The pace of change in the space economy is as fast ever. That puts a vital impetus how to sustain space activities that deliver the security and economic benefits we have enjoyed over the first six decades. Today, we must consider a new Administration in the US, shifting US relationships around the world, EU initiatives and new programs, growing dual-use aspects in space that include Golden Dome and increased demands on allies, and great continuing expectations for the space economy.

 

So, what will be the best model for collaboration? How shall allies prepare themselves to optimize their effectiveness? What is the role of Mission Operators (private, defence, and civil)?

 

In this context, new norms and practices are emerging and will continue to evolve with the changing landscape. This will impact procedures, communications between operators, and standards of best practice, to name a few. All of this has everything to do with sustainability. As governments are determining how to integrate commercial capabilities into their space security architecture to develop hybrid systems in the pursuit of resilience and rapid innovation to keep pace efficiently with evolving technology. How is this tendency emerging and influencing procurement policies or mission priorities? Our panellists will explore this topic while considering the expanding dual-use role of commercial services from both the military and civil perspectives.

 

What impact will dual-use have on space operations? Will transparency be affected? 

Why is sustainability important to the military?

 

European developments will play a major role in this new paradigm. The EU SST initiative has taken a leadership role with a multi-national initiative to tackle the challenges of sustainability by leveraging commercial systems and services within Europe. Our panel will discuss some of the latest updates from Europe in light of current challenges, and growing expectations for Europe to take a more even greater role in pursuit of sustainable space.

 

Other key points that will be addressed include: 

• Where’s the international community on this? UN COPUOS and ITU? 

• What’s the reaction to China’s recent signal to offer a new concept for global STM? 

• How will the new EU space act affect our ability to collaborate in this area? and 

• What’s the role of industry and the community at-large in all of this?

 

Most importantly, these matters affect us all so, we look forward to healthy engagement from our international audience of space experts and mission operators. We invite you all to please come prepared to participate in this timely discussion.