On 25 June 2025, the European Commission published a proposal for the EU Space Act, a comprehensive Regulation designed to establish a harmonized framework for space activities across the EU. It seeks to harmonize licensing, bolster safety, improve cybersecurity and resilience, and promote environmental sustainability, all within a single market for the space sector. 

Together with the main proposal of the EU Space Act, the Commission has published several documents via a dedicated website on the EU Space Act to help better understand this draft act.

• A Vision for the European Space Economy
• A fact sheet (one-pager) summarizing the proposed EU Space Act
• Annexes to the proposed EU Space Act
• An impact assessment report (part 1 and part 2) with an executive summary

In addition, the Remarks by Commissioner Kubilius on the proposed EU Space Act are worth reading to understand the rationale and motive behind the draft act.

Core Objectives

1 | Establishing a Single Market for Space Services in the EU

One core objective of the proposed EU Space Act is to support the development and functioning of the internal market for the space sector. Specifically, it aims to establish a legal framework in the EU, enhance safety by ensuring trackability and reducing space debris, create a tailored cybersecurity risk assessment framework, and introduce a common method for calculating the environmental impact of space activities. This has been seen as a strategic key goal for the EU. The legal basis for this proposal is Article 114 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU), focusing on the establishment and functioning of the internal market, known as the single market in the EU.

2 | Introducing a one-stop Authorization Regime

The proposed EU Space Act mandates a one‑stop, mutualized licensing system: A single authorization issued by one member state would be valid across all member states.
Licenses would be tiered by activity risk, allowing for proportional requirements, light regimes for constellations and heavier oversight for high-risk missions.
Non‑EU operators servicing the EU market (including UK entities post‑Brexit and US-based companies) would also require approval, ensuring consistent treatment across the EU.

3 | Safety: Debris Mitigation and Space Traffic Management

Safety was one of the three pillars that the Commission had announced to include in the proposal for the EU Space Act.

Under the proposed EU Space Act, there is a clear objective to prevent cascading collisions and maintain long‑term orbital safety.

The draft EU Space Act proposes a unified Union Register of Space Objects (URSO) to be established under the EU Agency for the Space Programme (EUSPA) to catalogue all launches and operations. That seems to be a novel, but convincing element, and would expand the role of the EUSPA.

In terms of safety measures, operators would need to submit collision‑avoidance plans, active tracking data, and a defined end‑of‑life disposal strategy, including the option for in‑orbit servicing and debris removal measures.

4 | Resilience: Sector-specific framework for Cybersecurity and Resilience in Space

Cybersecurity and resilience of space systems was another pillar that was expected to be in the EU Space Act and reflected in one way or the other.

Space operators must perform and improve continuous risk assessments covering cyber threats and attack vectors, implement an information security management system, access control, cryptography, backup management, and incident response plans, among others.

The EU Space Act as proposed by the Commission follows a sector-driven approach and declares space as a separate sector which would be carved out from the existing framework on cybersecurity (NIS 2 Directive) and complement the existing framework on the resilience of critical entities (CER Directive).

The sunny side of the EU Space Act replacing the NIS 2 Directive insofar as risk management is concerned would be that the EU Space Act would directly und uniformly apply across all EU member states, without the need for any transposition or local implementation by the EU member states, thereby removing any chances of local deviations from a common standard. Space operators could rely on one single framework for cybersecurity in space. The challenge, however, is the compliance with the legal requirements laid down in the draft EU Space Act and the need to agree on more detailed requirements that have been proven practical and reasonable and enjoy a wide acceptance in the space industry. It remains to be seen whether the Commission will propose implementing acts to further detail the technical and operational requirements on resilience and cybersecurity.

The draft act also proposes the Union Space Resilience Network (EUSRN) to facilitate the cooperation between the Commission, EUSPA, and the national competent authorities regarding the monitoring and handling of significant cyber incidents and alignment of resilience measures with other Union cybersecurity frameworks.

Further obligations include incident reporting and management. Mandatory on‑site audits and inspections may be conducted by EUSPA or Commission teams.

