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Legal Aspects Relating to Satellite Constellations

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Legal Aspects Around Satellite Constellations

Part of the book series: Studies in Space Policy ((STUDSPACE,volume 19))

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Abstract

Satellite constellations represent a new paradigm of space activities, with vast numbers of smaller satellites operated in the so-called NewSpace industry. With the tide of potential applications and benefits to mankind come risks, notably that of the increased population of low Earth orbit and potential for increases in space debris. This article discusses the legal ramifications of the proposed constellations, including the current legal framework around space debris and collisions, and potential challenges, including lack of legal definitions for space debris and fault making liability difficult to prove. Potential mechanisms for clarification are also discussed.

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Notes

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  2. 2.

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  20. 20.

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  21. 21.

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  22. 22.

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  23. 23.

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  24. 24.

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  25. 25.

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  26. 26.

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  27. 27.

    Black’s Law Dictionary (8th ed. 2004), 641.

  28. 28.

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  29. 29.

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  30. 30.

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  31. 31.

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  32. 32.

    United Nations, ‘Charter of the United Nations and Statute of the International Court of Justice’ [1945] Article 38(1)(b).

  33. 33.

    Nicaragua v. United States of America International Court of Justice [1986] <www.icj-cij.org/files/case-related/70/070-19860627-JUD-01-00-EN.pdf> accessed 26th September 2018.

  34. 34.

    Scott Kerr ‘Liability for Space Debris Collisions and the Kessler Syndrome’ [2017] <http://www.thespacereview.com/article/3387/1> accessed 26th September 2018.

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Wright, E. (2019). Legal Aspects Relating to Satellite Constellations. In: Froehlich, A. (eds) Legal Aspects Around Satellite Constellations. Studies in Space Policy, vol 19. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-06028-2_3

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-06028-2_3

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  • Print ISBN: 978-3-030-06027-5

  • Online ISBN: 978-3-030-06028-2

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