Space Travelling and its Challenges: A New Scenario for Islamic Ethics?

Abstract

In this paper, we consider the Islamic perspective on space travel. A fatwa with instructions on how to perform Muslim rites in space has been available to Muslim astronauts and aspiring ones for some years, while investments in space and its exploration by Muslim-majority countries are increasing. For some Muslim scholars, within the framework of Islamic moral principles, space travel can be considered acceptable and, in some cases, encouraged. However, we show that the project to explore or colonize other planets may require additional discussion and reflection in the field of Islamic ethics, when considering that – as scientists point out – it might necessitate genetically modifying astronauts and ultimately altering human nature. Moreover, in a space context, sexual reproduction might be unfeasible or less advantageous than assisted reproduction technologies (in-vitro fertilization and artificial wombs). Thus, in the field of Islamic ethics today's reflection on space travel cannot avoid engaging with themes central to transhumanist thought.