| Summary: | 碩士 === 國立中山大學 === 大陸研究所 === 96 === Since the Soviet Union launched its first satellite in 1957, the progress in space technology has drastically changed mankind''s modus vivendi. As when nations grew more and more dependant upon the benefits brought about by the satellite technologies, space, however, became a new strategic realm where nations sought to master; consequently, contentions for national interests over this terra incognita between major global powers have evolved into a significant international security issue. Hence, as the previous military doctrines—such as eighteenth century land power doctrine, nineteenth century sea power doctrine, and air power doctrine of the twentieth century—serving as precedents, the emerging space power doctrine will undoubtedly dominate the twenty-first century global power contenders'' primary national interests as well as security concerns.
Over the course of the past half century, the People''s Republic of China has endeavored the developments of it indigenous space technologies, and successfully positioned itself to be the third nation to have ever launched a manned space program; this manifestation also demonstrated the growing maturity and sophistication of People''s Republic''s space technologies. Currently, in line with America''s as well as Russia''s ever-expanding budget dedicated to their respective space goals, China has thus far demonstrated its political will of not falling behind the trend. Aside from the military objectives attached to the developments of China''s space programs, the socio-political gains accrued to Beijing as a result of its space programs'' current and future success will ensure the Communist Party''s long lasting goal of glorifying the Chinese civilization as well as elevating nation''s international prestige.
This present treatise inquires into firstly, the surrounding circumstances and strategic environments within which China''s determination for developing its indigenous space program was fermented; secondly, the crucial role play of leaderships in Beijing in formulating the successful development of the nation''s space programs. Furthermore, this paper will present an in-depth analysis of the critical elements that were imperative in China''s quest to achieve its space objectives, the history behind the program, as well as its present day capabilities and geo-political implications. In sum, the research findings will demonstrate the growing and ever more significant role the space technologies are playing within the conclave of the modern day Chinese strategic making apparatus.
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