Protection of intellectual property rights in outer space

Abstract

The commercialization of outer space is developing into a new stage. Intellectual property rights are based on a strict territorial approach, which is incompatible with the rules regarding space activities. This paper aims at examining the issue of patent protection in outer space and proposing a viable regime for the protection of the so-called "space patent". It is believed that such an international framework will promote the development of space activities and respond primarily to the need of patent protection by the States and private entities.