United States International Legal Framework for Lunar Exploration and Resource Extraction

16 June 2020
View Debevoise In Depth
Key takeaways:
  • In April and May 2020, the United States signaled its determination to press ahead with two major space policy objectives: establishing a permanent U.S. presence on the moon and authorizing private companies to mine the moon.
  • As the United States takes forward these initiatives, it may develop, test and strain elements of the existing international legal regime. In so doing, the United States’ position creates potential opportunities and risks for private entities.