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The cultural landscape of interplanetary space

2005/02/01 by Alice Gorman · 4 citations
Physics and Astronomy · Earth and Planetary Sciences · #Space Science and Extraterrestrial Life #Space exploration and regulation #Archaeological Research and Protection

paper · doi:10.1177/1469605305050148

openalex publication_date 2005/02/01 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/29

Abstract

Since the launch of Sputnik 1 in 1957, interplanetary space has become filled with human material culture. A ‘spacescape’ now exists including terrestrial space sites like rocket ranges, satellites and space junk in Earth orbit and planetary landing sites. The significance of this material is usually understood within a ‘Space Race’ framework that emphasizes high technology and the Cold War rivalry between the USA and the USSR. However, appropriate management of the cultural heritage of space exploration requires a broader scope and this can be provided by a cultural landscape approach. The heritage significance of space exploration is explored through three cultural landscapes which illustrate complex and conflicting perspectives on space: Peenemünde in Germany, Woomera in South Australia and Tranquility Base on the Moon.

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