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Abstract

The emerging geopolitical rivalry between the U.S. and China has extended beyond terrestrial domains to outer space, shaping contemporary space governance, security dynamics, and the evolving New Space. This chapter examines the geopolitical dimensions of the Sino-American rivalry in space, analyzing how both powers leverage their space programs for strategic, economic, and military gains. It highlights the role of New Space – by increased privatization, commercialization, and technological innovation – in accelerating competition between state and non-state actors. The study explores how both nations integrate commercial space companies into their broader geopolitical strategies, with the U.S. fostering a market-driven approach and China adopting a state-backed model of space development. By assessing key developments in space policy, institutional frameworks, and military applications, the chapter underscores how the convergence of government-led initiatives and private-sector innovation is reshaping the political economy of space. Furthermore, it examines the role of emerging space actors, including private firms, multinational consortia, and middle-power nations, in shaping the competitive landscape. The chapter also considers whether international legal regimes and space diplomacy efforts can mitigate tensions in an era of increasing commercial and military entanglement in space activities. Given the dual-use nature of many New Space technologies, the findings suggest that the Sino-American space rivalry is not only influencing the governance of outer space but also redefining the balance between security concerns, economic opportunities, and global power competition.

Publication Type:	Book Section
Additional Information:	© 2027 Palgrave MacMillan. This is the accepted manuscript of an article published by Palgrave MacMillan. Please refer to the publisher’s terms and conditions for information on re-use.
Publisher Keywords:	New Space, Sino-American rivalry, space governance, space policy, space security
Subjects:	J Political Science > JA Political science (General) J Political Science > JZ International relations
Departments:	School of Policy & Global Affairs School of Policy & Global Affairs > Department of International Politics
SWORD Depositor:	Symplectic Administrator

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