Launch services agreement checklist

1Licences and registration

1. Which licences does each side obtain: the launch licence by the provider, the payload's licences by the customer?

   A missing payload licence is a customer delay, with rebooking fees. Lenders should make licence milestones conditions to drawdown.

   SEC EDGAR: SpaceX launch services agreement with AST & Science, filed 2021 (Exhibit 10.1)

   Key term: Licence to launch and operate

2. Will the payload need an FAA payload review, and is it already covered by another agency's licence?

   The FAA checks that the payload has every licence it needs and does not threaten safety, national security or international obligations.

   eCFR: 14 CFR 450.43 (payload review and determination)

3. Who registers the satellite under the Registration Convention?

   The customer registers the payload through its state of registry, which links to that state's liability and licensing rules.

   SEC EDGAR: SpaceX launch services agreement with AST & Science, filed 2021 (Exhibit 10.1)

4. For a UK launch, do both the launch operator and the spaceport hold licences under the Space Industry Act 2018?

   Spaceflight activities in the UK need a licence, and the licence terms set the operator's liability limit.

   legislation.gov.uk: Space Industry Act 2018, section 3 (prohibition of unlicensed spaceflight)