The Evolution of a New and Viable Concept of Sovereignty for Outer Space

The traditional territorially oriented concept of sovereignty is engaged in a particularly slow and problematical reconciliation with current developments in outer space. This Note will trace the concept of sovereignty as it has evolved into the space age. An examination of early debates regarding sovereignty in outer space reveals that the traditional territorial orientation is slowly being abandoned. Analysis of current issues indicates that while a significant conservative viewpoint continues to exist, a new non-territorial orientation is emerging. This Note will consider the proposition that it is this new non-territorially oriented sovereignty that is viable for outer space