The Outer Space Regimes on the Sustainable Development of Space Environment

Abstract

Outer Space is a common term used for the areas between celestial bodies and outside of their atmospheres. Further describe as the area beyond the Earth atmosphere even where there is no clear boundary between the two regions. Efforts in identifying the lines have continued to increase, for example, the Karman Line suggest an altitude of 100 kilometers (62 miles) to be the distinction between aeronautics and astronautics. The United States has an alternate determination of the line between air space and outer space, defining it as 80 kilometers (50 miles) above the Earth surface. Therefore, anyone who travels at an altitude of above 50 miles is considered by the US to be an astronaut. All these are actually speculations as to the exact line. The technological advantages derived from space exploitation cannot be over-emphasised.it ranges from communication; TV signals, transmission of wireless radio, the use of GPS systems in our cars and listening to weather forecast derived from remote sensing satellite. However, the resources of outer space are finite and the continuous abuse facing the environment of space as a result of human exploration and exploitation, save, to some extent, for some countries like the United Kingdom, is damaging and causing serious degradation. The intention of this article is to analyse the regimes regulating the environment of space for its sustainability, their effectiveness and proffer recommendations where necessary to sustain the environment and resources of outer space. This article intends to focus on one of Man’s most important environments/natures, that is Outer Space; its exploration, exploitation, abuse/degradation, and the effectiveness of the regimes available for its protection. How adequate are these laws to safeguard its finite resources? Keywords: Environment, Outer space, regimes, sustainable development, Debris