Abstract

This chapter examines the legal and governance framework regulating the operation of artificial satellites that orbit the Earth. The discussion encompasses not only binding legal regulation under international law, but also the United Kingdom Outer Space Act 1986 as amended to examine the basis for the regulation of satellite operations in outer space through a national lens. The discussion also looks at the impact of the decision in the 1990s to restructure intergovernmental satellite organisations such as INTELSAT, INMARSAT and EUTELSAT and the effect that such changes have had upon the governance of satellite operations.

The competing approaches to satellite regulation on an international stage is also examined. Operating alongside the legal framework, the work of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is considered, specifically in relation to the promotion of international co-operation in the allocation of orbital slots for satellites, but also in respect of the apportionment of the radio spectrum. Finally, the chapter considers the impact that the growth in satellite operations has had upon the delicate extra-terrestrial environment and the threat to continuing space activity if the regulatory framework fails to adapt to the increase in satellite activity in Earth orbit.