AN ANALYSIS OF THE CONVENTION ON THEREGISTRATION OFOBJECTS LAUNCHED INTO OUTERSPACE 1975

Abstract

The paper analysed the Convention on Registration of Objects
Launched into Outer Space 1975 (Registration Convention). The Registration Convention was drafted to as to make elaborate provisions for the registration of space objects in the earth orbit and beyond. In order to achieve this, the Convention established a National Register and an International Register where data as regards space objects launched into outer space can be entered. The paper adopted a mixed method of normative and critical analysis. The normative analysis arises from an examination of doctrinal data which consist of the principles of law, the provisions of the Registration Convention, Outer Space Treaty, Rescue and Return Agreement and Liability Convention. Critical analysis on the other hand, is applied to Outer Space principles in literatures in order to justify the need for an amendment of the Convention. The paper found that there are growing technological advancement in the area of space which the Registration Convention did not at that time envisage. The paper therefore recommended that the Convention be amended to embrace recent and evergrowing technological advance in the field of space science and technology.