COSMIC COUNSEL
Who Makes the Rules in Space? The phrase “space lawyer” may conjure images of an intergalactic courtroom setting in a “Star Trek” film, but the term and profession are rooted in reality here on Earth.
hook to cover the majority of the cost of Operation Morning Light, an extensive cleanup operation by the U.S. and Canada to remove nearly 50,000 square miles of hazardous material dropped from space. Thanks to space lawyers, no nation can claim ownership of Earth (or any other planet), the moon, or any other entity discovered in the galaxy. However, recent debates have raised an intriguing question: Who would own the resources derived from the moon or another planet? If Russia were to one day discover a life-saving nutrient on the moon’s surface, would it have the right to claim exclusive ownership of this medical marvel? Would this discovery need to be shared with other nations involved in space-related treaties? While it may take years (or the invention of a good time-traveling warp drive) for us to resolve these questions, it’s clear we need space lawyers to tackle these and other questions in a legal frontier that no Earth-bound lawyer has pondered before!
Simply put, space lawyers are legal professionals specializing in international law and drafting agreements between countries regarding their activities throughout our galaxy. Instead of brokering peace treaties between humans and Klingons, these attorneys work to establish policies that outline rules and obligations nations must follow when conducting themselves beyond our clouds. For example, treaties negotiated by space lawyers were instrumental in getting the Soviet Union to spend millions to clean up radioactive debris deposited over northern Canada by its Cosmos 954 satellite in the late 1970s. Utilizing Article 7 of the Outer Space Treaty (via the 1972 Space Liability Convention), the Canadian government argued that the Soviet Union was on the
STAY UPRIGHT THIS WINTER WITH THESE SIMPLE SAFETY SECRETS
The sparkle of fresh snow may be beautiful, but it can also be slippery, unpredictable, and full of hidden hazards. For older adults, one icy patch can quickly turn a walk from scenic to scary. The key to enjoying the season safely is staying one step ahead of the ice with smart habits, the right gear, and a little planning. Why Winter Increases Fall Risks Snow and ice are the obvious culprits, but they’re not the only factors that make winter trickier to navigate. Shorter daylight hours can reduce visibility, making it more difficult to catch ice patches or a crack in the sidewalk in time. Meanwhile, cold temperatures often stiffen muscles and joints, which only makes it tougher to move quickly or react to slippery spots. Add in footwear with poor traction, and it’s easy to see why falls become more common this time of year. Step Up Your Footwear The right shoes make all the difference. Choose sturdy, rubber-soled shoes or boots
designed for winter conditions, as they offer better grip and reduce the risk of slipping. If you use a cane, consider adding an ice-grip attachment to improve traction. You can also find inexpensive shoe grips or traction cleats at most sporting goods stores that easily slip over your soles for added security. Make Walkways Safer Keep paths, driveways, and steps free of snow and ice. If shoveling isn’t safe or manageable, don’t hesitate to ask a neighbor or hire help. Sprinkling salt, sand, or even cat litter can create instant traction on slick spots. Inside, use absorbent mats to keep entryways dry and remove loose rugs that could cause slips. Plan for Safety Before heading out, check the weather forecast and plan your route carefully. Walk slowly, take smaller steps, and use handrails whenever possible. Nothing is worth rushing for if it risks your safety. Finally, always keep
your phone within easy reach and ensure a friend or family member checks in daily during icy conditions. A few small precautions can make a big difference. With the right habits, winter doesn’t have to mean worrying about falls. It can still be a season of confidence, comfort, and peace of mind.
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