The United Nations adopted the Outer Space Treaty—officially titled the ‘Treaty on Principles Governing the Activities of States in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space, including the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies’—in 1967. It serves as the foundation of international space law.
Objectives of the Outer Space Treaty
The treaty ensures that states conduct the exploration and use of outer space for the benefit of all humankind. It promotes peaceful uses, avoids the militarization of space, and encourages international cooperation in scientific and technical advancement.
Key Provisions of the Treaty
- Peaceful Use of Space:
Outer space must be used exclusively for peaceful purposes. The treaty prohibits the placement of nuclear weapons or weapons of mass destruction in orbit or on celestial bodies. - No National Sovereignty in Space:
No country can claim sovereignty over the Moon or any other celestial body. Space is considered a global commons, open to exploration by all nations. - Responsibility of States:
States bear international responsibility for national space activities, whether conducted by government or private entities. - Liability for Damage:
Countries are liable for any damage their space objects cause to other states or their space assets. - Avoid Harmful Contamination:
States must avoid contaminating space and celestial bodies and must take steps to preserve the environment of outer space.
Legal and Global Significance
The Outer Space Treaty sets the legal groundwork for all subsequent space agreements, such as:
- The Moon Agreement
- Rescue Agreement
- Liability Convention
- Registration Convention
It has over 110 state parties including major spacefaring nations like the USA, Russia, China, India, and members of the EU.
The treaty helps maintain peace and legal order in outer space, ensuring space remains accessible and equitable for future generations.
