Space Law Research Guide

The Space Court Law Library

The Space Law Research Guide was created by Jonathan Kaley-Isley with special thanks to Lucy Richmond and Charlie Bennett.
©2025 The Space Court Foundation, All Rights Reserved.

The SCLL Editorial Team

Christopher
Hearsey

Jonathan
Kaley-Isley

Charlie
Bennett

Yana
Yakushina

Work on the Space Court Law Library brings together scholars and students from around the world to collaborate on various library research projects.
Together these projects form a comprehensive web-based space law reference site.
It will be home to the most complete repository of primary source legal documents related to all national and international space law.

The SCF Space Law Research Guide is for academic and educational purposes only. All text and citations of law and policy are subject to change. The Space Court Law Library should be used to explore and study the rules relating to space activities. It does not constitute legal advice.

Algeria

UNIDIR Space Security Portal - Algeria
Primary Source Materials [SCF Staff]
Big Book of Algerian Space Law
World Factbook - Algeria / Space Programme Reference Guide
OECD Library - Algeria

Regulation of Space Activities

National Space Policy

National Space Policy repository - As a member State to the African Union, Algeria adheres to the established space framework by the African Union including key positions like the African Space Policy and African Space Strategy
National Space Programme - Programme Spatial National (PSN) | ASAL - Adopted by the Government on the 28th of November 2006. For the period 2006 – 2020.

Historical Documents

First national space law - Law N° 19-06 of July 17, 2019 on Space Activities

Argentina

Primary Source Materials [SCF Staff]
Big Book of Argentinian Space Law
World Factbook - Argentina / Space Programme Reference Guide
UNIDIR Space Security Portal - Argentina
OECD Library - Argentina

Database of National Law

National legislation search

Sources of National Space Law

Decree No. 995/91, Creation of the National Commission on Space Activities

Treaties and International Agreements

Ratified these outer space treaties [International Space Treaties Status]
- Ratified the Outer Space Treaty 1967
- Ratified the Rescue and Return Agreement 1968
- Ratified the Liability Convention 1972
- Ratified the Registration Convention 1975
Signatory to the International Telecommunication Convention (ITU) 1992
- ITU List of Agreements
Signatory to the Treaty banning nuclear weapon tests in the atmosphere, in outer space and under water (PTBT) 1963
Signatory to the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty 1996
Ratified the Convention on the Distribution of Programme Carrying Signals Transmitted by Satellite (BRS) 1974
Signatory to the NASA Artemis Accords on 7th July, 2023.
Signatory to the International Telecommunications Satellite Organization (INTELSAT - ITSO) 1971
Signatory to the Convention on the International Mobile Satellite Organization (IMSO) 1976
Signatory to the Convention on the Creation of the Latin American and Caribbean Space Agency

Regulation of Space Activities

Decree 125/95 Created the National Registry of Objects Launched into Outer Space
Decree 532/05 Declaring the development of space activity in Argentina as a state policy and a national priority.
Law 27.208 Satellite Industry Development Act
Law 27.078 Argentina Digital Law. Declaring the development of information and communication technologies, telecommunications, and their associated resources, establishing and guaranteeing complete network neutrality, to be in the public interest. Establishing priority for Argentinian networks to provide connectivity within the country.
Law 26.092 Establishing and defining the activities and purpose of ARSAT. This law granted the authorisation to use the orbital position 81° West Longitude and its associated frequency bands.

National Space Policy

Historical Documents

National Decree No. 995/91, Creation of the National Commission on Space Activities (28 May 1991)

Armenia

Primary Source Materials [SCF Staff]
Big Book of Armenian Space Law
World Factbook - Armenia / Space Programme Reference Guide
UNIDIR Space Security Portal - Armenia
OECD Library - Armenia

Database of National Law

National legislation search

Sources of National Space Law

Law creating the national space agency
National Space Law - LAW OF THE REPUBLIC OF ARMENIA of February 8, 2023 No. ZR-21

Treaties and International Agreements

Party to all five outer space treaties [International Space Treaties Status]
- Ratified the Outer Space Treaty 1967
- Ratified the Rescue and Return Agreement 1968
- Ratified the Liability Convention 1972
- Ratified the Registration Convention 1975
- Ratified the Moon Agreement 1979
Ratified the International Telecommunication Convention (ITU) 1992
- ITU List of Agreements
Ratified the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty 1996
Ratified the NASA Artemis Accords, on June 12th, 2024
Ratified the International Telecommunications Satellite Organization (INTELSAT - ITSO) 1971
Accession to the Convention on the Distribution of Programme Carrying Signals Transmitted by Satellite (BRS) 1974
Signatory to the Agreement of the Arab Corporation for Space Communications (ARABSAT) 1976
Ratified the Convention Establishing the European Telecommunications Satellite Organization (EUTELSAT) 1982

Regulation of Space Activities

National space agency regulations:

National Space Policy

National Space Policy repository

Historical Documents

First national space law
- Law No. HO-152-N on Space-related Activities of the Republic of Armenia

Australia

Primary Source Materials [SCF Staff]
Big Book of Australian Space Law
World Factbook - Australia / Space Programme Reference Guide
UNIDIR Space Security Portal - Australia
OECD Library - Australia
Australian Navigational Guide Explaining Laws for Space (ANGELS)

Database of National Law

National legislation search

Sources of National Space Law

Australian Government Federal Register of Legislation

Treaties and International Agreements

Ratified all of the five outer space treaties:
- Ratified the Outer Space Treaty 1967
- Ratified the Rescue and Return Agreement 1968
- Ratified the Liability Convention 1972
- Ratified the Registration Convention 1975
- Ratified the Moon Agreement 1979
Ratified the International Telecommunication Convention (ITU) 1992
- ITU List of Agreements (Ratifications and Signatures)
Ratified the Treaty banning nuclear weapon tests in the atmosphere, in outer space and under water (PTBT) 1963
Ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty 1996
Signatory to the NASA Artemis Accords on 13th October, 2020.
Signatory to the Wassenaar Arrangement on Arms Export Controls
Definitive signature to the International Telecommunications Satellite Organization (INTELSAT - ITSO) 1971
Accession to the Convention on the Distribution of Programme Carrying Signals Transmitted by Satellite (BRS) 1974
Ratification of the Convention on the International Mobile Satellite Organization (IMSO) 1976

Regulation of Space Activities

National Space Policy

Australian Civil Space Strategy 2019-2028
Defense Space Strategy outlines the civil and military objectives up until 2040
Flight Safety Code This is a supporting document to the legislative instruments of the Space (Launches and Returns) Act 2018, the Space (Launches and Returns) (General) Rules 2019 and the Space (Launches and Returns) (High Power Rocket) Rules 2019. It concerns the safety of launch and return activities.

Historical Documents

Azerbaijan Republic

Primary Source Materials [SCF Staff]
Big Book of Azerbaijani Space Law
World Factbook - Azerbaijan / Space Programme Reference Guide
UNIDIR Space Security Portal - Azerbaijan
OECD Library - Azerbaijan (non-member)

Database of National Law

National legislation search

Sources of National Space Law

Law of the Republic of Azerbaijan on Space Activities (2023) Azerbaijani version English version
Decree no.1326 of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan dated 27 April 2021 on the establishment of the “Space Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan (Azercosmos)” Azerbaijani version English version
Tax Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan: Article 199.4.2 exempts “satellites and other space objects” from property taxes Azerbaijani Version

Treaties and International Agreements

Ratified the Outer Space Treaty 1967
Ratified the International Telecommunications Satellite Organization (INTELSAT - ITSO) 1971
Ratified the International System and Organization of Space Communications (INTERSPUTNIK) 1971
Ratified the Convention Establishing the European Telecommunications Satellite Organization (EUTELSAT) 1982
Ratified the International Telecommunication Convention (ITU) 1992

ITU List of Agreements

Domestic Acts Implementing Treaties and International Agreements

Law no.603-IVQ of the Republic of Azerbaijan dated 19 April 2013 On the Accession to the "Treaty on Principles Governing the Activities of States in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space, including the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies" Azerbaijani version English version
Law no.289-IIQ of the Republic of Azerbaijan dated 2 April 2002 On Accession to the “Convention establishing the European Telecommunications Satellite Organization “EUTELSAT” (with amendments) English version
Law no.660-IIQ of the Republic of Azerbaijan dated 21 May 2004 On Accession to the “Agreement on the Establishment of the “INTERSPUTNIK” International System and Organization of Space Communications” English version

Regulation of Space Activities

The Charter of “Space Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan (Azercosmos)”, adopted by decision no.54 of the Cabinet of the Ministries of the Republic of Azerbaijan dated 26 February 2022 Azerbaijani version English version
Order no.696 of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan dated 15 November 2018 “The State Program for the development of the satellite Earth observation services in the Republic of Azerbaijan" English version
Order no.443 of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan dated 17 August 2009 “The State Program on Creation and Development of Space Industry in the Republic of Azerbaijan" English version
Law of the Republic of Azerbaijan "On Media" Azerbaijani version (2022): Governs satellite broadcasting Azerbaijani version English version

National Space Policy

Historical Documents

Belarus

Primary Source Materials [SCF Staff]
Big Book of Country Space Law
World Factbook - Belarus / Space Programme Reference Guide
UNIDIR Space Security Portal
OECD Library - Belarus

Databases of National Law

National Legal Internet Portal of the Republic of Belarus (in Russian and English)
Official Internet Portal of the President of the Republic of Belarus (in Russian and English)
Reference database of legal information of the Republic of Belarus (RDLI) with the information retrieval system "Эталон" (IPS "Эталон") (in Russian)
Information retrieval system "Нормативка" (in Russian)
Legal reference system "ConsultantPlus: Belarusian legislation" (КонсультантПлюс: Беларусское законодательство)

Sources of National Space Law

No general space law

Treaties and International Agreements

Party to four out of the five outer space treaties [International Space Treaties Status]
- Ratified the Outer Space Treaty 1967
- Ratified the Rescue and Return Agreement 1968
- Ratified the Liability Convention 1972
- Ratified the Registration Convention 1975
Ratified the International Telecommunication Convention (ITU) 1992
- ITU List of Agreements
Ratified the Treaty banning nuclear weapon tests in the atmosphere, in outer space and under water (PTBT)
Ratified the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty 1996
Ratified the Convention on the International Mobile Satellite Organization (IMSO) 1976
Ratified the Convention Establishing the European Telecommunications Satellite Organization (EUTELSAT) 1982

Regulation of Space Activities

National Agency for Space Researches (former Belarus Space Agency) part of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus
Decree of the President of the Republic of Belarus of April 15, 2024 No. 150 "On the Belarusian Space System of Remote Sensing of the Earth"

National Space Policy

Resolution of the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Belarus of April 23, 2021 No. 245 On the State Program "Science-intensive Technologies and Equipment" for 2021-2025 Chapter 11 Subprogram "Exploration and Use of Space for Peaceful Purposes"

Historical Documents

Resolution No. 1517 of the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Belarus from October 14, 2008 On National Program for Research and Use of Space in Peaceful Purposes for 2008-2012 years (for English summary UNOOSA website)

Belgium

Primary Source Materials [SCF Staff]
Big Book of Belgian Space Law
World Factbook - Belgium / Space Programme Reference Guide
UNIDIR Space Security Portal - Belgium
OECD Library - Belgium

Database of National Law

National legislation search

Sources of National Space Law

Official text of the Belgian Space Law currently in force:
- BELSPO - Law of 17 September 2005 on the Activities of Launching, Flight Operation or Guidance of Space

