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https://theconversation.com/satellites-are-making-the-night-sky-brighter-as-a-launch-site-nz-has-a-duty-to-combat-light-pollution-233784>
"New Zealand’s space sector has been developing rapidly since the first rocket
lifted off in 2017. It now contributes about NZ$1.7 billion in revenue, with
plans to grow to $10 billion by 2030.
Last year, New Zealand hosted seven rocket launches, all by the US-listed but
local company Rocket Lab. It was in response to Rocket Lab’s initial proposal
for a launch site that New Zealand developed a regulatory system from scratch
in less than two years to meet obligations under international law.
All launch nations have to register every object they send into space, and
continue to supervise those objects to ensure no damage or loss occurs to
another country’s objects or activities. They also have a responsibility to
compensate for any harm.
As well, countries must prevent contamination of outer space and Earth’s
environment, and ensure space activity does not interfere with other countries’
rights to free access and participation.
A 2020 review of New Zealand’s space legislation found the regulatory regime
was by and large fit for purpose. But it raised substantive concerns about the
regulation of new technologies, including satellite constellations and
miniature satellites.
The recommendations prompted broader consultation on New Zealand’s space policy
and aerospace strategy. This saw a backlash against the absence of Māori voices
on the particular concern of light pollution from space."
Cheers,
*** Xanni ***
