SPACE LAW

UNIT – 5

WHAT IS SPACE?
o Outer Space means space lying beyond the atmosphere
surrounding the Earth
o It is the void that exists between celestial bodies, including the
Earth
o It is not completely empty, it includes low density particles,
predominantly hydrogen plasma as well as electromagnetic
radiation, etc.

MEANING
o Body of law applicable to and governing space related
activities meant to regulate relations between states to
determine their rights and duties resulting from all activities
directed towards outer space
o It is an area of the law that encompasses national and
international law governing activities in outer space

SCOPE

1. **International Treaties and Agreements**: Key treaties include

the Outer Space Treaty (1967), the Rescue Agreement (1968), the
Liability Convention (1972), the Registration Convention (1976), and
the Moon Agreement (1984). These treaties set the framework for
international cooperation, liability, and the use of outer space.

2. **National Legislation**: Countries implement their own space

laws and regulations to govern their space activities and commercial
ventures, ensuring compliance with international obligations.
3. **Commercial Activities**: With the rise of private space
companies, laws related to satellite launches, space tourism, asteroid
mining, and property rights in space are increasingly important.

4. **Space Debris**: Legal measures to manage and mitigate space

debris are crucial for preserving the space environment and ensuring
the safety of space operations.

5. **Space Exploration**: Laws governing activities on celestial

bodies, including issues of sovereignty and resource extraction, are
evolving as exploration missions advance.

6. **Human Spaceflight**: Regulations on human spaceflight,

including safety, health, and liability, are important for both
governmental and private missions.

NATURE

The nature of space law can be described as follows:

1. **International Focus**: Space law is primarily governed by

international treaties and agreements, reflecting the global nature
of outer space. Key treaties, such as the Outer Space Treaty
(1967), emphasize international cooperation and the peaceful use
of space.

2. **Regulatory Framework**: It provides a framework for

regulating various aspects of space activities, including satellite
communications, space exploration, and commercial ventures.
This framework aims to ensure that space activities are conducted
safely and responsibly.

3. **Dynamic and Evolving**: The field is continually evolving in

response to rapid technological advancements and new
developments in space exploration and commercialisation. New
treaties and regulations are periodically introduced to address
emerging issues.

4. **Global Commons**: Space is considered a global commons,

meaning that it is not subject to national sovereignty and is
accessible to all countries. This principle underpins many
international agreements that aim to ensure space is used for the
benefit of all humanity.

5. **Legal Principles**: Space law incorporates fundamental legal

principles such as non-appropriation of outer space, freedom of
exploration, and liability for damages caused by space activities.
These principles guide how space activities are conducted and
regulated.

6. **National Implementation**: While international treaties set

broad principles, countries develop their own national laws and
regulations to manage their space activities and ensure
compliance with international norms.

7. **Peaceful Use and Safety**: A core principle of space law is

the peaceful use of outer space. The field also addresses issues
related to space debris, safety of space operations, and
environmental protection.

DEVELOPMENT OF SPACE LAW

The development of space law has evolved through several key

phases and milestones, reflecting the growth of space exploration and
international cooperation. Here’s a summary of its development:

1. **Early Foundations (Pre-1960s)**:

 - Initial discussions about space law were largely theoretical,
focusing on the need for regulation and cooperation as space
exploration began to take shape.

2. **Foundational Treaties (1960s-1970s)**:

- **Outer Space Treaty (1967)**: The cornerstone of space law, it

established space as a global commons, prohibited national
sovereignty claims, and emphasised peaceful use and international
cooperation.

- **Rescue Agreement (1968)**: Extended the principles of the

Outer Space Treaty to the rescue and return of astronauts and space
objects in distress.

- **Liability Convention (1972)**: Established liability for damages

caused by space objects on the surface of the Earth and in outer
space.

- **Registration Convention (1976)**: Required states to register

space objects with the United Nations to enhance transparency and
accountability.