Non‑compliance could incur fines up to 2% of global annual turnover, similar to other EU frameworks.

5 | Sustainability: Environmental Requirements

Sustainability was the third pillar expected to be included in the draft EU Space Act. At first glance, the rules aiming at sustainability in space, including environmental requirements, seem less strict and less enforceable compared to rules on safety and resilience/cybersecurity.

Operators would need to apply a Life‑Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology from design to decommissioning, reporting environmental impacts in a harmonized format.

Data would feed a declared EU‑wide database to standardize environmental reporting on elements such as CO₂, debris and resource use.

While there does not seem to be a strict enforcement mechanism, space operators without a certificate on their environmental footprint would likely not be able to successfully apply for an authorization under the EU Space Act.

The proposed EU Space Act also incentivizes innovation in green space technologies including in‑orbit servicing, propulsion, and debris-cleaning methods.

6 | Expanding the Role of EUSPA

The EU Agency for the Space Programme (EUSPA) would take on expanded responsibilities: managing the Union Register of Space Objects (URSO), conducting technical assessments, issuing compliance certificates, and coordinating the Union Space Resilience Network (EUSRN).

7 | Enforcement Mechanisms

The Commission and EUSPA would be able to perform inspections and enforce compliance directly.
Regulatory penalties for infractions, especially in cyber or debris management, can reach up to 2% of annual global revenues. 

What the EU Space Act would mean for Space Operators

1 | EU Start‑ups and SMEs

On the one hand, start-ups and SMEs would benefit from a simplified multi‑state licensing framework that removes bureaucratic bottlenecks, thereby accelerating growth.

One the other hand, start‑ups would have to prepare for new compliance challenges, environmental reporting, and cybersecurity investments.

2 | Non‑EU Space Operators

Operators in the UK, US or elsewhere outside of the EU would have to adapt to substantive EU standards if servicing the EU market.

Space operators located in non-EU countries servicing the EU market would have to have a legal representative located within the EU. This concept is already known from Art. 27 GDPR and Art. 13 DSA, among other regulations.

Companies fully complying with the EU Space Act, integrating safety measures, improving resilience and cybersecurity, and decreasing their environmental footprint, may gain a competitive advantage over other companies that don't.

3| Strategic and Competitive Implications

The EU Space Act would improve space situational awareness (SSA) via the Union Register of Space Objects (URSO), and would benefit Copernicus, Galileo, and GOVSATCOM.

The draft act positions the EU as a global leader in space regulation, potentially becoming a gold standard that other jurisdictions adopt. It supports the EU’s strategic autonomy, enabling local companies to scale globally with consistent regulation.

The legal framework of the proposed EU Space Act, with steep penalties, signals a new era of compliance-driven innovation, aligning with global standards like GDPR and NIS 2. It contrasts, however, with frameworks that are predominantly based only voluntary compliance or best industry practices.

Timeline and Next Steps

The EU Space Act proposed by the Commission will be reviewed by the European Parliament and Council as required under the ordinary legislative procedure. Hence, the current draft act might see several changes.

Once adopted and entered into force, the EU Space Act would apply across all EU member states as of 1 January 2030. There is no need for national implementations by the EU member states. The Commission, however, may propose implementing acts on, e.g., common specifications for technical requirements, among others.

Final Remarks

The Commision's proposal for the EU Space Act is a cornerstone in creating a safer, greener, and more resilient space ecosystem. Set to apply from 2030, it balances innovation and regulation: streamlining operational access while raising the bar on cybersecurity, debris mitigation, and environmental accountability.

For space operators within the EU and global companies eyeing the European market, the message is clear: build with foresight - integrate sustainability, secure your systems, and prepare for a harmonized framework. Now is the time to audit processes, secure technical certifications, and engage with EUSPA and advisors to ensure compliance readiness when the draft is enacted as law and enters into force in 2030. While that future seems distant, and changes to the draft act possible, it is advisable to keep an eye on the legislative initiative and remain one step ahead. Watch this space for regular updates on the EU Space Act.

