Activities in outer space are regulated by a number of international treaties. They are implemented in the UK principally by the Outer Space Act 1986. Access to frequencies and, in the geostationary orbit, orbital slots are regulated under the ITU Convention and regulations made under it which are implemented in the UK via the Wireless Telegraphy Act 2006.

Harbottle & Lewis has wide-ranging experience of advising clients in the space sector. Work undertaken by its lawyers include advising on:

• Procurement of launch and operation of space vehicles and TT&C facilities
• Frequency coordination
• Liability and insurance
• Establishing and operating teleport facilities
• Telecommunications, spectrum and broadcasting regulation
• Capacity and service agreements

Tony Ballard is chairman of the UK branch (or National Point of Contact) of the European Centre for Space Law.

For further information, contact Tony Ballard.