SPACE LAW STUDENTS PARTICIPATION IN REAL ENGINEERING RELATED PROJECTS AND RESEARCH

摘要

Space Law is a recognized way of collaboration, promotion of sustainable development and international cooperation since it started, with the launch of world first artificial satellite in 1957. Likewise education and research in a scientific, technical and juridical way constitute a key factor in the development of Space Law. Laboratory for Space and Microgravity Research (LEEM), a Spanish non-profit space students and young professionals association dedicated to motivate and support students to develop space related projects has created a Juridical Committee whose principal objectives are to divulgate this field between science and law students, and to collaborate in Space Law development. Through direct participation in real space projects, LEEM provides to students the opportunity of having a real hands-on the topics of these activities. Students research about all related aspects of Space Law concerning a specific project at the same time they collaborate in its development, making possible a wide knowledge in technical and legal aspects. These research activities support the legal aspects of LEEM and the development of more ambitious projects, assuring all applicable laws. Our initial research line is concerned about launch of sounding rockets and picosatellites. Spain has not a clear regulation about them and in some cases; activities related with these fields are not specifically covered by the present legislation. Our Juridical Committee finds ways where our activities are adapted to Spanish legislation and ways to motivate a fluent contact with authorities in order to promote a specific regulation. On the other hand, students and young professionals who develop these Space Law researches have the possibility of networking with professional and experts, presenting their results, and discussing about new ideas during the association annual congress, the Spanish Space Students (S3). This innovative way of research makes possible to study the current status of local applicable legislation in space from a practical point of view, to promote Space Law field among students of different disciplines and collaborating to its development and progress. In addition, it constitutes an opportunity to include practical ideas and knowledge in a future national law.