Us Code § 1484a - Articles returned from space not to be construed as importation

Full text of Us Code United States Code § 1484a — Articles returned from space not to be construed as importation, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 1484a. Articles returned from space not to be construed as importation

The return of articles from space shall not be considered an importation, and an entry of such articles shall not be required, if:

(1) such articles were previously launched into space from the customs territory of the United States aboard a spacecraft operated by, or under the control of, United States persons and owned—

(A) wholly by United States persons, or

(B) in substantial part by United States persons, or

(C) by the United States;


(2) such articles were maintained or utilized while in space solely on board such spacecraft or aboard another spacecraft which meets the requirements of paragraph (1)(A) through (C) of this section; and

(3) such articles were returned to the customs territory directly from space aboard such spacecraft or aboard another spacecraft which meets the requirements of paragraph (1)(A) through (C) of this section;


without regard to whether such articles have been advanced in value or improved in condition by any process of manufacture or other means while in space.

(June 17, 1930, ch. 497, title IV, §484a, as added Pub. L. 98–573, title II, §209(a), Oct. 30, 1984, 98 Stat. 2976.)


Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date

Section applicable with respect to articles launched into space from the customs territory of the United States on or after Jan. 1, 1985, see section 214(c)(4) of Pub. L. 98–573, set out as an Effective Date of 1984 Amendment note under section 1304 of this title.

About This Section

19 U.S.C. § 1484a is part of Title 19 of the United States Code. The United States Code is the official codification of federal statutes maintained by the Office of the Law Revision Counsel of the U.S. House of Representatives. Congress amends the Code through new public laws, which are eventually incorporated into the relevant title.

This section may be cited in legal writing as 19 U.S.C. § 1484a. For the most current official text, including any recent amendments, use the official source links below. Do not rely on this page as the sole authority for legal citation or litigation.

How to Read This Statute

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Using This Page

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Sources

Source: official Us Code text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Us Code § 1484a

What does United States Code § 1484a cover?

Section 1484a ("Articles returned from space not to be construed as importation") is part of the United States Code, the codified statutory law of Us Code. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Us Code § 1484a?

A common citation format is "United States Code § 1484a" (Us Code). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Us Code law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Us Code official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Us Code attorney.

How does Us Code § 1484a apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Us Code can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Us Code.