As research and commerce move into orbit, familiar intellectual property rules become far less predictable. Using a multinational space-research hypothetical, this presentation examines who owns inventions created aboard commercial spacecraft and how spacecraft registration and mission architecture affect patent jurisdiction. It also explores the implications when AI-assisted discoveries qualify for protection, and why data, telemetry, software, and trade secrets may be more valuable than the patent itself. Attendees will receive practical guidance for drafting space-ready licenses, allocating ownership and improvement rights, documenting human inventorship, preserving orbital evidence, and preparing for enforcement beyond Earth.