3. **Expanding Scope (1980s-1990s)**:

- **Moon Agreement (1984)**: Sought to regulate the exploration

and use of the Moon and other celestial bodies, emphasizing their use
for the benefit of all humanity. It was not widely adopted, limiting its
impact.
- Development of national space laws and regulations began to
emerge as space activities became more commercial and diverse.

4. **Commercialisation and New Challenges (2000s-

Present)**:
 - The rise of private space companies and commercialisation of
space activities led to new legal challenges and opportunities.
Countries began to revise and introduce national space laws to
regulate commercial activities, such as satellite launches and space
tourism.
- Issues like space debris management and the legal status of
extraterrestrial resources have gained prominence, prompting
discussions on new regulations and agreements.

5. **Ongoing Developments**:

- As space exploration and commercial ventures continue to grow,

space law is increasingly focusing on emerging areas such as space
traffic management, resource utilization, and planetary protection.
International bodies like the United Nations Office for Outer Space
Affairs (UNOOSA) and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU)
play crucial roles in addressing these issues.

UN AND SPACE LAW

The United Nations (UN) plays a pivotal role in the governance,

regulation, and promotion of peaceful uses of outer space
through various mechanisms and bodies. Here’s a detailed look
at how the UN engages with outer space:

### 1. **Foundational Treaties and Agreements* The UN has

been instrumental in the development of international space law
through the negotiation and adoption of several key treaties.
- **Outer Space Treaty (1967)**: This treaty is the cornerstone of
international space law. It establishes outer space, including the
Moon and other celestial bodies, as the "province of all mankind,"
prohibiting national sovereignty claims or the militarization of
space. It emphasizes that space should be used for peaceful
purposes and sets the framework for international cooperation.

- **Rescue Agreement (1968)**: Building on the Outer Space

Treaty, this agreement extends the commitment to the rescue and
return of astronauts in distress. It obligates countries to assist
astronauts in trouble and return them safely to their home state.

- **Liability Convention (1972)**: This treaty establishes the

liability of states for damages caused by their space objects on
the surface of the Earth and in outer space. It sets up a claims
process for compensation of damages.

- **Registration Convention (1976)**: This convention requires

states to register space objects with the UN, ensuring
transparency and accountability in space activities.

- **Moon Agreement (1984)**: Although not widely adopted, this

treaty aimed to regulate the use of the Moon and other celestial
bodies, emphasizing their use for the benefit of all humanity and
prohibiting any claims of sovereignty.

### 2. **Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space

(COPUOS)**

Established in 1959, COPUOS is the principal UN committee

responsible for space law and policy. It operates under the
General Assembly and is divided into two subcommittees:

- **Scientific and Technical Subcommittee**: Focuses on scientific

and technical aspects of space activities, including space
exploration, space environment, and space applications.

- **Legal Subcommittee**: Deals with legal issues related to outer

space, including the development of new treaties, guidelines, and
norms.
COPUOS works on issues such as the long-term sustainability of
space activities, space debris mitigation, and enhancing
international cooperation in space exploration. It also reviews and
updates existing treaties and develops new frameworks to
address emerging challenges.

### 3. **Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA)**

UNOOSA was established in 1958 to support international

cooperation in space exploration and promote the development
of space law. Key functions of UNOOSA include:

- **Treaty Secretariat**: UNOOSA acts as the secretariat for

several space treaties, managing their implementation and
facilitating communication among member states.

- **Registry of Objects Launched into Outer Space**: UNOOSA

maintains the Registry as required by the Registration
Convention. This registry helps track space objects and ensure
transparency.

- **Capacity Building**: UNOOSA provides technical assistance

and capacity-building programs to help developing countries
participate in space activities and utilize space technologies.

- **Promotion of Space Law**: UNOOSA promotes the adoption of

space treaties and guidelines, and encourages the development
of national space laws that align with international standards.

### 4. **International Cooperation and Policy Development**

The UN promotes international cooperation through various

initiatives and frameworks:
- **International Cooperation**: The UN encourages member
states to work together on space missions, scientific research,
and technology development. This cooperation is crucial for
addressing global challenges and ensuring that space benefits all
of humanity.

