40th Agenda 

40th Session Issues

Peaceful Uses of Outer Space

 

DEFINITION

United Nations involvement in the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space concerns attempts to advance scientific and technical knowledge for the promotion of the quality of life on earth. In addition, the United Nations addresses the means to attain these goals through the use of international law.

ORIGINS OF THE ISSUE AND RELATED DEBATE

Often students of the United Nations' role in issues related to outer space assume that a discussion of Peaceful Uses of Outer Space should rightfully be interpreted as a discussion of the prevention of the arms race in outer space. This is a natural assumption, as much of the political debate in the United States related to the topic revolves around the discussion of the Strategic Defense Initiative or "Star Wars."

The United Nations' has debated and discussed the prevention of an arms race in outer space on numerous occasions. In fact, the United Nations role in outer space began in March of 1958 when the Soviet Union introduced a resolution entitled, "The Question of the Prohibition on Using Outer Space for Military Purposes, Eliminating Foreign Bases on the Territory of Other States, and the Problem of International Cooperation in Space Research." The United Nations, following an alternative proposal by the United States calling for a "program for international co-operation with regard for outer space," broadened the issue under the umbrella title, "The Matter of Utilizing Outer Space for Peaceful Purposes."

ESTABLISHMENT OF A SPECIAL COMMITTEE

During the subsequent year (1959) the United Nations General Assembly appointed a special United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS). Following the creation of this special committee, the General Assembly essentially bifurcated its discussions of outer space. The First Committee took over the role of extensive research and debate into the topic of prevention of an arms race in outer space (A/43/838). To the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space was delegated the task of oversight and debate upon all resolutions and agencies involved in management of "PEACEFUL" uses of outer space. In specific terms, COPUOS was requested to review the potential for international co-operation and establish practical and feasible programs to accomplish that goal. To enable the committee to function with greater efficiency, its work was subdivided between a Legal Sub-Committee, assigned to deal with issues such as registering responsibility for satellites, and a Scientific and Technical Sub-Committee, assigned to address issues such as the use of satellites for gathering information about weather patterns. Technically, COPUOS is answerable to the Special Political Committee and through it to the General Assembly. (see chart on next page)

RELATED UN ACTION 1960 - 1987

In December of 1961 the General Assembly declared that "the exploration and use of outer space should be used for the betterment of mankind and to the benefit of states irrespective of the stage of their economic and scientific development." The General Assembly further stated that:

a) International law, including the Charter of the United Nations, applies to outer space and celestial bodies;

b) Outer space and celestial bodies are free for exploration and use by all states in conformity with international law and are not subject to national appropriation.

Conforming to its mandate, the Legal Sub-Committee reviewed and drafted issues which lent themselves to the formation of international law. The results of its work were eventually presented to the General Assembly and resulted in five treaties by the end of the 1970's:

1.The Outer Space Exploration Treaty, resulting from Res. 1884/XVIII (1963), signed on 27 January 1967, forbids its signatories from placing into earth orbit any objects with nuclear arms or weapons of mass destruction and prohibiting the establishment of military bases in outer space;
2.The Agreement on the Rescue of Astronauts, Return of Astronauts and the Return of Objects Launched into Outer Space, signed on April 27, 1968 (Res. 2345 (XXII, annex);
3.The Space Objects Convention on the International Liability for Damage Caused by Space Objects, ratified by GA Res. 2777/XXVI, in 1971;
4. The Convention on Registration of Objects Launched into Outer Space, entered into force September 1976. (GA Res. 3235, 1974 A/XXIX):
5. The Convention on the Prohibition of Military or Any Other Hostile Use of Environmental Modification of 1977 (GA Res. 31/72, 1976).

Throughout the 1970's the United Nations continued debate on the subject. In 1979 the debates finally concluded with a treaty entitled, "The Agreement Governing the Activities of States on the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies" (GA.Res/34/664). The agreement, commonly referred to as the Moon Treaty, came into force in 1984. It blends the interests of "peaceful uses of outer space" with attempts to ensure that the arms race will not extend to the moon.

