Space Debris Mitigation Measures
Space Debris Mitigation Measures in 2013 (Continuation)
United States views on international law [1] in relation to Space Debris Mitigation Measures: But let me explain why the United States takes these measures and makes these investments in debris mitigation. We do not do so out of a sense that they are legally required. Rather, we do so because of our strong interest in the safety and long-term sustainability of space activities, and our judgment that these practices represent sound approaches to debris mitigation.
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This distinction is important because we sometimes hear the view expressed that the solution to the debris challenge is to elaborate technical debris mitigation guidelines into international legal obligations. Based on our experience, we believe States are motivated first and foremost by enlightened self-interest in the safety and sustainability of space activities. We do not believe that the force of legal obligation is necessary for States to take measures to mitigate debris.
Development
As delegations are no doubt aware, approaches to mitigating debris are linked to evolving technologies. As technologies change so do the available methods for debris mitigation, as well as the cost-benefit tradeoffs of doing so. Given the evolving technical aspects of debris mitigation, and the practical, economic reality that existing platforms cannot be replaced overnight, we do not see the wisdom in ossifying debris mitigation standards into international law at this time.
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Safety and sustainability in space are of paramount importance for the United States, and we will continue to wholeheartedly support international cooperation to further debris mitigation technology and techniques.
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Finally, Mr. Chairman, let me describe one more U.S. legal mechanism relating to space debris mitigation. The Department of Defense is authorized by statute (10 U.S.C. § 2274) to share space situational awareness (SSA) information and services with governmental, intergovernmental, and commercial entities to improve the safety and sustainability for space flight. SSA services are critical to avoiding collisions in outer space that can degrade the space environment for all States. To date, the United States has concluded agreements to facilitate the provision of SSA information and services with 35 commercial entities, and negotiation of agreements with a number of governments is underway. We encourage all space-faring nations to explore entering into an SSA-sharing agreement with the United States so that we can continue to improve the safety and sustainability of space flight.
Resources
Notes
- Space Debris Mitigation Measures in the Digest of United States Practice in International Law
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