- **Space Debris and Sustainability**: COPUOS has developed

guidelines to mitigate space debris and ensure the long-term
sustainability of space operations. These guidelines aim to
minimise the creation of space debris and manage existing debris
to prevent collisions and maintain the space environment.

- **Global Challenges**: The UN addresses global space

challenges through forums and discussions, such as the UN Space
Conference, which brings together member states to discuss and
coordinate on issues like space traffic management and planetary
defense.

### 5. **Educational and Outreach Activities**

The UN also engages in educational and outreach activities to

raise awareness about space and its benefits:

- **Educational Programs**: UNOOSA and other UN bodies

organize workshops, conferences, and educational programs to
promote space science and technology, and to foster
international collaboration among scientists, engineers, and
policymakers.

- **Public Engagement**: The UN works to increase public

awareness of space issues and the importance of international
cooperation in space exploration.

### Conclusion
The UN's involvement in outer space is crucial for maintaining the
framework for peaceful and responsible space exploration. Through
treaties, committees, and specialized offices, the UN promotes
international cooperation, develops and enforces space law, and
addresses global challenges associated with space activities. As space
exploration continues to advance and commercial activities grow, the
UN’s role in managing these developments and ensuring the
sustainable use of outer space remains increasingly important

DEVELOPMENT OF GENERAL ASSEMBLY RESOLUTIONS

The development of General Assembly resolutions in space law has

been crucial in shaping international norms and policies for outer
space activities. These resolutions provide guidance, address
emerging issues, and promote international cooperation. Here’s a
detailed overview of how these resolutions have evolved over time:

### 1. **Early Foundations (1950s-1960s)**

**Resolution 1721 (1961)**: This early resolution called for the

establishment of an international legal regime to govern space
activities, recognizing the importance of cooperation among
nations and the peaceful use of outer space. It laid the
groundwork for future space law developments.

**Resolution 1962 (1963)**: Known as the "Declaration of Legal

Principles Governing the Activities of States in the Exploration
and Use of Outer Space," this resolution established key
principles, including the non-appropriation of outer space by any
state, freedom of exploration, and the use of space for peaceful
purposes. These principles were later incorporated into the Outer
Space Treaty (1967).
### 2. **Ratification and Endorsement of Treaties (1967-
1980s)**

**Resolution 2222 (1966)**: This resolution endorsed the

development of the Outer Space Treaty and supported its
principles. It urged member states to adhere to the treaty,
reinforcing the commitment to the peaceful use of outer space.

**Resolution 2262 (1967)**: Following the adoption of the Outer

Space Treaty, this resolution reaffirmed the treaty’s principles and
encouraged member states to comply with its provisions.

**Resolution 37/92 (1982)**: This resolution supported the

development of the Moon Agreement, which aimed to regulate
the exploration and use of the Moon and other celestial bodies.
Although not widely adopted, the resolution highlighted the UN's
role in promoting equitable use of space resources.

### 3. **Promotion of Sustainable Space Activities (1990s-

2000s)**

**Resolution 51/122 (1996)**: This resolution emphasized the

importance of international cooperation in space science and
technology. It encouraged the development of guidelines to
ensure the safety and sustainability of space operations.

**Resolution 55/122 (2000)**: Addressed the issue of space

debris and called for the development of measures to mitigate
space debris. It recognized the growing problem of space debris
and the need for international cooperation to address it.

### 4. **Focus on Space Debris and Sustainability (2000s-

2010s)**
**Resolution 62/217 (2007)**: This resolution addressed the
long-term sustainability of outer space activities. It called for the
development of guidelines to mitigate space debris and enhance
space traffic management. The resolution underscored the need
for responsible behaviour in space to protect the space
environment.

**Resolution 68/74 (2013)**: This resolution continued the focus

on space debris and sustainability. It urged member states to
adhere to guidelines for space debris mitigation and to support
efforts for enhancing space traffic management.

