This work has two themes: how does an entrepreneur orbit a spacecraft legally; and once in orbit, what legal risks need to be managed? The book explains the practical hurdles entrepreneurs must leap: how to wage and win the administrative battle to capture scarce satellite orbits and frequencies; how to protect against launch and transponder failures and the illegal export of satellite technology; and how to meet competitive challenges satellite owners already operating may hurl at the entrepreneur. The book also discusses operating concerns: when will foreign State consent for satellite communications and broadcasts be required; how will remote sensing satellite data be protected; may satellites be used for newsgathering or for military purposes? "Launching and Operating Satellites" should interest the deal makers, deal breakers, agencies mediating their disputes, and lawyers, legislators, and judges who must act when mediation fails.