In my master thesis I am describing current international legal governance of outer space in the field of mining on celestial bodies and naming restrictions that are currently in the way of legality of such exploitation. First restriction is posed by the principle of the benefit of all mankind, since mining cannot be conducted for the benefit of a single State and benefits must be, at least indirectly, divided. Furthermore, fundamental principle of space law is principle of non-appropriation, which prohibits appropriation of any kind in outer space. The question is whether the minerals on celestial bodies are included in that prohibition. Even if mining on celestial bodies was allowed, there is bigger and bigger attention on safeguarding the environment of outer space. In the case of exploitation of natural resources, there will be considerable degradation and pollution of the environment, therefore it is crucial to comply with international environmental law to ensure safe use of outer space for future generations. Specific areas of celestial bodies deserve special protection, as is provided for World heritage of mankind on Earth. Such area is for example area of first human landing on the Moon, which has historical and scientific value for all mankind. Discussions in COPUOS will show what the legal development of governance of mining on celestial bodies will be. My hypothesis is that exploitation of natural resources on celestial bodies is currently not in accordance with international law.
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