### 5. **International Cooperation and Space Traffic

Management (2010s-Present)**

**Resolution 71/90 (2016)**: This resolution promoted

international cooperation in space exploration and research,
including activities on the Moon and other celestial bodies. It
highlighted the importance of transparency and confidence-
building measures in space activities.

**Resolution 72/78 (2017)**: Focused on space situational

awareness and the prevention of space debris. It emphasized the
need for implementing best practices and guidelines to ensure
the safety and sustainability of space operations.

**Resolution 73/6 (2018)**: This resolution addressed space

traffic management and the need for a cooperative framework to
manage increasingly congested orbits. It supported the
development of international guidelines to prevent collisions and
manage space traffic effectively.

**Resolution 74/82 (2019)**: This resolution highlighted the

importance of space-based technologies for sustainable
development and the need for international cooperation to
enhance the benefits of space for all countries. It emphasized the
role of space in addressing global challenges and supporting
sustainable development goals.

### 6. **Current and Future Directions**

**Resolution 75/92 (2020)**: This resolution continued to focus

on space sustainability, highlighting the need for ongoing
international collaboration to address space debris and enhance
the long-term sustainability of space activities. It also
underscored the importance of integrating space activities with
broader global efforts for environmental protection and
sustainability.

**Resolution 76/75 (2021)**: This resolution further emphasized

the role of space in advancing global health, climate action, and
disaster management. It recognized the contributions of space
technologies to addressing these global challenges and
encouraged member states to enhance cooperation in these
areas.

UN TREATIES : STRENGTHS AND NEEDS

The United Nations has established several key treaties that form the
basis of international space law. These treaties have been
instrumental in guiding the peaceful and cooperative use of outer
space. However, as space activities evolve, so too must the legal
framework. Here’s a detailed analysis of their strengths and areas
where improvements are needed:
### Strengths

1. **Foundation of International Space Law**:

- **Outer Space Treaty (1967)**: Establishes fundamental
principles such as the peaceful use of outer space, non-
appropriation by any nation, and freedom of exploration. It serves
as the cornerstone of international space law and sets the
framework for subsequent treaties.

2. **Promotion of Peaceful Use**:

- **Outer Space Treaty**: Prohibits the placement of weapons
of mass destruction in space and limits military activities to
defensive measures, ensuring that space remains a domain free of
conflict and armed confrontation.

3. **International Cooperation**:
- The treaties, particularly the Outer Space Treaty and the
Rescue Agreement (1968), promote international collaboration in
space exploration and the sharing of scientific knowledge.

4. **Liability and Responsibility**:

- **Liability Convention (1972)**: Provides a clear framework
for determining liability and compensation for damages caused
by space objects, enhancing accountability among spacefaring
nations.

5. **Transparency and Registration**:

- **Registration Convention (1976)**: Mandates the
registration of space objects with the United Nations, increasing
transparency and helping to track space activities.

6. **Humanitarian Considerations**:
- **Rescue Agreement**: Obligates states to assist astronauts
in distress and ensure their safe return, reflecting a commitment
to humanitarian principles.
### Needs and Areas for Improvement

1. **Updating and Expanding Legal Framework**:

- **Modernization**: The treaties were developed in the
1960s and 1970s and may not fully address contemporary
issues, such as the rapid growth of commercial space activities
and advancements in technology. There is a need to modernize
these treaties or develop new ones to address current challenges.

2. **Space Resource Utilization**:

- **Moon Agreement (1984)**: Although it addresses the use
of celestial bodies, it has not been widely adopted. A more
universally accepted framework is needed to regulate the
extraction and utilization of space resources, such as minerals
from asteroids or the Moon.

3. **Space Traffic Management**:

- **Congestion Management**: As the number of satellites
and space missions increases, effective space traffic management
is becoming crucial. Current treaties do not provide
comprehensive guidelines for managing space traffic and
preventing collisions.

