The commercial concept of space tourism raises important legal issues not specifically addressed by first generation rules of international space
law. The principles established in the nineteen sixties and seventies were inspired by the philosophy that exploration of space was undertaken by and for the benefit of mankind. Technical developments since then have
increased the potential for new space applications, with a corresponding increase in commercial interest in space. If space tourism is to develop, legal and regulatory mechanisms should take into account changes in perception about space travel and its control.
This paper briefly traces the generational transition from manned flights with astronauts to new cooperative space projects which could become a realistic platform for space tourism. It demonstrates where regulation is necessary and highlights current international structures in the moves toward furthering space tourism as a viable, regulated, even if exclusive, market.