16. 1975 Convention of Registration of Objects Launched into Outer Space requires in Article IV, that the Secretary-General of the United Rations be provided with information concerning space launches, including the general function of the space object. It is not thought that to date any state has registered a space launch for military purposes, despite the fact that it is believed that well over half of all space launches are primarily for military purposes. 17- There are two other agreements worth noting: (a) Rescue of Astronauts (which came into force in 1968), providing for assistance to astronauts in the event of accident, distress or emergency landing; their return and that of objects launched into space. About 100 States are parties to this treaty, including the United States and the USSR. (b) Damage caused by Space Objects (which came into force in 1972) providing for rules and procedures on liability for damage caused by space objects. About 55 States are parties, including the United States and the USSR.