An Introduction to International Space Law

Abstract

Abstract The entry into outer space opened up a new horizon for humanity. However, the ColdWar backdrop of such an entry threatened the world order and posed multiple questions on the legal regulation of space activities. This resulted in a quick response from the United Nations (UN) to develop international norms to regulate space activities. The UN General Assembly resolutions, five space treaties and the set of principles to govern space activities, adopted during the twentieth century, form the foundation of international space law. The essential principles adopted under international space law still hold good despite a shift from State-oriented space activities to private sector-oriented space activities in the twenty-first century. Hence, probing into international space law and understanding its essentials in the right sense has become very important. This chapter, being introductory, provides an overview of international space law in terms of its development as well as its substance.