Credits: Photo "Sky on the night the draft EU Space Act was published" by SpaceTech.Lawyer. The photo shows M13, the Great Globular Cluster in Hercules.

The Aqualunar Challenge, a collaborative initiative between the UK Space Agency and the Canadian Space Agency, aims to develop innovative technologies for extracting and purifying water from the Moon's surface. It comprises two tracks, the UK track with a total of £1.2 million prize and the Canadian track with a total of $1M CAD that will be awarded in grant funding to UK and Canadian space tech companies respectively.

The joint initiative aims to find solutions to extract and purify water from ice on the lunar surface. This challenge is crucial for future lunar missions, including Artemis, as water is essential for sustaining human life, producing oxygen, and generating rocket fuel. The competition has attracted numerous innovative solutions from both countries, highlighting the importance of international collaboration in space exploration.

2 | Technical Challenges

A sustained human presence on the Moon will require frequent launches from the lunar surface, and each launch will, according to NASA, require tons of propellant. In 2023, NASA published a Technology Assessment for Producing Propellant from Lunar Water which shows different technologies to produce propellant from lunar water. However, many other volatiles are likely to be present in the areas where lunar water is stable. 

Extracting water from the Moon presents several technical challenges. The lunar soil known as regolith, which contains ice, is found in permanently shadowed regions with extreme cold temperatures. Traditional excavation methods are not feasible due to the harsh environment (approx. -200°C, low gravity., and a vacuum) and limited electric power. Innovative techniques such as microwave heating, solar concentrators, and cold trap methods are being explored to effectively extract and purify water from the lunar soil.

NASA outlines the importance of separating and purifying water before it can be used for electrolysis to produce oxygen and hydrogen gas. In addition, water for human consumption on the Moon must be 100% clean to sustain the life of astronauts and space travelers.

3 | UK Competition

The UK Space Agency's Aqualunar Challenge UK has seen remarkable innovations. The notable winner is the SonoChem System by Naicker Scientific, which uses microwaves to defrost lunar ice and ultrasound to break down contaminants, providing clean water for astronauts. The UK Space Agency has awarded ten technologies, each with unique approaches to purifying lunar water, showcasing the country's commitment to advancing space exploration. The finalists received seed funding and non-financial support to develop their ideas further. The winner, Naicker Scientific, was awarded the £150,000 first prize, with two runners up winning £100,000 (FRANK, the Filtered Regolith Aqua Neutralisation Kit developed by father and sons team RedSpace Ltd.) and £50,000 (AquaLunarPure, developed by Queen Mary University of London) respectively.

4 | Canada Competition

The Aqualunar Challenge Canada is managed by the Canadian Space Agency in partnership with Impact Canada. The competition called on Canadian innovators to develop solutions for purifying lunar water. Unlike the recently finished Acqualunar Challenge in the UK, the Canadian track is still ongoing, with the Canadian prize winner to be selected in spring 2026. The finalists include the Canadian Space Mining Corporation, Sixpenny Architectural Fabrication, 778 Labs, and Lotic Technologies Inc., each with very different technologies and approaches to purify water. The four finalists each received $105,000 CAD. The first prize winner will receive an additional $400,000 CAD. 

5 | Benefits on Earth

The technologies developed for the Aqualunar Challenge have significant potential benefits on Earth. Innovations in water purification can be applied to improve water treatment processes in remote and resource-limited areas, including in Africa, in remote areas on other continents, or in areas with fresh water sources. These advancements can help address global water scarcity and provide clean drinking water to communities in need. The challenge also drives innovation that can lead to new products and services benefiting humans on Earth.

6 | Legal Considerations

The extraction and utilization of lunar resources raise several legal issues. While existing international agreements provide a foundational framework, the specifics regarding resource ownership and commercial exploitation remain contentious.

