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AuthorRay Chandler (2021)
ISPL is pleased to announce the programme of the annual Space Policy and Law Course for 2021.
This interactive annual course explores space policy and law to inform professionals in the space sector about the policy and legal principles and the latest developments affecting space activities. The topics are taught by leading experts through lectures, discussions and case-studies.
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Informing UK Space Policy
Satellite Mega-Constellation Safety and Security: Importance of Evidence-Based InformationChristoph Beischl (2021)
This Study examines the Space Safety and Security aspects of satellite mega-constellations, identifying areas of concern that must be factored into the development of relevant policies and strategies. It enumerates the evidence-based information necessary to formulate policies in each area of concern and expertise to supply such information available in the United Kingdom (UK).
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National Space Organisational ArrangementsProf Sa'id Mosteshar, Dr Christoph Beischl (2021)
This Report by the London Institute of Space Policy and Law (ISPL) presents the basic space organisational arrangements in each of Italy, Luxembourg and the United Kingdom (UK), with a particular focus on these countries’ space agencies.
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Space Policy and Law Course 2020 ISPL (2020)
Programme for the on-line Course on Space Policy and Law on 9 to 11 November 2020.
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Indian Space Policy and LawDr Christoph Beischl, Dr Ranjana Kaul, Narayan Prasad (2020)
An appraisal of Indian Government reforms aimed at promoting private participation in space activities. The policy direction was announced by Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, Minister of Union Finance and of Corporate Affairs on 16 May 2020.
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Space Safety Policy: Informing UK PolicyDr Christoph Beischl (2020)
Although Space Safety is an area of growing international importance and fundamental to the UK’s aspirations in space generally, there is no dedicated reference to Space Safety in current UK Space Policy (including Strategy) documents. However, the UK has been active in different degrees in the following five Space Safety subject areas:
Terrestrial Environmental Impact;
Space Debris;
Planetary Defence;
Space Weather; and
Space Traffic Management.
This Study examines the technical and scientific evidence relevant to the formulation of a sound UK Space Safety Policy.
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Small Satellite Constellations: National Security ImplicationsMark Roberts, Christoph Beschl, Sa'id Mosteshar (2019)
With the potentially exponential increase in small satellites, particularly those destined for mega-constellations, the world faces something of a dilemma – is this a good or bad development for national security? For the small satellite constellation advocates there is no doubt, they present an outstanding opportunity for the global community to access commercially competitive Space products and services at a fraction of the historic costs, with the potential to enhance national (and personal) security. However, for those troubled by national security threats and issues, the burgeoning capabilities, combined with the sheer numbers of miniaturised orbital assets, and the ever-reducing cost of entry into this developing marketplace, the emergence of small satellite constellations is probably mildly alarming.
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International Space Law: Adequacy for PurposeSa'id Mosteshar (2019)
It is often argued that the rate of change of space technology and its applications is greater than the rate of change of the law, leading to a growing vacuum in international space law that is being filled by national legal initiatives. This article examines whether this is the case, considering activities ranging from space traffic management, space mining and tourism to ‘living off world.’
A separate question arises about the interpretation of these treaties in a modern context, and the prospects of creating new treaties. The article will briefly consider the future course of international space law.
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International Space Law: Adequacy forPurposeSa'id Mosteshar (2019)
It is often argued that the rate of change of space technology and its applications is greater than the rate of change of the law, leading to a growing vacuum in international space law that is being filled by national legal initiatives. This article examines whether this is the case, considering activities ranging from space traffic management, space mining and tourism to ‘living off world.’
A separate question arises about the interpretation of these treaties in a modern context, and the prospects of creating new treaties. The article will briefly consider the future course of international space law.
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Weapons in SpaceSa'id Mosteshar (2019)
In the excitement and optimism at the dawn of the human venture into outer space, there was a widespread expectation that space would be an area free of conflict, and dedicated to peace. Proposals that space "would be used only for genuinely peaceful purposes and the common benefit of mankind ... were made respectively by the United States in 1957 and the Soviet Union in 1958."
This article will show that despite such aspirations, military use of space was contemplated and marks many of the early technological developments by the United States and the USSR, the two space powers. It will explore the international law governing the placement and use of weapons in space and examine the laws affecting the use of outer space for military purposes. It will also point to areas where a lack of agreed definition has an impact, as well as complications arising from dual military and non-military use.
