The Legal Subcommittee is a subcommittee of the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) established in 1958. It meets on an annual basis and serves as the primary forum for discussion and negotiation of international agreements relating to outer space within the United Nations.
In its fifty-second session, taking place from 8 to 19 April 2013, it will discuss the following issues, among others:
Matters relating to: (a) The definition and delimitation of outer space; (b) The character and utilization of the geostationary orbit, including consideration of ways and means to ensure the rational and equitable use of the geostationary orbit without prejudice to the role of the International Telecommunication Union.
National legislation relevant to the peaceful exploration and use of outer space.
Review and possible revision of the Principles Relevant to the Use of Nuclear Power Sources in Outer Space.
Examination and review of the developments concerning the Protocol to the Convention on International Interests in Mobile Equipment on Matters specific to Space Assets.
Capacity-building in space law.
General exchange of information and views on legal mechanisms relating to space debris mitigation measures, taking into account the work of the Scientific and Technical Subcommittee.
UNOOSA has assumed responsibility for substantive secretariat services to the Subcommittee. All relevant documents are available online on UNOOSA's website.