Skip to main content

Who Owns Outer Space? [Video]

With the exception of international waters, unclaimed portions of Antarctica and a Hong Kong-sized parcel of land wedged between Egypt and Sudan, nearly every square inch of planet Earth has been claimed by a governing body.

This article was published in Scientific American’s former blog network and reflects the views of the author, not necessarily those of Scientific American


With the exception of international waters, unclaimed portions of Antarctica and a Hong Kong-sized parcel of land wedged between Egypt and Sudan, nearly every square inch of planet Earth has been claimed by a governing body. That leaves would-be colonists and conquerors with only one place to look: skyward.

Although a 1967 United Nations treaty states that "outer space is not subject to national appropriation by claim of sovereignty, by means of use or occupation, or by any other means" this hasn't stopped at least one bold entrepreneur from selling plots of land on our closest celestial neighbors. Scientific American editor Clara Moskowitz has the story in our latest Instant Egghead video.


On supporting science journalism

If you're enjoying this article, consider supporting our award-winning journalism by subscribing. By purchasing a subscription you are helping to ensure the future of impactful stories about the discoveries and ideas shaping our world today.


More to Explore:

Treaty on Principles Governing the Activities of States

in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space, including

the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies (United Nations)

Dennis M. Hope Has Owned the Moon Since 1980 Because He Says So (VICE)

Credits:

Written & presented by Clara Moskowitz

Edited by Joss Fong

Produced by Eric R. Olson

 

About Eric R. Olson

Eric is multimedia journalist and producer who specializes in science and natural history. His work has appeared on the websites of Scientific American, Nature, Nature Medicine, Popular Science, Slate and The New York Times among many others. He is a former video producer & editor for Scientific American.

More by Eric R. Olson