The recent surge in space-related incidents has reignited global conversations about the need for stronger international space regulations. Debris from SpaceX and Blue Origin rockets recently fell across several countries—including the Bahamas, Florida, and Poland—causing flight disruptions and safety concerns. Around the same time, NASA reported that asteroid 2024 YR4 briefly had a 3.1% chance of striking Earth in 2032, the highest probability ever recorded before being revised down to 0.004%. These developments highlight why space governance matters more than ever, and why working with our Des Moines, IA space law lawyer may soon become a reality for organizations engaged in satellite launches, aerospace development, or space research.
For decades, nations and private entities have relied on treaties established by the United Nations to define ownership, liability, and safety obligations in outer space. However, with increasing private launches and commercial exploration, those agreements are being tested. Low Earth orbit—home to the International Space Station and thousands of satellites—is now overcrowded with debris from defunct satellites and rocket fragments. This “space junk” isn’t what we used to think inhabited space long ago: strange UFOs and alien spacecraft. Rather, the debris that lives above our atmosphere was put there by the human race over the course of decades, and it travels at extreme speeds, posing risks to spacecraft and even human life. Despite the 1972 Liability Convention establishing that countries are responsible for damage caused by their licensed launches, enforcement remains inconsistent.
Professionals note that there’s a significant gap between international cooperation and accountability. While some nations share tracking data to reduce collision risks, there are no binding global laws regulating space debris removal or coordination in orbit. That’s why legal scholars, including professors at New York University, are urging the expansion of academic programs in space and planetary law. They emphasize that space exploration attorneys will be crucial to address the challenges of an increasingly crowded orbit.
We Provide Critical Legal Guidance When It Comes To Space Law
As the number of space launches continues to grow, new legal questions are emerging about who is responsible for accidents, environmental damage, and even debris that falls back to Earth. Our team understands that the rules governing space activities are rapidly evolving—and that businesses, researchers, and government contractors must stay ahead of those changes. Whether it’s drafting international agreements, advising companies on compliance, or addressing liability issues, our Des Moines space law attorneys are experienced in the intricate overlap between international law, environmental protection, and technology regulation.
For companies involved in launching or operating satellites, partnering with our aerospace law attorneys can help prevent costly disputes. We help guide clients through contract formation, regulatory filings, and risk management strategies that verify that operations comply with both U.S. and international standards. Likewise, as orbital congestion worsens, disputes over space debris, satellite collisions, and property rights in orbit are expected to increase—making the work of our Des Moines space law lawyers even more vital.
In many ways, the growing need for regulation of outer space mirrors the environmental challenges we face on Earth. The lack of accountability, the accumulation of waste, and the competition for resources are all familiar issues—just played out hundreds of miles above us. Through collaboration, foresight, and effective legal governance, humanity can continue exploring space safely and sustainably.
Whether you’re part of a commercial launch company, a research organization, or an investor entering the aerospace sector, our firm can help you understand your rights, responsibilities, and opportunities. We’ve received a well-earned 4.8-star rating on Google for our commitment to our clients and our deep knowledge of the industry. We’re here to help with all of your legal concerns. Contact the Law Group of Iowa today to speak with one of our international space treaty lawyers about how to protect your interests—and your innovations—in this new frontier. We’re available 24/7 to discuss your case and get you set up with one of our qualified attorneys.
