Can a Wealthy Individual Escape Legal Obstacles to Launch a Moon Mission?

Imagine the audacity: having enough resources to build a space rocket and launch it to the moon. But is such an ambitious dream as simple as economics and engineering might suggest? Governments, authorities, and the legal framework pose significant hurdles that a wealthy individual might find challenging to overcome.

Government and Security Clearances

First and foremost, the individuals with the requisite expertise to design and launch a space rocket are often already closely affiliated with government entities. These experts possess security clearances that are essential for their work. Governments have the means to remind such individuals of the risks involved if they venture into a speculative project outside their contracted work. This can range from subtle hints to more assertive actions, such as detaining or arresting them, which would jeopardize their existing clearances.

Access to Propellants and Chemicals

Building a space rocket requires specific chemicals and propellants that are strictly controlled by governments. Acquiring these materials without authorization can lead to severe sanctions on the companies supplying the project. The wealthy individual would either need to ensure access to these materials or establish their own industries to produce them. Governments have the power to control or even disrupt the supply chains, significantly impacting the project's progress.

Construction and Infrastructure

To construct a launch pad and ancillary facilities, a major construction firm with expertise in this domain would be needed. However, these firms often have ongoing projects with other government clients. The involvement in a space program could lead to conflicts of interest, causing firms to decline participation. In such cases, the wealthy individual might have to rely on smaller firms or establish their own construction firm. This path is fraught with complexities and uncertainties.

International Overflight and Military Sanctions

An international space mission, especially involving overflights, can trigger objections from numerous nations. For example, the United States and the European Union strategically place their space facilities near coasts to minimize overflight issues. A landlocked nation, particularly one with stronger military neighbors, could face significant pressure to terminate the program. The legal and moral justifications for such actions could be strong, making it difficult for entrepreneurs to proceed without facing considerable challenges.

Global Legal and Military Considerations

Even without the need for a state-level partnership, the legal landscape remains complex. A covert project lacks transparency, increasing the risk of military leaders and their civilian superiors perceiving it as a threat to national security. The very existence of such a project could draw military strikes, which are legally sanctionable despite the high costs involved. Given the risks of sanctions and potential military strikes, the wealthy individual must carefully assess the viability and legal implications of their ambitious plan.

Conclusion

Building and launching a space rocket to the moon is an awe-inspiring aspiration, but it is not without its legal and logistical challenges. Governments, authorities, and the complex web of international law and military considerations all present formidable obstacles. For a wealthy individual to successfully navigate this path, they would need to be prepared for a multifaceted and intricate journey, one that is fraught with potential legal and practical pitfalls.