# Global Power Dynamics in the Contemporary Space System
## 5 System Dynamics--Global Power Dynamics
### Reconfiguration of Strategic Alliances  
The historical evolution of the space system demonstrated a transition and a reconfiguration of the traditional alliances and partnerships in the space system. The bipolar scheme of the Cold War gave way to a new era in which both former adversaries (the United States and Russia) demonstrated a willingness to collaborate on space-related activities. This shift is exemplified by two significant events: the Shuttle-Mir collaboration in 1994 and the International Space Station (ISS) in 1998. The ISS, in particular, stands as a remarkable instance of global collaboration, encompassing all the major space powers by the late 20 th century. In recent decades, global cooperation has transformed, marked by a reconfiguration of strategic alliances. In a the current more competitive space system, the United States has reinforced its alliances with its traditional partners (Japan, Canada, and the EU) and has also pursued the expansion of its global collaboration by building a more extensive multilateral cooperation mechanism. In order to support the implementation of the NASA Artemis Project, the U.S. government decided to create the Artemis Accords, which represent a series of bilateral agreements between the United States and other countries. Initially signed in October 2020 by seven countries traditionally aligned with the United States--Australia, Canada, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and the United States--the Artemis Accords have since been joined by an additional 44 countries, including several established and emerging space powers (France, India, Brazil), representing all continents. Recent decades have seen an increase in the activity of Chinese space diplomacy, coinciding with the robust development of China's space program since the advent of the 21 st century. The Chinese space diplomacy strategy is multi-directional in terms of forums and agreements. The CNSA has established 149 space cooperation agreements or memorandums of understanding with 46 national space agencies and 4 international organizations, as well as 17 space cooperation mechanisms. Additionally, it has participated in 18 international organizations [47]. Since 2005, China has played a leadership role in the Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organization, comprising nations such as Iran, Turkey, and Pakistan. In 2021, China and Russia entered into a strategic agreement, establishing a framework for collaborative efforts in the construction of the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS). It is important to note that the International Lunar Research Station project is not exclusively Sino-Russian. The initiative is \"open to all international partners interested in cooperation\", and other countries and international organizations are encouraged to contribute to \"any aspect of the mission in every stage\" [84] (p. 2). Russia's approach to space cooperation has undergone a notable shift throughout its history. During the Cold War, Russia engaged in a direct confrontation with the United States in a competition known as the \"space race\". This was followed by a period of collaboration with the United States and European countries, as evidenced by the development of the Shuttle-Mir and ISS. However, this alliance experienced a shift in the early 21 st century, marked by a resurgence in tensions with Western nations. This led to Russia's strategic repositioning, as evidenced by its involvement in the ISS and ExoMars projects. In response to these developments, Russia has also cultivated new alliances with several emerging and developing space powers, including Iran, Brazil, India, and notably, China. Notably, Russia has established a strategic partnership with China, which is a significant development in the context of global space cooperation. In the aftermath of the Cold War, India has undergone a reconfiguration of its strategic alliances.