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ARTICLE · 09 MAY 2023

Who is liable for falling space junk?

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The article explores mechanisms under Australian and international law which govern liability for falling space junk.

AustraliaEnvironment
Jennifer Shaw
Jennifer Shaw
Isabelle Stillman
Isabelle Stillman
Author LinkedIn connections

In late April 2023, a SpaceX Starship exploded over South Texas shortly after launch, causing particulate matter to rain down on the nearby town of Port Isabel. The failed launch is also reported to have broken windows and caused other damage to homes and businesses. In the wake of the launch, environmental and cultural heritage groups have reportedly filed legal proceedings against the US Federal Aviation Administration in respect of the environmental impact of falling dust and debris on endangered species in the Boca Chica area.

Such events are becoming increasingly common, as humankind continue to explore and utilise space as a means of connecting and sustaining life on planet earth. Consequently, the growing number of discarded items from launches and orbiting in outer space, known as "space junk" poses ever-increasing risks to human life, property and the environment.

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