THE ISSUE OF THE PEACEFUL USES OF SPACE

The article describes the main problems associated with the possibility of conflicts in space activities, in particular, the problems of applying the term «common property» to activities related to the use of natural resources in outer space and on celestial bodies, the problems of the occupancy and distribution of the Earth's geostationary orbit as well as the problems of space debris and its impact on further space activity. Furthermore, the article provides an analysis of additional factors that lead to the constant militarization of outer space, specifically, in terms of placing in space and Earth orbit such weapons as jamming devices, malicious software, kinetic anti-satellite weapons (including tests of the ASAT anti-satellite system) and laser weapons all of which can have devastating consequences. In particular, attention is drawn to the strengthening of the opposition of the Third World countries against the superpowers of the economic North, including the distribution of space resources and free access to the geostationary orbit. The world's existing theories and approaches to solving the problem of peaceful space are considered, and an analysis of these approaches is carried out based on historical cases. Taking into account the current competition among states in the struggle for dominance in outer space and on celestial bodies and the dangers that such competition brings, the study analyzes the factors that have influenced the deterioration of international cooperation in space in terms of the peaceful uses of space. Specifically, attention is drawn to the creation of military space forces by certain states with an emphasis on ensuring superiority in outer space. Moreover, the study examines the formation of international bodies and the creation of new legal documents that shall stop the arms race in outer space and establish international control over both national space activities and joint space activities of certain countries. The main focus is on international documents that have been adopted and that should be adopted by the General Assembly of the United Nations.