Outdated space laws hinder private missions' progress

In early 2025, private space missions have surged, with notable successes and failures. American company Firefly Aerospace recently landed its spacecraft on the Moon, marking a first for privately owned craft. However, Elon Musk's SpaceX faced setbacks, with multiple rockets exploding. International laws on space activities, mostly established during the Cold War, struggle to keep pace with the rapid growth of private space exploration. Existing treaties were made when space was primarily explored by governments and did not foresee the involvement of private companies. There is a growing concern that without updated regulations, space could become a "wild west" where corporations act without accountability. The 1967 Outer Space Treaty and other agreements govern activities in space. These treaties do not adequately address new challenges posed by private ventures. For example, satellite collisions carry risks, but regulations mainly apply to countries, not private companies, complicating liability issues. Issues regarding space resource ownership are also unresolved. While the U.S. promotes private ownership of lunar resources through its Artemis Accords, many nations adhere to the older Moon Agreement, which emphasizes shared ownership. This lack of consensus creates potential conflicts as private entities explore and mine on the Moon. To ensure safe space exploration, lawmakers must create updated, international rules. Discussions must address how to manage lunar traffic, resolve liabilities, and ensure environmental protection in space activities. Developing clear guidelines will be crucial as more private companies enter the field.