4. **Space Debris**:
- **Mitigation Measures**: The treaties do not specifically
address space debris, which poses a significant risk to space
operations. International guidelines and regulations are needed
to mitigate space debris and ensure the long-term sustainability
of space activities.

5. **Private Sector Participation**:

- **Regulation of Commercial Activities**: With the rise of
private space companies, existing treaties need to address the
role and responsibilities of private entities in space. This includes
clarifying commercial activities, liability issues, and compliance
with international standards.
6. **Enhanced Enforcement Mechanisms**:
- **Compliance and Enforcement**: While the treaties
establish important principles, enforcement mechanisms are often
limited. Strengthening enforcement and compliance measures is
necessary to ensure adherence to the treaties’ provisions.

7. **Inclusivity of Emerging Spacefaring Nations**:

- **Representation**: The treaties were shaped by the major
spacefaring nations of the time. There is a need to ensure that
the interests of emerging spacefaring nations and developing
countries are adequately represented in the development of
space law.

8. **Planetary Protection**:
- **Contamination Prevention**: The treaties do not
extensively cover planetary protection issues. As exploration of
celestial bodies expands, developing guidelines to prevent
contamination and protect extraterrestrial environments is crucial.

THE OUTER SPACE TREATY 1967

The **Outer Space Treaty of 1967**, formally the **"Treaty on

Principles Governing the Activities of States in the Exploration
and Use of Outer Space, including the Moon and Other Celestial
Bodies,"** is a pivotal international agreement that establishes
fundamental guidelines for space exploration. Key provisions
include:
1. **Peaceful Use**: Outer space must be used for peaceful
purposes; the placement of weapons of mass destruction in space
is prohibited.
2. **Non-Appropriation**: No country can claim sovereignty over
outer space or celestial bodies.
3. **Freedom of Exploration**: All states have the freedom to
explore and use outer space.
4. **International Cooperation**: States should cooperate and
share scientific information regarding space activities.
5. **Responsibility**: States are responsible for national space
activities, including those conducted by private entities, and must
ensure compliance with international law.
6. **Environmental Protection**: States must avoid harmful
contamination of space and celestial bodies.

The treaty serves as the cornerstone of international space law,

guiding both governmental and private space activities and
fostering global collaboration.

THE RESCUE AGREEMENT 1968

The **Rescue Agreement** of 1968, formally known as the

**"Agreement on the Rescue of Astronauts, the Return of
Astronauts, and the Return of Objects Launched into Outer
Space,"** outlines the responsibilities of states in assisting
astronauts in distress. Key provisions include:

1. **Rescue and Assistance**: States are obligated to assist

astronauts in distress, regardless of their nationality, and to
return them to their respective countries.
2. **Return of Space Objects**: States must return space objects
that inadvertently land on their territory to the launching state.
3. **International Cooperation**: Encourages cooperation between
states to ensure the safety and well-being of astronauts and to
handle space objects that land on Earth.
The agreement underscores humanitarian principles and fosters
international collaboration in space exploration by ensuring that
astronauts and space objects are treated with respect and care.

THE LIABILITY CONVENTION 1972

The **Liability Convention** of 1972, formally known as the

**"Convention on International Liability for Damage Caused by
Space Objects,"** establishes the framework for liability and
compensation for damages caused by space objects. Key
provisions include:

1. **Strict Liability**: States are strictly liable for damage caused

by their space objects on the surface of the Earth and in outer
space.
2. **Claims Process**: The convention outlines procedures for
claiming damages and for settling disputes between states
regarding compensation.
3. **Exclusions**: States are not liable for damages caused by
space objects in certain circumstances, such as if the damage was
caused by a space object of another state or if the damage
resulted from an act of war.

The convention ensures accountability and provides a legal

mechanism for addressing damages caused by space activities,
thereby promoting responsible behaviour in space exploration.

