The Code of Conduct in Outer Space as a New Stage of Development of International Space Law

Abstract

The dynamic development of modern space activities pursues a primary goal which unifies all spacefaring states – which is stability and long-term sustainability of exploration and exploitation of outer space. In order to achieve the set goal the following conditions shall be met: general recognition and acceptability of and compliance by all space activity participants with international norms and principles pertaining to the conduct of space operations within the framework of current agreements, recommendations and initiatives. This approach, as well as the principles of its realization, could be reflected in the draft Code of Conduct for Outer Space Activities (CoC), an ambitious European project which is positioned as a quintessence of the modern international legal regime of the activities on the exploration and exploitation of outer space.