The UN has been involved in outer space mattters since 1963, and has drawn up and approved five principles, or ideals for how to approach new or developing technologies of space, as well as

five international treaties, or agreements, about the exploration and use of outer space.

The Principles

Adopted in 1963, these principles set for the the basic components of international space law.

1. States who use satellites for TV broadcasting should notify the states affected by the satellite and only establish the TV broadcasting through a satellite of the other states agree.
2. Remote sensing of the Earth from space is to be done for the benefit of all countries (like weather).
3. Any nuclear powered mission, if necessary, should have a system designed to minimize harmful radiation effects.
4. International cooperation is important for the exploration and use of outer space, particularly for the needs of developing countries

The Treaties

In 1966, it was decided that space is shared by everyone, and not the exclusive right of any one or any group of nations.

In 1967, the UN decided how to aid crews of spacecraft in case of an accident or emergency landing, and how to return a space object found beyond its territorial limits (on Earth).

1971 brought into being the treaty which says that countries are responsible for any damage their space equipment causes on the Earth's surface, to aircraft (like planes or helicopters), and to people.

In 1974, the UN decided that every nation should keep a record of its space launches and explorations with the UN and furnish information whenever necessary.

Later that decade, in 1979, another agreement set up the basis for international exploration of the moon and other celestial bodies, and any potential natural resources that might be found on planets.

Click here for information on the five Global Commons: domains which belong to all of humankind

Click here for a kid-friendly interpretation of an overall UN Treaty for the Exploration and Use of Outer Space