Japan’s experience in the exploration and use of outer space: national and international legal aspects

Considering Japan's experience in the exploration and use of outer space, the authors stress out that Japanese legislation on space activities is characterized by the presence of a number of normative legal acts, which is due to the rapid development of space technologies at the national level, as well as changes in state legal policy in this area in recent decades. It is emphasized that, despite the long-standing suborbital flight programs of private operators, the Japanese legislator has not included them in the scope of national legislation on space activities. Reference is made to the fact that Japanese law provides for mandatory financial coverage of risks associated with the participation of private individuals in space activities. This requirement is particularly relevant in view of the dangers associated with the use of constellations of satellites, as well as small satellites and nanosatellites, which, with their rather limited external control capability, may cause collisions and disrupt the safety of space traffic. In conclusion, Japan's leading role in regional space forums and in shaping the modern international legal concept of the exploration and use of outer space is emphasized.