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Abstract

The rapid rise of satellite mega-constellations is reshaping the “spacescape” of Low Earth Orbits (LEO). This Article explores the unprecedented challenges introduced by these vast networks and proposes a comprehensive governance framework to ensure their sustainable operations.

It begins by examining the transformative potential of mega-constellations and offering an overview of current deployments and upcoming projects. It then evaluates the existing legal landscape, highlighting the key treaties, international organizations, and national regulators that can influence these systems. The Article then describes how the fragmented nature of the current regulatory architecture leaves us ill-equipped to address the critical challenges, such as orbital congestion, spectrum allocation, and astronomical obstructions, of this mega-constellation era.

To address these gaps, the Article introduces the Coordinated Oversight System for Mega-constellations and Orbital Sustainability (COSMOS). This governance model integrates existing institutions with new tools designed for the complexities of LEO mega-constellations. By leveraging a Joint Committee formed between the International Telecommunication Union and the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, COSMOS could offer a cohesive approach to the oversight of these complex satellite systems. Accordingly, this Article demonstrates how COSMOS can meet the pressing challenges introduced by this mega-constellations era, thereby preserving the orbital environment for generations to come.

I. Setting the Course

II. Mapping the Terrain: An Overview of Mega-Constellations … A. Defining Mega-Constellations ... B. Operational Mega-Constellations ... 1. SpaceX’s Starlink ... 2. Eutelsat’s OneWeb ... 3. Planet Labs’ Earth Observation Mega-Constellation ... C. Upcoming Mega-Constellations ... 1. Aetherflux’s Mega-Constellation ... 2. Amazon’s Project Kuiper ... 3. China’s GuoWang and QianFan Mega-Constellations ... 4. China’s Three-Body Computing Constellation ... 5. E-Space’s Mega-Constellation ... 6. European Space Agency’s IRIS2 ... 7. Hanwha Systems’ Mega-Constellation ... 8. Star Catcher’s Power Nodes ... 9. Telesat’s Lightspeed

III. Navigating the Legal Spacescape: Relevant Frameworks and Organizations ... A. United Nations Treaties on Outer Space ... 1. The Outer Space Treaty of 1967 ... 2. The Liability Convention of 1972 ... 3. The Registration Convention of 1975 ... B. Key International Organizations ... 1. International Telecommunication Union ... 2. United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space ... 3. United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs ... C. Important National Regulators ... 1. United States Federal Communications Commission ... 2. United Kingdom’s Office of Communications ... 3. China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology

IV. Charting the Challenges: Primary Legal Complexities ... A. Orbital Congestion ... B. Spectrum Interference ... C. Astronomical Obstructions

V. Plotting the COSMOS: A Comprehensive Framework for Mega-Constellation Management ... A. Blueprinting the COSMOS ... 1. Foundational Structure ... 2. Composition, Representation, and Leadership ... 3. Leadership and Agenda Management ... 4. Decision-Making Processes ... 5. Binding Standards, Enforcement Mechanisms, and Adaption Reviews ... 6. Data-Sharing, Transparency, and Public Engagement ... B. Assessing the COSMOS ... 1. Key Advantages ... 2. Potential Concerns ... C. Applying COSMOS to Core Legal Challenges ... 1. Managing Orbital Congestion ... 2. Mediating Spectrum Interference ... 3. Mitigating Astronomical Obstructions

VI. Anchoring the Future

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