More Abour Space Laws

D I C T U M S O C I E T Y More About Space Laws

Of the five international agreements previously mentioned, the Outer Space Treaty (1967), Rescue Agreement (1968), the Liability Convention (1972), and the Registration Conventions (1974) substantial clarification is required to apply many principles. The application of which would affect space activities and issues, such as satellite servicing, tourism, space traffic management, or mitigation of space debris. Furthermore, the Moon Treaty (1979) has very few signatories to be adequately effective.

Since the 1970s limited multilateral agreements have been developed to improve upon these principles. Non-binding norms have been relied upon instead due to the convenience of putting forth such principles regardless of their effectiveness.

Considering the fact that intergovernmental organisations are rapidly evolving in today ' s day and age, the need for such development is all the more important. Especially since, many aspects of the global space governance framework were a product of the Cold War.

The case of NASA Astronaut, Anne McClain is an example of circumstances that raise the question of outer space jurisdiction.

Ms McClain was accused of accessing financial accounts of her partner, Summer Worden with whom she shared a bitter separation. McClain argued that she had merely done what she had always been authorised to do by Ms Worden, as Ms McClain intended to financially care for Ms Worden ' s child.

The issue of which laws would have jurisidiction over the case and its evidence was a significant question raised. For example the question of whether outer space records of Ms McClain accessing the financial accounts on the space shuttle could be subpoened arose at th time.

H E L D National jurisdiction applied in this case as expected by the treaties. Ms McClain was acquitted of all charges. However, an investigation against Ms Worden was pursued for falsifying statements provided to the federal authorities.