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Towards an Asian Space Agency? The whence and whither of Asian interstate relations in the space sector in the 21st centuryChristoph Beischl (2019)
Despite the known benefits offered by intergovernmental organisations (IGOs) to governments, the inception of the intergovernmental Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organization in 2006, as well as various academic proposals for the creation of other space-specific IGOs in Asia in the 21st century, recent years have still not seen a real engagement amongst Asian governments with dedicated space programmes towards establishing a broad regional space-specific IGO.
Within this context, this study has decided to ask whether there is a reasonable potential amongst Asian governments to commence negotiations towards establishing an Asian Space Agency (ASA) – perceived within certain stipulations as a broad IGO-based regional space cooperation mechanism – based on the general political and legal status quo of their space programmes as of 2017. In particular, this study focusses on whether the governments with the most ambitious space programmes and domestic access to leading space technology (development) capabilities in Asia, identified as China, India, Iran, Japan, North Korea and South Korea, currently display such a potential. After all, they might be likely at the centre of an ASA.
For that, this study develops and employs a methodological approach based on Moravcsik’s well- established International Relations theory ‘Liberalism’ and a plausible determination of basic political and legal ASA characteristics. At the analytical core is a government-by-government assessment and subsequent specialised comparison of the state preferences (somewhat constituting national interests) underlying the current space programmes of the six selected governments, their major domestic and cooperative space-related measures promoted in the pursuit of these state preferences, as well as their respective basic political and legal framework concerning IGO-based regional space cooperation.
In contrast to its confident hypothesis, this study concludes in the end that the present space-related state preference situation amongst the six selected governments is such that there is currently no reasonable potential amongst them to commence negotiations towards establishing an ASA. The most problematic factor for the establishment of an ASA is each government’s respective current second space-related autonomy-oriented state preference.
Notably, to finish on a more positive and practical note, this study’s final sections further discuss generally the closest IGO-based regional space agency variant to a fully-fledged ASA about which the six selected governments might reasonably negotiate in the context of their current space-related state preferences. Also, the final sections put forward some general policy and regulatory recommendations that might help to broaden these governments’ (IGO-based) intergovernmental space cooperation in the future.
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Seminar II in a Series on The Benefits of Outer Space: Environmental Security - updated programme 29 March ISPL (2018)
This interdisciplinary seminar series examines the benefits of space systems and services to the world. The seminars are jointly organised by ISPL and UCL Space Domain, to celebrate 60 Years in Space and 50 Years of Lawful & Peaceful Use. Topics will include food security, climate change and the environment, and disaster response.
The first seminar addressed the Outer Space Treaty and the benefits it has brought to humanity. Topics included the status of the Treaty and current developments, what the future holds and the preservation of space systems.
This second seminar will examine ways that outer space contributes to environmental security. Speakers from ESA, UCL, Leicester and Reading Universities will address the participants, and there will be discussion following the sessions.
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ISPL UCL SD Seminar 13Dec2017 Report ver2 ISPL (2018)
This seminar is the first in a series exploring the legacy of the 1967 Outer Space Treaty (“OST”). The principles enshrined in the Treaty may be said to have established a climate of cooperation, internationalisation and peaceful use. This has led to the development of space assets and capabilities that are essential to our way of life, and enrich our understanding of the universe.
Topics of relevance at this first seminar were outlined by specialists in the relevant fields and discussed by invited delegates from all sectors of space operation and regulation under Chatham House Rules.
The contributions at this seminar underline the enormous potential of space to deal with world problems and to improve life on Earth through Earth observation and space monitoring. The OST has served us well, but we must ensure that space is used well and responsibly to ensure its long-term sustainability.
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Seminar II in a Series on The Benefits of Outer Space: Environmental Security - updated 5 April ISPL (2018)
The second in our seminar series on space serving humanity will address environmental security. The first seminar concerned the Outer Space Treaty.
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ISPL UCL SD Seminar 1 13December2017 Brachet Legacy of OSTGerard Brachet (2017)
Powerpoint slides for presentation by Gerard Brachet
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ISPL UCL SD Seminar 1 13December2017 Coates Exploration and ExploitationAndrew Coates (2017)
Powerpoint slides to link with ISPL Report of the seminar, the first in a series of joint ISPL and UCL Space Domain seminars.
