INTA Research
Intellectual Property in Space White Paper
Published: May 10, 2023
In the last few years, the private sector has launched numerous rockets, satellites, and even tourist services to Low Earth Orbit (LEO). Intensive commercial activity in LEO is anticipated by 2050, as well as in outer space (defined as 100 kilometers (62 miles) above sea level), and on the Moon and Mars.
With economic activity in outer space expected to soar in the coming years, the IP in Space white paper underscores the urgent need to foster and protect intellectual property (IP) in this new frontier.
As the white paper indicates, current national and international laws and treaties governing activity in outer space have not sufficiently contemplated how these important intangible assets may be protected.
After reviewing current outer space treaties, national laws that relate to outer space, arbitration systems, white papers from the United Nations and the World Intellectual Property Organization, law professor and aerospace executive interviews, and other resources, the Project Team behind the report has proposed ten major approaches for further consideration to create a legal infrastructure for IP in space, as detailed in the white paper.
Brand & New | IP in Space: From Science Fiction to Science Fact