The Outer Space Treaty of 1967 and the Moon Agreement of 1984 provide the fundamental legal framework for space exploration, emphasizing that the Moon and its resources are the common heritage of humankind. However, the lack of widespread ratification of the Moon Agreement and the emergence of private sector involvement complicate the legal landscape. National laws further add to the complexity by allowing private entities to extract and own space resources.

The emergence of private companies in space exploration and resource extraction adds another layer of complexity. While private sector innovation can accelerate technological advancements, it also raises questions about regulation, oversight, and equitable access to resources.

6.1 The Outer Space Treaty (1967)

The Treaty on Principles Governing the Activities of States in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space, including the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies known as the Outer Space Treaty (OST) forms the basis of international space law. It prohibits national appropriation of celestial bodies and emphasizes that space exploration should benefit all humankind. Article 2 OST reads as follows: “Outer space, including the moon and other celestial bodies, is not subject to national appropriation by claim of sovereignty, by means of use or occupation, or by any other means.” However, the OST does not explicitly address the extraction and commercial use of space resources.

6.2 The Moon Agreement (1984)

The Agreement Governing the Activities of States on the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies known as the Moon Agreement aims at establishing a regime for the exploitation of lunar resources, declaring them the “common heritage of mankind” (Article 11(1) of the Moon Agreement). The Moon Agreement calls for an international regime to govern resource activities and ensure equitable sharing of benefits. Article 6(2) of the Moon Agreement gives the parties to the Moon Agreement the limited right to collect on and remove from the moon samples of its mineral and other substances for carrying out scientific investigations and states: “Such samples shall remain at the disposal of those States Parties which caused them to be collected and may be used by them for scientific purposes. States Parties shall have regard to the desirability of making a portion of such samples available to other interested States Parties and the international scientific community for scientific investigation. States Parties may in the course of scientific investigations also use mineral and other substances of the moon in quantities appropriate for the support of their missions.” Similar to the OST, Article 11(2) of the Moon Agreement states that “The moon is not subject to national appropriation by any claim of sovereignty, by means of use or occupation, or by any other means.” Article 11(3) of the Moon Agreement further specifies the obligations of the parties to the Moon Agreement: “Neither the surface nor the subsurface of the moon, nor any part thereof or natural resources in place, shall become property of any State, international intergovernmental or non-governmental organization, national organization or non-governmental entity or of any natural person.” The legal exploitation of lunar resources, including ice / water, seems to require a regime to be implemented first. Article 11(5) obliges the parties to the Moon Agreement to establish an international regime, including appropriate procedures, to govern the exploitation of the natural resources of the moon as such exploitation is about to become feasible. Article 11(7) of the Moon Agreement states that the main purposes of such international regime to be established shall include: “(a) The orderly and safe development of the natural resources of the moon; (b) The rational management of those resources; (c) The expansion of opportunities in the use of those resources; (d) An equitable sharing by all States Parties in the benefits derived from those resources, whereby the interests and needs of the developing countries, as well as the efforts of those countries which have contributed either directly or indirectly to the exploration of the moon, shall be given special consideration.” The regime that Article 11 of the Moon Agreement envisions is yet to be established. The Principles for Space Resource Activities currently available as initial draft only (see below), can be seen as a start to establish an international regime for the exploration and development of the resources on the Moon. To achieve a high acceptance rate, the international community must find a practical compromise that includes as many countries as possible, else its future will share the same destiny as the Moon Agreement.

The Moon Agreement has not been widely ratified by major spacefaring nations, limiting its practical impact. For example, China, Canada, Germany, Japan, the UAE, the UK, and the USA have not even signed the Moon Agreement, and India has signed, but not ratified the Moon Agreement. Since these nations are not party to the Moon Agreement, the regime for the lawful exploitation of the natural resources of the Moon does not seem to be on the agenda in the near future. Rather, it seems that there will be another space race, this time for the resources of the Moon.

6.3 National Laws

In the absence of a clear international consensus, some countries have enacted national laws to address the commercial exploitation of space resources. The U.S. Commercial Space Launch Competitiveness Act, for example, grants private entities the right to extract and own space resources. This has raised concerns about potential conflicts with international agreements and the possibility of a “space resource grab.”