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ISPL UCL SD Seminar 1 13December2017 Jarman Food Security and the Potential Role for Space Science Part 2Mark Jarman (2017)
Powerpoint slides to link with ISPL Report of the seminar, the first in a series of joint ISPL and UCL Space Domain seminars.
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ISPL UCL SD Seminar 1 13December2017 Leaton Gray Space Big Data and PrivacySandra Leaton Gray (2017)
Powerpoint slides to link with ISPL Report of the seminar, the first in a series of joint ISPL and UCL Space Domain seminars.
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ISPL UCL SD Seminar 1 13December2017 Mosteshar Current State of the Outer Space TreatySaid Mosteshar (2017)
Outline of talk to link with ISPL Report of the seminar, the first in a series of joint ISPL and UCL Space Domain seminars.
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ISPL UCL SD Seminar 1 13December2017 Roberts Security of Space AssetsMark Roberts (2017)
Powerpoint slides to link with ISPL Report of the seminar, the first in a series of joint ISPL and UCL Space Domain seminars.
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ISPL UCL SD Seminar 1 13December2017 Walsh Food Security and the Potential Role for Space Science
Conor Walsh (2017)
Powerpoint slides to link with ISPL Report of the seminar, the first in a series of joint ISPL and UCL Space Domain seminars.
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Seminar I in a Series on The Benefits of Outer Space (2017)
ISPL and UCL Space Domain will collaborate on Outer Space Serving Humanity: 60 Years in Space, 50 Years of Lawful & Peaceful Use. This interdisciplinary series of seminars will focus on the benefits space the Outer Space Treaty has brought to humanity, current developments and what the future holds. We will be discussing topics such as food security, climate change and the environment and disaster response.
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Brexit and the UK Space SectorScott Smith (2017)
This Workshop was jointly organised by ISPL and UCL, and was held on Thursday 23 March 2017. Topics of relevance were outlined by specialists in the relevant fields and discussed under Chatham House Rules by invited delegates from all sectors of space operation and regulation. We would like to thank UCL’s Institute of Education for hosting the event.
The Rapporteurs were Professor Alan Smith and Dr Ian Scott.
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Potential UK Withdrawal from European Union Membership ("Brexit"): Policy and Regulatory Considerations for the Space Sector
Practitioner and Industry Workshop (CPD)*
ISPL (2017)
ISPL and UCL held a joint workshop on the impact on the UK space sector of UK withdrawal from the European Union (Brexit). On Thursday 23 March 2017 participants from government, manufacturing, industry, service providers and system operators, legal, market and consulting professionals, government advisers and academics.
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UNOOSA Educational Opportunities in Space Law (2017)
In response to the recommendation of the Legal Subcommittee at its fifty-fifth session, in 2016, the Office for Outer Space Affairs updated the Directory of education opportunities in space law.
The Directory contains information on the respective institutions’ areas of specialization, educational programmes offered, facilities available, prerequisite qualifications, financial information, fellowship opportunities and opportunities for international cooperation, as well as reference to educational material easily available on the internet. Addresses and contact points for further information are included.
The updated Directory is also being made available on the website of the Office for Outer Space Affairs (www.unoosa.org).
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The International Space Partnership Programme IPSP Report to Inmarsat Global Limited and the United Kingdom Space Agency, 2016, on the Policies of Kenya, Nigeria and the United Kingdom: a Model for the Foundation of Effective Engagement and Collaboration ISPL (2016)
Pushing Digital Frontiers to advance e-finance solutions and access to maternal health in remote locations: Realising the critical role and benefits of leveraging mobile satellite to its fullest extent in the pursuit of bridging the digital divide and delivering truly inclusive digital economies globally.
The Project was commissioned by the UK Space Agency in March 2015, as part of the International Partnership Space Programme (IPSP). It is one of several space projects funded through the International Partnerships Space Programme, in which UK companies will work with international partners to develop satellite technology and applications in emerging economies. They are intended to demonstrate how UK satellite or space technology can provide societal and economic benefits to countries that do not currently have such capabilities.
This document reports results concerning the space policy objectives of each Partner Country and their compatibility with those of the UK in relation to the Project. The services were provided in Kenya and Nigeria. The section concerning Nigerian policy is necessarily more limited than that relating to Kenya, as the change of government has entailed structural change, including a new Cabinet.
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Application for Visiting Scholar or Researcher,
or for Review of a Research Degree Proposal
ISPL (2015)
Information and form to apply to be a visiting scholar, visiting researcher, or to have a higher research degree proposal evaluated.
