Compass February 2023 - Space and Futures

This issue investigates the implications of the new rush to space and what it means for humanity's long-term future. Chris Jones examines the dark side of space exploration critiquing the continued growth mindset and highlighting the risk of orbital collapse. Namrata Goswami and Peter Garretson explore the geopolitics of space resource competition particularly between the U.S. and China. Richard Watson poses provocative questions about the protocols and consequences of making contact with extraterrestrial intelligence. Tim Chrisman calls on futurists to act as wise counsel during this era of promised limitless potential in space. Fernando Gutierrez analyzes the rise of private space initiatives in Latin America through four future scenarios. Ashish Manwar explores the role of stress and pain signals on leadership functions during long-duration space journeys. Bugge Holm Hansen and Sofie Hvitved analyze the future of the generative metaverse and the role of AI in content creation. Stephen Dupont interviews Dré Labre on leveraging design fiction to create artifacts that spur discussion about possible futures. Andy Hines presents his research on imagining a world after capitalism including the Circular Commons and Tech-Led Abundance images. Nikolas Badminton and Bronwyn Williams invite global participation in the 1000-Year Project to encourage long-term thinking. The issue also includes a history of the Swinburne Foresight Program by Richard Slaughter and tips for scenario world-building by Beth Barany.