Treaties and International Agreements

Ratified all five outer space treaties:
- Ratified the Outer Space Treaty 1967
- Ratified the Rescue and Return Agreement 1968
- Ratified the Liability Convention 1972
- Ratified the Registration Convention 1975
- Ratified the Moon Agreement 1979
Ratified the International Telecommunication Convention (ITU) 1992
- ITU List of Agreements
Ratified the Treaty banning nuclear weapon tests in the atmosphere, in outer space and under water (PTBT) 1966
Ratified the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty 1996
Signatory to the NASA Artemis Accords on 23rd January, 2024.
Ratified the Civil International Space Station Agreement
Signatory to the International Space Station Intergovernmental Agreement
Signatory to the Convention establishing the European Space Agency (ESA)
Signatory to the Wassenaar Arrangement on Arms Export Controls
Ratified the International Telecommunications Satellite Organization (INTELSAT - ITSO) 1971
Ratified the Convention on the International Mobile Satellite Organization (IMSO) 1976
Ratified the Convention Establishing the European Telecommunications Satellite Organization (EUTELSAT) 1982
Ratified the Convention for the Establishment of a European Organization for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT) 1983

Regulation of Space Activities

“Law on the Activities of Launching, Flight Operations or Guidance of Space Objects” of 17 September 2005 (Dutch and French versions) (English version)
“Royal Decree implementing certain provisions of the Law of 17 September 2005 on the activities of launching, flight operations and guidance of space objects form the legal basis for the regulation of space activities.” (French and Dutch versions) (English version)

National Space Policy

Historical Documents

Overview of the history, administration, and legislative priorities of Belgian space law:
- The Belgian Space Law

Brazil

Primary Source Materials [SCF Staff]
Big Book of Brazilian Space Law
World Factbook - Brazil; Space Programme Reference Guide
UNIDIR Space Security Portal - Brazil
OECD Library - Brazil

Database of National Law

Sources of National Space Law

1988 Brazilian Federal Constitution: defined space law to be a power conferred to the Union
Decree No. 11.224, of October 5, 2022 on Establishing the National Space Council
Law No. 8.854 of February 10, 1994 on Creation of the Brazilian Space Agency

Treaties and International Agreements

Party to these outer space treaties [International Space Treaties Status]
- Ratified the Outer Space Treaty 1967
- Ratified the Rescue and Return Agreement 1968
- Ratified the Liability Convention 1972
- Ratified the Registration Convention 1975
Ratified the International Telecommunication Convention (ITU) 1992
- ITU List of Agreements
Ratified the Treaty banning nuclear weapon tests in the atmosphere, in outer space and under water (PTBT) 1964
Signatory to the NASA Artemis Accords on 15th June, 2021.
Ratified the International Telecommunications Satellite Organization (INTELSAT - ITSO) 1971
Ratified the Convention on the International Mobile Satellite Organization (IMSO) 1976
Signatory to the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty 1996
Member of International Charter “Space and Major Disasters”

Regulation of Space Activities

National Space Agency: Agência Espacial Brasileira
National Institute for Space Research (INPE)
Regulation of Space Activities (2024)
Presidential Decree No. 9,839 of 14 June 2019: Brazilian Space Programme Development Committee
Administrative Edict No. 51 of 26 January, 2001 on Commercial Launch Activities from the Brazilian Territory
Law No. 9.994, of July 24, 2000 establishing the Program for Scientific and Technological Development of the Space Sector
Telecommunications Authority: Agência Nacional de Telecomunicações (ANATEL) created by Law No. 9.472, of 16 July, 1997
Administrative Edict No.182 of 28 May. 2020: Instituting procedures and establishing requirements for operator licenses to carry out space launch activities in Brazilian territory
Administrative Edict No. 27 of 20 June, 2001
Administrative Edict No. 96 of 30 November, 2011
Decree No. 1.953, of July 10, 1996 on National System for the Development of Space Activities
Agreement of Technology Safeguards Associated with US Participation in Launches from the Alcantara Space Center

National Space Policy

National Institute for Space Research
National Defense Strategy
National Programme for Space Activities
Pluriannual Plans which establish the guidelines and aims of the federal government
Strategic plan of the Brazilian Space Agency 2023-2026

Historical Documents

Presidential Decree n° 51.133, of August 3, 1961: establishing at the National Research Council (CNPq) the Organizing Group for the National Commission on Space Activities (GOCNAE).
National Programme of Space Activities (2005-2014)

United Kingdom

Primary Source Materials [SCF Staff]
Big Book of United Kingdom Space Law
World Factbook - United Kingdom Space / Space Programme Reference Guide
UNIDIR Space Security Portal - United Kingdom
OECD Library - United Kingdom

Databases of National Law

Search UK Legislation - The National Archives via legislation.gov.uk

Treaties and International Agreements

Ratified four of the five outer space treaties:
- Ratified the Outer Space Treaty 1967
- Ratified the Rescue and Return Agreement 1968
- Ratified the Liability Convention 1972
- Ratified the Registration Convention 1975
Ratified the International Telecommunication Convention (ITU) 1992
- ITU List of Agreements
Ratified the Treaty banning nuclear weapon tests in the atmosphere, in outer space and under water (PTBT) 1963
Signatory to the Convention establishing the European Space Agency (ESA)
Ratified the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty 1996
Signatory to the NASA Artemis Accords on 13th October, 2020.
Signatory to the Wassenaar Arrangement on Arms Export Controls
Signatory to the The Civil International Space Station Agreement
Ratified the International Telecommunications Satellite Organization (INTELSAT - ITSO) 1971
Signatory to the Convention on the International Mobile Satellite Organization (IMSO) 1976
Signatory to the Convention Establishing the European Telecommunications Satellite Organization (EUTELSAT) 1982
Signatory to the Convention for the Establishment of a European Organization for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT) 1983
Concluded MOU on Technological Safeguards Associated with United States Participation in Space Launches from the United Kingdom
Concluded MOU on space cooperation and risk allocation with ASI
Concluded MOU on Cooperation and Peaceful Uses of Outer Space with the UAE
All other MOU concluded by the UK Space Agency can he found here

National Regulation of Space Activities

Outer Space Act (1986)
Isle of Man Amendment 2019 No. 258
Space Industry Act 2018
Commencement Regulations 2018 No. 1224 (C. 86)
Transitional and Savings Provisions (Amendments) 2021
Commencement 2021 No. 874 (C. 47)
Commencement 2021 No. 817 (C. 45)
Space Industry Regulations (2021)
Space Industry (Appeals) Regulations (2021)
National Spectrum Regulatory Authority - OfCom.
National Frequency Allocation Table - UKFAT.

National Space Policy

United Kingdom Space Agency Official Site
Transfer of Property etc. Order 2011 No.822
National Space Strategy
The UK commits not to destructively test direct ascent anti-satellite missiles

Historical Documents

Bulgaria

Primary Source Materials [SCF Staff]
Big Book of Bulgarian Space Law
World Factbook Bulgaria / Space Programme Reference Guide
UNIDIR Space Security Portal - Bulgaria
OECD Library - Bulgaria

Database of National Law

European Case Law Identifier search engine

Sources of National Space Law

No national space law

Treaties and International Agreements

Ratified four out of the five outer space treaties [International Space Treaties Status]
- Ratified the Outer Space Treaty 1967
- Ratified the Rescue and Return Agreement 1968
- Ratified the Liability Convention 1972
- Ratified the Registration Convention 1975
Ratified the International Telecommunication Convention (ITU) 1992
- ITU List of Agreements
Ratified the Treaty banning nuclear weapon tests in the atmosphere, in outer space and under water (PTBT) 1963
Ratified the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty
Signatory to the NASA Artemis Accords on 9th November, 2023.
Ratified the International System and Organization of Space Communications (INTERSPUTNIK) 1971
Signatory to the Agreement on Cooperation in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space for Peaceful Purposes (INTERCOSMOS - INTC) 1976
Signatory to the Convention on the International Mobile Satellite Organization (IMSO) 1976
Signatory to the Convention Establishing the European Telecommunications Satellite Organization (EUTELSAT) 1982
Signatory to the Convention for the Establishment of a European Organization for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUM - EUMETSAT) 1983

Regulation of Space Activities

National space agency and regulations - The Space Research and Technology Institute of the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (SRTI-BAS)
The allocation of radio frequencies and Geostationary Earth orbit slots is regulated under the
- Telecommunications Law,
- the Law on Electronic Communication and
- The Law for Radio and Television.
Bulgaria Regulatory Telecommunications Authority Communications Regulation Commission (CRC)

National Space Policy.

ESA’s Director of Industry, Procurement and Legal Services, Mr Eric Morel and the Bulgarian Minister of Economy, Mr Bojidar Loukarski, signed the ECS Agreement in Sofia on 8 April 2015.
On February 15, 2022, the Ministry of Innovation and Growth signed an European Cooperating State (ECS) Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Bulgaria and the European Space Agency (ESA), which was ratified by the National Assembly on June 8, 2022.
67th Session of the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS), Vienna, 19 – 28 June 2024 Agenda item 5: General exchange of views, Statement by Bulgaria: “Development of a competitive national space sector and strengthening the international cooperation, including accelerating Bulgaria’s accession to the European Space Agency as an associate member, are our current major priorities. We have been working on setting those priorities in a National Space Policy Strategy with the goal to be adopted by the end of this year. Since the last COPUOS session Bulgaria has undertaken significant steps in international cooperation by joining the Artemis Accords set of principles in November 2023.”
NASA Administrator Bill Nelson participated in a signing ceremony Thursday with Bulgaria’s Milena Stoycheva, minister of innovation and growth, as her country became the 32nd nation to sign the Artemis Accords.
Overview https://castra.org/bulgarian-space-policy/

Canada

Primary Source Materials [SCF Staff]
Big Book of Canadian Space Law
World Factbook Canada / Space Programme Reference Guide
UNIDIR Space Security Portal - Canada
OECD Library - Canada

Database of National Law

National legislation - advanced search

Sources of National Space Law

Law creating the national space agency
- Canadian Space Agency Act S.C. 1990, c 13. Last amended 2019-06-17

Treaties and International Agreements

Ratified the Outer Space Treaty 1967
Ratified the Rescue and Return Agreement 1968
Ratified the Liability Convention 1972
Ratified the Registration Convention 1975
Signatory to the International Telecommunication Convention (ITU) 1992
- ITU List of Agreements
Signatory to the Treaty banning nuclear weapon tests in the atmosphere, in outer space and under water (PTBT) 1964
Signatory to the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty 1996
Signatory to the NASA Artemis Accords on 13th October, 2020
Signatory to the Wassenaar Arrangement on Arms Export Controls
Signatory to the Civil International Space Station Agreement
Signatory to the Civil Lunar Gateway Agreement
Signatory to the International Charter “Space and Major Disasters”
Signatory to the International Space Station Intergovernmental Agreement
Cooperation Agreement between the Government of Canada and the European Space Agency

Domestic Acts Implementing International Agreements

Civil International Space Station Agreement Implementation Act (S.C. 1999, c. 35) Assented to 1999-12-16. Last Amended 2003-07-02.
Civil Lunar Gateway Agreement Implementation Act (S.C. 2022, c. 10, s. 294) In force 2022-10-26. Last amended 2022-10-26.
Comprehensive Nuclear Test-Ban Treaty Implementation Act (S.C. 1998, c. 32) Not entered into force. Last amended 2003-07-02.

Regulation of Space Activities

Canadian Space Agency Act (English) (French)
Remote Sensing Space Systems Act (RSSA) (2005) covers licensing of satellite operations and is implemented by Global Affairs Canada.
Space policy and the Remote Sensing Space Systems Act (RSSSA)
Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission Act (1985) created the regulatory Commission
Broadcasting Act (1991) gives authority to the Commission to regulate and supervise all aspects of the Canadian broadcasting system
Aeronautics Act (R.S.C., 1985, c. A-2) Assented to 1985. Last amended 2018-12-18. Enforced by Transport Canada.
Radiocommunication Act (R.S.C., 1985, c. R-2) covers satellite spectrum licensing and the avoidance of harmful radio interference
Telecommunications Act (1993) enshrines policy objectives for the Canadian telecommunications industry, such as reliability, expanding and supporting the telecommunications industry through investment and
Export and Import Permits Act (R.S.C., 1985, c. E-19). Last amended 2021-04-01.
Criminal Code of Canada (R.S.C., 1985, c. C-46). Last amended 2023-05-27.