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Preliminary Postgraduate Degree Proposal (2015)
The London Institute of Space Policy and Law (ISPL) evaluates proposals for potential MPhil and PhD degrees in space policy or law topics. The preliminary Application process is primarily based on the candidate’s Proposal. This document contains information about the process.
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A Case Study of Governance in Relation to Private Space Exploration, Exemplified by Mars One: Private One-way Colonisation of MarsDorte Jessen (2015)
The case study of ‘Mars One’ (a Dutch non-profit foundation that plans to establish a permanent human settlement on Mars by 2025; www.mars-one.com), aims to analyse if a reflexive social learning process is taking place in Europe by examining if society is equipped to develop ethical and moral guidance to govern our behaviour as human beings in outer space and the modern ethical dilemmas emanating from the consequences of being sent into space by a private entity as opposed to a government.
The theoretical arch is anchored in Social Learning Theory and symbolic loading (Wynne, 1978). It builds on the concepts of Adult Infantile Narcissism (Dickens and Ormrod, 2007) and Technological Adolescence (Mitchell and Staretz, 2011), underpinned by the social narrative of Beck’s Risk Society (Beck, 1992). The research methodology engages an exploratory instrumental case study approach (Stake, 1994), analysing primary data collected via semi-structured interviews with key informants and content analysis from Mars One audition videos. This is followed by a grounded theory approach, applying an inductive logic to infuse the theoretical propositions (Charmaz, 2014).
The analysis opens by establishing that inherent in governance are ethics and morals. It concludes that while the United Nations 1967 Outer Space Treaty provides a robust governance foundation, it has but scratched the surface when it comes to govern the incredible complexity of technological capabilities discovered by mankind, enabling the attempt of private interplanetary human colonisation. Ultimately, social theory, policy and ethical and regulatory frameworks are developing at a notoriously diffident stride, whilst the technological trajectory is proceeding at neck-breaking pace.
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Professor Bin Cheng Biography for ISPL Website 2015 ISPL (2015)
Professor Bin Cheng is the Honorary President of the London Institute of Space Policy and Law.
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Space Situational Awareness: Critical Legal AspectsSa'id Mosteshar (2013)
This presentation addressed legal aspects relevant to SSA. It looked at the objects of SSA and the national and international legal framework in which it operates, including treaties, guidelines and recommendations. The legal impact of SSA was discussed, along with remediation. A written paper is also available to accompany this document.
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Space Commerce: Regulation of small satellites under international and national space lawTanja Masson-Zwaan (2013)
A presentation at the Space Commerce Summit 2013 by ISPL Faculty Member Tanja Masson-Zwaan, who addressed the benefits of small satellites, national and international law as it relates to them, considerations in the UN and ITU as well as prospects for adequate regulation.
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Space Commerce: Managing conflict
The laws and regulations of commercial participation in spaceSa'id Mosteshar (2013)
This presentation addressed regulation and compliance, policy formulation and implementation, security and access, and considered some topical issues including debris mitigation and remediation, earth observation, ownership change and on-orbit service, and exploitation of resources. He looked at a potential future legal framework and briefly discussed international solutions, guidelines and best practice.
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Space Security: Civilian and Military Policy and Practice: Practitioner and Industry Seminar Programme (2013)
Program and publicity material for Seminar on Space Security, London 10 September 2013
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Getting to the Edge: The Future of Manned Space FlightDerek Webber (2013)
In the 40 years since the last Apollo mission to the Moon, nobody has been any further than low Earth orbit. The key to future interplanetary journeys is to get routinely, reliably, and at relatively low cost, out of Earth’s gravity. Once there, only relatively small amounts of delta energy (and therefore money) are required to go anywhere else in the solar system.
One solution is to establish a Gateway that can be used for entry and return of any future interplanetary vehicles. Possible locations are discussed, including the proposed ‘Spaceport Earth’ - at or near geostationary orbit.
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Outer Space Treaties and Principles on Outer Space, related General Assembly Resolutions and other documents (St/Space/61e) (2013)
The Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space is the only international forum for the development of international space law. Since its inception, the Committee has concluded five international legal instruments and five sets of legal principles governing space-related activities.
