Legal Aspects of Coordinating the LEO Mega-Constellation Operations in the Framework of STM

doi:10.3969/j.issn.1671-0940.2024.02.006

Abstract

Abstract: Mega-constellations of satellites are making a complex network in Low-Earth Orbit (LEO), which presents new legal and technical challenges. The widespread operation of mega-constellations necessitates a special technical and legal regulatory framework that is constantly evolving based on emerging technologies. Although it has not yet been completely established since it is fully dependent on the development of Space Traffic Management (STM), including the rules on space debris mitigation and collision avoidance systems, cyber security issues, environmental concerns, rules of registration, Radio Frequency Interferences (RFI), Space Surveillance & Tracking (SST), etc.
This paper addresses the legal issues of coordinating LEO mega-constellation operations within the framework of STM. The LEO mega-constellations creating the space environment congested necessitates the establishment of STM rules and standards to safeguard the safety, security, and sustainability of outer space activities. To do so, States and the private sector will have to develop effective, safe, and workable mechanisms that will allow space activities in the field of the deployment and operation of satellite constellations while ensuring the sustainability of all space activities on a long-term basis. Moreover, it needs the cooperation of related national and international organizations and other entities, including the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (UNCOPUOS), its Subcommittees, and Internation Telecommunication Union (ITU), to solve the legal and technical challenges of satellite constellations, especially mega-constellations, through the amendment of the current international legal regime, the implementation of a new international treaty, or the creation of soft law documents.

Key words: space law and policy, space traffic management, mega-constellations, sustainability of space activities, low-Earth orbit

Elham Farahani, LI Shouping. Legal Aspects of Coordinating the LEO Mega-Constellation Operations in the Framework of STM[J]. AEROSPACE CHINA, 2024, 25(2): 42-51.

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