Short Course: Space Law
Date: 5 Sessions: 2,9, 16, 23, 30 October 2026
Time: 13.00 - 15.00 (UK time)
Venue: Online
Course Details
As activity in outer space expands rapidly and new actors reshape the domain, the need for clear and effective legal frameworks has become increasingly urgent. International Space Law examines the legal framework governing human activities in outer space, with a focus on the treaties, principles, and institutions developed through the United Nations system, particularly the work of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space.
The course introduces the core instruments of the field, including the Outer Space Treaty, and explores how international law applies to questions of jurisdiction, state responsibility, liability, and the peaceful use of outer space. Building on these foundations, the course considers contemporary challenges arising from the rapid expansion of commercial space activity, satellite constellations, space debris, and evolving debates around resource use and security in outer space. Participants will assess how existing legal frameworks respond to technological change and examine competing approaches to the future governance of outer space.
By the end of this course, participants will:
- Understand the structure, sources, and key principles of international space law
- Gain familiarity with the UN space treaties and their legal implications
- Evaluate state responsibility and liability for space activities
- Assess current legal challenges such as space debris and commercialisation
- Critically engage with emerging debates on the future governance of outer space
Course topics and tutors:
- Foundations of International Space Law
Dr Jack Kenny, Dorset Research Leader in International Law, BIICL, Lecturer in Public International Law, University of Manchester - Treaty Framework and Core Principles
Katja Grünfeld, Research Assistant at Institute of Air Law, Space Law and Cyber Law - State Responsibility, Authorisation, Registration and Liability
Professor Frans G. von der Dunk, Harvey & Susan Perlman Alumni / Othmer Chair of Space Law, University of Nebraska-Lincoln College of Law - Regulation of Space Activities and Commercial Operations
Chris Johnson, Lecturer at the International Institute of Space Law, Leiden University - Contemporary Issues and the Future of Space Governance
Professor Ram S. Jakhu, Professor Emeritus & Director Emeritus, Institute of Air and Space Law, McGill University Faculty of Law
Course leader
Dr Jack Kenny, Dorset Research Leader in International Law, BIICL and Lecturer in Public International Law, University of Manchester.
Pricing and Registration
The course fee is £400 per person.
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Discounts
20% discount available for:
- individual and organisational members of BIICL
- groups of 3 or more attendees from NGO organisations or staff of government
- groups of 5 or more attendees from commercial organisations
For group bookings, please contact us.
Who is the course for?
The course is for a wide range of professionals interested in the developments in space law including in-house counsel, legal practitioners, NGO representatives, government representatives, academics, PhD students and other professionals.
Course format
The virtual course format will consist of a series of 5 sessions in which live (synchronous) teaching is offered via Zoom. Participants will be able to interact with the tutors and amongst themselves on screen.
Ready to book?
Deepen your understanding of space law and join a global network of professionals.