6.4 Future Legal Frameworks

As lunar resource activities become more feasible, the development of clear and comprehensive legal frameworks will be crucial. These frameworks must balance the interests of various stakeholders, ensure compliance with international law, and promote sustainable and responsible resource utilization.

The Legal Subcommittee of the U.N. Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) recently published their Initial Draft Set of Recommended Principles for Space Resource Activities (March 2025). This set of draft principles emphasizes compliance with international law and ensures freedom of access (Principle 2 A-B) and non-appropriation (Principle 2 C-D). It promotes the use of space resources, including water on the Moon, for peaceful purposes (Principle 3) and highlights the importance of safety (Principle 4), sustainability and environmental protection (Principle 5), prioritizing scientific research (Principle 6), and includes principles for the sharing of information and data (Principle 7), coordination and cooperation (Principle 8), and the international responsibility for non-governmental entities (Principle 9). While these Principles seem to be a good starting point, they do not conclusively address the more practical questions of how to access, secure, and use resources such as ice/water, and to develop and protect technologies when resourcing water from ice on the Moon.

The legal aspects of lunar resource extraction are likely to remain a subject of ongoing debate and negotiation. Addressing these legal challenges will require international cooperation, innovative legal solutions, and a commitment to the peaceful and equitable exploration and use of space resources.

7 | Conclusions

The Aqualunar Challenge represents a significant step forward in the quest to utilize lunar resources for sustainable space exploration. The innovative technologies developed through this competition not only pave the way for future lunar missions but also offer valuable solutions for water purification on Earth. As we continue to explore the Moon, addressing the technical and legal, but also ethical challenges will be crucial for ensuring the responsible and equitable use of lunar resources. The cross-border Acqualuna Challenge emphasizes the importance of international collaboration and the potential for these technologies to benefit water purification efforts on Earth.

Credits: Moon photo taken by SpaceTech.Lawyer. All rights reserved.

This article provides an outlook of the anticipated EU Space Act, delving into its origins, objectives, and the potential measures under its three core pillars: safety, security, and sustainability. 

The EU Space Act is expected to impact space tech companies both within and outside the European Union. The formal proposal for the EU Space Act is expected in Q2/2025, likely taking the form of a regulation, as opposed to a directive. This would result in the EU Space Act being directly applicable across all EU Member States.

Absent any legislative draft, this article is a mere reflection of preliminary documents, results based on consultations, and expectations among scholars and publicly available sources.

1 | Introduction

Space, once the exclusive domain of superpowers, is undergoing a profound transformation. The last decade has witnessed an unprecedented surge in space activities, driven by technological advancements, reduced launch costs, and the burgeoning commercial space sector, often named New Space. Low Earth Orbit (LEO), in particular, is becoming increasingly crowded with satellite constellations designed for communication, Earth observation, and navigation, including the EU's own plan for the IRIS² constellation. This proliferation, adding to the over 60,000 space objects and estimated one million pieces of smaller debris already orbiting our planet, creates a congested environment where the risks of collision and interference are escalating dramatically. 

Space technology is inherently dual-use. It serves as a critical enabler for economic growth, scientific discovery, and essential societal services, including navigation (Galileo, EGNOS), Earth observation (Copernicus), secure communications (Govsatcom, IRIS²), and climate monitoring. This reliance makes space an increasingly contested geopolitical domain, where national security interests intersect with commercial ambitions, and the potential for conflict or disruption is high. Governing such a complex domain is a challenge which requires fostering innovation and commercial enterprise while ensuring operational safety, protecting critical infrastructure, guaranteeing national security, and preserving the long-term environmental sustainability of outer space for future generations.

In view of that, the EU will introduce the EU Space Act, previously referred to as the EU Space Law. Its core purpose is to establish a common, harmonized set of EU-wide rules addressing three core objectives: (i) the safety of space operations, (ii) the security and resilience of space systems and infrastructure, and (iii) the long-term sustainability of space activities, all of which will be discussed in section 3 after looking at the foundations of the EU Space Act.

