous security, environmental, economic and other threats, but also opportunities for development.