National Space Policy

Launching the Next Generation (2014) emphasizes five principles (Canadian interests first, positioning the private industry at the forefront of space activities, progress through partnerships, excellence in key capabilities, inspiring Canadians) with four areas in which the principles will be applied to (commercialization, research and development, exploration of space, and stewardship, management and accountability)
Strong, Secure, Engaged: Canada’s Defense Policy (2017) Information focusing on technology and space can be found on pages 55-57 under the main headline of Canada’s position in the global context. Acknowledges the importance of technological advancements and developing appropriate governance frameworks (national and international) that reflect Canada’s human rights advocacy. Technology: Concerns regarding adversaries using the cyber domain to exploit vulnerabilities. Space domain: Concerns regarding the congestion, competition, and contestation of outer space
- Launching Canada’s Space Strategy (2019)
- Exploration, Imagination, Innovation: A New Space Strategy for Canada (2019)
- RCAF Strategy for Space Mission Assurance (2022)
- Commitment not to conduct destructive direct-ascent ASAT missile tests (2022) The Canadian government followed the American government in banning ASAT tests at the U.N.-chartered Open-Ended Working Group (OEWG) in Geneva on norms of behavior for reducing space threats.
RCAF Strategy (2023)
- CSA Departmental Plan for 2023-2024 (2023)
- Database of CSA Corporate Publications by Government of Canada (various dates)

Historical Documents

John Chapman, et al, Upper Atmosphere and Space Programs in Canada, Science Secretariat, Government of Canada, 1967 [Chapman Report]. Generally, the report made a case for the development of a Canadian space programme that concentrated on satellite communications, Canadian industrial development, cooperation with other countries, and recommended the establishment of a central coordinating and contracting agency for space research and development to oversee and manage the Canadian space effort.
The Telesat Canada Act (R.S.C. 1970., c. T-4). Assented to June 26th, 1969. Repealed upon the incorporation of Telesat under the Canada Business Corporations Act.
Telesat Canada Reorganization and Divestiture Act (S.C. 1991, c. 52) Allowed for the privatisation of the Telesat company under the Canada Business Corporations Act, which was sold to Bell Canada Enterprises and along with the Government of Canada’s shares. Telesat as a private company, is still involved in the Canadian telecommunications, radiocommunications, and broadcasting realm.

Chile

Primary Source Materials [SCF Staff]
Big Book of Chilean Space Law
World Factbook - Chile / Space Programme Reference Guide
UNIDIR Space Security Portal - Chile
OECD Library - Chile

Database of National Law

National legislation search

Sources of National Space Law

Decree 338 of 2001 on the Creation of the Presidential Advisory Commission called the Chilean Space Agency
- English (unofficial) version at UNOOSA

Treaties and International Agreements

Party to these outer space treaties [International Space Treaties Status]
- Ratified the Outer Space Treaty 1967
- Ratified the Rescue and Return Agreement 1968
- Ratified the Liability Convention 1972
- Ratified the Registration Convention 1975
- Ratified the Moon Agreement 1979
Signatory to the International Telecommunication Convention (ITU) 1992
- ITU List of Agreements
Ratified the Treaty banning nuclear weapon tests in the atmosphere, in outer space and under water (PTBT) 1965
Signatory to the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty 1996
Signatory to the International Telecommunications Satellite Organization (INTELSAT - ITSO) 1971
Signatory to the Convention on the Distribution of Programme Carrying Signals Transmitted by Satellite (BRS) 1974
Signatory to the Convention on the International Mobile Satellite Organization (IMSO) 1976
Signatory to the NASA Artemis Accords on 25th October, 2024.
Decree 516 1994: Implements the supplementary protocol with Brazil establishing the bilateral cooperation programme in the space area.

Regulation of Space Activities

Law 21105: Creating the Ministry of Science, Technology, Knowledge and Innovation. Law states that the Ministry shall ensure space development and promotion of space activity within the country in coordination with the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Transport and Telecommunications.

Decree 24: Creates a Presidential Advisory Commission on Space Matters.
Law 18168: General Telecommunications Law
Decree 186: Modifies the general plan for the use of radioelectric spectrum.
Decree 11: Establishes the registry of space objects launched into or beyond Earth orbit.

National Space Policy

National Space Programme (in English) (ESP)
National Space Policy 2014-2020

Historical Documents

Croatia

Primary Source Materials [SCF Staff]

Big Book of Country Space Law

World Factbook - Croatia / No Space Programme Reference Guide Available

UNIDIR Space Security Portal - Croatia

OECD Library - Croatia

Databases of National Law

National legislation search

Sources of National Space Law

No national space law

Treaties and International Agreements

Party to these outer space treaties [International Space Treaties Status]
- Ratified the Outer Space Treaty 1967
- Ratified the Rescue and Return Agreement 1968
- Ratified the Liability Convention 1972
Ratified the International Telecommunication Convention (ITU) 1992
- ITU List of Agreements
Signatory to the Treaty banning nuclear weapon tests in the atmosphere, in outer space and under water (PTBT)
Ratified the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty 1996
Signatory to the Civil International Space Station Agreement
Signatory to the International Space Station Intergovernmental Agreement
Signatory to the Wassenaar Arrangement on Arms Export Controls
Ratified the International Telecommunications Satellite Organization (INTELSAT - ITSO) 1971
Ratified the Convention on the Distribution of Programme Carrying Signals Transmitted by Satellite (BRS) 1974
Signatory to the Agreement on Cooperation in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space for Peaceful Purposes (INTERCOSMOS - INTC) 1976
Ratified the Convention on the International Mobile Satellite Organization (IMSO) 1976
Ratified the Convention Establishing the European Telecommunications Satellite Organization (EUTELSAT) 1982
Ratified the Convention for the Establishment of a European Organization for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT) 1983
Member of the International Charter “Space and Major Disasters”

Regulation of Space Activities

No national space agency regulations

Regulations concerning radio frequency allocation:

Electronic Communications Act (2008): transposes, among others, Directive (EU) 2018/1972 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2018 (European Electronic Communications Code)
Act on the ratification of the Agreement on a European Participating State between the Republic of Croatia and the European Space Agency (2023)
Ordinance on the use of the radio frequency spectrum (2022)
Ordinance on radio equipment (2023)

National Space Policy

As a member of the European Union, Croatia is party to the political agreement to not conduct ASAT testing.

Historical Documents

First national space law

Denmark

Primary Source Materials [SCF Staff]

Big Book of Danish Space Law

World Factbook Denmark / Space Programme Reference Guide

UNIDIR Space Security Portal - Denmark

OECD Library - Denmark

Databases of National Law

European Case Law Identifier search engine
Danish National Legal Database [Retsinformation]

Sources of National Space Law

The Danish Outer Space Act [Lov om Aktiviteter i det Ydre Rum] no. 409 (01 July 2016) [English ; Danish]
Executive Order on Requirements in Connection with Approval of Activities in Outer Space [Bekendtgørelse om Krav ved Godkendelse af Aktiviteter i det Ydre Rum] no. 552 [01 July 2016]

Treaties and International Agreements

Party to these outer space treaties [International Space Treaties Status]
- Ratified the Outer Space Treaty 1967
- Ratified the Rescue and Return Agreement 1968
- Ratified the Liability Convention 1972
- Ratified the Registration Convention 1975
Signatory to the International Telecommunication Convention (ITU) 1992
- ITU List of Agreements
Ratified the Treaty banning nuclear weapon tests in the atmosphere, in outer space and under water (PTBT) 1964
Ratified the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty 1996
Signatory to the NASA Artemis Accords on 13th November, 2024.
Signatory to the Wassenaar Arrangement on Arms Export Controls
Ratified the Convention establishing the European Space Agency (ESA)
Ratified the International Telecommunications Satellite Organization (INTELSAT - ITSO) 1971
Signatory to the Civil International Space Station Agreement
Signatory to the International Space Station Intergovernmental Agreement
Ratified the Convention on the International Mobile Satellite Organization (IMSO) 1976
Ratified the Convention Establishing the European Telecommunications Satellite Organization (EUTELSAT) 1982
Ratified the Convention for the Establishment of a European Organization for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT) 1983

Regulation of Space Activities

National space agency: DTU Space
The Outer Space Act - Scope of Application
Executive Order on Requirements in Connection with approval of activities in Outer Space

National Space Policy

National Space Strategy
Danish Strategy for Space Research and Innovation [25 November 2024]

Historical Documents

Finland

Primary Source Materials [SCF Staff]

Big Book of Finnish Space Law

World Factbook - Finland

UNIDIR Space Security Portal - Finland

OECD Library - Finland

Databases of National Law

European Case Law Identifier
National Registry of Space Objects (Updated 17 March 2025)

Sources of National Space (and related) Law

Act on Space Activities (63/2018, 23 January 2018) (ENG)
Supplemental Decree on Space Activities (74/2018, 23 January 2018)
Act on Ground Stations and Certain Radars (96/2023, 24 January 2023)
Electronic Communications Services Act (917/2014, 7 November 2014)
Decree on the Supervision of the Space Activities of the Finnish Defence Forces (999/2019)
Government Decree on limit values for satellite remote sensing (97/2023)

Treaties and International Agreements

Party to four of the five outer space treaties:
- Ratified the Outer Space Treaty 1967
- Ratified the Rescue and Return Agreement 1968
- Ratified the Liability Convention 1972
- Ratified Registration Convention 1975
Signatory to the International Telecommunication Convention (ITU) 1992
- ITU List of Agreements
Ratified the Treaty banning nuclear weapon tests in the atmosphere, in outer space and under water (PTBT) 1964
Signatory to the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty 1996
Signatory to the NASA Artemis Accords
Signatory to the Civil International Space Station Agreement
Signatory to the Civil Lunar Gateway Agreement
Signatory to the International Charter “Space and Major Disasters”
Signatory to the International Space Station Intergovernmental Agreement
Signatory to the Wassenaar Arrangement on Arms Export Controls
Signatory to the International Telecommunications Satellite Organization (INTELSAT - ITSO) 1971
Signatory to the International System and Organization of Space Communications (INTERSPUTNIK) 1971
Signatory to the Convention on the Distribution of Programme Carrying Signals Transmitted by Satellite (BRS) 1974
Signatory to the Agreement on Cooperation in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space for Peaceful Purposes (INTERCOSMOS - INTC) 1976
Signatory to the Convention on the International Mobile Satellite Organization (IMSO) 1976
Signatory to the Agreement of the Arab Corporation for Space Communications (ARABSAT) 1976
Signatory to the Convention Establishing the European Telecommunications Satellite Organization (EUTELSAT) 1982
Signatory to the Convention for the Establishment of a European Organization for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT) 1983
Member of International Charter “Space and Major Disasters”

Regulation of Space Activities

National Space Policy

Historical Documents

France

Primary Source Materials [SCF Staff]
Big Book of French Space Law
World Factbook France / Space Programme Reference Guide
UNIDIR Space Security Portal - France
OECD Library - France

Databases of National Law

JUDILIBRE - Open data et API - The Court of Cassation is the highest court in the French judicial system
Open Data for Administrative Justice - Search
European Case Law Identifier (ECLI) search engine

Sources of National Space Law

National Space Law:
- Law creating the national space agency
- LOI n° 2008-518 du 3 juin 2008 relative aux opérations spatiales (1) - Légifrance
- Unofficial translation of LOI n° 2008-518 (French Space Operations Act)

Treaties and International Agreements

Signatory to all five outer space treaties:
- Outer Space Treaty 1967
- Rescue and Return Agreement 1968
- Liability Convention 1972
- Registration Convention 1975
- Moon Agreement 1979 (signed but not ratified)
Signatory to the International Telecommunication Convention (ITU) 1992
- ITU List of Agreements
Signatory to the Convention establishing the European Space Agency (ESA)
Signatory to the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty 1996
Signatory to the NASA Artemis Accords on 7th July, 2022.
Signatory to the Wassenaar Arrangement on Arms Export Controls
Agreement between the French Government and the European Space Agency Concerning the Guiana Space Centre (1993) (selected provisions)

Regulation of Space Activities

National Spectrum Regulatory Authority:

