Addressing Emerging Space Issues through the Rule of Law: Contemporary National and International Legal Challenges
Author – Harshit kumar, Student at Central University of South Bihar
Best Citation – Harshit kumar, Addressing Emerging Space Issues through the Rule of Law: Contemporary National and International Legal Challenges, INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL ON SPACE LAW AND POLICY, 1 (1) of 2023, Pg. 39-47, ISBN – 978-81-960677-1-7.
Abstract
The exploration and utilization of outer space is an ever-evolving field, with new technological advances leading to emerging legal challenges both nationally and internationally. This article examines the contemporary legal challenges and opportunities in the field of space law, with a particular focus on national and international approaches to regulating emerging space activities. The first section of the article discusses the effectiveness of international space law in regulating new forms of space exploration and utilization, analyzing the limited enforcement mechanisms and accountability measures in place. The section highlights the need for greater collaboration and cooperation among international organizations, national regulators, and industry stakeholders to address legal challenges and promote opportunities for protecting the space environment.
The second section of the article explores national regulation of space activities, examining current practices and legal challenges. The section emphasizes the need to balance innovation and safety, as emerging technologies such as space tourism, asteroid mining, and space debris removal raise important ethical questions. The section suggests that national regulatory frameworks should prioritize safety and sustainability while promoting innovation and entrepreneurship. The third section of the article focuses on liability and insurance issues in outer space, analyzing international and national approaches to managing risks and protecting interests. The proliferation of small satellites and satellite constellations has highlighted the need for better space traffic management and coordination, and the section emphasizes the importance of effective liability and insurance regimes to manage risks and ensure responsible behavior in space. The article argues that addressing emerging space issues through the rule of law requires a comprehensive and collaborative approach, involving international organizations, national regulators, and industry stakeholders. It suggests that legal frameworks should prioritize safety, sustainability, and responsible behavior, while promoting innovation and entrepreneurship. By addressing the legal challenges and opportunities in the field of space law, the international community can ensure the peaceful and sustainable exploration and utilization of outer space for generations to come.