Conference: "Social and Ethical Issues in Space Exploration"

Experts from every discipline interested in exploring the many complex social and ethical questions raised by space exploration and the search for life on other planets are invited to attend the first joint meeting of the two major groups devoted to this end - The Society for Social and Conceptual Issues in Astrobiology and The European Astrobiology Institute Working Group for Historical, Philosophical and Societal issues in astriobiology. 

We welcome submissions addressing any of the many “broader questions” in astrobiology and space exploration such as:
Commercial activity in space
Human colonization of other worlds
The true nature of “life”
The moral status of extraterrestrial life and extraterrestrial intelligence
Balancing diverse cultural perspectives
Space Mining
Protection of extraterrestrial bodies and
“Pollution” in the context of space
Space research and society
Ownership of space “resources”
First Contact protocols
Religious implications of contact
Fictional portrayals of space
Emerging issues in space law

Kiruna is located in the Arctic area of Sweden. At this time of year, there are good chances of seeing both splendid fall colours as well as the northern lights.
The conference includes a visit to nearby Esrange, the only rocket launching facility in operation on the European mainland.

If you wish to be considered, submit a 250-word abstract for a presentation or poster (please specify) by June 1, 2024 to the program chair, Kelly Smith (kcs [at] clemson [dot] edu). Additional information about the conference will be posted to our website (ssocia.space) when it becomes available. 
Graduate students are especially encouraged to apply and we anticipate having support to facilitate their participation.