Examples of the “Utilization” of Outer Space (Space Applications)

Abstract

As mentioned earlier, paragraph 4 (b) of General Assembly resolution 2222 (XXI) stipulated that the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space should begin the study of the utilization of outer space, including the various implications of space communications. In resolution 2260 (XXII), paragraph I3, the General Assembly requested the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space “to study the technical feasibility of communication by direct broadcasts from satellites and the current and foreseeable developments in this field, as well as the implications of such developments”. On 28 June 1968, the Legal Sub-Committee of UNCOPOUS adopted a resolution, in which it recommended to the Outer Space Committee that it should request the Scientific and Technical Sub-Committee to consider the question of direct broadcasting satellites, with a view to preparing a study of the technical problems involved, enlisting whenever appropriate the assistance of the competent specialized agencies of the United Nations.¹ The Working Group on Direct Broadcast Satellites² was subsequently established in order to study the technical feasibility of communication by direct broadcast from satellites, and the current and forseeable developments in this field as well as the implications of such developments, including comparative user costs and other economic considerations, as well as social, cultural, legal and other questions.³