Become aSpace law and policy analyst

Becoming a Space Law and Policy Analyst allows you to combine your love for space with your interest in law and policy-making. You’ll play an important role in ensuring that space exploration is safe, fair, and sustainable. Plus, you’ll be part of an exciting and rapidly growing field with endless possibilities for innovation and discovery.

• Influence international space policies and treaties.
• Ensure fair and peaceful use of outer space.
• Protect Earth’s environment from space activities.
• Advise on space law for new technologies.

A Space Law and Policy Analyst researches and develops the legal and policy frameworks that govern space activities. This includes drafting regulations, negotiating international treaties, and advising on legal issues related to space missions. You’ll work with a variety of stakeholders, including government agencies, international organisations, and private companies, to ensure that space is used responsibly and peacefully.

A Space Law and Policy Analyst can work in a variety of industries, each offering unique challenges and opportunities.

Government

Advising on national space policies and regulations.

International Organisations

Working on treaties and international agreements related to space.

Commercial Space Companies

Ensuring that private space ventures comply with laws and regulations.

Research Institutes

Studying the implications of new space technologies and policies.

Not For Profit Organisations

Advocating for responsible and sustainable use of space.

To become a successful Space Law and Policy Analyst, you’ll need a mix of legal, analytical, and communication skills.

• Legal Knowledge
• Analytical Thinking
• Research
• Communication
• Negotiation

Certain STEM subjects in school can help you prepare for a career as a Space Law and Policy Analyst.

Law

Essential for understanding legal principles and frameworks.

Political Science

Helps you grasp the intricacies of policy and international relations.

Physics

Provides a foundation in the science behind space exploration.

History

Offers insights into the development of space law and treaties.

Geography

Useful for understanding the spatial aspects of space missions and satellite deployment.

As a Space Law and Policy Analyst, you’ll get to work on some of the most exciting and groundbreaking projects in the world. You might help draft international treaties that govern the peaceful use of the Moon or Mars, work with space agencies like NASA and ESA, or advise companies on the legal aspects of launching satellites and exploring asteroids. You’ll be at the earliest stages of space exploration, ensuring that humanity’s ventures into space are conducted responsibly and ethically.

Draft International Agreements

Work on creating agreements between countries to govern space activities, from satellite use to mining on the Moon.

Advise Governments

Provide expert advice to government officials on national space policy, ensuring compliance with international laws.

Analyse Space Missions

Assess proposed space missions to ensure they adhere to international regulations and ethical guidelines.

Attend Global Conferences

Participate in international space law forums, such as the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space.

Collaborate with Engineers and Scientists

Work closely with space engineers and scientists to understand how new technologies impact existing legal frameworks.

Monitor Space Debris

Develop policies to tackle the growing issue of space debris, ensuring a safer space environment for all.

Meet some incredible women who are shaping the future of space law in Australia:

Dr. Cassandra Steer

A Senior Lecturer at the Australian National University (ANU) College of Law and a Mission Specialist at the ANU Institute for Space. Dr. Steer is a prominent voice in space security and international space law, advocating for responsible and peaceful space activities.

Dr. Stacey Henderson

A lecturer in Law at the University of Adelaide, Dr. Henderson specialises in international law, including the law of outer space, and has been involved in discussions on how international law applies to new challenges in space.

Kylie Brown

Senior Legal Counsel at the Australian Space Agency, Kylie is responsible for developing national space laws that align with international treaties, helping to shape the future of Australia’s space endeavours.

Jessica West

As a space law researcher at Flinders University, Jessica focuses on the intersection of international relations, space security, and law, particularly concerning space debris and sustainable use of outer space.

Certain personality traits can help you thrive as a Space Law and Policy Analyst.

Curious

To explore new ideas and understand complex legal issues.

Open-Minded

To consider different perspectives and innovative solutions.

Confident

To negotiate and advocate for policies and regulations.

Detail-Oriented

To ensure accuracy in legal documents and research.

Persistent

To tackle challenging problems and navigate bureaucratic processes.

By cultivating these traits, you’ll be well-prepared for a rewarding career as a Space Law and Policy Analyst. If you’re passionate about space and eager to make a difference in the future of space exploration, this could be the perfect career path for you!

Here are some university degrees that can set you on the path to becoming a Space Law and Policy Analyst:

• Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
• Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Space Studies
• Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Political Science
• Master of Laws (LLM) in Space Law
• Master of Public Policy (MPP) with a focus on Space Policy

Some further information on University degrees:

Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or Juris Doctor (JD)

A degree in law, such as the LLB offered at The University of Western Australia (UWA), provides a foundation in legal principles, international law, and policy-making, essential for a career in space law.

