Legal Definitions - outer space

Outer space refers to the vast region of the universe that lies beyond Earth's atmosphere. While there isn't a universally agreed-upon precise boundary where Earth's airspace ends and outer space begins, it generally encompasses everything from the vacuum surrounding our planet outwards.

Under international law, specifically the Outer Space Treaty, this region is considered the common heritage of humankind. This means no single nation can claim ownership or sovereignty over any part of outer space, the Moon, or other celestial bodies. Activities in outer space are to be carried out for the benefit and in the interests of all countries.

• Example 1: Satellite Communications

  A commercial telecommunications company successfully launches a new satellite into geostationary orbit to provide global internet access. This satellite operates far above Earth's atmosphere, in what is clearly considered outer space.

  This example illustrates outer space as the operational environment for technologies like satellites, which function well beyond the altitudes where aircraft fly, demonstrating human activity occurring in this region for practical purposes.

• Example 2: Asteroid Resource Discovery

  Scientists from a particular nation discover a large asteroid rich in rare earth minerals that could be incredibly valuable for future industries. Despite the potential economic benefit, international law dictates that this nation cannot unilaterally claim ownership of the asteroid or the minerals on it.

  This example highlights the international legal principle that outer space, including celestial bodies like asteroids, is not subject to national appropriation. No single country can declare an asteroid or any other part of outer space as its sovereign territory.

• Example 3: International Space Station Operations

  Astronauts from multiple countries are conducting scientific research aboard the International Space Station (ISS), which orbits Earth at an altitude of approximately 400 kilometers.

  The ISS operates well beyond Earth's airspace, firmly within outer space. Its very existence as a collaborative project involving several nations, rather than being claimed by a single country, exemplifies the principle that outer space is a shared domain for peaceful exploration and scientific advancement, not for national territorial claims.