The skies above us—and the space beyond them—are getting crowded.
What was once the domain of governments is now a dynamic, rapidly evolving ecosystem of commercial actors, emerging technologies, and increasingly complex legal questions. From satellite constellations to unmanned aircraft systems, the pace of change is accelerating. The law is working hard to keep up.
Air & Space Law Commons was created to help make sense of that moment.
This platform brings together two complementary bodies of work:
- The Journal of Space Law, one of the longest-standing publications dedicated to the legal frameworks governing outer space; and
- The Journal of Drone Law & Policy, focused on the fast-moving regulatory, operational, and ethical issues surrounding unmanned systems.
Together, they reflect a simple reality: air and space are no longer separate domains—they are part of a continuous operational and legal environment.
What You’ll Find Here
This site is designed as both a repository and a conversation.
Insights
Short-form analysis and commentary on current developments in drone law, space governance, and related policy issues. This is where we engage with what’s happening now—regulatory shifts, emerging risks, and practical challenges.
Journal of Drone Law & Policy
Peer-reviewed scholarship examining the legal and policy frameworks shaping unmanned systems. Articles explore issues such as privacy, public safety, national security, and regulatory design.
(Coming Soon) Space Law Content
Expanded access to scholarship and commentary connected to the Journal of Space Law, including issues of governance, heritage protection, and the future of activity on the Moon and beyond.
Why This Matters
The legal questions arising in air and space are no longer theoretical.
They affect:
- how we respond to disasters
- how we protect privacy and civil liberties
- how we manage shared environments
- and how we govern activity beyond Earth
At the same time, these domains are increasingly interconnected. Decisions made in one sphere—air or space—have implications for the other.
Our Approach
We believe that effective governance requires:
- clarity in legal frameworks
- accessibility of information
- and engagement across disciplines and sectors
This platform is intended to support all three.
It is a place for:
- students developing expertise
- practitioners navigating complex regulatory environments
- policymakers confronting new challenges
- and anyone interested in how law shapes activity above and beyond the Earth
Join the Conversation
Whether you are here to explore scholarship, stay current on developments, or contribute to the discussion, we’re glad you’re here.
The future of air and space law is being written now.
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