National Space Policy

Historical Documents

France’s proposal for secure EU space communications and connectivity:
- Proposition de résolution en application de l'article 73 quinquies du Règlement, sur la proposition de règlement du Parlement européen et du Conseil établissant le programme de l'Union pour une connectivité sécurisée pour la période 2023-2027

Germany

Primary Source Materials [SCF Staff]
Big Book of German Space Law
World Factbook Germany / Space Programme Reference Guide
UNIDIR Space Security Portal - Germany
OECD Library - Germany

Database of National Law

Sources of National Space Law

Law creating the national space agency
National Space Law
- (no national space law yet: WIP)

Treaties and International Agreements

Ratified four of the five outer space treaties:
- Ratified the Outer Space Treaty 1967
- Ratified the Rescue and Return Agreement 1968
- Ratified the Liability Convention 1972
- Ratified the Registration Convention 1975
Ratified the International Telecommunication Convention (ITU) 1992
- ITU List of Agreements
Ratified the Treaty banning nuclear weapon tests in the atmosphere, in outer space and under water (PTBT) 1964
Ratified the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty 1996
Signatory to the Convention establishing the European Space Agency (ESA)
Signatory to the NASA Artemis Accords on 14th September, 2023.
Ratified the Civil International Space Station Agreement
Signatory to the International Space Station Intergovernmental Agreement
Signatory to the Wassenaar Arrangement on Arms Export Controls
Ratified the International Telecommunications Satellite Organization (INTELSAT - ITSO) 1971
Ratified the International System and Organization of Space Communications (INTERSPUTNIK) 1971
Ratified the Convention on the International Mobile Satellite Organization (IMSO) 1976
Ratified the Convention Establishing the European Telecommunications Satellite Organization (EUTELSAT) 1982
Ratified the Convention for the Establishment of a European Organization for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT) 1983

Regulation of Space Activities

National Space Agency: German Aerospace Center
National Spectrum Regulatory Authority: The Federal Network Agency (BNetzA).
The German Spectrum Plan as of 2022.

National Space Policy

Historical Documents

Notice on the scope of the Convention on the Registration of space launched items - Federal Law Gazette 2023 II No. 61 of 27 February 2023 Date of issue: 20.02.2023
Notice on the scope of the Treaty on Principles Governing the Activities of States in the Exploration and Use of thespaceincluding the moon and other celestial bodies - Federal Law Gazette 2024 II No. 243 of 03.07.2024 Date of issue: 25.06.2024
Notice on the scope of the Convention on the Registration of space launched items - Federal Law Gazette 2023 II No. 27 of 01.02.2023 Date of issue: 23.01.2023
Notice on the scope of the Convention on the Registration of space launched items - Federal Law Gazette 2024 II No. 209 of 29 May 2024 Date of issue: 16.05.2024

Islamic Republic of Iran

Primary Source Materials [SCF Staff]
Big Book of Iranian Space Law
World Factbook Iran / Space Programme Reference Guide
UNIDIR Space Security Portal - Iran
OECD Library - Iran

Sources of National Space Law

Comprehensive document on the country's air and space development -سند جامع توسعه هوا و فضای کشور
Comprehensive Scientific Map of the Country- سند نقشه جامع علمی کشور
The 20-Year Vision Document of Iran- سند چشم‌انداز ۲۰ ساله
The statutes of the Air and Space Industries Organization- اساسنامه سازمان صنایع هوا و فضا
The law on the Establishment of the Aviation Industry Organization of the Iranian Armed Forces- قانون تشکیل سازمان صنایع هوایی نیروهای مسلح ایران

Regulation of Space Activities

Statute of the Iranian Space Agency- اساسنامه سازمان فضایی ایران
The law related to the annexation of the imperial government of Iran to the agreement related to the prohibition of nuclear weapons tests in the atmosphere and outer space and underwater- ‌قانون مربوط به الحاق دولت شاهنشاهی ایران به قرارداد مربوط به منع آزمایشهای سلاح هسته‌ای در جو و فضای ماورای‌جو و زیر آب
The law establishing a regional center for space science and technology research in cooperation with the United Nations in central and western Asia- قانون ایجاد مرکز منطقه‌ای تحقیقات علوم و فناوری فضایی با همکاری سازمان ملل متحد در مرکز و غرب آسیا

National Space Policy

The fourth Five-Year Economic, Social, and Cultural Development Plan of the Islamic Republic of Iran (2005-2010)-قانون برنامه پنجساله چهارم توسعه اقتصادی، اجتماعی وفرهنگی جمهوری اسلامی ایران ۱۳۸۸ ـ ۱۳۸۴ : Mentioning the need for development in the area of space technology under articles 43 and 72.
The fifth Five-Year Economic, Social, and Cultural Development Plan of the Islamic Republic of Iran (2011–2015)-قانون برنامه پنجساله پنجم توسعه اقتصادی، اجتماعی وفرهنگی جمهوری اسلامی ایران ۱۳۹۴ ـ ۱۳۹۰ : Mentioning the need for development in the area of space technology under article 195 .
The sixth Five-Year Economic, Social, and Cultural Development Plan of the Islamic Republic of Iran (2016–2021)- قانون برنامه پنجساله ششم توسعه اقتصادی، اجتماعی وفرهنگی جمهوری اسلامی ایران ۱۴۰۰ـ ۱۳۹۶ : Mentioning the need for development in the area of space technology under article 40.

Treaties and International Agreements

Signatory to the Outer Space Treaty 1967
Ratified the Rescue and Return Agreement 1968
Ratified the Liability Convention 1972
Signatory to the Registration Convention 1975
Ratified the Convention on the International Maritime Satellite Organization (INMARSAT) 1976
Ratified the Agreement relating to the International Telecommunications Satellite Organization (INTELSAT) 1971
Ratified the Convention of the Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organization (APSCO) 2006
Member of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space: Membership Evolution (COPUOS) 1957
Signatory to the International Telecommunication Convention (ITU) 1992
(ITU) List of Agreements for Iran
Ratified the Treaty banning nuclear weapon tests in the atmosphere, in outer space and under water (PTBT) 1964
Member of International Mobile Satellite Organization (IMSO) 1976
Signatory to the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT) 1996
Member of the International Telecommunications Satellite Organization 'INTELSAT' 1973

Italy

Primary Source Materials [SCF Staff]
Big Book of Italian Space Law
World Factbook Italy; Space Programme Reference Guide
UNIDIR Space Security Portal
OECD Library - Italy

Database of National Space Law

Documenti Legislativi e Norme Procedurali
- Contains all legislative documents, procedural rules, and archival documents relating to the italian space agency, including codes of conduct and related forms, internal documents and procedures governing administration, finance and accounting regulations,organization regulations, and staff regulations.
European Case Law Identifier (ECLI) search engine

Sources of National Space Law

Statute of the Italian Space Agency (2022)

Treaties and International Agreements

Ratified four of the five outer space treaties:
- Ratified the Outer Space Treaty 1967
- Ratified the Rescue and Return Agreement 1968
- Ratified the Liability Convention 1972
- Ratified the Registration Convention 1975
Ratified the International Telecommunication Convention (ITU) 1992
- ITU List of Agreements
Ratified the Treaty banning nuclear weapon tests in the atmosphere, in outer space and under water (PTBT) 1964
Signatory to the Convention establishing the European Space Agency (ESA)
Ratified the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty 1996
Signatory to the NASA Artemis Accords on 13th October, 2020.
Signatory to the International Space Station Intergovernmental Agreement
Signatory to the Wassenaar Arrangement on Arms Export Controls
Ratified the International Telecommunications Satellite Organization (INTELSAT - ITSO) 1971
Ratified the Convention on the International Mobile Satellite Organization (IMSO) 1976
Ratified the Convention Establishing the European Telecommunications Satellite Organization (EUTELSAT) 1982
Ratified the Convention for the Establishment of a European Organization for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT) 1983
“Law for the implementation for the Convention on International Liability for damages caused by space objects”
- Law n. 23 of 25 January 1983 (original version)
- Law n. 23 of 25 January 1983 (unofficial translation)

Regulation of Space Activities

Decree Concerning the Reorganization of the Italian Space Agency (ASI)
Legislative Decree n. 128 of 4 June 2003
Law on Registration of space objects
Law n. 153 of 12 July 2005
The Italian Space Agency (ASI) Transparency Website
Italian Space Agency (ASI) Legal Documents
Documents for the strategic and technical management of the ASI including the Integrated Performance Plan, the Strategic Vision Document (DVS) and the Three-Year Activity Plan (PTA)
National Spectrum Regulatory Authority - AGCOM
National Frequency Allocation Plan - PNRF.

National Space Policy

Italy’s commitment not to conduct destructive direct-ascent anti-satellite missile tests

Historical Documents

Pre-2018 Italian Space Agency Legal Document Archive

Japan

Databases of National Law

Overview of Japanese Space Law
Japanese version: 原典宇宙法－目次
Japanese Law Translation (JPN/ENG)

Sources of National Space Law

Basic Space Act (JPN/ENG)
Space Activities Act (JPN/ENG)

Treaties and International Agreements

Ratified four of the five outer space treaties:
- Ratified the Outer Space Treaty 1967
- Ratified the Rescue and Return Agreement 1968
- Ratified the Liability Convention 1972
- Ratified the Registration Convention 1975
Ratified the Treaty banning nuclear weapon tests in the atmosphere, in outer space and under water (PTBT) 1964
Signatory to the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty 1996
Signatory to the NASA Artemis Accords on 13th October, 2024.
Ratified the International Telecommunication Convention (ITU) 1992
- ITU List of Agreements
Ratified the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty 1996
Signatory to the Civil International Space Station Agreement
Signatory to the International Charter “Space and Major Disasters”
Signatory to the Intergovernmental Agreement on the International Space Station
Signatory to the Wassenaar Arrangement on Arms Export Controls
Acceptance of the International Telecommunications Satellite Organization (INTELSAT - ITSO) 1971
Ratified the Convention on the International Mobile Satellite Organization (IMSO) 1976
Ratified the Convention Establishing the European Telecommunications Satellite Organization (EUTELSAT) 1982
Ratified the Convention for the Establishment of a European Organization for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT) 1983

Regulation of Space Activities

Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA): Law Concerning JAXA
Basic Space Act (Act. No 43 of May 28, 2008) (ENG)
- First domestic law outlining the government’s role in space development
- Transition from science-centric space policy toward more commercial innovation and national security
Basic Plan on Space Policy (JPN)
- Abbreviated: Basic Plan
- 10 years, flexible
Implementation Plan for the Basic Plan on Space Policy (last revised 6/13/2023)(JPN)
- Abbreviated: Implementation Plan
- Outlines each ministry and agency’s responsibility in pursuing the objectives written in the basic plan
Act on Launching of Spacecraft etc. and Control of Spacecraft (ENG)
- Abbreviated: Space Activities Act
Order for Enforcement of the Space Activities Act (JPN)
Act on Ensuring Appropriate Handling of Satellite Remote Sensing Data (ENG)
- Abbreviated: Remote Sensing Act
Act on the Promotion of Business Activities Related to the Exploration and Development of Space Resources (ENG)
- Abbreviated: Space Resources Act
Regulation for Enforcement of the Act on the Promotion of Business Activities for the Exploration and Development of Space Resources (ENG)

Space Policy Committee Cabinet Order 186 (2012) (JPN)
Act for Establishment of the Cabinet Office Article 40 (JPN)

National Space Policy

Agreements/Dialogues/Cooperation Forums

Japan-U.S. Comprehensive Dialogue on Space; March 11, 2013 (ENG)
- March, 2013 was the first meeting. For the most recent meeting (eighth), see Japan-U.S. Comprehensive Dialogue on Space; March 28, 2023 (ENG)
Archive of Japan-US Comprehensive Dialogue on Space (ENG)
Japan-U.S. Security Consultative Committee (2+2); April 2012 (ENG)
Archive of Japan-US Security Consultative Committee (ENG)
EU-led International Code of Conduct (ICoC) (draft; 03/2014) (ENG)
UNCOPUOS-led Long-term Sustainability of Outer Space Activities (ENG)
Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Disaster Information Network (ADInet) (ENG)

