Convention on International Liability for
Damage
Caused by Space Objects
The States Parties to this Convention,
Recognizing the common interest of all mankind in furthering the exploration and
use of outer space for peaceful purposes,
Recalling the Treaty on Principles Governing the Activities of States in the
Exploration and Use of Outer Space, including the Moon and Other Celestial
Bodies,
Taking into consideration that, notwithstanding the precautionary measures to
be taken by States and international intergovernmental organizations involved in
the launching of space objects, damage may on occasion be caused by such
objects,
Recognizing the need to elaborate effective international rules and procedures
concerning liability for damage caused by space objects and to ensure, in
particular, the prompt payment under the terms of this Convention of a full and
equitable measure of compensation to victims of such damage,
Believing that the establishment of such rules and procedures will contribute to
the strengthening of international co-operation in the field of the exploration and
use of outer space for peaceful purposes,
Have agreed on the following:
Article I
For the purposes of this Convention:
(a) The term "damage" means loss of life, personal injury or other impairment of
health; or loss of or damage to property of States or of persons, natural or
juridical, or property of international intergovernmental organizations;
(b) The term "launching" includes attempted launching;
(c) The term "launching State" means:
(i) A State which launches or procures the launching of a space object;
(ii) A State from whose territory or facility a space object is launched;
(d) The term "space object" includes component parts of a space object as well
as its launch vehicle and parts thereof.
Article II