The Outer Space Exploration Under International Space Law: An Islamic Point of View

Abstract

—The success of the Soviet Union in launching the Sputnik I Satellite in 1957 marked the start of space exploration. The advancement of the outer space science and technology has made it possible and opened up considerable opportunities for states and certain parties to carry out activities in outer space. Hence, in its development, outer space activities will continue to increase. This has paved the way for the formation of space law. At present, exploration of outer space activities is dominated by developed countries which have the power of space technology. This article will discuss the exploration of outer space under international space law and some Islamic perspectives regarding outer space exploration which has been implicitly stated through several verses in the Qur'an. The results of this study would provide spirit especially for Muslims to be able to answer the challenges of Allah SWT to explore the outer space with the power of knowledge.