Spacedebate.org -- a new effort to expand the debate on the weaponization of space through a collaborative wiki-like tool for structured debate on a topic -- launched recently. The project is modeled after Wikipedia, but instead of focusing on developing an encyclopedia it invites users to help edit and expand an 'argument tree' that reflects the various positions in the debate over U.S. military space policy. Users can browse the argument tree or an extensive database of resources, including links to relevant news articles, authoritative quotes, and a comprehensive bibliography of sources.
James Pinkerton argues that the historical evidence indicates that China has expansionist motives behind its space program.
James Pinkerton, a fellow at the New American Foundation, argues that the U.S. should be alert to the threat posed by China's recent gains in developing a long range space strategy.
Bryan Bender, a military analyst for Stratfor.com argues that "stimulated by the new political leadership emerging in the United States, an escalating space race will turn the final frontier into a new battleground in the 21st century."
The satellite and commerical space industry is booming and the US Space Command, the Defense Information Systems Agency, and virtually all the services are keeping a close eye on it. They believe it carries major implications both for military strategy and for actual use, as military forces plan to piggyback on commercial systems when possible.