Financing for Commercial Space - Asset-Backed Financing, International Space Law, and the UNIDROIT Draft Protocol on Space Assets

Abstract

This thesis, submitted in furtherance of an LL.M in Advanced Studies in Air and Space Law at the University of Leiden's International Institute of Air and Space Law examines the new political and technological climate of commercial space; the different types of financing available for space projects; various national and international rules that govern these projects — including the UNIDROIT draft Protocol on Space Assets; and the peculiar situation regarding the draft Protocol (why it might not be successfully adopted and widely ratified, along with why it should be). Finally, some guidelines for legal counsel assisting commercial space firms seeking financing for their space projects.

Keywords: UNIDROIT, Space Assets, Asset-Backed Financing, Private International law