Dr. Heather

Allansdottir

Exploring the frontiers of space law and space policy. I specialise in the legal frameworks governing orbital rights, resource extraction, international treaties and space sustainability.

Birkbeck, University of London

Dr. Heather Allansdottir
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Space Law·Orbital Rights·International Treaties·Resource Extraction·Space Sustainability·Polar Law·Public International Law·Maritime Law·Space Law·Orbital Rights·International Treaties·Resource Extraction·Space Sustainability·Polar Law·Public International Law·Maritime Law·

Shaping the Legal
Frontiers of Space

Dr. Heather Allansdottir is a leading academic voice in space law, combining rigorous legal scholarship with a forward-looking perspective on humanity's expansion beyond Earth. Based at Birkbeck, University of London, she bridges the gap between established international legal frameworks and the unprecedented challenges of the space age.

Her research addresses the most pressing questions of our time: who owns the resources of the cosmos, how do we govern activities in orbit, and what legal frameworks will protect both Earth and the environments we venture into.

Orbital RightsResource ExtractionInternational TreatiesSpace SustainabilityPublic International LawComparative Constitutional LawMaritime LawHuman Rights LawEnvironmental LawPolar Law

3

Publications

2025–26

Active Research

London

Based At

Publications & Research

Academic works exploring developments in space law, public international law, comparative constitutional law, maritime law, human rights law, and environmental law.

2025

New Perspectives in Outer Space Law

co-authored with Naman Anand

Springer

A forward-looking study of the legal issues shaping the future of outer space. From commercial ventures to environmental concerns, this work reimagines how space is governed. It challenges traditional assumptions and offers innovative frameworks for responsible exploration beyond Earth.

Space LawCommercial SpaceEnvironmental Law
2025

Arctic and Antarctica: Polar Law in Perspective

co-authored with Anis Bajrektarevic

Nova

A bold exploration of the unique legal challenges facing the Arctic and Antarctic regions. From climate change to territorial disputes, this work dives deep into how international law is adapting to the polar frontiers. It offers innovative solutions for safeguarding these critical areas as global attention turns to the poles.

Polar LawInternational LawClimate
2026

The Case for Space

Icelandic Press

Space isn't just the final frontier — it's the future of innovation. This book makes the case for why the vast expanse beyond Earth holds incredible potential, from mining asteroids to powering our planet with solar energy. It's an exciting look at how space could shape everything from our economy to our everyday lives.

Space PolicyResource ExtractionFuture Studies

Expert Guidance in Space Law

Providing expert guidance in space law, policy development, and professional mentorship for small nation states, organisations and individuals in the space sector.

Individual Mentorship

Personalised guidance for aspiring space writers, journalists, and policy professionals navigating the intersection of law and the cosmos.

Professional Development

Technical writing workshops and career development programmes in space communications, policy drafting, and legal analysis.

Expert Consultancy

Specialised guidance in space law and policy development for small nation states, private organisations, and emerging space programmes.

Get in Touch

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