Who Owns the Moon? Unpacking the Lunar Ownership Question

The question of who owns the Moon remains a complex and intriguing debate in the 21st century. While international treaties like the Outer Space Treaty of 1967 explicitly forbid nations from claiming sovereignty over celestial bodies, the legal landscape surrounding individual claims and commercial activities on the moon is far less clear. This ambiguity has fueled both entrepreneurial ventures and serious discussions about the future of space law.

The Outer Space Treaty: A Foundation for Space Law

In 1967, the Outer Space Treaty was signed by 111 countries, establishing a framework for governing activities in space [[2]]. A core tenet of this treaty is that “outer space is not subject to national appropriation by claim of sovereignty, through use or occupation, or by any other means.” This effectively prevents any contry from declaring ownership of the Moon, Mars, or any other celestial body.

Michelle Hanlon, an Air and Space law Instructor, emphasized that the treaty ensures space is for everyone, granting freedom of exploration and access to all areas. She stated, “The most crucial precept of the Outer Space Treaty is that space is for everyone, and everyone shall have freedom of exploration and access to all areas. The other really important precept is that no state may claim territory in space.”

Did You Know? The Outer Space Treaty also addresses obligation for space junk and other potential hazards in outer space.

Dennis hope and the Lunar embassy

Despite the Outer Space Treaty, Dennis Hope, an entrepreneur, has been selling plots of land on the Moon since the early 1980s.Hope claims that the treaty only prohibits nations from owning celestial bodies, not individuals. He filed a claim for the entire lunar surface at his local US Governmental Office and, receiving no response from the United Nations or the Soviet government, interpreted this as tacit permission to proceed with his venture.

Hope’s company, Lunar Embassy, offers pieces of land on various celestial bodies, including Mercury, Venus, and even Pluto. As of 2019, he estimated to have earned at least $12 million from selling lunar real estate. While his claims are controversial and not legally recognized, he has garnered a important following of customers, including, according to hope, even former US presidents.

Pro Tip: before investing in lunar real estate, consult with a legal expert specializing in space law to understand the risks and limitations involved.

The Future of Lunar Ownership and Commercialization

As space exploration and commercialization efforts intensify, the question of lunar ownership becomes increasingly relevant. The development of lunar research stations, potential hotels, and resource extraction activities raises complex legal and ethical considerations. The 1979 Moon Treaty, while not widely adopted, attempts to address these issues by establishing legal principles for governing state behavior in the use and development of outer space [[3]].

The Science Times reports that the new space competition could bring Earthly conflicts to the lunar surface in an era of resurgent tensions [[1]].

Tanja Masson-Zwaan,president of the International Institute of Space Law,asserts that purchasing a piece of paper from Lunar Embassy does not grant any actual ownership rights to the Moon. However, the increasing interest in lunar resources and development necessitates a clear and enforceable legal framework to prevent conflicts and ensure lasting practices.

Key Considerations in the Lunar Ownership Debate

What regulations should govern the establishment