Outer Space as a Global Commons: An Empirical Study of Space Arrangements

The designation of outer space as a global commons is contentious issue. Some argue that officially recognizing it such could discourage private investment, while others claim would not sufficiently promote sustainability. To address these debates, this article examines how actors use framework in their institutional arrangements. Based on collection 1042 arrangements, we characterize subset arrangements explicitly reference concepts related to the notion commons. We observe seldom used bilateral and mostly absent from recent agreements made by influential players. Furthermore, find employing principles does result significantly different operational rules. As result, conclude clearly defined perspective has yet be articulated institutionalized.