Space Law and Policy: A Transdisciplinary Approach to International Cooperation and Competition
Semester: Spring 2026
Course ID: 296W
Credit Hours: 2
Unique: 29925
Course Information
Grading Method:
Pass/Fail Allowed (JD only)
Short course:
Jan 12 - Mar 28, 2026
Cross-listed with other school
Will use floating mean GPA if applicable
Registration Information
Upperclass-only elective
Meeting Times
Day
Time
FRI, SAT
9:30 am - 4:45 pm
Evaluation Method
Type
Date
Time
Location
Early exam
Description
This course will only meet in person on February 20-21 and March 6-7. There will be preliminary reading assignments from the start of the semester.
Come explore emerging space-related issues currently under discussion internationally and domestically! The course will blend lecture, discussion, and group work in a seminar-like format. We will examine the following topics:
Module 1: Lecture, Introduction to the course and the basics of space law
Norms Development: Bottom up, top down, and points in the middle
Bilaterals, Multilaterals, and the role of consensus
Module 2: Discussion of readings and lectures
Module 3: Application to Emerging Issues
teams to pick from a list of topics and prepare a mixed media presentation.
Possible topics:
The Yin & Yang of Space: Peaceful Purposes and National Security issues
Can we get there from here? Orbital Debris, Space Situational Awareness, and Space Traffic Management
Micro -> Macro: very small sats and very large constellations
In Situ Resource Utilization
Students will be graded on group presentations and an exam in Canvas.
Howard, Diane