2023 Donner Prize Honours Outer Space Researchers

June 17, 2024
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Professors Michael Byers and Aaron Boley

This is a version of the the UBC Department of Political Science article published here on May 9th, 2024.

Department of Physics & Astronomy faculty Dr. Aaron Boley is co-author of a recent award-winning policy book, Who Owns Outer Space? International Law, Astrophysics, and the Sustainable Development of Space, garnering the prestigious 2023 Donner Prize with collaborator UBC Political Science Professor Michael Byers.

The Donner Prize is awarded annually to the best public policy book by a Canadian. Jurors praised Who Owns Outer Space?, saying that it offered a “down to earth” analysis of a vital topic that explores both the scientific and governance aspects of space law.

Who Owns Outer Space? draws attention to the many risks that are linked to the deployment of very large numbers of new satellites, and the growing rivalries among leading spacefaring nations and corporations.

The book includes an examination of existing international treaties and state practices that show both the effectiveness of the rules and practices already in place and, importantly, their limitations, as well as suggesting how international law and other cooperative arrangements could be strengthened to avoid catastrophic incidents. Of pressing interest to Canadian policy makers, this book outlines both challenges a way forward in this uncertain territory.

Aaron holds the Canada Research Chair in Planetary Astronomy at the University of British Columbia. He co-directs the Outer Space Institute, a transdisciplinary organization that addresses challenges associated with NewSpace, conducting research into planetary dynamics, and space sustainability.

Michael holds the Canada Research Chair in Global Politics and International Law at the University of British Columbia and co-directs the Outer Space Institute. His previous book, International Law and the Arctic (Cambridge University Press) won the 2013 Donner Prize.

Congratulations Aaron and Michael for this exceptional achievement!


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