Liability And Responsibility For Space Debris: Who Pays For The Mess?

Abstract

The rapid growth of space activities has led to an unprecedented increase in orbital debris, raising critical questions of liability and responsibility in international law. This paper examines the extent to which existing legal frameworks, including the 1967 Outer Space Treaty and the 1972 Liability Convention, provide mechanisms for attributing accountability when collisions or damages occur due to space debris. The research employs a doctrinal analysis of treaties, case studies, and policy documents, alongside a comparative review of state practices, to identify gaps in current governance structures. Results highlight that while international agreements establish state-level liability, ambiguity remains over private actors’ responsibilities and long-term environmental consequences. Case studies such as the Cosmos-Iridium collision reveal the challenges of enforcing compensation, monitoring debris, and ensuring compliance across jurisdictions. The findings suggest that a combination of legal reform, technological innovation in debris mitigation, and multilateral cooperation is essential to strengthen accountability. This study contributes to the discourse on global space governance by proposing a hybrid model that integrates shared responsibility, enforceable standards, and financial mechanisms such as debris removal funds. In conclusion, the paper underscores that without clear liability regimes and collective action, space sustainability will remain at risk, threatening future exploration and commercial use.