Abstract
The majority of space objects now being launched into
orbit come from a class of space objects that fall under the heading of
small satellites. This category typically includes all satellites under
500KG and includes all nano satellites and micro satellites. Most of
these are launched for scientific and educational purposes and are
often used to test new technologies and products in outer space.
Many such satellites can be launched as auxiliary payloads together
with the launch of one big space object thereby making the cost of
launch per satellite considerably less.
This paper will examine the entrepreneurial opportunities and
legal complications that come with the growth of the small satellite
industry globally, and within Pakistan. It will start with briefly
discussing the uses, and advantages that small satellites can provide,
and will look at how small satellites could be extremely helpful and
beneficial to the populous and workforce of Pakistan. Additionally, it
will detail the international legal and regulatory framework for small
satellites and the obligations this puts on satellite launchers and
launch service providers. It will cover inter alia, licensing,
registration, insurance and questions of liability and responsibility.
This paper will also explain how the emergence of small satellites
and the possibility of having large constellations consisting of
numerous small satellites raises many complex legal questions that
challenge well-established space law doctrines such as that of
launching state, state responsibility and registration of uniquely
identifiable objects. It will elaborate upon the legal regimes in place
in many countries across the world to regulate small satellites; it will
also look at the impact of the emergence of the small satellite
industry to debris in outer space. Lastly, the paper will conclude with
recommendations that Pakistan could follow in order to facilitate and
encourage its own small satellite industry.
Hamza Hameed. (2018) Small Satellites – Entrepreneurial Paradise and Legal Nightmare, Journal of Space Technology , Volume 8, Issue 1.
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