Outer space and the non-appropriation principle

On October 4, 1957, the Soviets launched a space object, Sputnik I, which orbited the Earth over 1,400 times during the following three months. Thus began humankind's adventures in outer space. Article II of the Outer Space Treaty encompasses the so-called 'non-appropriation' principle, which is regarded as one of the most fundamental rules regulating the exploration and use of outer space. Outer space, including the moon and other celestial bodies, is not subject to national appropriation by claim of sovereignty, by means of use or occupation, or by any other means. In general terms, the fundamental international legal principles that regulate the exploration and use of outer space have served to allow for a significantly improved standard of living for humanity through the use of space technology. The law of outer space has developed as a discrete body of law within general public international law.