Document Type
Article
Publication Date
Spring 2021
Abstract
This article will examine the proposed space operations structure by first outlining the historical foundations for differences in maritime and air domain military capabilities, specifically brown-water versus blue-water navies, and “local/ regional” versus “global” airpower. Next, the article will present the concept of black space and blue space in terms of an environment-specific definition, as well as an examination of the technical capability requirements, mission types, and national prestige and geopolitical considerations underpinning the proposed operation types. Finally, the article will explore how the USSF might support future space exploration within the black-space and blue-space operations structure.
Source Publication
Air & Space Power Journal
Recommended Citation
Poole, Carl & Bettinger, Robert. (2021). Black Space versus Blue Space: A Proposed Dichotomy of Future Space Operations. Air and Space Power Journal, 35(1), 4-18.
Comments
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed or implied in the Journal are those of the authors and should not be construed as carrying the official sanction of the Department of Defense, Air Force, Air Education and Training Command, Air University, or other agencies or departments of the US government. This article may be reproduced in whole or in part without permission. If it is reproduced, the Air and Space Power Journal requests a courtesy line.
[*] Author note: At the time of publication Capt Carl Poole was a graduate student at Air Force Institute of Technology.