The ESA Convention Commentary comprises a one-volume, provision-by-provision commentary of this treaty and relevant subordinate (i.e. secondary) instruments, written by experts from inside and outside ESA in an inter-disciplinary manner. It illustrates the mechanism and functioning of ESA as an international intergovernmental organisation, being a facilitator of national programmes, an integrator of national programmes and the creator, coordinator and manager of European space activities. Moreover, the strong impact which the Convention has on the 23 ESA Member States' policies, research, economics, and most importantly, national laws, are examined. The interplay between the written articles and their daily application by the Member States are analysed in depth. 

The project is carried out by leading experts of ESA and the Cologne Institute of Air Law, Space Law and Cyber Law, with support by external experts as appropriate.

Each chapter is written by a team consisting of both ESA practiotioners and academicians, including external lawyers as well as experts from industry and national administrations to ensure highest quality and practical relevance of the provision-by-provision analysis.

Prof. Dr. Dr. h.c. Dr. h.c. Stephan Hobe is Director of the Institute for Air Law, Space Law and Cyber Law, University of Cologne

Dr. Marco Ferrazzani was ESA Legal Counsel and Head of the Legal Services and is now Director of Internal Services