Toward an international legal framework for the protection of outer space heritage

Abstract

The protection of outer space heritage is a collective interest of all humankind and should be carried out under an international legal framework guided by the principles of due regard, non-appropriation of outer space, and due respect for the jurisdiction, control, and ownership of space objects. For institutional elements of such a framework, this article proposes a dichotomous classification of outer space heritage—that is, cultural heritage and natural heritage, with cultural heritage categorized into outer space heritage sites and outer space artifacts. This article also proposes two types of protected areas: in situ protected zones for outer space heritage sites, and designated preservation zones for outer space artifacts. Both types of protected areas should be of reasonable size and exclusive in nature. The protection of outer space heritage should form an integral part of the future international legal framework of space resource activities.