Proposals/Drafts

The Space Strategy of MEXT (issued by the Working Group [working group on space development and utilization] in 2013) (JPN)
Comprehensive Strategy on Space Parts and Components’ Technical Development (produced by METI, the Cabinet, CAO, MIC, MEXT and the Ministry of Defense 03/31/2016) (JPN)

Objectives, Strategies, and Initiatives

JAXA’s mid-to-long-term objectives

- - Mid-term Objectives (2/28/2013)(JPN): 中期目標
  - Comparison of JAXA’s third-term Mid to Long-Term Objectives (JPN)

JAXA’s mid-to-long-term plan, annual plans

- JAXA’s mid-to-long-term plan (JPN)
- JAXA’s mid-to-long-term plan (draft)(ENG)
- Mid-to-long-term Plan/Objectives Archive (JPN)
- Annual Plan (JPN)

Strategies

National Defense Strategy (NDS) (ENG) (12/16/2022)
National Security Strategy (NSS) OF 2022 (ENG)
外務省、日本の安全保障政策ウエブサイト Ministry of Foreign Affairs Website, National Security Strategy, 2022 (JPN)
National Security Strategy (NSS) of 2013 (ENG)
National Security Strategy (JPN)
Medium-Term Defense Program FY2019-FY 2023 (2018 MTDP)(JPN)
National Defense Program Guidelines for FY 2019 and Beyond (ENG)
Defense Buildup Program (12/16/2022) (ENG)
Space Industry Vision for 2030 (released May 29, 2017) (JPN)
Long-Term Visions on the Space Transportation System (released April 2014 by CNSP) (JPN)
Manual for Procedures regarding International Frequency Allocation for Small Satellite Constellations (JPN)
Guidelines on a License to Operate a Spacecraft Performing On-Orbit Servicing (OOS Guidelines) (ENG)
Task Force for Expanding Japan’s Space System Overseas (JPN)
About the Task Force (JPN)
List of working groups for the Task Force for Expanding Japan’s Space Systems Overseas (JPN)
The Space New Economy Creation Network (S-NET) (JPN)
S-Booster (ENG)
Space Awards (JPN)

Procedures, Guidelines, and Forms

Guidelines on Cybersecurity Measures for Commercial Space Systems v 1.0 (ENG)
Summary (ENG)
Administrative Procedure Act (ENG)
Act No. 88 of 1993; the Act provides for common rules regarding procedures for dispositions, administrative guidance, notifications, and the procedure for establishing administrative orders

Schedules

Outer Space Progress Schedule/Timeline (JPN) 宇宙基本計画工程
Outer Space Progress Schedule Revised (JPN) 宇宙基本計画工程表改訂に向けた重点事項

Links to Forms (JPN)

Examples of forms:
Application to Launch Satellite Form (JPN)
人工衛星等の打上げに係る許可申請書
Form to Revise Application to Launch Satellite
Change notification regarding the launch of artificial satellites
Application to request approval for insurance for damages

Historical Documents

Two Outer Space-Related Laws Enacted | Library of Congress

Kenya

Primary Source Materials [SCF Staff]
Big Book of Kenyan Space Law
World Factbook Kenya / Space Programme Reference Guide
UNIDIR Space Security Portal - Kenya
OECD Library - Kenya

Databases of National Law

National legislation search

Sources of National Space Law

The Kenya Space Agency Order 2017
Member of the African Space Agency; Statute of the ASA

Treaties and International Agreements

Party to these outer space treaties [International Space Treaties Status]
- Ratified the Outer Space Treaty 1967
- Ratified the Liability Convention 1972
Signatory to the International Telecommunication Convention (ITU) 1992
- ITU List of Agreements
Accession to the Treaty banning nuclear weapon tests in the atmosphere, in outer space and under water (PTBT) 1965
Signatory to the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty 1996
Signatory to the International Telecommunications Satellite Organization (INTELSAT - ITSO) 1971
Signatory to the Convention on the Distribution of Programme Carrying Signals Transmitted by Satellite (BRS) 1974
Signatory to the Convention on the International Mobile Satellite Organization (IMSO) 1976

Regulation of Space Activities

Kenyan Space Bill 2024 (Proposal)

Treaty for the Establishment of the East African Community Act: Article 99 concerns telecommunications with regards to the adoption of a common telecommunications policy in collaboration with international organizations, improvements to interconnectivity, the harmonization and application of non-discriminatory tariffs, private sector investor promotion and the adoption of a common frequency management and monitoring scheme.
Kenya Information and Communications Act: Establishes the Commission known as the Communications Authority of Kenya.
Telecommunications Tax Act 1980

National Space Policy

Historical Documents

Gazette Notice No. 5563 of 5th June 2009: Establishing the National Space Secretariat

New Zealand

Primary Source Materials [SCF Staff]
Big Book of New Zealand Space Law
World Factbook - New Zealand / Space Programme Reference Guide
UNIDIR Space Security Portal - New Zealand
OECD Library - New Zealand

Databases of National Law

New Zealand Government: Legislation Database

Sources of National Space Law

Outer Space and High-altitude Activities Act 2017 (First National Space Law of New Zealand)

Treaties and International Agreements

Ratified four of the five outer space treaties:
- Ratified the Outer Space Treaty 1967
- Ratified the Rescue and Return Agreement 1968
- Ratified the Liability Convention 1972
- Ratified the Registration Convention 1975

Ratified the International Telecommunication Convention (ITU) 1992
- ITU List of Agreements (Ratifications and Signatures)
Ratified the Treaty banning nuclear weapon tests in the atmosphere, in outer space and under water (PTBT) 1963
Ratified the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty 1996
Signatory to the NASA Artemis Accords on 31st May, 2021.
Signatory to the Wassenaar Arrangement on Arms Export Controls
Ratification of the International Telecommunications Satellite Organization (INTELSAT - ITSO) 1971
Ratification of the Convention on the International Mobile Satellite Organization (IMSO) 1976

Regulation of Space Activities

Outer Space and High-altitude Activities Act 2017 regulates various activities within space including launches into outer space, launch facilitates, high-altitude vehicles (HAVs), and payloads.
- Outer Space and High-altitude Activities (Licenses and Permits) Regulations 2017
- Outer Space and High-altitude Activities (Definition of High-altitude Vehicle) Regulations 2017
Statutory 3 Year Review of the Outer Space and High-altitude Activities Act 2017 : as stated by the Terms of Reference, Section 86 of the Outer Space and High-altitude Act requires the Minister for Economic and Regional Development to conduct a review on the effectiveness of the Act.
Telecommunications Act 2001
Telecommunications (Interception Capability and Security) Act 2013
Radiocommunications Act 1989

National Space Policy

Historical Documents

Prior to 2017, New Zealand began enabling space launch activity within New Zealand via an agreement with US corporation Rocket Lab USA Inc.
Evolution of the Outer Space and High-altitude Activities Act 2017

Poland

Primary Source Materials [SCF Staff]
Big Book of Polish Space Law
World Factbook - Space / Space Programme Reference Guide
UNIDIR Space Security Portal - Poland
OECD Library - Poland

Databases of National Law

National legislation search

Sources of National Space Law

Law creating the national space agency
- Act of 26 September 2014 creating the Polish Space Agency (POLSA)

Treaties and International Agreements

Party to four of the five outer space treaties [International Space Treaties Status]
- Ratified the Outer Space Treaty 1967
- Ratified the Rescue and Return Agreement 1968
- Ratified the Liability Convention 1972
- Ratified the Registration Convention 1975
Ratified the International Telecommunication Convention (ITU) 1992
- ITU List of Agreements
Signatory to the Treaty banning nuclear weapon tests in the atmosphere, in outer space and under water (PTBT) 1963
Ratified the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty
Signatory to the NASA Artemis Accords on 26th October, 2021.
Signatory to the Convention establishing the European Space Agency (ESA)
Signatory to the Wassenaar Arrangement on Arms Export Controls
1971 Agreement Relating to the International Telecommunications Satellite Organization (ITSO)
Ratified the International System and Organization of Space Communications (INTERSPUTNIK) 1971
Ratified the Agreement on Cooperation in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space for Peaceful Purposes (INTERCOSMOS - INTC) 1976
Ratified the Convention on the International Mobile Satellite Organization (IMSO) 1976
Ratified the Convention Establishing the European Telecommunications Satellite Organization (EUTELSAT) 1982
Ratified the Convention for the Establishment of a European Organization for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT) 1983
Plan for European Cooperating States (PECS) 2007

Regulation of Space Activities

The Polish Space Agency (Polsa) supports the Ministry of Economic Development and Technology in preparations for a National Space Program. Additionally, the Polish Space Agency will continue to build the National Satellite Information System – a system of diversified satellite data available on one platform. Polsa currently receives funds from the ESA contribution, and EU funds to implement pilot programs. In 2018, POLSA announced a planned space budget of approximately $420 million over the following 8 years. In August 2023, the Ministry of Development and Technology allocated an additional 360 million euros for activities within the European Space Agency (ESA) for the period 2023–2025.

National Space Policy

The Polish Space Strategy (2017-2030) was accepted by the government in January 2017
The Ministry of Economy is responsible for relations with the ESA and for overall coordination of space policy.
As of now, there is still no national space program, but POLSA is working hard to submit an inspiring and achievable plan.
National Spectrum Regulatory Authority - Office of Electronic Communications (UKE).
National Frequency Allocation Plan
Telecommunications Authority: Ministry of Economy and Office of Telecommunications Regulation (OTR).
The 2004 Telecommunications Act - Consolidated Unofficial Translated Text 2017.

Historical Documents

First national space law

Portugal

Primary Source Materials [SCF Members]
Big book of Portuguese Space Law [SCF Members]
World Factbook - Portugal Space; Space Programme Reference Guide
UNIDIR Space Security Portal
OECD Library - Portugal

Database of National Law

National legislation search

Source of National Space Law

Official source of Space legislation:
PresidênDo Conselho De Ministros Decreto-Lei n.º 16/2019 de 22 de Janeiro
Regulation of space activities and the creation of the Portuguese Space Agency:
Portugal Space
Regulation n.º 697/2019 on the System for Access to and Exercise of Space Activities

International Agreements

Ratified four of the five outer space treaties:
- Ratified the Outer Space Treaty 1967
- Ratified the Rescue and Return Agreement 1968
- Ratified the Liability Convention 1972
- Ratified the Registration Convention 1975
Ratified the International Telecommunication Convention (ITU) 1992
- ITU List of Agreements
Signatory to the Convention establishing the European Space Agency (ESA)
Ratified the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty 1996
Signatory to the Wassenaar Arrangement on Arms Export Controls
Ratified the International Telecommunications Satellite Organization (INTELSAT - ITSO) 1971
Ratified the Convention on the International Mobile Satellite Organization (IMSO) 1976
Ratified the Convention Establishing the European Telecommunications Satellite Organization (EUTELSAT) 1982
Ratified the Convention for the Establishment of a European Organization for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT) 1983

Regulation of Space Activities

Regulation n.º 697/2019 on the System for Access to and Exercise of Space Activities
Resolution of the Council of the Regional Government of the Azores n.º 30/2019 authorizing the participation of the Autonomous Region of the Azores in the Portuguese Space Agency
National Spectrum Regulatory Authority - National Authority for Communications (ANACOM).
National Frequency Allocation Plan and Table.

National Space Policy

Portugal Space 2030 - approved by Council of Ministers Resolution No. 30/2018, of 12 March.