Bachelor of International Relations

Degrees like the Bachelor of International Relations at Curtin University equip students with the knowledge to navigate global politics and treaties, including those related to space.

Master’s in Space Law or International Law

Advanced degrees, such as a Master’s in International Law offered at The University of Melbourne, can provide specialised knowledge in space law, treaties, and policies governing outer space activities.

Studying to become a Space Law and Policy Analyst doesn’t mean you have to stick to one field. Many students find it beneficial to combine different areas of study to broaden their knowledge and skills.

Combining law with space studies can provide a comprehensive understanding of both the legal and scientific aspects of space exploration. This interdisciplinary approach will help you navigate the complex legal landscape of space activities while understanding the technical details.

Another exciting option is to pair political science with public policy. This combination will equip you with the skills to analyse and develop policies that govern space activities, considering both national and international perspectives. You’ll be well-prepared to work with governments and international organisations to shape the future of space law.

You can also consider combining law with international relations. This combination will provide a strong foundation in the legal principles and diplomatic skills needed to negotiate international treaties and agreements. You’ll be able to work on global initiatives that promote the peaceful use of outer space.

During your studies to become a Space Law and Policy Analyst, you’ll learn a wide range of skills and knowledge that will prepare you for the challenges of the job. Here are some key areas you’ll explore:

Space Law

Learn about the legal frameworks that govern space activities, including international treaties and national regulations.

Policy Analysis

Develop the skills to analyse and create policies that address space-related issues.

International Relations

Understand the diplomatic aspects of space law and policy, including negotiation and treaty-making.

Ethics and Sustainability

Study the ethical considerations and sustainable practices needed for responsible space exploration.

Technical Knowledge

Gain a basic understanding of space science and technology to better comprehend the practical aspects of space activities.

Gaining practical work experience is crucial in your journey to becoming a Space Law and Policy Analyst. Here’s how you can get started:

Internships

Many organisations offer internships to students, providing hands-on experience in space law and policy. Gaining experience at organisations like the Australian Space Agency or legal firms specialising in space law offers practical insights into the field.

Part-Time Jobs

Working part-time in a related field can help you build your skills and gain valuable industry insights. Consider positions with law firms, policy think tanks, or research institutions.

Volunteering

Volunteering for space-related projects or organisations can also give you practical experience and help you build a professional network. Look for opportunities with non-profit organisations that focus on space policy and advocacy.

Project-Based Learning

Engaging in school or community projects that involve space law and policy can be a great way to apply what you’ve learned in class to real-world situations. Consider participating in moot court competitions, policy debates, or research projects. Check out UNOOSA – the United National Office for Outer Space Affairs – they provide exposure to global policy discussions and the opportunity to influence international space law.

Not everyone takes the traditional university route, and that’s perfectly fine! Here are two main alternative pathways to becoming a Space Law and Policy Analyst:

Micro Learning

This involves taking short, focused courses online or in-person to build specific skills. Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and edX offer a variety of courses in space law, policy, and related fields. You can learn at your own pace and tailor your education to your interests and career goals.

On-the-Job Experience

Many people learn the ropes through apprenticeships or entry-level positions in law firms, policy think tanks, or space organisations. This hands-on approach allows you to gain practical experience while working under the guidance of experienced professionals. Over time, you can move up the ranks and take on more responsibilities.

Certifications in Space Studies or International Law

Short courses in space law, like those offered by Australian National University (ANU) College of Law, provide specific expertise and a deeper understanding of space policy and regulations.

Career Opportunities in Western Australia

Western Australia is becoming a hub for space activities, with initiatives like the Australian Space Agency’s presence in Perth. As a Space Law and Policy Analyst, you could work with local government agencies to develop space policies, or join research institutions like the International Space Centre at the University of Western Australia. There are also opportunities with commercial space companies focusing on satellite technology and space exploration.

Career Opportunities in Australia

Across Australia, there are numerous opportunities in various industries. You could work with national government agencies, such as the Australian Space Agency, to help shape the country’s space policies. Universities and research institutions offer roles in space law research and teaching. Additionally, there are opportunities with commercial space ventures and international organisations that operate in Australia.

Career Opportunities Worldwide

The skills of a Space Law and Policy Analyst are in demand all over the world. In the United States, you might work with NASA or private space companies like SpaceX. Europe offers opportunities with the European Space Agency (ESA) and other space-related organisations. In Asia, countries like China, Japan, and India have growing space programs that require expertise in space law and policy. You could also work with international organisations like the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) to develop global space policies and treaties.

By choosing a career as a Space Law and Policy Analyst, you’re opening the door to a world of exciting and diverse opportunities. Whether you decide to stay in Australia or explore options abroad, the possibilities are endless!