THE MOON TREATY

The Moon Treaty, officially known as the "Agreement Governing
the Activities of States on the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies,"
was adopted by the United Nations in 1979 and entered into
force in 1984. It establishes the Moon and other celestial bodies
as the "common heritage of mankind," prohibiting any national
appropriation or claims of sovereignty over them. It also
stipulates that the Moon and its resources should be used for
peaceful purposes and that exploration and use should benefit all
countries. Despite its aims, the treaty has not been widely
adopted and remains ratified by a relatively small number of
countries. Key spacefaring nations like the United States, Russia,
and China have not signed it, which limits its impact on
international space law.

THE REGISTRATION CONVENTION 1976

The **Registration Convention** of 1976, formally known as the
**"Convention on Registration of Objects Launched into Outer
Space,"** establishes procedures for the registration of space
objects. Key provisions include:

1. **Registration Requirement**: States must register space

objects with the United Nations when they are launched into
Earth orbit or beyond, providing details such as the object’s
name, launch date, and orbit.
2. **Transparency**: The convention enhances transparency and
facilitates tracking of space activities by maintaining a registry of
space objects.
3. **National Responsibility**: States are responsible for
registering space objects launched by both government and non-
governmental entities.

The convention aims to promote international cooperation,

accountability, and the effective management of space activities
by ensuring that all space objects are documented and
monitored.

THE PARTIAL TEST BAN TRRATY 1963

The **Partial Test Ban Treaty** of 1963, formally known as the

**"Treaty Banning Nuclear Weapon Tests in the Atmosphere, in
Outer Space and Under Water,"** is an arms control agreement
that prohibits nuclear tests in the atmosphere, outer space, and
underwater. Key provisions include:

1. **Testing Prohibition**: It bans nuclear explosions in outer

space, as well as in the atmosphere and underwater, while
allowing underground nuclear tests.
2. **Environmental Protection**: The treaty aims to reduce
radioactive contamination of the environment and minimise the
harmful effects of nuclear tests on human health and the
atmosphere.
3. **International Cooperation**: It promotes international
collaboration in monitoring and verifying compliance with the
treaty’s terms.

The treaty marked a significant step in nuclear disarmament

efforts and environmental protection, helping to curb the
proliferation of nuclear weapons and reduce atmospheric and
marine radioactive contamination.

WEATHER MODIFICATION CONVENTION 1977

The **Convention on the Prohibition of Military or Any Other
Hostile Use of Environmental Modification Techniques** of 1977,
commonly referred to as the **Weather Modification
Convention**, is an international treaty designed to prohibit the
use of environmental modification techniques for hostile
purposes. Key provisions include:

1. **Prohibition of Hostile Use**: The convention bans the use of

environmental modification techniques, such as weather
modification, for military or hostile purposes. This includes
altering weather patterns, climate, or geological processes to
cause damage or harm.
2. **Environmental Protection**: It aims to protect the
environment from being used as a tool for warfare or military
advantage, thereby ensuring that environmental modification
techniques are not used to inflict harm or disruption.
3. **International Cooperation**: The convention encourages
international cooperation and transparency in the use of
environmental modification technologies, ensuring that such
techniques are used only for peaceful and scientific purposes.

The treaty is part of the broader effort to prevent the

weaponisation of the environment and to promote the
responsible use of environmental modification technologies.

INDIA AND SPACE LAW

India's engagement with space law is both a reflection of its

ambitious space program and a commitment to the international
legal framework governing outer space activities. Since the early
days of its space exploration, India has been active in shaping
and adhering to international space norms while developing its
own national legal framework to support its space missions.
Here’s an in-depth look at India’s involvement in space law:

#### **1. Historical Context and Space Program

Development**

India’s space journey began with the establishment of the Indian

National Committee for Space Research (INCOSPAR) in 1962,
which later evolved into the Indian Space Research Organisation
(ISRO) in 1969. India's space program, which began with the
launch of its first satellite, Aryabhatta, in 1975, has grown into a
sophisticated and internationally recognized space endeavour.
This growth has necessitated India’s active participation in
international space law and its development of national legal
frameworks.