The 1970's also marked a time of extensive U.S.-Soviet negotiations outside the U.N. on issues related to Space. Agreements reached during this time included the Accident Measures Agreement of 1971, The Agreement to Improve the Communications Link (1971), the SALT I Agreement of 1972 and the SALT II Agreement of 1979. While these agreements were generally of an arms control nature, their existence continued to make it possible for discussions about peaceful scientific and technical uses of outer space to retain their viability.

Since 1980, the Legal Subcommittee has been considering questions related to the use of nuclear power sources in outer space, an issue which arose when the crash of the Soviet satellite, Cosmos 954, resulted in the spread of radioactive debris over Canada. Each year the Committee has carried on extensive discussions of this issue and its relationship to international law, the U.N. Charter, the 1967 Outer Space Treaty, and the convention on International Liabilty for Damage Caused by Space Objects. By 1988 however, the subcommittee had yet to reach agreement on draft principles.

It has proven to be even more difficult for the Legal Subcommittee to reach agreement on where air space ends and outer space begins. Debates on that topic have continued since 1968. Generally the boundary has been considered to be at approximately 100 kilometers above the surface of the Earth, but recent technological advances make it possible for satellites to survive as low as 90 kilometers above the Earth. Since the subcommittee has tended to base its debate on the lowest altitude at which satellites can survive, this recent advance has played continued havoc with the ability of the subcommittee to reach agreement. A major issue of concern to the Legal Subcommittee has been remote sensing, a process of observing the earth from space. In 1986, the Committee on Peaceful Uses of Outer Space endorsed a set of 15 draft principles (A/41/20) put forward by the Legal Subcommittee. The principles called for remote sensing activities to be conducted in accordance with international law-and not "in a matter detrimental to the legitimate rights and interests of the sensed State." The draft also declared that the remote sensing should be used for protection of the Earth's natural environment and protection of mankind from natural disasters. In the same resolution, the Subcommittee reiterated its view that there is a "fundamental urgent need to provide appropriate and non-discriminatory assistance" to developing countries at a reasonable cost.

In a 1988 follow-up to this report, the Secretary General detailed short term training courses currently underway in developing nations on remote sensing applications (A/42/518). The report pointed out extensive efforts currently being applied by the United Nations to ensure that knowledge gained through remote sensing will be for the benefit of developing nations as well as developed nations.

ISSUES FOR CONSIDERATION WITHIN THE GENERAL TOPIC

In the last year the Committee on Peaceful Uses of Outer Space has discussed an extensive number of issues. These issues range from the highly theoretical to the inevitable political debates which arise from the development of applications for scientific research and demands for subsequent technology transfer. Questions of legalities and debate over priorities are part and parcel of these efforts.

The Legal Sub-Committee
In 1989 the Legal Sub-Committee addressed four topics assigned to it under General Assembly resolution 43/56 (A/AC.105/430):

1.The elaboration of draft principles relevant to the use of nuclear power sources in outer space;
2. Matters relating to the definition and delimitation of outer space and to the character and utilization of the geostationary orbit, including consideration of ways and means to ensure the rational and equitable use of the geostationary orbit without prejudice to the role of the International Telecommunication Union;
3. Consideration of the legal aspects related to the application of the principle that the exploration and utilization of outer space should be carried out for the benefit and in the interests of all States, taking into particular account the needs of developing countries;
4. Spin-off benefits of space technology and review of current status.

Scientific and Technical Sub-Committee

In 1987 the Scientific and Technical Sub-Committee invited the committee on Space Research (COSPAR) of the International Council of Scientific Unions (ICSU) and the International Astronautical Federation to research and submit a report on the Environmental Effects of Space Activities. Their extensive report entitled, "Progress of Space Research 1987-1988" (A/AC.105/425) detailed national, international and United Nations' efforts in:

1.studies of the earth's surface, meteorology and climate;
2. examination of moon systems, planets and small bodies of the solar system;
3.atmospheric research;
4.space plasma physics which examines the upper levels of the earth's atmosphere, the outer corona of the sun, the solar wind, and other plasma environments;
5. galactic and extragalactic astrophysics, an area of research seriously hindered by set backs in the US shuttle program, but progressing with assistance from Japan and USSR;
6.biological studies made possible only in space, as well as planetary biology and the origins of life;
7. botanical and ecological research;
8. recycling and waste management;
9. developments in the fluid sciences, crystal growth and solidification;
10. satellite dynamics;
11. the use of stratospheric balloon flights for scientific research;
12. space research in developing countries.

