Examining International Space Law from the Perspective of the Concept of “Sovereignty”

International space law, as the newest branch of international law, presents new concepts related to sovereignty in view of the difference between the space domain and the air and land. Since the beginning of human activity in outer space, the principle of freedom of exploration and use of outer space, along with the principle of preventing the appropriation of celestial bodies, has dominated the space activities of states. But in the absence of the possibility of exercising sovereignty in their traditional sense in outer space, how can states monitor the activities of their subjects in outer space and exercise jurisdiction over their property, facilities, and equipment in outer space? On the other hand, how can the relationship between sovereignty and ownership be explained in space law? The answers to these questions are the subject of the following article.