The Geostationary Ring : Practice and Law

Abstract

The Geostationary Ring: Practice and Law addresses numerous physical aspects of this highly sought-after orbit which serves as the backbone for international satellite communications and analyses the evolution of its use, coordination and related disputes along with sovereignty claims over segments of the Geostationary Orbit. The author, Martha Mejía-Kaiser, discusses the increasing population of this orbital region with operational spacecraft, its pollution with man-made space debris, and the upcoming active space removal by external systems. Based on empirical data, the author analyses in unprecedented detail a measurable State practice in the efforts of keeping this orbital region operational, and addresses key legal questions with regard to the benefit and interests of all nations, equitable access and its economic and rationale use.