The international legal principles in these five treaties provide for non-appropriation of outer space by any one country, arms control, the freedom of exploration, liability for damage caused by space objects, the safety and rescue of spacecraft and astronauts, the prevention of harmful interference with space activities and the environment, the notification and registration of space activities, scientific investigation and the exploitation of natural resources in outer space and the settlement of disputes. Each of the treaties lays great stress on the notion that the domain of outer space, the activities carried out therein and whatever benefits might accrue therefrom should be devoted to enhancing the well-being of all countries and humankind, and each includes elements elaborating the common idea of promoting international cooperation in outer space activities.
The five sets of legal principles adopted by the United Nations General Assembly provide for the application of international law and promotion of international cooperation and understanding in space activities, the dissemination and exchange of information through transnational direct television broadcasting via satellites and remote satellite observations of Earth and general standards regulating the safe use of nuclear power sources necessary for the exploration and use of outer space.
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COMMERCIALISATION OF SPACE: OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES, 24-25 January 2013
(2013)
CONFERENCE CONTEXT:
Space commercialisation covers a breadth of space related technologies, capabilities and services, both space-based as well as ground-based, that are generally exploited to generate revenue by governments and aerospace companies. Much of the space capabilities developed so far are beginning to be exploited not only commercially as multi-national companies have expanded their business activities but also for humanitarian applications such as alleviation of poverty and diseases and management of refugees resulting from droughts and conflicts for which space capabilities could be used by appropriate United Nations agencies. Overall space economy reached $289.77 billion in 2011 with major contribution coming from commercial activities rather than from government spending.
Potential benefits of capabilities developed in outer space for people on Earth are well established in today’s increasingly connected world. Thus, under the Dhawan Chair, which has recently been conceptualised in the Department of War Studies, King’s College (London, England) the initial focus will be on the civil uses and commercialisation of space activities. In this context, this two-day Conference at King’s College London is organised, in collaboration with McGill University’s Institute of Air and Space Law (Montreal, Canada) and London Institute of Space Policy and Law (London, England), with participation by several invited experts from different countries with developed space programmes and related commercial activities.
CONFERENCE OBJECTIVES:
The main objectives of the Conference are to:
(a) assess critically whether commercialization of space is benefiting all countries and peoples irrespective of their degree of economic or scientific development;
(b) identify precisely critical challenges to commercialization of space and to propose viable solutions to address these challenges;
(c) how to achieve a balance between commercial benefits and benefits derived from space capabilities for economic development through exploitation of Earth’s natural resources in developing countries; and
(d) develop a model of public-private relationship by studying different cases and identifying a successful model (or its factors).
The results of the Conference will be published in a report under the Dhawan Chair.
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A Brief Survey of Space Policy and Law Topics (2013)
Outline of a talk given at the National Student Space Conference UKSEDS
23 February 2013
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International Space Commerce 2013 Summit AgendaRebecca Coats (2013)
The programme for the 2-day conference on space commerce.
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Space Security: Civilian and Military Policy and Practice: Practitioner and Industry Seminar ReportSa'id Mosteshar (2013)
The seminar focused on risks to the security of space systems and associated activities, both in terms of physical dangers in near-Earth space and threats in cyber space.
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Space Derived Data and Information: Legal and Diplomatic Applications, December 2012Sa'id Mosteshar (2012)
This Seminar, organised by the London Institute of Space Policy and Law as a side event to the European Space Solutions Conference 2012 hosted by ESA and Astrium. It examines the qualities of systems, procedures, handling, treatment and processing of space derived data and information against the needs of the diplomatic and legal communities. It will provide an indication of what needs to be provided and how it can best be used. Examination of two particular applications will provide context for the relevant issues discussed.
Lawyers, judges, diplomats, humanitarian aid providers, as well as those involved in the collection, treatment and interpretation of space-derived data will find this Seminar of particular interest.
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Evidence from Space: Use of EO Information as Evidence - Final ReportProfessor Sa'id Mosteshar (2012)
Report on the rules of evidence and technical requirements for the admission of EO information as evidence in judicial and administrative proceedings
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Evidence from Space: Programme of Workshop II - Presentation of the Final Report of the ESA-funded ProjectSa'id Mosteshar (2012)
The London Institute of Space Policy and Law has now completed its Study for the European Space Agency exploring the evidential value and conditions for use of satellite-derived information in administrative and judicial settings.
The Study had two aims. First to identify the circumstances in which satellite-derived information can most effectively be used as evidence, and the advantages and limitations of using such information in public and civil law settings. Second, to familiarise the legal community, including judges, practitioners, administrators and enforcement officers, with the range of available satellite-derived information and its utility as evidence.