In their session concluded in June of 1989, the Scientific and Technical Sub-Committee debated remote sensing of the earth from outer space. Remote sensing offers benefits to many nations. Topics discussed in relationship to remote sensing included, but were not limited to:

1. The use of high resolution satellite imagery (SPOT and Landsat-TM) in agricultural and forestry applications;
2. The use of low resolution imagery from environmental satellites for early warning on agricultural drought and desert locust control in Africa;
3. The use of infrared and radar systems in hydrological and meteorological applications;
4. The use of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) in forestry application and satellite derived sea surface temperatures;
5. Natural disaster forecasting and assessments of their impact on food security;
6. Geological mapping and mineral exploration. (A/AC.105/415)

The work, completed in 1989, enhanced the 1988 conclusions that observations from space have "demonstrated the versatility of the atmosphere as a transport and distribution medium, and have improved mankind's understanding of the global chemical cycles as well as the impact of local/regional activities, including those attributable to natural and anthropogenic emissions." (A/AC.105/421) However, despite essential agreement that remote sensing is valuable, the participants disagreed on the relevant merits of particular programs.

In addition, the Sub-Committee also addressed the often more controversial issues of nuclear power sources in outer space, space transportation systems and technical attributes of the geostationary orbit.

The Committee

During its 1989 session the Committee on Peaceful Uses of Outer Space operated under the general theme, "space technology as an instrument for combating environmental problems, particularly those of developing countries." The Committee on Peaceful Uses of Outer Space also addressed ways of implementing the recommendations of the United Nations Conference on the Exploration and Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (UNISPACE 82) and the work of the United Nations Space Applications Program created by it.

In addition proposals were made for the establishment of a world space organization. The Committee recommended that the General Assembly endorse the initiative of the international scientific organizations to designate 1992 as international space year in its resolution on international agreements governing the peaceful uses of outer space.

In its final report the Committee stated that, "an effective way of maintaining outer space for peaceful purposes was through international co-operation. Multilateral, regional and bilateral co-operative activities and the promotion of specific projects to assist all countries, in particular, the developing countries, were seen as ways of strengthening that co-operation." (A/AC.105/l.178 and Add.1-4).

Research and Conference preparation suggestions:

It may be advisable to familiarize yourself with the work of the Committee on Peaceful Uses of Outer Space prior to efforts to examine a particular bloc or country's perspective on these issues. As you research, you will most likely discover that this is a topic of great breadth.

Many of the industrialized nations are extensively involved in a majority of the issues mentioned above. Many lesser developed nations have reached the conclusion that their interests are best served by concentration on a few aspects of law, scientific and technical research and political debate. As you prepare, try to become familiar with the areas in which your country is active. For example, is your nation concerned with the data on locusts gathered via remote sensing? If so, you may conclude that research into that area is a priority of your government. If not, look for other areas that benefit your country or in which it is active.

If your country is a member of the Special Committee on Peaceful Uses of Outer Space it would be advisable to address your correspondence directly to the delegate from your country which sits on that committee. (See A/AC.105/XXXII/INF/1.)

References:

