Study for the Space MIAD Test. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready to ace your exam!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.


Which responsibility is outlined for states in the 1967 Outer Space Treaty?

  1. States can operate independently without oversight

  2. States bear international responsibility for activities by government and non-government entities

  3. States must report all activities to the UN

  4. States should limit space exploration to research purposes only

The correct answer is: States bear international responsibility for activities by government and non-government entities

The correct answer highlights a fundamental principle established by the 1967 Outer Space Treaty, which states that nations have international responsibility for activities conducted in outer space, encompassing actions taken by both government and non-government entities. This means that if a private company, for instance, conducts operations in space, the state under which it operates is accountable for those actions. This approach is intended to ensure that all activities in outer space are conducted in accordance with international law, preventing irresponsible practices and promoting the peaceful use of outer space. Understanding this principle is essential, as it emphasizes the collaborative nature of space exploration and the necessity for states to maintain oversight over all entities operating in outer space. The accountability laid out in the treaty is crucial for fostering a cooperative environment and addressing any potential issues that might arise, such as environmental concerns or safety failures. In contrast, the other provided options do not accurately reflect the treaty's stipulations. The notion that states can operate independently without oversight ignores the accountability expected under the treaty. Reporting all activities to the UN is not explicitly required, rather, states must ensure that their activities comply with international law and communicate as necessary. Additionally, the treaty does not restrict space exploration solely to research purposes; it allows for a broader scope of activities, provided