Space Law Project

The Federal Council proposes a federal act on space operations. The main objective is to regulate the operation of satellites and to implement the United Nations outer space treaties, which Switzerland has ratified.
The space sector contributes significantly to the functioning of our economy and society. It includes high-added-value activities for the benefit of present and future generations. Over 40 states now have national legislation in place to implement the UN outer space treaties. The Federal Council considers that the technical aspects of space activities, in particular the operation, command and control of satellites, should also be regulated in Switzerland. The proposed legislation introduces a licence requirement and the supervision of space operations, contains rules on liability and establishes a national register for space objects. In line with the 2023 Space Policy, the Federal Council thereby intends to improve legal certainty for all parties involved as well as to enhance Switzerland's attractiveness as a business location for this globally fast-growing sector.