|
Space Launch Services
We advise U.S. launch services providers on obtaining licenses and authorizations from the Federal Aviation Administration ("FAA") needed to perform launches in the U.S. or abroad. This involves ensuring that clients comply with the FAA's rules under the Commercial Space Launch Act ("CSLA"), most notably the requirements to demonstrate financial responsibility and comply with strict safety regulations at U.S. launch bases. We also represent clients before other federal agencies that have an interest in launch activities, including the National Aeronautics and Space Administration ("NASA") and the U.S. Air Force. Because of the inherently international nature of launching satellites, we also advise clients on rights and obligations set forth in international space law treaties to which the United States is a party. Consistent with our practice of offering space industry clients comprehensive services, we also assist with the drafting and negotiation of launch services agreements, launch insurance contracts (first party and third party liability) and legislative and policy issues affecting this complex and highly technical industry.
Examples of our experience:
- Assisting a major U.S. launch operator on all aspects of compliance with the CSLA and the FAA's launch safety rules.
- Advising a major U.S. launch operator on FAA rulemaking and policy activities affecting the launch services industry.
- Participating in the drafting and negotiation of launch services agreements involving nearly every launch provider in the world.
- Assisting launch operators and satellite owners on the drafting and negotiation of satellite launch and initial in-orbit operations insurance policies, complying with requirements to maintain such insurance and processing claims.
- Participating in the U.S. Commercial Space Transportation Advisory Committee's Risk Management Working Group and helping the Group respond to FAA requests for reports on liability and risk-sharing issues.
- Preparing testimony for witnesses appearing before Congressional committees on issues affecting the space launch industry.
- Advising private parties and governmental organizations on rights and obligations under international space law treaties, including the Outer Space Treaty, the Liability Convention and the Registration Convention.
|
 |
|