2 | The Genesis of the EU Space Act

The EU Space Act has not been developed in a vacuum. It is based on several policy initiatives, driven by strategic objectives, and reflects the EU's growing role and ambitions as a major space power.

2.1 Policy Foundations

Two key policy documents serve as the immediate precursors and drivers for the EU Space Act: First, the Joint Communication on an EU Approach for Space Traffic Management (February 2022) highlighted the critical importance of STM for ensuring the safety, security, and sustainability of space activities, calling for the development of both non-binding measures and binding obligations. Second, the Joint Communication on the EU Space Strategy for Security and Defence (March 2023), included the EU's first dedicated security and defense strategy for the space sector. Recognizing space as a strategic domain crucial for security and defense, the Space Strategy for Security and Defence called for the European Commission to propose an EU Space Law to provide a common framework for security, safety, and sustainability across the Union.

These policy developments are underpinned by the EU's substantial investments and operational responsibilities in space through the EU Space Programme, managed by the European Union Agency for the Space Programme (EUSPA). Flagship constellations like the Galileo navigation system and the Copernicus Earth observation program, along with the upcoming IRIS² secure connectivity constellation, represent significant European assets in orbit, giving the EU a strong interest in establishing rules to protect these investments and ensure the long-term viability of space.

2.2 Objectives

The upcoming EU Space Act is driven by a confluence of interconnected objectives:

• Harmonization: A primary goal is to eliminate the fragmentation that currently exists within the EU. Presently, at least eleven Member States possess their own national space laws, with others potentially developing them. This mosaic of national regulations creates complexity, potential barriers within the European single market, and inconsistencies in approach. The EU Space Act aims at replacing this patchwork with a coherent EU-wide framework. This drive for harmonization reflects a view that the current fragmentation hinders the EU's ability to act cohesively and effectively in the space domain, potentially placing it at a competitive disadvantage compared to more unified space powers.
• Competitiveness: By establishing clear, predictable, and uniform rules across the European single market, the EU intends to enhance legal certainty for space tech companies. This predictability, combined with potentially high standards for safety, security, and sustainability, is envisioned as a competitive advantage, offering a seal of confidence to partners and customers. 
• Safety, Security, and Sustainability: These three pillars form the substantive core of the proposed EU Space Act. The EU Space Act will likely mandate measures to improve space traffic safety, enhance the security and resilience of space infrastructure against cyber and physical threats, and promote long-term environmental sustainability of space activities.
• Autonomy: Overarching these objectives is the EU's pursuit of strategic autonomy in space. This concept involves the EU's ability to set its own priorities, protect its interests and investments, and act independently in the strategic domain space. A key component of this autonomy is the capacity to shape the international regulatory environment – influencing the development of international law, rules, and regulations, as well as other norms and standards, so they align with EU interests and values. By establishing a comprehensive framework and potentially setting high standards and global precedents, The EU Space Act could be a critical tool in achieving this strategic goal. 

2.3 Territorial Scope

The scope of the EU Space Act is expected to be broad. Statements from commentators as well as the desire for competitiveness and autonomy suggest that the EU Space Act will apply not only to EU-based operators but to any space system operating within the EU or providing services in the EU market, irrespective of the operator's origin. This extraterritorial reach, which is known from the EU's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), is a deliberate strategy. It aims to ensure a level playing field, preventing non-EU companies from gaining a competitive advantage by operating under potentially less stringent standards while accessing the EU market. It also maximizes the EU Space Act's global impact by compelling international actors engaging with the EU market to adhere to its standards. It remains to be seen whether the first and final drafts of the EU Space Act will follow this bold path.

3 | Three Core Objectives: Safety, Security, Sustainability

3.1 Safety

The safety pillar of the EU Space Act is expected to address the mounting risks associated with increased orbital congestion and space debris, primarily through enhanced Space Traffic Management (STM) and stricter debris mitigation requirements.