Historical Documents

Republic of Korea

Primary Source Materials [SCF Staff]
Big Book of Korean Space Law
World Factbook Republic of Korea / Space Programme Reference Guide
UNIDIR Space Security Portal - South Korea
OECD Library - Republic of Korea

Databases of National Law

National legislation search

Sources of National Space Law

Special Act on Establishment and Operation of the Korea AeroSpace Administration (2024) (ENG- press release) (KOR)

Aerospace Industry Development Promotion Act [Enforcement Date 21. Jan, 2021.] [Act No.17537, 20. Oct, 2020., Partial Amendment] (ENG) (KOR)

Enforcement Decree of the Aerospace Industry Development Promotion Act, Presidential Decree No. 28212, Jul. 26, 2017 (ENG)
Space Development Promotion Act (2005) (ENG) (KOR)
Enforcement Decree of the Space Development Promotion Act (ENG)
Act on Compensation for Damage Caused by Space Objects (ENG) (KOR)

Treaties and International Agreements

Party to these outer space treaties [International Space Treaties Status]
- Ratified the Outer Space Treaty 1967
- Ratified the Rescue and Return Agreement 1968
- Ratified the Liability Convention 1972
- Ratified the Registration Convention 1975
Signatory to the International Telecommunication Convention (ITU) 1992
- ITU List of Agreements
Ratified the Treaty banning nuclear weapon tests in the atmosphere, in outer space and under water (PTBT) 1964
Signatory to the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty 1996
Signatory to the NASA Artemis Accords on 24th May, 2021.
Signatory to the International Charter “Space and Major Disasters”
Signatory to the International Space Station Intergovernmental Agreement
Signatory to the International Telecommunications Satellite Organization (INTELSAT - ITSO) 1971
Ratified the Convention on the Distribution of Programme Carrying Signals Transmitted by Satellite (BRS) 1974
Ratified the Convention on the International Mobile Satellite Organization (IMSO) 1976

Regulation of Space Activities

Draft of the Recommendations for the Development and Operation of Spacecraft to Space Debris Mitigation (2020)

Telecommunications

Radio Waves Act [amended by Act No. 18957, Jun. 10, 2022] (ENG) : covers the basics of frequencies and satellite communications in compliance with the ITU.
Enforcement Decree of the Radio Waves Act [amended by Presidential Decree No. 33225, Jan. 10, 2023] (ENG)
Broadcasting Act (ENG)

National Space Policy

Mid to Long-Term Basic Plan for the Promotion of Space Development
Korea's New Challenge for Space - 3rd Basic Plan for Space Development Promotion: Discusses the advancement of launch vehicle technology, advancement of satellite services, establishment of position information systems and the strengthening of industries, universities and government funded institutions within the Korean space sector.
Fourth Space Development Promotion Basic Plan (2022): Discusses the expansion of space exploration, space transportation, creating space industries, establishment of space security as well as the expansion of space science.
The Fifth Science and Technology Master Plan (2023-2027): Space is focussed upon in Point 7 of the Strategy No.3 entitled ‘Resolving National Pending Issues through S&T and Preparing for Future’.
Commitment by the Republic of Korea not to conduct destructive direct-ascent ASAT tests 2022

Historical Documents

First national space law

Russian Federation

Primary Source Materials [SCF Staff]
Big Book of Russian Space Law Volumes I-VI [SCF Members]
World Factbook - Russia / Space Programme Reference Guide
UNIDIR Space Security Portal - Russia
OECD Library - Russia (non-member)

NOTE: Due to ongoing conflict, certain Russian Federation sites in the .ru top level domain may be blocked from the US, UK, EU, and other regions. You can typically access these sites by using a VPN service with geolocation options.

Databases of National Law

Search the official acts:
- Законодательство России
- Official Portal for legal publication of all acts in Russia
- Официальное опубликование правовых актов Официальное опубликование
- The Official Portal is divided between different branches and different government bodies. If you click on, e.g., the President of the Russian Federation, it will send you to all of the acts adopted by the President, etc.
General Law Reference Systems
- КонсультантПлюс - Consultant Plus commercial legal reference system
- ГАРАНТ - GARANT legal reference system (English version)
- Электронный фонд правовых и нормативно- технических документов - Legal and normative/technical documents

Sources of National Space Law

Regulation of Space Activities

Licensing of space activities
Permits for construction and commissioning of space infrastructure facilities
Official site of the City of Baikonur
Нормативные правовые акты

Roscosmos - State Corporation of Space Activities

The main source for Russian space law developments:
Roscosmos.ru
Official Acts (Roscosmos, Russian government, Projects and Administrative acts): Документы

Treaties and International Agreements

Ratified four of the five outer space treaties:
- Ratified the Outer Space Treaty 1967
- Ratified the Rescue and Return Agreement 1968
- Ratified the Liability Convention 1972
- Ratified the Registration Convention 1975
Ratified the International Telecommunication Convention (ITU) 1992
- ITU List of Agreements
Signatory to the Treaty banning nuclear weapon tests in the atmosphere, in outer space and under water (PTBT) 1963
Signatory to the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty 1996
Signatory to the Wassenaar Arrangement on Arms Export Controls
Signatory to the The Civil International Space Station Agreement
Signatory to the International Space Station Intergovernmental Agreement
Ratified the International Telecommunications Satellite Organization (INTELSAT - ITSO) 1971
Ratified the Agreement on Cooperation in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space for Peaceful Purposes (INTERCOSMOS - INTC) 1976
Ratified the Convention on the International Mobile Satellite Organization (IMSO) 1976
Ratified Signatory to the Convention Establishing the European Telecommunications Satellite Organization (EUTELSAT) 1982
Ministry of International Affairs of the Russian Federation (English version)
Министерство иностранных дел Российской Федерации
Official publication of international and bilateral agreements of the Russian Federation.

Historical Documents

Declassified materials and archive of some space law Acts from the USSR:
Рассекреченные материалы

Slovak Republic

Primary Source Materials [SCF Staff]
Big Book of Slovakian Space Law
World Factbook - Slovakia Space Programme Reference Guide
UNIDIR Space Security Portal - Slovakia
OECD Library - Slovak Republic

Databases of National Law

National legislation search

Sources of National Space Law

Law creating the national space agency
National Space Agency - Slovak Space Office - SARIO

National Space Law

Act on the Regulation of Space Activities (Slovak Space Act) 2024

Treaties and International Agreements

Party to four of the five outer space treaties [International Space Treaties Status]
- Ratified the Outer Space Treaty 1967
- Ratified the Rescue and Return Agreement 1968
- Ratified the Liability Convention 1972
- Ratified the Registration Convention 1975
the International Telecommunication Convention (ITU) 1992
- ITU List of Agreements
Succession to the Treaty banning nuclear weapon tests in the atmosphere, in outer space and under water (PTBT) 1993
Ratified the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty 1996
Signatory to the NASA Artemis Accords on 30th May, 2024.
Signatory to the Wassenaar Arrangement on Arms Export Controls
Signatory to the Agreement on Cooperation in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space for Peaceful Purposes (INTERCOSMOS - INTC) 1976
Signatory to the Convention on the International Mobile Satellite Organization (IMSO) 1976
Signatory to the Convention Establishing the European Telecommunications Satellite Organization (EUTELSAT) 1982
Signatory to the Convention for the Establishment of a European Organization for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT) 1983

Regulation of Space Activities

The Slovak Republic follows the rules and procedures of the ITU Radio Regulations and has established the Intergovernmental Frequency Spectrum Harmonization Committee, at the Ministry of Transport and Construction, with the main task being the coordination of frequencies in Slovakia.
The Regulatory Authority for Electronic Communications and Postal Services (RÚ) is the national regulatory authority
The radio frequency spectrum is administered by the Regulatory Authority for Electronic Communications and Postal Services for all services and users.

Changes in the allocation of frequencies/frequency bands are incorporated into the National Frequency Allocation Plan, which is updated annually and approved by the Government.

National Space Policy

The Slovak Republic supports the creation of non-legally binding UN instruments (e.g. Space Debris Mitigation Guidelines and the international guidelines of the UN for the Long-term Sustainability of outer space activities), including in the area of increasing transparency and building trust (TCBM) between states in the use of outer space, increasing the security and sustainability of space activities.
A conceptual framework of space activities in the Slovak Republic.

Historical Documents

First national space law - The Slovak Republic is currently drafting the “Act on Regulation of Outer Space activities in the Slovak Republic” (AROSA), including registration of the objects launched into outer space, which will deal with all relevant regulatory frameworks connected to the launch and execution of space activities.
History of Slovak space strategy

Slovenia

Primary Source Materials [SCF Staff]
Big Book of Slovenian Space Law
World Factbook - Slovenia / Space Programme Reference Guide
UNIDIR Space Security Portal - Slovenia
OECD Library - Slovenia

Databases of National Law

National legislation search (Legal Information System of the Republic of Slovenia)

Sources of National Space Law

Law creating the national space agency
National Space Law - The National Space Activities Act has been adopted by the parliament on 16 March 2022.

Treaties and International Agreements

Party to four of the five outer space treaties [International Space Treaties Status]
- Ratified the Outer Space Treaty 1967
- Ratified the Rescue and Return Agreement 1968
- Ratified the Liability Convention 1972
- Ratified the Registration Convention 1975
Signatory to the International Telecommunication Convention (ITU) 1992
- ITU List of Agreements
Succession to the Treaty banning nuclear weapon tests in the atmosphere, in outer space and under water (PTBT) 1992
Ratified the the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty 1996
Signatory to the NASA Artemis Accords on 19th April, 2024.
Signatory to the Wassenaar Arrangement on Arms Export Controls
Signatory to the Convention on the Distribution of Programme Carrying Signals Transmitted by Satellite (BRS) 1974 - The former Yugoslavia had signed and ratified the Convention on 31 March 1975 and 29 December 1976, respectively.
Signatory to the Convention Establishing the European Telecommunications Satellite Organization (EUTELSAT) 1982
Signatory to the Convention for the Establishment of a European Organization for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT) 1983
Signatory to the ESA Association Agreement. 2016.

Regulation of Space Activities

National space agency regulations
National Space Agency -
- Slovenian Space Office
National Regulatory Authority in Slovenia - Agency for Communication Networks and Services of the Republic of Slovenia (AKOS)
Act on Electronic Communications -ZEKom-2 (Official Gazette of the RS, no. 130/22- and 18/23 - ZDU-1O)
Postal Services Act (Official Gazette of the Republic of Slovenia, no. 51/09, 77/10, 40/14 – ZIN-B and 81/15);
Media Act - ZMed (Official Gazette of the RS, No. 110/06 – official consolidated text, 36/08 – ZPOmK-1, 77/10 – ZSFCJA, 90/10 – odl. US, 87/11 – ZAvMS, 47/ 12 and 47/15 – ZZSDT, 22/16, 39/16, 45/19 – dec. US, 67/19 – dec. US and 82/21)
Act on Audiovisual Media Services (ZAvMS) (Official Gazette of the RS, no. 87/11, 84/15 and 204/21);
Law on Radiotelevision Slovenia (Official Gazette of the Republic of Slovenia, no. 96/05, 109/05 – ZDavP-1B, 105/06 – odl. US, 26/09 – ZIPRS0809-B and 9/14)
Radio Frequency Spectrum Management Strategy for the period 2021-2023

National Space Policy

National Space Policy repository

Historical Documents

First national space law

Spain

Primary Source Materials [SCF Staff]
Big Book of Spanish National Space Law
World Factbook - Spain / Space Programme Reference Guide
UNIDIR Space Security Portal - Spain
OECD Library - Spain

Databases of National Law

Codes of Law

Sources of National Space Law

Royal Decree No. 278/1995 Of 24 February 1995, translation filed with UNOOSA:
National Space Law Collection: Spain

Treaties and International Agreements

Ratified four of the five outer space treaties:
- Ratified the Outer Space Treaty 1967
- Ratified the Rescue and Return Agreement 1968
- Ratified the Liability Convention 1972
- Ratified the Registration Convention 1975
Ratified the International Telecommunication Convention (ITU) 1992
- ITU List of Agreements
Ratified the Treaty banning nuclear weapon tests in the atmosphere, in outer space and under water (PTBT) 1964
Signatory to the Convention establishing the European Space Agency (ESA)
Ratified the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty 1996
Signatory to the NASA Artemis Accords on 30th May, 2023.
Signatory to the Wassenaar Arrangement on Arms Export Controls
Signatory to the Intergovernmental Agreement on the International Space Station
Ratified the International Telecommunications Satellite Organization (INTELSAT - ITSO) 1971
Signatory to the Convention on the International Mobile Satellite Organization (IMSO) 1976
Signatory to the Convention Establishing the European Telecommunications Satellite Organization (EUTELSAT) 1982
Signatory to the Convention for the Establishment of a European Organization for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT) 1983
Signatory to the Instrument of Ratification for EUTELSAT

