SCIENTIFIC AND LEGAL-ASPECTS OF SPACE DEBRIS

If success is to mark future space activities measures must be formalized to mitigate, and if possible to eliminate the real and potential dangers occasioned by the presence of man-made debris in outer space. If there is to be a legal regime for space debris it will be necessary to assign a legal meaning to that term. What can be done in the immediate future to address the dangers and to formulate relevant legal principles, standards, and rules? Moreover, it will be necessary to create procedures for managing the problem. What kind of institution should be contemplated and what powers should be accorded to such an entity? Who will be the mid-wife? What impact will it have on assuring the peaceful and safe uses of outer space, per se, the Moon, and other celestial bodies? © 1994.