Posted on February 22, 2025
A Place for Religious Worship on Space Stations
My Extraterrestrial Communication Group (ECG) is in place to share historical and contemporary information about the history and direction of the universe. It is about trying to understand if or how all things in the universe might be connected. It is complicated, and I tried to capture the intent in the ECG Mission Statement:
The Extraterrestrial Communication Group (ECG) is dedicated to exploring the profound mysteries of the cosmos, delving into realms that encompass extraterrestrial communication, extraterrestrial contact, the creation of the universe, the divine concept of God, and the intricate tapestry of religious implications woven into the fabric of our existence. Our mission is to foster a community of open-minded thinkers, scientists, theologians, and enthusiasts who share a passion for unraveling the enigmas that transcend our earthly boundaries. – Stephen J. Silva, Founder.
This article is about religious facilities in space as we move into the future of space travel and longer-term space habitation.
In recent years, there has been a surge of interest in space travel, with private companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin making significant strides in commercializing space travel and making it more accessible to the general public. We now live in an age when recreational space travel, space tourism, and longer-term space habitation are almost within our reach. However, there is much more to this than technology development that will make longer-term civilian space habitation more accessible.
From the early days of unmanned missions to the Moon to the International Space Station (ISS) orbiting the Earth, mankind has made significant progress in venturing beyond our home planet. As we continue to push the boundaries of space exploration, the need for sustainable living environments for astronauts (including civilian space travelers) becomes increasingly essential. This includes sustainable living for body and soul.
Establishing places of worship in outer space is truly fascinating and thought-provoking. As humanity looks towards the stars and begins to explore the vast expanse of the cosmos, questions arise about the role of religion and spirituality in this new frontier. What does it mean to have a place of worship in space? Are such facilities mission-critical?
One of the most exciting aspects of having places of worship in outer space is the opportunity to transcend earthly boundaries and connect with something greater than us. Historically, religious spaces have served as places of reflection, meditation, and Communion with the divine. By establishing these facilities in space, we are extending these traditions beyond the confines of Earth and redefining our understanding of the sacred in a cosmic context.
International collaboration in space exploration has grown more interconnected and sophisticated, with the International Space Station (ISS) standing as a testament to this progress. Launched in 1998, the ISS represents a partnership among five space agencies: NASA (United States), Roscosmos (Russia), ESA (European Space Agency), JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency), and CSA (Canadian Space Agency). This unprecedented cooperation has united global expertise, financial resources, and innovative technology to develop and maintain one of the most ambitious projects in human history. A link on the ECG website tracks the ISS location in its orbit second by second.
The ISS was assembled without religious or spiritual contemplation spaces
however, some visitors brought religious works along with them as you might expect. As the station ages and maintenance costs increase, discussions surrounding its eventual decommissioning have reignited interest in extending international partnerships and fostering new ones. The ISS is currently scheduled to be decommissioned in 2030.
As governmental space programs like those behind the ISS look toward decommissioning the ISS, private companies are stepping in to bridge the gap and redefine how humans inhabit low Earth orbit (LEO). The rise of private space habitats reflects broader trends in the commercialization of space, with companies aiming to reduce costs, innovate new technology rapidly, and create versatile platforms capable of supporting a range of activities, from research and manufacturing to tourism and media production. That also now includes religious facilities.
Leading this campaign are companies like Axiom Space, Vast, Sierra Space, Blue Origin, Voyager Space, and SpaceX, all of which have announced plans to construct and operate free-flying commercial space stations within the next decade. Axiom Space, for instance, is actively working on modules that will initially attach to the ISS, effectively bridging the established government-led infrastructure and the private sector’s independent endeavors. Once the ISS is retired, these modules are planned to detach and continue as a standalone orbiting platform capable of hosting astronauts and private visitors. Similarly, Blue Origin’s Orbital Reef project intends to deploy a “mixed-use business park” in space, designed to accommodate scientific research and commercial ventures.
The rise of private space habitats marks a pivotal moment in humanity’s journey to establish a sustained presence in space. By opening up LEO to a broad spectrum of industries and stakeholders, commercial operators are expanding access and creating a competitive environment that fosters innovation. As these private ventures mature, they are expected to complement (not replace) government-led initiatives, ensuring that space remains a shared domain for scientific exploration, economic opportunity, and collaborative progress.
In recent years, establishing religious facilities on future space stations has gained traction among various religious communities and space agencies. As human exploration of space advances, accommodating religious practices and beliefs in the unique space environment has become increasingly recognized as an important necessity.
One key consideration in designing religious facilities for space stations is the need to accommodate diverse beliefs and practices. Various spiritual traditions have specific rituals and requirements to consider when planning religious facilities in space. For example, Muslims require a place to pray facing towards Mecca, while Christians may require spaces for worship and meditation.
Several space agencies and private organizations have begun to develop plans for religious facilities on future space stations to address these diverse needs. One such initiative is the “Multi-faith Space Station Initiative,” which aims to create a space station that can accommodate a wide range of religious practices. The station will include designated areas for prayer, meditation, and worship and facilities for religious ceremonies and gatherings.
Another active plan for future space station religious facilities is the “Interfaith Space Habitat Project,” which seeks to create a space habitat that can serve as a spiritual retreat for people of all faiths. The habitat will include chapels, meditation rooms, outdoor spaces for religious ceremonies, and spiritual guidance and counseling resources.