#### **2. International Space Law Engagement**

**Participation in UN Treaties:**
India is a signatory to several key international space treaties,
reflecting its commitment to international space law:

- **Outer Space Treaty (1967):** India ratified this treaty in 1967,

aligning with its principles of peaceful use of outer space, non-
appropriation of celestial bodies, and international cooperation.

- **Rescue Agreement (1968):** India acceded to this agreement in

1972, which aligns with its commitment to assist astronauts in
distress and ensure the safe return of space objects.

- **Liability Convention (1972):** India ratified this convention in

1973, accepting the framework for liability and compensation for
damages caused by space objects.
- **Registration Convention (1976):** India joined this convention in
1977, agreeing to register space objects with the United Nations to
enhance transparency.

- **Moon Agreement (1984):** India signed the Moon Agreement

in 1984 but has not ratified it. The agreement seeks to regulate the
exploration and use of lunar resources, though it has not been widely
adopted internationally.

**Active Participation in UN Forums:**

India actively participates in United Nations committees and forums
dealing with space law, such as the Committee on the Peaceful Uses
of Outer Space (COPUOS). India contributes to discussions on the
development of international guidelines and treaties and advocates
for the responsible use of space.

#### **3. National Space Law and Policy**

India’s space legal framework includes both legislative and policy

measures designed to support its space activities and comply
with international norms:

**Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO):**

ISRO is the primary body responsible for the nation's space
activities and adheres to international space treaties. It operates
under the Department of Space, which reports directly to the
Prime Minister’s Office.

**Space Activities Bill:**

India has been considering the development of a comprehensive
space legislation to regulate its space activities and facilitate
private sector participation. The **Space Activities Bill** is
proposed legislation aimed at:

- **Regulating Private Sector Participation:** The bill seeks

to establish a regulatory framework for private entities involved
in space activities, ensuring compliance with international
standards.
- **Liability and Insurance:** It includes provisions for liability and
insurance to address damages caused by space operations,
aligning with the Liability Convention.
- **Safety and Security:** The bill addresses issues related to
space safety and security, including compliance with international
treaties and national security concerns.

**National Space Policy:**

India's National Space Policy outlines strategic goals for space
exploration, including:

- **Development of Space Infrastructure:** Focuses on

enhancing satellite communication, Earth observation, and space
science capabilities.
- **International Collaboration:** Emphasizes continued
cooperation with other nations and international organizations to
advance space science and technology.
- **Commercialisation:** Encourages the growth of the space
sector by supporting commercial ventures and public-private
partnerships.

**Space Sector Regulation:**

The Indian government is working on enhancing regulations to
address the growing role of private sector players in the space
industry. This includes establishing norms for satellite launches,
space tourism, and space resource utilization.

NEED FOR SPACE LAW

The need for space law in India is driven by several key factors:

1. **Regulation and Safety**: As India’s space program expands,

including satellite launches and space exploration missions,
robust national space laws are essential for regulating these
activities, ensuring safety, and managing risks associated with
space operations.

2. **International Compliance**: To adhere to international

treaties such as the Outer Space Treaty and the Liability
Convention, India needs legal frameworks that facilitate
compliance with global norms and treaties related to space.

3. **Private Sector Involvement**: With the rise of private space

companies in India, national space laws are crucial for regulating
commercial space activities, licensing private operators, and
ensuring their operations are safe and compliant with
international standards.

4. **Liability and Insurance**: Space law is necessary for

addressing issues related to liability and insurance for damages
caused by space objects, in line with international agreements,
and for providing mechanisms for claims and compensation.

5. **Space Traffic Management**: As the number of space

missions and satellites increases, laws are needed to manage
space traffic, prevent collisions, and address space debris,
ensuring a sustainable space environment.

6. **Resource Utilization**: With growing interest in utilising

space resources, including mining and exploration, India requires
legal frameworks to govern the extraction and use of these
resources responsibly and in accordance with international
agreements.

7. **National Security**: Space laws help address national

security concerns related to space technology and infrastructure,
ensuring that space activities do not pose threats to national
interests.