Convention on International Liability for Damage Caused by Space Objects
The Convention on International Liability for Damage Caused by Space Objects, also known as the Space Liability Convention, is a treaty established in 1972 that builds upon the liability rules outlined in the Outer Space Treaty of 1967. The convention addresses issues related to liability for damages caused by space objects and establishes guidelines for holding states accountable for such damages.
Establishment
The Space Liability Convention was created to expand on the liability provisions of the Outer Space Treaty. It came into force on September 1, 1972.
Ratification and Signatories
As of January 1, 2021, 98 states have ratified the Space Liability Convention, while 19 have signed but not ratified it. Additionally, four international intergovernmental organizations have accepted the rights and obligations outlined in the convention.
Liability of States
The convention stipulates that the state (country) responsible for launching a space object from its territory or facility is internationally liable for any damages caused by that object, regardless of who physically launched it. This principle holds the launching state accountable for damages resulting from the space object’s activities.
Joint Launches
If two states collaborate on launching a space object, both states share joint and several liability for any damages caused by the object. This means that the injured party can choose to file a claim against either of the two collaborating states for the full extent of the damage caused.
Claims Between States
Claims under the Space Liability Convention must be initiated by a state against another state. Unlike typical legal systems where individuals or corporations can file lawsuits against each other, claims under this convention must be brought at the state level. If an individual is harmed by a space object and seeks compensation under the convention, their country must file a claim against the responsible country on their behalf.
