Ricerc@Sapienza

In 2020, more than 1.000 spacecrafts were launched into outer space. The rapidly growing number of satellites in orbit increases the risks of congestion, collisions and debris, in particular with the deployment of mega-constellations. The orbital area is becoming less predictable, rendering tracking, maneuvering and international coordination more complicated. In this context, States, operators, organisations and policymakers recognize the urgent need to establish an efficient, safe and feasible space traffic management (STM) mechanism in order to maintain the long-term sustainability of space activities, and to ensure safe and sustainable exploration of outer space by all actors. The research project aims to explore the existing practice for STM at international and national level. Furthermore, the research will analyse the current legal framework that could support the implementation of ¿space traffic rules¿. In this context, the research will address legally binding and non-binding instruments that already contain some provisions related to management in orbit, including the registration of space objects, data sharing information, avoidance of harmful interference; and how it is possible to adapt them towards an adequate and appropriate system for STM. Lastly, the project will examine the mechanisms for implementation and control by taking into account institutional governance.