Regulation of Space Activities

Creation of AgenEspacial Española (AEE; Spanish Space Agency) Royal Decree 158/2023
National Registry of Objects launched into Space Royal Decree 278/1995
Royal Decree 925/2015, of October 16, which approves the Statute of the National Institute of Aerospace Technology
The Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) Law 14/2011, of June 1, on Science, Technology and Innovation.
The CDTI is the official Spanish representative in the Space Council
The Directorate for Telecommunications of the Spanish Commission for the Markets and Competition (Comisión Nacional de los Mercados y la Competenor the CNMC)
The State Secretariat for Telecommunications and Digital Infrastructures (Secretaría de Estado de Telecomunicaciones e Infraestructuras Digitales), part of the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Digital Transformation.
National Frequency Allocation Table.
The Secretariat of State for Telecommunications and the Information Society (Secretaría de Estado de Telecomunicaciones y para la Sociedad de la Información) (SETSI), is considered a regulatory body under the authority of the Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism.
- Resolution of June 29, 2023, of the Directorate of the Spanish Agency for Data Protection, which approves the models for submitting claims.
- Royal Decree 136/1997 Of 31 January, Which Approves Is The Technical Regulation And Provision Of Telecommunications Service By Satellite
- Satellite Communications Law
Act 36/2015 on National Security
Act 8/2011 establishing measures to protect critical infrastructure
Act 21/2003 on air security
Act 48/1960 on air navigation

National Space Policy

National Aerospace Security Strategy 2019
Strategic Project for Aerospace Recovery and Economic Transformation (PERTE)
Spanish Government’s plan for the decentralization of entities of the General State Administration.
Law on protection of the astronomical quality of the observatories of the institute of astrophysics of the Canary Islands.
*** The Spanish Space Agency is currently developing a cohesive National Space Policy. This section will be updated as the laws are published in the National Gazette.

Historical Documents

History of Spain in Space

Switzerland

Primary Source Materials [SCF Members]
Big Book of Swiss Space Law
World Factbook - Switzerland / Space Programme Reference Guide
UNIDIR Space Security Portal - Switzerland
OECD Library - Switzerland

Databases of National Law

The Federal Law Publication Platform

Sources of National Space Law

The Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (EAER) – specifically SERI – is currently tasked with preparing a law on space activities for consultation.

Treaties and International Agreements

Ratified four of the five outer space treaties:
- Ratified the Outer Space Treaty 1967
- Ratified the Rescue and Return Agreement 1968
- Ratified the Liability Convention 1972
- Ratified the Registration Convention 1975
Ratified the International Telecommunication Convention (ITU) 1992
- ITU List of Agreements
Ratified the Treaty banning nuclear weapon tests in the atmosphere, in outer space and under water (PTBT) 1964
Ratified the Convention establishing the European Space Agency (ESA)
Ratified the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty 1996
Signatory to the NASA Artemis Accords on 15th April, 2024.
Signatory to the Wassenaar Arrangement on Arms Export Controls
Ratified the International Telecommunications Satellite Organization (INTELSAT - ITSO) 1971
Ratified the Convention on the International Mobile Satellite Organization (IMSO) 1976
Ratified the Convention Establishing the European Telecommunications Satellite Organization (EUTELSAT) 1982
Ratified the Convention for the Establishment of a European Organization for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT) 1983
Ratified Convention Relating to the Distribution of Programme Carrying Signals Transmitted by Satellite (BRS)

Regulation of Space Activities

National Space Policy

Historical Documents

Swiss Federal Council: Update of Swiss space policy and development of a national legal framework for space activities (admin.ch)

Netherlands

Primary Source Materials [SCF Staff]
Big Book of Dutch Space Law
World Factbook Netherlands / Space Programme Reference Guide
UNIDIR Space Security Portal - Netherlands
OECD Library - Netherlands

Databases of National Law

European Case Law Identifier (ECLI) search engine
National legislation search

Sources of National Space Law

Rules Concerning Space Activities and the Establishment of a Registry of Space Objects (Space Activities Act) (English version communicated to UNOOSA)
“Order Concerning Licence Applications for the Performance of Space Activities and the Registration of Space Objects” Order of 7 February 2008
“Space Objects Registry Decree” Decree of 13 November 2007
“Space Activities Act” Bill of 24 January 2007

Treaties and International Agreements

Ratified all five outer space treaties:
- Ratified the Outer Space Treaty 1967
- Ratified the Rescue and Return Agreement 1968
- Ratified the Liability Convention 1972
- Ratified the Registration Convention 1975
- Ratified the Moon Agreement 1979
Ratified the International Telecommunication Convention (ITU) 1992
- ITU List of Agreements
Signatory to the Convention establishing the European Space Agency (ESA)
Ratified the Treaty banning nuclear weapon tests in the atmosphere, in outer space and under water (PTBT) 1963
Ratified the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty 1996
Signatory to the NASA Artemis Accords on 10th October, 2023.
Signatory to the Wassenaar Arrangement on Arms Export Controls
Ratified the International Telecommunications Satellite Organization (INTELSAT - ITSO) 1971
Ratified the Convention on the International Mobile Satellite Organization (IMSO) 1976
Ratified the Convention Establishing the European Telecommunications Satellite Organization (EUTELSAT) 1982
Ratified the Convention for the Establishment of a European Organization for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT) 1983

Regulation of Space Activities

Unguided Satellites Decree: Decree of 19 January 2015 expanding the scope of the Space Activities Act to include the control of unguided satellites (Dutch version) (English version communicated to UNOOSA)

National Space Policy

Historical Documents

Turkey

Primary Source Materials [SCF Staff]
Big Book of Turkish Space Law
World Factbook - Turkey (Turkiye) / Space Programs
UNIDIR Space Security Portal - Türkiye
OECD Library - Country

Databases of National Law

Sources of National Space Law

Law creating the national space agency - Presidential Decree Concerning Turkish Space Agency (No. 23 dated 13.12.2018)
National Space Law

Treaties and International Agreements

Party to these outer space treaties [International Space Treaties Status]
- Outer Space Treaty 1967 - Ratified in 1968.
- Rescue and Return Agreement 1968 - Ratified in 2006.
- Liability Convention 1972 - Party
- Registration Convention 1975 - Accession in 2006.
- Moon Agreement 1979 - Accession in 2012.
Ratified the International Telecommunication Convention (ITU) from 1992, in 2000.
- ITU List of Agreements
Ratified the Treaty banning nuclear weapon tests in the atmosphere, in outer space and under water (PTBT) in 1965.
Ratified the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) from 1996 to 2000.
Signatory to the Wassenaar Arrangement on Arms Export Controls
Signatory to the International Telecommunications Satellite Organization (INTELSAT - ITSO) 1971
Signatory to the Convention on the Distribution of Programme Carrying Signals Transmitted by Satellite (BRS) 1974
Signatory to the Convention on the International Mobile Satellite Organization (IMSO) 1976
Signatory to the Convention Establishing the European Telecommunications Satellite Organization (EUTELSAT) 1982
Signatory to the Convention for the Establishment of a European Organization for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT) 1983

Regulation of Space Activities

National Regulations
Presidential Decree on the Turkish Space Agency (No. 23) of 12.12.2018
- Regulates the procedures and principles regarding the establishment, duties and authorities of the Turkish Space Agency, including organization and personnel
Telecommunications
- National Spectrum Regulatory Authority: Information Technologies and Communication Authority (ICTA)
- National Frequency Plan
- Mobile Broadband Spectrum Strategy
- Authorisation Regime
- Electronic Communication Infrastructure Information System Procedures and Principles

National Space Policy

National Space Program Strategy Document 2022-2030

Historical Documents

First national space law

Ukraine

Primary Source Materials [SCF Staff]
Big Book of Ukrainian Space Law
World Factbook - Ukraine / Space Programme Reference Guide
UNIDIR Space Security Portal - Ukraine
OECD Library - Ukraine

Databases of National Law

Regulatory and legal base of Ukraine. Unified legal portal of state authorities

Sources of National Space Law

Law On Space Activity: Document 502/96-ВР - official current version October 24, 2020
The Law on Space Activities (Ukrainian Text Only)
Regulations of the State Space Agency of Ukraine
The Law on State Support of Space Activities (Ukrainian Text Only)

Treaties and International Agreements

Ratified the four of the five outer space treaties:
- Ratified the Outer Space Treaty 1967
- Ratified the Rescue and Return Agreement 1968
- Ratified the Liability Convention 1972
- Ratified Registration Convention 1975
Ratified the International Telecommunication Convention (ITU) 1992
- ITU List of Agreements
Ratified the Treaty banning nuclear weapon tests in the atmosphere, in outer space and under water (PTBT) 1963
Ratified the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty 1996
Signatory to the NASA Artemis Accords on 12th November, 2020.
Signatory to the Wassenaar Arrangement on Arms Export Controls
Ratified the Convention on the International Mobile Satellite Organization (IMSO) 1976
Ratified the Convention Establishing the European Telecommunications Satellite Organization (EUTELSAT) 1982

National Space Policy

Command of the Cabinet of Ministers on Implementation of State Space Policy
Policy on Space Activities for the Period To 2032 (Ukrainian Text Only)
Amendments to the Law on Space Activities (Ukrainian Text Only)
Decree Of The President On Space Industry Development (Ukrainian Text Only)

Regulation of Space Activities

The National Space Agency of Ukraine (NSAU)
Decree of the President on Provisions of NSAU (Ukrainian Text Only)
Decree of the President Establishing NSAU (Ukrainian Text Only)

Historical Documents

The Law Of Ukraine On National Space Program Of Ukraine 2008-2012 (Ukrainian Text Only)
The Law Of Ukraine On National Space Program Of Ukraine 2013-2017 (Ukrainian Text Only)
The Law Of Ukraine On National Space Program Of Ukraine 2013-2017 (Ukrainian Text Only)
The Law Of Ukraine On National Space Program Of Ukraine 2003-2007 (Ukrainian Text Only)

United States

Primary Source Materials [SCF Staff]
Big Book of United States Space Law
World Factbook - USA Space / Space Programme Reference Guide
UNIDIR Space Security Portal - United States
OECD Library - United States

Databases of National Law

United States Code:
- The codification by subject matter of the general and permanent laws of the United States: Official US Code (GovInfo.gov)
- Unofficial, but reflects amendments: US Code (House.gov)
Code of Federal Regulations:
- The codification of the general and permanent rules published in the Federal Register by the departments and agencies of the Federal Government of the United States.
- Official Annual Edition: Code of Federal Regulations (GovInfo)
- Unofficial but reflects the most current law: eCFR

Sources of National Space Law

United States Code:
- Title 51: National & Commercial Space Programs
- Title 47: Telecommunications → Chapter 6: Communications Satellite System

Code of Federal Regulations:
- Title 14: Aeronautics and Space
- Title 14 Ch. III: Commercial Space Transportation

Federal Register:
- The official daily publication for rules, proposed rules, and notices of Federal agencies and organizations, as well as executive orders and other presidential documents.
- Official: Federal Register | GovInfo
- Unofficial user-friendly site: Federal Register

National Space Policy

Treaties and International Agreements

Ratified four of the five outer space treaties:
Signatory to the International Telecommunication Convention (ITU) 1992
ITU List of Agreements
Ratified the Treaty banning nuclear weapon tests in the atmosphere, in outer space and under water (PTBT) 1963
Signatory to the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty 1996
Signatory to the NASA Artemis Accords on 13th October, 2020.
Signatory to the Civil Lunar Gateway Agreement 2020
Signatory to the International Charter “Space and Major Disasters” 2000
Signatory to the International Space Station Intergovernmental Agreement 1998
Signatory to the Wassenaar Arrangement on Arms Export Controls 2019
Signatory to the The Civil International Space Station Agreement 1999

Regulation of Space Activities

Export Controls

FAA Regulations

FCC Regulations

NOAA Remote Sensing Regulations

Guidance

National Space Policy

Historical Documents

The Communications Act of 1934 (47 U.S.C. § 151 et seq.)
National Aeronautics and Space Act of 1958 (Unamended)
Commercial Space Launch Act of 1984 (H.R. 3942 (98th)
Land Remote Sensing Commercialization Act of 1984 (H.R.4836)
National and Commercial Space Programs Act (NCSPA) of 2010 (Title 51 U.S.C., Subtitle VI)
U.S. Commercial Space Launch Competitiveness Act of 2015 (H.R.2262)
National Aeronautics and Space Administration Transition Authorization Act of 2017
National Defense Authorization Act of 2020

European Union and ESA

The European Union (EU) and European Space Agency (ESA), despite sharing part of a name, are entirely independent entities from each other. The EU is a partially-sovereign supranational organisation, whereas the ESA is an international intergovernmental organisation. Though both share many member states between them, there is not complete overlap. Additionally, it is important to note that as non-state actors, neither entity can be party to international treaties de jure.

