Space traffic management

Space traffic management is defined by the International Academy of Astronautics (IAA) as "the set of technical and regulatory provisions for promoting safe access into outer space, operations in outer space and return from outer space to Earth free from physical or radio-frequency interference."[1]

Space traffic includes launch vehicles, as well as orbiting objects such as satellites of all sizes and the International Space Station. Space debris risk mitigation is major concern, due to the fact that collision with space debris can destroy vehicles and other space assets.[2]

  1. ^ Cosmic Study on Space Traffic Management. Paris: International Academy of Astronautics. 2006. p. 10. ISBN 2-9516787-5-4.
  2. ^ United Nation Office of Outer Space Affairs (2015), Space traffic management and small satellites: new topics to be included in United Nations international space law discussions - Press release - UNIS/OS/449 - Not official Document - URL: http://www.unoosa.org/oosa/en/informationfor/media/2015-unis-os-449.html - (accessed 2019/11/21)