The Study considered four applications in which EO information could make a positive contribution. Two were case studies considered at the First Workshop, namely land subsidence and marine oil spills. Two further applications were subsequently examined. These were disputes relating to water rights and the prosecution of humanitarian crimes.
In this Workshop, to present the Final Report, ISPL and ESA are interested in exploring further action to be taken to ensure the Study objectives are met. The Report makes certain recommendations that will be discussed at the Workshop, together with other issues raised by the invited participants.
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Unidroit Space Protocol Workshop II, December 2011: ProgrammeSa'id Mosteshar (2011)
The Governing Council of UNIDROIT has approved the convening of a Diplomatic Conference to consider adoption of the Protocol. The Conference will be held in Berlin from 27 February to 9 March 2012.
The purpose of the workshop is to examine the main policy issues arising from the Protocol with a view to helping to inform the UK position. The ratification of the Protocol does not arise for decision until some time after the conclusion of the Diplomatic Conference.
Professor Sir Roy Goode, co-Chairman of the Drafting Committee established by the Committee of governmental experts, will give brief introductions to each of the issues, and the rest of the session will be given over to comments from participants and discussion.
A speaker familiar with the terms and working of the Aircraft Protocol will give an overview of the impact of that Protocol on financing aircraft and enforcement of creditors’ rights.
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Space Operations: Comparative Liability Limits of OperatorsSa'id Mosteshar (2011)
A comparative table prepared for briefing of UK Space Agency. Outlines limits of third-party liability, State liability indemnity and State guarantees in a number of jurisdictions.
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UNIDROIT Space Protocol: Some Legal IssuesSa'id Mosteshar (2011)
The UNIDROIT Space Protocol seeks to create a register of international interests to facilitate asset based financing of space assets. This paper examines some of the legal issues that arise in relation to the Protocol and its underlying Convention.
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UNIDROIT Space Protocol Workshop I, 9 February 2011- ReportSa'id Mosteshar (2011)
To address and discuss the Protocol from all perspectives, the Institute held a Workshop on the terms and impact of the Protocol on 9 February 2011.
Presentations were made by Professor Sir Roy Goode, on behalf of Unidroit, as
well as representatives of the industry body, the European Satellite Operators
Association (ESOA), Avanti and Inmarsat, satellite operators, ING Bank, and
Atrium Space Insurance Consortium, each addressing the views of many in their
respective sectors. The Institute Director presented a legal analysis.
The presentations at the Workshop closely reflected the views expressed to the
United Kingdom Government by those who responded to its consultation.
However, the views expressed here are not necessarily those of the Institute nor
of the organisations named, unless explicitly indicated.
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Space Tourism: Commercial, Policy and Legal AspectsDerek Webber, Professor Sa'id Mosteshar (2011)
Seminar on some of the commercial,policy and legal issues and considerations relevant to space tourism, delivered at King's College London to students on the Space Physiology Master's course.
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An Academic Perspective on Commercial Spaceflight: Liability and WaiversSa'id Mosteshar (2011)
A presentation at the ECSL Practitioners Forum 2011 on 'Manned Spaceflight Safety Issues: Legal & Policy Aspects', ESA Headquarters, Paris, 18 March 2011.
Every time commercial, and therefore private, entities embark on a new kind of space venture, a number of fundamental legal issues arise. Often they do not need immediate resolution to facilitate the commercial activities, as pragmatic commercial solutions are devised for the purpose. But, to sustain and grow private participation in such ventures the law has to become certain on solid and consistent foundations.
To that extent commercial spaceflights are no exception. The luxury enjoyed by academics is the time and environment in which to identify and research the issues and to devise alternative solutions for adoption.
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Toward Long-term Sustainability of Space Activities: Overcoming the Challenges of Space DebrisProfessor Ram Jakhu (2011)
This Report contributes to the public discourse on the issue of space debris and the sustainability of space use. The UN COPUOS Guidelines are assessed to determine their effectiveness within the context of current implementation. Limitations are identified and thereafter additional legal, policy and technical initiatives for dealing with matters related to space debris are discussed and recommended. Also included in the Report are action items for States and other stakeholders to consider for further research and development.
