Reconstructing the Definition of Space Debris

The international community has realized that space debris is a global concern that should be addressed with a sense of urgency. Keeping in mind the limitations of the prevailing normative framework, the optimal solution would be to address the problem by way of universal lawmaking. However, any universal lawmaking effort presupposes the creation of a uniform definition of space debris. Non-binding international standards and national documents currently contain a variety of definitions. The coexistence of divergent definitions may lead to fragmentation and legal uncertainty, and their restrictive approach may become untenable as humankind ventures deeper into outer space. Based upon these considerations and adopting a proactive mindset, the present paper aims to re-evaluate the prevailing definitions with a view to proposing a comprehensive, feasible and durable definition covering all extant and future forms of space debris. The analysis commences with an overview of selected universal, regional and national definitions. This is followed by the identification, reassessment and possible revision of shared elements of the definitions concerned. The reassessed and revised elements are then assembled to propose a new definition to contribute to the ongoing discussion on space debris.