Experts have marked their crucial work to clarify the military law governing military activities in outer space - research that could have a significant impact on how armed forces operate outside of Earth.
The Woomera Manual on the International Law of Military Space Activities and Operations addresses key issues such as whether states are allowed under international law to place nuclear weapons in full orbit around Earth and if jamming satellite communications violates the prohibition on the use of force.
The manual, which was launched in the UK this week, also examines if international humanitarian law applies to outer space, and if so, what rights and obligations do parties to armed conflicts have when they engage in space warfare.
The Woomera Manual, published by Oxford University Press in 2024, is the most comprehensive analysis to date of international law governing military activities in outer space. It is an international research project spearheaded by the Universities of Adelaide, Exeter, Nebraska - Lincoln, and New South Wales - Canberra.
Kubo Mačák, Professor of International Law in the Law School at Exeter, one of the manual's core experts, said: "This event marks a significant milestone in our collective efforts to clarify the legal frameworks governing military operations in outer space.
"The development of The Woomera Manual exemplifies the power of collaboration. Experts from around the globe convened to share insights, debate complex issues, and build consensus."
The University has been a staunch supporter of The Woomera Manual project since its inception, joining the consortium as a founding member in 2018. Exeter academics have played pivotal roles in the project, serving as core experts and members of the editorial and governance boards.
The launch, which took place at RUSI – Royal United Services Institute, included a panel discussion between Professor Mačák and experts and co-editors who have been involved in the manual: Professor Dale Stephens, from the University of Adelaide; Wing Commander Kieran Tinkler, from the Royal Air Force; Dr Heather Harrison Dinniss, from the Swedish Defence University; and Wen Zhou, from the International Committee of the Red Cross.
Professor Stephens said: "The great powers regularly accuse each other of putting military capabilities into space at a frightening pace, significantly increasing the risk of warfare in orbit.
