Sunset 2010: The Sunshine State, in Space

Timothy M. Ravich, University of Miami School of Law

Abstract

In light of the imminent retirement of the Space Shuttle fleet later this year, this article addresses the recent enactment of new laws in Florida and elsewhere, together with the emergence of a space tourism industry and burgeoning cadre of private aerospace entrepreneurs. The significance of this is that space law presents serious private commercial opportunities for all Americans. This article focuses on the particular role Florida has played in national human spaceflight missions and expresses sincere concern about the state’s current and future direction as spacefarers look to different jurisdictions and platforms to support the next phase of space exploration and exploitation.