Abstract
The introduction of advanced new technologies is transforming the space industry. Artificial intelligence is offering unprecedented possibilities for space-related activities because it enables space objects to gain autonomy. The increasing autonomy level of space objects does not come without legal implications. The lack of human control challenges existing liability frameworks. This paper reviews the provisions of the Outer Space Treaty and the Liability Convention as the main legal documents introducing the legal grounds for attributing liability in case of damages caused by autonomous space objects. Looking at the limitations of these legal frameworks in what concerns the attribution of liability, this paper identifies the conditions that could cause a liability gap. The amendment of the Liability Convention, the concept of “international responsibility” introduced by Article VI of the Outer Space Treaty and several international law principles are analysed as potential solutions for preventing the liability gap and mitigating the risks posed by autonomous space objects.
Highlights
Ever since Gagarin entered space, and a little later, Armstrong set foot on the moon, governments spent large amounts of money on space-related activities
This paper reviews the provisions of the Outer Space Treaty and the Liability Convention as the main legal documents introducing the legal grounds for attributing liability in case of damages caused by autonomous space objects
The amendment of the Liability Convention, the concept of “international responsibility” introduced by Article VI of the Outer Space Treaty and several international law principles are analysed as potential solutions for preventing the liability gap and mitigating the risks posed by autonomous space objects
Summary
Ever since Gagarin entered space, and a little later, Armstrong set foot on the moon, governments spent large amounts of money on space-related activities. Lodder & van der Linden vate sector, the so-called “New Space”, with major players such as SpaceX and Blue Origin This new phenomenon includes the emerging trends from the space private business, which aims to engage in space-related activities independently from governments. Space-related technologies contributed to the growth of the private sector and by developing innovative technologies will continue to do so in the near future, as indicated by Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), a global leader in planetary exploration and space-based astronomy that supports the missions of National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Regarding these innovative technologies, developing autonomous systems is a top priority.[4] Autonomous systems are equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities and function without human intervention. Autonomous Space Objects and International Space Law cally, by autonomous space objects
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