This presentation defines the major American diplomatic moments that spurred China’s space program from 1950 to 2022. Since ancient times, Chinese astronomers have made accurate depictions of the cosmos. In the Dark Ages, the Chinese invented the world’s first rocket. And within just six years of establishing the People’s Republic of China (PRC), the Chinese government reignited its passion for space exploration and leadership. Seventy years later, China had achieved space superpower status. This was not owed to a Chinese quest for space, however. The main reason China made its space program a priority is because of a security dilemma where U.S. satellites, missiles, and spacefaring technologies—coupled with American distaste for China—threatened China’s well-being. China wanted sovereignty, safety, and due respect; it wanted out of America’s shadow.

Rebecca Schembri graduated from Harvard University Extension School with a bachelor of liberal arts in international relations with minors in legal studies and astronomy and a concentration in space diplomacy. She is Harvard-certified in professional communication and social justice. She aspires to one day represent the United Nations as ambassador to the moon, Mars, or other celestial habitat.