Global activity in Earth orbit is booming, with cheaper launch, growing megaconstellations and the emergence of commercial actors transforming space activities. But the legal framework underpinning these activities is stuck in the 1960s, raising the question of whether we need a new approach to tackle growing challenges that threaten the sustainable use of outer space.
Satellite megaconstellations like SpaceX's Starlink, an increasing cadence of moon missions, a growing interest in orbital data centers and military activities are creating governance challenges that are increasingly difficult for nations, as well as private operators, to manage collectively.