  1. A/AC.105/L.178 and Add.1-4; "Report of the Outer Space Committee to the General Assembly"; June 1989 (anticipated title - document not available at the time of this writing). References drawn from United Nations Press Release OS/1434, 15 June 1989.
  2. A/AC.105/XXXII/INF/1, "List of Participants", Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, Thirty-second session 5-16 June 1989.
  3. A/AC.105/415; 11 November 1988; "Co-ordination of Outer Space Activities within the United Nations System: Programmes of Work for 1989 and 1990 and Future Years"; Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space.
  4. A/AC.105/420; 15 December 1988; "Environmental Effects of Space Activities: Report Submitted by the Committee on Space Research and the International Astronautical Federation." (Note: An indepth study of space debris, dust near earth space, and chemical pollution)
  5. A/AC.105/421; 14 December 1988; "Report of the United Nations Expert on Space Applications to the Scientific and Technical Sub-Committee"; Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space.
  6. A/AC.105/425; 20 December 1988; "Progress of Space Research 1987-1988",Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space. (Note: Contains extensive, detailed and often technical information. It also mentions the activities of a few countries.)
  7. A/AC.105/430; "Report of the Legal Sub-Committee on the Work of its Twenty-Eighth Session"; Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, June 1989.
  8. A/43/838; "Prevention of an Arms Race in Outer Space", Report of the First Committee, Forty-third Session of the General Assembly. Note: In accordance with General Assembly resolution 42/33 of 30 November 1987 this topic was allocated to First committee see also (A/C.1/43/PV.3-43).
  9. 43/56 "International co-operation in the peaceful uses of outer space"; 6 December 1988, Special Political Committee, Adopted without a vote, report A/43/767.
  10. Earthly Man Needs Law in Space", Insight, January 4, 1988, pgs. 48-49.
  11. "U.S., 11 Nations Sign Pact of Space Station", Los Angeles Times, September 20,1988.
  12. For detailed descriptions of many nations activities in space: "Who Does What in Space", UN Chronicle 1984, Vol. XXI, No. 4, pgs. 40 - 43. and, A/AC.105/297; Report of the Scientific and Technical Sub-Committee of the Committee on Peaceful Uses of Outer Space.
  13. A magazine format briefing book entitled "Developing the Final Frontier: International Cooperation in the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space", 1985, is available from the UNA-USA in New York. It is a comprehensive examination of the issue with particular emphasis on United States policy.
  14. Issue 43: Issues Before the 43rd General Assembly of the United Nations. UNA/USA. 1989, NY. pgs. 186-187.
  15. The United Nations' Efforts to Outlaw the Arms Race in Outer Space, P. K. Menon, & The Professors World Peace Academy, The Edwin Mellen Press, Lewiston, New York, 1988.
  16. UN Chronicles, Vol. XXI, 1984, No. 1, pg. 32. Contains examples of the content of A/38/20, the 1983 Committee report.
  17. UN Chronicle, Vol. XXI, 1984, No. 4, pg. 32 "Peaceful Uses of Outer Space: Progress and Problems," Includes numerous examples of country's positions on space related topics.
  18. UN Chronicle, Vol. XXI, 1984, No. 6, pg. 18. "Impasse in Outer Space Committee Over Militarization of Space." Includes the views of several members nations.
  19. UN Chronicle, Vol. XXII, 1985, No. 2, pg. 18. "Spreading the Benefits of Space Technology" Includes examples from the UNISPACE 82 reports and some country positions.
  20. UN Chronicle, Vol. XXII, 1985, No. 6, pg. 39. "Co-operative progammes for peaceful use of space cited by United Nations Space Committee." Contains, among other issues, several examples of applied uses of technology gained through space programs.
  21. UN Chronicle, Vol. XXIII, 1986, No. 2, pg. 75. "All states urged to prevent arms race in outer space and to promote international co-operation." Discussion ofthe General Assembly's discussions of the topic and resolution 40/162.
  22. UN Chronicle, Vol. XXIII, 1986, No. 3, pg. 34, "Outer Space
  23. Sub-committee considers satellite and spacecraft issues." Contains information from the report of the Scientific and Technical Sub-Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space 1986 session.
  24. UN Chronicle, Vol. XXIII, 1986, No. 4, pg. 84. "Draft principles on remote sensing activities approved by Outer Space Committee." May 1987, Vol. XXIV, No. 2, pg. 48. Contains reports from the 1987 meeting of the Committee.
  25. UN Chronicle, Vol. XXV, 1988, No. 1, pg. 79. "A political
  26. issue, A practical matter." *September 1988, Vol. XXV, No. ???, pg. 44. "1987 achievements in space lauded by UN Committee."
  27. UN Chronicle, Vol. XXVI, 1989, No. 1, pg. 63. "Assembly reviews outer space issues."

Members of COPUS

Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Benin, Brazil, Bulgaria, Cameroon, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Czech Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Islamic Republic of Iran, Iraq, Italy, Japan, Kenya, Lebanon, Mexico, Mongolia, Netherlands, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Poland, Romania, Sierra Leone, Spain, Sweden, Syrian Arab Republic, Russia, United Kingdom, United States of America, Uruguay, Venezuela, Vietnam, Yugoslavia

Observers:

Byelorus, Cuba, Libyan Arab Jamahiriya, Malaysia, Peru, Portugal