Maritime law as an imperfect basis for space law

Should maritime law provide the historical basis for law in outer space?

The argument treats maritime law as an imperfect starting point and a newly agreed international treaty as the alternative.

The proposed analogy begins with activities beyond ordinary national territory. Maritime law is suggested as a starting point for future space rules, while its suitability is judged poorly. The Martian supplies a fictional illustration of the argument. A newly codified international treaty is offered as the alternative, provided states can agree to it. The forecast favours adaptation of maritime principles because securing that agreement would be difficult.