In addition to these specific initiatives, there are broader efforts to ensure that religious needs are considered in designing and constructing future space stations.
For example, the International Astronautical Federation established a working group on Space Activities and Religion, which aims to promote between religious communities and space agencies. The group works to ensure that the spiritual needs of astronauts in space are considered in all aspects of space exploration.
Creating places of worship in space raises essential questions about the nature of religion and its relationship to human exploration and discovery. As we push the boundaries of our knowledge and reach out into the unknown, how do our beliefs and practices adapt and evolve? Do they or should they adapt and evolve is another question. What new insights and understandings might we gain by contemplating the mysteries of the universe from a place of spiritual reverence that is not tied down to the Earth?
The design and construction of places of worship in space present unique challenges and opportunities for artistic and architectural creativity. How might these spaces be designed to evoke a sense of awe and wonder while providing practical resources for astronauts and space travelers? What materials and technologies could create a functional and spiritually enriching space?
In a world often divided by religious conflict, the symbol of a place of worship in space could remind us of our shared humanity and the common aspirations that unite us as a species.
Despite these exciting possibilities, there are also practical and ethical considerations when contemplating establishing places of worship in outer space. How do we ensure these spaces are accessible to all individuals, regardless of their background or beliefs? What measures can be taken to protect these spaces’ sanctity and integrity while respecting the diversity of religious traditions and practices? There is much to consider.
For some religious space explorers, faith has driven their desire to venture into the cosmos. The sense of wonder and quest for knowledge about God’s creation that compels scientific inquiry also propels the urge to travel into space for spiritual astronauts.
Some see space exploration as humanity’s destiny and duty, spreading life and the divine message across the universe. Others believe spacefaring can bring humanity closer to God by revealing creation’s sublime grandeur. These attitudes frame space travel as a religious experience that upholds, rather than contradicts, spiritual beliefs.
Prominent examples include Buzz Aldrin privately taking Communion on the Moon during Apollo 11 and Apollo 15’s James Irwin expressing a sense of God’s presence during his lunar EVA. Religious icons and crosses have also traveled to space with Russian crews.
Despite its inspirational aspects for some, space travel also challenges traditional religious practices adapted to life on Earth. Microgravity and busy mission schedules constrain astronauts’ abilities to reflect, pray, or observe rituals in space.
Muslim astronauts strive to orient themselves toward Mecca and manage ritual purity for prayer while in orbit. The space environment can also alter spiritual perspectives, with some astronauts reporting intensified feelings of connection or questioning their beliefs after looking down on Earth from above.
As space tourism increases access, questions arise on how religious needs can be accommodated in commercial flights alongside mission objectives. Issues of religious freedom, separation of church and state, and ethics must be negotiated as spaceflight becomes more inclusive.
While space travel has tested religious adherence, experiencing the cosmos has also enriched faith for many by shifting perspectives. Seeing Earth as an oasis strengthens environmental stewardship among religious astronauts.
The overview effect of viewing Earth from space spurs a sense of planetary connection that transcends denominations. Contemplating infinity and creation’s grand scale can reinvigorate spirituality and humility.
Encountering extraterrestrial life could also transform beliefs by confirming we are not alone. Some theologians argue contact would align with faith in a creative God. But it could also challenge anthropocentric doctrines, requiring a reassessment of humanity’s place in creation.
Ongoing discoveries continue to shape the relationship between religion and space in complex ways. However, openness, inclusion, and ethical priorities can help faith and exploration find common ground.
As humanity contemplates missions to Mars and beyond, religious wisdom can help ensure that spacefaring uplifts human dignity across the cosmos. With care, unity, foresight, and moral courage, a shared longing to understand existence can inspire humanity’s quest upward and outward.
Pondering humanity’s past, present, and future and all that goes with it requires a historical perspective. Some of the most remarkable structures ever constructed in human history are places of worship. Historically, civilizations have dedicated enormous amounts of time, labor, and money to constructing buildings for prayer and spiritual purposes.
Providing religious facilities on space stations raises several considerations and practical implications that space agencies know they must carefully address. Firstly, it is essential to ensure that the allocation of resources for religious facilities does not compromise the spacecraft’s safety and functionality. Any resources allocated for religious purposes must be justified regarding their contribution to the passengers and crew’s overall well-being and safety.
Religion has been a catalyst for scientific exploration and technological advancement throughout history. Many early astronomers and thinkers were inspired by their religious beliefs to study the heavens, unravel the mysteries of the universe, and push the boundaries of human knowledge.
Modern space exploration represents our continued quest for knowledge, understanding, and discovery, a journey that resonates with the human desire for transcendence and meaning. Space station facilities, like ancient religious structures on Earth, can serve as places of reflection, meditation, prayer, and worship, allowing individuals to connect with their inner selves, each other, and the cosmos beyond.
Including religious facilities in future space stations is essential for the holistic well-being and flourishing of individuals living and working in space. As we embark on the journey toward establishing longer-term settlements in space, let us not forget the profound and enduring impact that religion has historically had on our exploration missions.
Let us build space stations that are not just technological marvels but also spiritual sanctuaries where the human spirit can continue to understand its place in the vastness of the universe.
Sources:
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