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Unidroit Space Protocol Workshop I, 9 February 2011 - Program
Sa'id Mosteshar (2011)
This Workshop will examine the efficacy of the Unidroit Space Protocol to achieve greater availability and ease of funding for space projects. It will explore the needs of operators, financiers and insurers. Professor Roy Goode has graciously agreed to present the Protocol and outline the obstacles to funding space equipment and the solution proposed. There will be an examination of the legal basis for the Protocol in the context of the Convention, its perception by those directly affected by its operation.
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Risks Associated with Space Activities Seminar IV-II: Report of ProceedingsAndrew Brearley (2011)
The Proceedings of Risk Seminar IV-II, with PowerPoint presentations.
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Space-based information for crowdsource mapping, Report of the Secretariat (A/AC.105/1007)
UNCOPUOS (2011)
In its resolution 61/110, the General Assembly decided to establish the United Nations Platform for Space-based Information for Disaster Management and Emergency Response (UN-SPIDER) as a programme within the United Nations to provide universal access to all countries and all relevant international and regional organizations to all types of space-based information and services relevant to disaster management to support the full disaster management cycle.
In recent years, advancements in technology have made it possible for volunteer and technical communities to provide increasing support to disaster preparedness and emergency response efforts. Important cornerstones of this virtual effort are the possibility to access and take advantage of satellite imagery, as well as the use of other space-based technologies such as telecommunications satellites and global navigation satellite systems. In view of the need to connect these pioneering communities with both the space industry and the disaster management community, a one-year project on space-based information for crowdsource mapping is being carried out, in the framework of the UN-SPIDER programme to identify specific actions that could ensure closer cooperation.
The present report contains a summary of the work carried out in 2011, including the organization of two international expert meetings with the support and cooperation of the Government of Austria and the Secure World Foundation.
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Risks Associated with Space Activities: Practitioner and Industry Seminar Series 2009-2011Sa'id Mosteshar (2011)
The Risk Seminar Series for Practitioners and Industry has been presented over the period 2009 - 2011. This document contains an introduction to the series, and the programmess for the individual seminars.
The risks associated with commercial space activity can differ in nature or quality from those of other large-scale business ventures. Space projects can be more susceptible to some risks and their impact on the business can differ from terrestrial equivalents. In addition, there are certain risks specific to space commerce. These result from the longer-term nature of space activities and can arise because they are conducted in outer space. For example, commercial risks associated with the choice of technology, can have a greater impact in space where it cannot be readily changed once it is launched.
The understanding and ability to quantify risk is central to any commercial space venture and its funding. To foster better understanding of these risks and to encourage appropriate policy directions, the Institute is bringing together leading specialists to present a series of seminars on space risks and their insurance. The series will cover commercial risk, including evaluation of market demand, technology choice, competition and timing, financial risk, including equity and debt mix, currency choice and pricing, policy risk of change in government focus and emphasis, regulatory risk including ITU procedures, terms and duration of frequency assignments, and ownership transfer limitations, Physical and security risk, covered in this first seminar, and insurance, including domestic implementation of international state liability, and coverage of other risks.
These Seminars aim to inform and engage those involved in space activities, policy-makers and lawyers who advise them, as well as students and scholars in the field.
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Unidroit Workshop II, December 2011, Sponsored by UK Space Agency - MinutesSa'id Mosteshar (2011)
These minutes record the second workshop held in 2011 by ISPL on the proposed Unidroit Space Protocol.
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GNSS and the future of Satellite Navigation Technology - Report on Seminar: Navigating the FutureJohanna Symmons (2010)
Report on the joint seminar held with Bird&Bird and other organizations on 14 July 2010.
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Regulation of Space Activity in the United KingdomSa'id Mosteshar (2010)
Outlines the UK legal system, law governing space activity including launch services, satellite telecommunications including broadcasting and the role of Ofcom, Earth observation services, intellectual property and technology transfer, as well as satellite navigational services.
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GNSS and the Future of Satellite Navigation: Technology SeminarSa'id Mosteshar (2010)
The purpose of this seminar is to provide an overview of the existing Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) projects and discuss the opportunities presented by sophisticated GNSS technology as well as the associated legal and regulatory implications. The event will consist of a presentation on GNSS followed by a panel discussion with leading industry experts and professionals. There will be a networking drinks event following the seminar.
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Space and Satellite Insurance Course Outline Sa'id Mosteshar (2010)
The course addresses space and satellite insurance negotiation, management and implementation. Students will be shown best practices and methods to analyse insurance procedures and contracts, in order to build proficiency and competence in these areas.
