LW7148 - Space Law: Theory and Doctrine

This module is offered on both the full-time and the part-time, distance-learning delivery model. This module will use a series of 12 lectures to initiate and stimulate your thinking on doctrinal issues mentioned above. 6, 2-hour seminars will provide an opportunity to discuss the detailed aspects of space law. These discussions will consolidate your understanding and allow you to critique and analyse the nuance of the theory and doctrine of international space law. During your seminars, you will be afforded a number of opportunities to undertake research, to consider how to effectively reference legal sources, and to analyse and debate the evolution of space governance. You will undertake tasks both individually and in groups. During these seminars you will receive feedback from your tutors and from fellow students and you will be encouraged to reflect upon this to improve your research, writing and understanding of the intricacies of space law. If you are studying in part-time, distance-learning, you will be offered the opportunity to take part in virtual, synchronous workshops and all supporting materials will be made available for you. Your module is supported by a range of electronic materials, which are made available to all students via the eLearning platform (Blackboard Ultra). These include lecture recordings, written guidance, podcasts, YouTube videos, and self-test exercises. You will receive a module handbook which outlines the formal sessions (lectures and seminars) and provides details of independent study/learning.

The members of staff who teach on this module have significant research experience in respect of the law of outer space. As such, they will be the principle source of academic support in the module. All lectures will be recorded and made available to students to aid in learning and understanding. You will be encouraged to use this resource to develop your appreciation of the interrelated nature of the disparate areas of law studied as part of the module. The module will make use of an online reading list. The reading list will provide you with links to key texts and information on their availability in the university library. The University is well-placed to support you in learning and research with an excellent library and teaching facilities, access to on-line legal databases and resources and appropriate software. This module has been designed and is managed by your designated Module Tutor who will be responsible for guiding you in your engagement and learning on the module, whether studying on-campus or as part of the distance learning provision. All relevant materials and instructions including notes and recordings for lectures and seminars will be accessible on-line through the Blackboard Ultra site. The site is maintained by your Module Tutor, who will also provide updates on issues of current legal/space significance as appropriate. In respect of support for your assessment, you will be provided with appropriate written or oral feedback (as appropriate), and, as part of your reflective development, such feedback can be utilised in the preparation of subsequent module assessments on the programme. At programme level you will be supported by the Programme Leader and personal tutor who will provide academic and pastoral support throughout the module and the programme. If you are studying this module as a part-time, distance-learning student, you will also receive augmented online support from the module tutor.

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.

Knowledge & Understanding:

1. You will be able to display and critically apply expert knowledge within the field of space law and policy.

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:

2. You will be able to analyse and communicate complex legal and policy issues relating to human space activity.

3. You will be able to critically evaluate source material, suggest alternative approaches to the law of outer space and its application in practice and reflect on the application of your knowledge and that of others within practical contexts

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):

4. You will take responsibility for your own independent learning in the field of space law and policy, working independently to further enhance existing skills and develop new skills to a high level

Formative assessment will be achieved by self-test questions in module materials, group discussion, informal peer assessment and assessed and non-assessed exercises.

Summative Assessment will be undertaken on an individual basis by way of assignment, which constitutes 100% of the marks for this module. This assignment aims to encourage a deep and critical approach to learning, developing an ability to think widely about the issues of space law and policy, both theoretical and doctrinal presented within the module and to explore these in line with directed and independent learning.

The maximum word limit for the assessment is 3,000 words.

Assessment criteria will be provided to enable you to understand what is expected of you and how you will be judged on your performance.

You will be provided with appropriate written or oral feedback (as appropriate), and, as part of your reflective development, such feedback can be fed-forward into the preparation of subsequent module assessments on the programme.

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This module provides you with a detailed understanding of the international legal framework governing human activities in outer space. The module will explore the evolving landscape of international space law, examining its theoretical underpinnings and the existing framework as it currently operates. Students will dissect the key international treaties and agreements starting with a detailed examination of the Articles of the Outer Space Treaty of 1967, critiquing its significance and limitations in regulating space activities. The module will illustrate contemporary debates surrounding the theoretical frameworks shaping international space law. Students analyze diverse perspectives, from legal positivism to critical approaches, evaluating their applicability in addressing emerging challenges such as the impact of intellectual property on commercial space endeavors, resource exploitation, and the application of AI to space activity. You will evaluate the adequacy of existing legal frameworks in addressing novel issues like lunar mining rights or the use of force in outer space, honing your ability to contribute to these debates in the space domain.