Though the ESA has historically been the dominant space actor within Europe, this power is increasingly shifting toward EU governance in many respects. The formation of the EU Agency for the Space Programme (EUSPA), in 2021, reflects this institutionally.

Thus, in the absence of a single European space governance framework, both governance architectures should be examined to access the full picture of laws that currently apply. Both the EU and ESA’s relevant provisions therefore appear in this special entry of the SLRG together.

Primary Sources of Institutional Law

Treaty on European Union (TEU).
Treaty on Functioning of the European Union (TFEU).

ESA

Convention for the establishment of a European Space Agency CSE/CS(73)19, rev.7 (30 May 1975).
Convention for the establishment of a European Space Research Organisation (14 June 1962). [Succeeded by the Space Agency]

EU-ESA Relationship Framework

Agreement (EU-ESA) 2024/1543 (31 May 2024) between the European Union and the European Space Agency on the security and exchange of classified information.
EU-ESA Financial Framework Partnership Agreement (22 June 2021). [Not publicly available]
EU Commission and ESA (26 October 2016) Joint statement on shared vision and goals for the future of Europe in space by the EU and ESA.
Agreement (EU-ESA) 219/60 (14 August 2008) between the European Space Agency and the European Union on the security and exchange of classified information.
Framework Agreement (EC-ESA) 261/64 (6 August 2004) between the European Community and the European Space Agency.
EU Council Decision 2004/578 (29 April 2004) on the conclusion of the Framework Agreement between the European Community and the European Space Agency.

Space-Related EU Institutional Decisions

Decision (Council, CFSP) 2021/698 (30 April 2021) on the security of systems and services deployed, operated and used under the Union Space Programme which may affect the security of the Union, and repealing Decision 2014/496/CFSP.
Decision (EU) 2017/1406 (31 July 2017) determining the location of the ground-based infrastructure of the EGNOS system.
Decision (EU) 2017/224 (8 February 2017) setting out the technical and operational specifications allowing the commercial service offered by the system established under the Galileo programme to fulfil the function referred to in Article 2(4)(c) of Regulation (EU) No 1285/2013.
Decision (EU) 2016/413 (18 March 2016) determining the location of the ground-based infrastructure of the system established under the Galileo programme and setting out the necessary measures to ensure that it functions smoothly, and repealing Implementing Decision 2012/117/EU.
Decision (EU) No 1104/2011 (25 October 2011) on the rules for access to the public regulated service provided by the global navigation satellite system established under the Galileo programme.
Decision (EU) 2010/803 (10 December 2010) on the location of the seat of the European GNSS Agency.
Council Decision (EU) (26 July 2010) establishing the organisation and functioning of the European External Action Service (2010/427/EU).
Directive (EC) 2009/81 (13 July 2009) on the coordination of procedures for the award of certain works contracts, supply contracts and service contracts by contracting authorities or entities in the fields of defence and security, and amending Directives 2004/17/EC and 2004/18/EC.

Treaties and International Agreements

The European Space Agency has made a declaration of the acceptance of the rights and obligations of several outer space treaties;
- The Rescue and Return Agreement 1968
- The Liability Convention 1972
- The Registration Convention 1975
ESA is signatory to the Civil International Space Station Agreement
ESA is signatory to the Civil Lunar Gateway Agreement
Framework Agreement between the European Community (predecessor of the EU) and European Space Agency (ESA)
Agreement between the French Government and the European Space Agency Concerning the Guiana Space Centre (1993) (selected provisions)
Member of International Charter “Space and Major Disasters”

Supranational (EU) Space Policy and Regulation of Space (related) Activities

General regulation / framework provisions

- - Regulation (EU) No XXXX/XXX (EU Space Act) [Remains unreleased]
  - Regulation (EU) 2021/695 (28 April 2021) establishing Horizon Europe – the Framework Programme for Research and Innovation, laying down its rules for participation and dissemination, and repealing Regulations (EU) No 1290/2013 and (EU) No 1291/2013.
  - Regulation (EU) 2021/969 (28 April 2021) establishing the Union Space Programme and the European Union Agency for the Space Programme and repealing Regulations (EU) No 912/2010, (EU) No 1285/2013 and (EU) No 377/2014 and Decision No 541/2014 (The Space Programme Regulation).
  - Regulation (EU) No 2023/588 (15 March 2023) establishing the Union Secure Connectivity Programme for the period 2023-2027.
  - Regulation (EU) No 1285/2013 (11 December 2013) on the implementation and exploitation of the European satellite navigation systems.
  - Regulation (EU) 2021/695 (28 April 2021) Establishing Horizon Europe – The Framework Programme For Research And Innovation, Laying Down Its Rules For Participation And Dissemination, And Repealing Regulations (EU) No 1290/2013 And (EU) No 1291/2013.
  - Regulation (Delegated) (EU) No 1159/2013 (12 July 2013) supplementing Regulation (EU) No 911/2010 on the European Earth monitoring programme (GMES) by establishing registration and licensing conditions for GMES users and defining criteria for restricting access to GMES dedicated data and GMES service information.

EU Space Policy

- - EU Commission (HR-CFSP) (10 March 2023) European Union Space Strategy for Security and Defence
  - EU Council (23 May 2023) Fair and sustainable use of space.
  - EU Council (10 June 2022) EU approach to space traffic management.
    EU Commission (HR-CFSP) (15 February 2022) Joint Communication to the European Parliament and Council: An EU Approach for Space Traffic Management.
  - EU Parliament Resolution (20 November 2008) on the European Space Policy: “How to Bring Space Down to Earth”
  - EU Council Resolution (26 September 2008) on taking forward the European Space Policy
  - EU Council Resolution (21 May 2007) on the European Space Policy
  - EU Commission (11 November 2003) entitled ‘Space: a new European frontier for an expanding Union — An action plan for implementing the European space policy’
  - EU Council Resolution (16 November 2000) on a European Space Strategy
  - EU Council Resolution (2 December 1999) on developing a coherent European space strategy
  - EU Council Resolution (22 June 1998) on the reinforcement of the synergy between the European Space Agency and the European Community

Other relevant legislation

Budgetary Control

Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 (23 September 2024) on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union.

Telecomms

- - Directive 97/13/EC (1997) establishing a common framework for general authorization and individual licenses in the field of telecommunications services.
  - Regulation (EU) No 283/2014 (11 March 2014) on guidelines for trans-European networks in the area of telecommunications infrastructure

Environment

- - Regulation (EC) No 549/2004 (10 March 2004) creating the framework for the creation of the single European sky
  - Directive 2010/75/EU (24 November 2010) on industrial emissions (integrated pollution prevention and control)

Employment, Health and Safety

- - Directive 2013/59/Euratom (establishing protection against ionizing radiation)
  - Directive 2013/35/EU (addressing electromagnetic fields)
  - Directive 2003/10/EC (addressing noise)
  - Directive 2002/44/EC (addressing vibration)
  - Regulation (EU) 2019/452 (19 March 2019) establishing a framework for the screening of foreign direct investments into the Union

Aviation Rules

- Regulation (EU) 2018/1139 (4 July 2018) on common rules in the field of civil aviation and establishing a European Union Aviation Safety Agency, and amending Regulations

Intergovernmental (ESA) Space Policy and Regulation of Space (related) Activities

General regulation / framework projects

- - ESA Council Rules of Procedure
  - ESA Procurement Regulations (REG001) (10 July 2019).
  - ESA Contracting Regulations (REG006) (1 January 2025).
  - ESA Security Regulations (REG004) (1 July 2020).
  - ESA General Clauses and Conditions for ESA Contracts (REG002) (5 July 2024).
  - ESA Financial Regulations (REG005) (19 January 2018).
  - ESA Staff Rules and Regulations (REG007) (December 2024).
  - ESA Industrial Rules and Regulations (REG009) (01 July 2015).
  - ESA Personal Data Protection Framework (13 June 2017).
  - ESA Regulation on Information, Data and Intellectual Property (REG008) (23 April 2014).
  - ESA Additional Rules on Arbitration (03 February 2014).

Policy Frameworks

- ESA Policy on the Prevention, Detection and Investigation of Fraud (04 May 2021).
- ESA Policy on Reporting Unwanted Conduct and Investigating Harassment (01 February 2023)
- ESA Policy on Facilitation and Mediation (19 June 2019)
Cooperation and Operational Regulations
- ESA PB-EO(2009)98, Rev 1 Joint Principles for a GMES Sentinel Data Policy (23 October 2009)

Historical Documents

Relevant Obsolete EU Legislation & Decisions

- - Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2018/1046 (18 July 2018) on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union.
  - Council Decision (Council, CFSP) 2014/496 (22 July 2014) on aspects of the deployment, operation and use of the European Global Navigation Satellite System affecting the security of the European Union and repealing Joint Action 2004/552/CFSP
  - Decision (EU) No 541/2014 (16 April 2014) establishing a Framework for Space Surveillance and Tracking Support.
  - Regulation (EU) No 512/2014 (16 April 2014) amending Regulation (EU) No 912/2010 setting up the European GNSS Agency
  - Regulation (EU) No 377/2014 (3 April 2014) establishing the Copernicus Programme.
  - Regulation (EU) No 1291/2013 (11 December 2013) establishing Horizon 2020 – the Framework Programme for Research and Innovation (2014-2020).
  - Regulation (EU) No 1285/2013 (11 December 2013) on the implementation and exploitation of European satellite navigation systems and repealing Council Regulation (EC) No 876/2002 and Regulation (EC) No 683/2008
  - Regulation (EU) No 911/2010 (22 September 2010) on the European Earth monitoring programme (GMES) and its initial operations (2011 to 2013).
  - Regulation (EU) No 912/2010 (22 September 2010) setting up the European GNSS Agency, repealing Council Regulation (EC) No 1321/2004 on the establishment of structures for the management of the European satellite radio navigation programmes and amending Regulation (EC) No 683/2008.
  - Directive (EC) 2008/114 (8 December 2008) on the identification and designation of European critical infrastructures and the assessment of the need to improve their protection
  - Regulation (EC) No 683/2008 (9 July 2008) on the further implementation of the European satellite navigation programmes (EGNOS and Galileo)
  - Decision (EC) No 1982/2006/EC (18 December 2006) concerning the Seventh Framework Programme of the European Community for research, technological development and demonstration activities (2007-2013)
  - Regulation (EC) No 1942/2006 (12 December 2006) amending Regulation (EC) No 1321/2004 on the establishment of structures for the management of the European satellite radio-navigation programmes
  - Regulation (EC) No 1321/2004 (12 July 2004) on the establishment of structures for the management of the European satellite radio-navigation programmes
  - Joint Action (Council, CFSP) 2004/552 (12 July 2004) on aspects of the operation of the European satellite radio-navigation system affecting the security of the European Union
  - Council Regulation (EC) No 1943/2006 (12 December 2006) amending Regulation (EC) No 876/2002 setting up the Galileo Joint Undertaking
  - Council Regulation (EC) No 876/2002 (24 May 2002) setting up the Galileo Joint Undertaking.

Other historical sources

The Space Court Law Library