Preserving cosmic heritage : the cultural significance of astronomy and the imperative for dark and quiet skies protection in outer space

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McDonald, Darcey; Sadowski, Mirosław M. and Bonaviri, Gianluigi Mastandrea and Ceccotti, Filippo, eds. (2025) Preserving cosmic heritage : the cultural significance of astronomy and the imperative for dark and quiet skies protection in outer space. In: Heritage in War and Peace IV. University of Strathclyde Publishing, Glasgow. ISBN 9781914241802 (https://doi.org/10.17868/strath.00093368)

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Abstract

There is growing concern over the protection of dark and quiet skies in outer space, particularly given the rapid increase in space objects in low Earth orbit (LEO). As the number of these objects increases, interference with ground-based astronomy becomes increasingly prevalent. This paper examines the impact of such interference on global culture, considering the status of astronomy as intangible cultural heritage alongside its role in scientific observation. It explores the risks that space activities pose to the future of astronomy and the broader implications for humanity. The discussion then turns to the legal mechanisms available to protect these forms of heritage, comparing hard law instruments from International Heritage Law and International Space Law. While these two fields approach the issue from distinct perspectives—cultural and scientific—they ultimately address the same underlying concern. Each field seeks to protect the intrinsic value of dark and quiet skies, specifically its role in astronomy. Heritage law acknowledges astronomy’s intangible cultural value but lacks effective enforcement. Conversely, space law—particularly the 1967 Outer Space Treaty—offers binding obligations but has not yet been applied and so its practical scope and available protection to astronomy remains uncertain. This paper argues that only by integrating both legal frameworks can dark and quiet skies receive the binding protection needed to ensure compliance from states and private actors. Until space law is tested in a judicial context, the extent of its protection remains uncertain. However, given astronomy’s dual status as science and cultural heritage, its recognition under international space law is essential for its long-term preservation.

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