United States Space Law: Historical Evolution and Legislative Framework -

Article

Open Access

by Mariia Semenchuk¹
¹ Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv (Kyiv, Ukraine)
DOI: https://doi.org/10.29202/asl/15/6
Received: 07 May 2025 / Accepted: 2 July 2025 / Published: 30 August 2025

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Abstract

In this article, the evolution of the United States’ national legal framework governing space activities is examined, highlighting its development under the influence of technological innovations and market transformations. It should be noted that in 2020 the U.S. National Space Policy formally designated space as a distinct theater of operations and initiated the establishment of the Space Forces, underscoring the expansion of the military dimension. Special attention is devoted to the integration of civil and defense interests, the dual-use nature of space technologies, and the role of commercial remote sensing within non-proliferation regimes. In conclusion, it is worth noting that the contemporary regulatory model is characterized by a combination of public-private partnerships, the unification of normative instruments, and the harmonization of military and civilian objectives in pursuit of technological advantage and responsible international cooperation.

Keywords: space law, international treaties, space launches, remote sensing, ITAR, USML, U.S. Space Force, dual-use technologies.

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Semenchuk, Mariia (2025) United States Space Law: Historical Evolution and Legislative Framework. Advanced Space Law, Volume 15, 73-79. https://doi.org/10.29202/asl/15/6

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