Orbital Debris: Technical and Legal Issues and Solutions

Abstract

This thesis examines the current technological and legal issues concerning orbital debris (space debris). The unique physical characteristics of the space environment are identified and explained. The thesis then explores the causes of orbital debris and examines the risk posed by debris to the most frequently used orbital areas. Significant environmental, legal, political, and economic consequences of orbital debris are described. The current technical and legal controls on the creation of debris are discussed and evaluated. Finally, proposed solutions are considered and critiqued. The thesis concludes with a non-binding treaty-based proposal for a new legal debris control regime that can encourage compliance and enhance accountability.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Aug 01, 2006
Accession Number
ADA453419

Entities

People

  • Michael W. Taylor

Organizations

  • McGill University

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Apogees
  • Artificial Satellites
  • Astronautics
  • Collision Avoidance
  • Environmental Protection
  • Geosynchronous Orbits
  • Geosynchronous Satellites
  • International Law
  • International Organizations
  • National Security
  • Nuclear Materials
  • Satellite Orbits
  • Space Debris
  • Space Objects
  • Space Transportation
  • Spacecraft
  • Spacecraft Orbits

Readers

  • Criminal Law
  • Space Exploration and Orbital Mechanics.
  • Systems Analysis and Design

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Orbital Debris