ORBITAL SPRAWL, SPACE DEBRIS AND THE GEOSTATIONARY RING

Contamination of outer space by debris and non-functional objects presents a significant challenge to scientists, mission planners and jurists. A continuation of present activities will result in a condition of orbital sprawl whereby certain orbits, notably the geostationary ring, will become saturated with such objects, forcing the location of spacecraft at a distance from the optimal slot and posing a growing risk of collision. This article considers ways in which the law of outer space might provide an effective framework for responding to the growth and changing character of space activities. © 1990.