The course will be taught by the Director and Faculty of the London Institute of Space Policy and Law. The Course will be intensively interactive. Teaching will be by lectures and seminars with a written exercise.
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Risks Associated with Space Activities Seminar IV-I: Policy and Regulatory Risk Considerations for Satellite Communications, Report of the ProceedingsJohanna Symmons (2010)
POLICY AND REGULATORY RISK CONSIDERATIONS FOR SATELLITE COMMUNICATIONS
Proceedings of Seminar IV-I in the Industry & Practitioner Series
Risk Associated with Space Activities, subsequently published by Space Policy.
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Recent Regulatory Developments in Satellite Services - ProgrammeSa'id Mosteshar (2008)
Programme of the first ISPL Practitioner and Industry Seminar.
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Recent Regulatory Developments In Satellite Services: Eu Commission Proposals For Communications Reform PackageSa'id Mosteshar (2008)
In the first of the Practitioner and Industry Seminars, Sa'id Mosteshar addressed the European Commission's proposals to create a single market in communications, and harmonise the Member States’ regimes to authorise, regulate and facilitate interconnections between providers.
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Recent Regulatory Developments in Satellite Services Seminar: Backdoor regulation: the European Audiovisual Media Services (AVMS) DirectiveTony Ballard (2008)
A presentation exploring the implications of the AVMS Directive.
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IADC Space Debris Mitigation Guidelines Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination Committee (2002)
Guidelines for the reduction of space debris, Revision 1, September 2007.
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UNIDROIT Proposed Convention on International Interest in Mobile Assets (2001)
This document contains a link to the site containing the proposed convention creating a registry of security in mobile assets.
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UN List of Space Agreements (1999)
List of Agreements and Treaties relating to space.
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International Agreements And Other Available Legal Documents Relevant To Space-Related Activities (1999)
A list of international agreements and other available legal documents relevant to space-related activities (and where they might be found), prepared as a reference document for member States.
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International Liability for Damage: Proposed Solutions for the Era of Commercial Space ActivitySa'id Mosteshar (1999)
It has been observed that “time will soon be ripe for the international law governing damage caused by space objects to reflect modern realities.”2 In fact the establishment of international laws and institutions for the determination of liability and the award of compensation for damage arising from space activities has become urgent. This urgency results from two inter-related factors. First, in many fields of space endeavour government and international organizations are becoming overtaken by private commercial entities. In satellite communications this has already occurred, where PanAmSat vies with Intelsat as the largest provider of satellite capacity for international traffic and new entrants such as Iridium, Globalstar, ICO and Teledesic3 and their successors do or will operate hundreds of communication satellites. International organizations, with their special place in space law, are becoming privatized commercial corporations, without losing their international reach and power4.
Second, many new areas of space activity are becoming commercially viable and attractive, presenting more extensive possibilities for damage from space activity. Notable among these are space transportation, geographic positioning and navigation systems.
It is not the intention here to add to the extensive ink already spilt in debating and examining the scope and meaning of the liability and responsibility provisions of the Liability Convention and of the Outer Space Treaty. The debate to date has been academically interesting and stimulating, but has brought us no nearer the level of clarity and certainty that is necessary for commercial activity to grow and thrive, whilst safeguarding the interests of those suffering damages. The focus and the intent here is to offer a starting point for an international liability regime in the context of modern commercial space activity. Published 2001 by Karl Heymanns Verlag KG in Air & Space Law in the 21st Century, Liber Amicorum Karl-Heinz Böckstiegel.
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IGA : Intergovernmental Agreement Concerning Cooperation On The Civil International Space Station (1998)
The text of the IGA, the intergovernmental agreement for the establishment and operation of the International Space Station.
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The TRW Satellite Constellation Claim: Some Space Law Considerations
Sa'id Mosteshar (1995)
The patent claim relating to the Odyssey satellite system raised the issue of whether the US Patent Office could exercise jurisdiction over a part of outer space.
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Bogotá Declaration (1976)
Declaration by Equatorial countries claiming sovereignty over the Geostationary orbit.
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Orbital Debris in Motion Johnson Space Center (0000)
An mpg movie showing debris in motion around the Earth.
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Debris in Motion Johnson Space Center (0000)
A clip from a short movie illustrating debris in motion around the Earth.
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