Space law and space policy: An indian perspective

The initiation of space exploration and subsequently its advancement unexpectedly sparked off another field of law known as the law of outer space or the space law. The basic structure of space law is dependent upon five UN Treaties and another five sets of principles adopted by the UN. Although there are innumerable resolutions to this effect but the principles and treaties provide for the most significant and substantive portion of space law. Space law has been expressed in broad, vague principles that have permitted the maximum flexibility necessary for exploratory space activities. But, as exploration gives way to settlement, this predominantly international law lacks the specificity and legal certainty necessary for mature commercial activity. India is one of the leading world powers in space technology at present. Legal issues are important with respect to launch services, satellite telecommunication, satellite broadcasting, earth observation (remote sensing), satellite data processing and distribution, navigational systems, intellectual property rights, etc., for application of customary practices. Incorporation of remote sensing data policy, satcom policy, telecom policy, mapping policy is visualized for Indian space activities. The purpose of this research paper is to understand and explore the space law from International as well as domestic perspective.