The Outer Space Treaty (1967) makes it clear no nation can claim to "own" the Moon (or any celestial body). However, it is less clear whether a company extracting resources from the Moon violates this non-appropriation clause. Two later agreements take up this issue.
The article from NDTV discusses the potential for mining on the Moon, highlighting both the opportunities and ethical considerations involved. It mentions that with advancements in space technology, companies like NASA and private entities are eyeing lunar resources such as water ice, helium-3, and rare earth metals, which could be used for life support, fuel, and advanced technology on Earth. The article raises questions about the environmental impact of mining on the Moon, the legal framework governing space resources, and whether humanity should exploit another celestial body. It points out the Outer Space Treaty, which states that the Moon and other celestial bodies are not subject to national appropriation, but does not explicitly address resource extraction. The piece also touches on the debate over whether lunar mining could lead to a new space race or cooperative international efforts, and the need for a sustainable approach to ensure the Moon's preservation for future generations.
Politics & Government 
