Examining the Relevance and Adequacy of the Outer Space Treaty as an International Legal Instrument for Space Tourism Entrepreneurship (STE): A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

The relevance and adequacy of the 1967 UN Assembly Resolution 2222, XXI, Outer Space Treaty (OST) as a legal framework for Space Tourism Entrepreneurship (STE) are the subjects of ongoing debates in legal research. Utilizing a Systematic Literature Review (SLR), the current study critically examines the OST's effectiveness in regulating STE. A rigorous selection and review of 46 articles reveals three key findings. Firstly, while the OST offers partial relevance for activities like space tourism and commercial exploitation, it falls short in addressing emerging legal, regulatory, and ecological complexities. Secondly, the treaty is deemed inadequate as a legal framework for STE due to its inability to address these complexities effectively. Thirdly, the study suggests that existing provisions can be strengthened through the development of comprehensive space law at international, regional, and national levels to address the evolving challenges in the space tourism industry. These findings underscore the need for policymakers and legal experts to revisit and strengthen existing legal frameworks to better regulate the rapidly evolving field of space technology and space tourism entrepreneurship by developing comprehensive space law that addresses emerging complexities and ambiguities.