Space Law – Lunar Military Bases

Can nations build military bases in outer space? Can countries establish military outposts on the Moon? According to space law expert, Prof. Frans van der Dunk, the Outer Space Treaty prohibits the building of military bases on the moon or other celestial bodies (such as Mars or Venus). While this does not prohibit the use of military personnel in space exploration, this would restrict the establishment of military bases or weapons systems on a celestial body. As for military bases in orbit or otherwise traveling in space? The Outer Space Treaty, does not prohibit military stations in outer space where they are not built on a "celestial body." As a result, if for example the US or China wanted to build a military space station orbiting earth, such a station would not be permitted under existing treaties although the would not be permitted to house nuclear weapons. ► http://www.talksonlaw.com for more legal explainers and interviews with the titans of law. ► Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/talksonlaw ► Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/talksonlaw ► Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/talksonlaw ____________________ Can Countries Build Military Bases on Moon? 00:00 Can countries set up military bases in space? 00:20 Outer Space Treaty Requirement 00:54 Military personal permitted but military bases are not permitted 01:08 Can countries create military space stations? 01:33 Restrictions on Nuclear Weapons in Outer Space 01:55 Can nations establish police forces on the moon? 03:12 A Country Policing Disputes among Its Nationals 04:17 Bilateral Treaties to Resolve Disputes