Based on the foundational policy documents, particularly the EU Approach for STM (2022), the safety pillar is likely to encompass several key areas:

• Space Traffic Management: STM can be understood as the collective means and rules necessary to conduct activities in and return from outer space in a safe, secure and responsible manner. The EU Space Act may introduce standardized EU criteria for licensing crucial phases of space operations: launch, in-orbit collision avoidance, and atmospheric re-entry. This aims to create a more predictable and coordinated operational environment in space.
• Collision Avoidance: To tackle the immediate threat of in-orbit collisions, the EU Space Act may impose binding measures, which could include mandating the use of active tracking devices on satellites to improve visibility, establishing systemized notifications and warnings for major incidents (like break-ups) and high-risk re-entries, and requiring commercial satellite operators to subscribe to a collision avoidance service meeting minimum performance level. The latter could potentially be benchmarked against the existing EU Space Surveillance and Tracking (SST), which is part of the Space Situational Awareness (SSA) component of the EU Space Programme. Providers of such collision avoidance services might also face requirements, such as maintaining robust communication mechanisms and operator directories for managing conjunction events. Compliance with specific technical standards, potentially developed by European standardization bodies and covering scenarios like non-maneuverable satellites, could also be mandated. 
• Debris Mitigation: Addressing the long-term threat of space debris is another cornerstone of the safety pillar, to ultimately avoid the Kessler effect. The EU Space Act is expected to introduce mandatory minimum deorbiting standards. Key measures include limiting the generation of debris during normal operations, minimizing the potential for accidental break-ups (e.g., through passivation – the depletion of all on-board stored energy sources like residual fuel or batteries at end-of-life), and ensuring the timely removal of spacecraft and launch vehicle stages from operationally critical regions after their mission ends. Specifically, this may translate to requiring objects passing through LEO to be removed within 25 years of mission completion (preferably via controlled re-entry, or disposal into orbits ensuring decay within that time frame) and moving GEO satellites to graveyard orbits sufficiently above the operational region. The EU Space Act may also reinforce the avoidance of intentional destruction of satellites or other activities that generate long-lived debris. While obligations to remove existing debris (natural debris and debris of unknown origin) does not seem to be on the agenda, it remains to be seen whether and how the EU lawmakers will deal with this additional challenge.

3.2 Security

The second pillar of the EU Space Act focuses on bolstering the security and resilience of space systems and services, reflecting the growing recognition of space as a critical infrastructure domain susceptible to a range of threats, including cyberattacks and potentially hostile actions.

Drawing from the EU Space Strategy for Security and Defence and related policy communications, the security pillar is expected to introduce requirements aimed at protecting both ground segments and space assets:

• Cybersecurity: Given the increasing reliance on digital systems, cybersecurity is a major focus. The EU Space Act may mandate specific cybersecurity standards and procedures tailored to the space domain. This could involve requirements for hardening systems and components across the entire supply chain against cyber threats, as well as obligations for continuous monitoring, assessment, reporting, and sharing of information on cyber incidents. While existing EU-wide legislation like the NIS 2 Directive on security of network and information systems and the CER Directive on the resilience of critical entities already cover some aspects of ground-based space infrastructure operators, the EU Space Act is expected to address the unique vulnerabilities and challenges inherent in the orbital environment and in-space operations. Extending mandatory cybersecurity standards across the entire supply chain could represent a significant shift, potentially imposing new compliance obligations on component manufacturers, software developers, and integrators, in the EU and perhaps worldwide, whose products are used in systems serving the EU market. This reflects a broader EU focus on securing critical supply chains but could create substantial hurdles, particularly for non-EU suppliers.
• Information Sharing: To foster a common understanding of threats and enable coordinated responses, the EU Space Act may introduce binding information-sharing measures. This could include mandatory reporting of system anomalies or security incidents that might indicate a space threat, as well as mandatory warnings to relevant authorities or operators in case of major incidents or hazardous re-entries. This aligns with the goal of encouraging cross-border coordination and cooperation on security matters. The EU Space Strategy for Security and Defence also proposed the establishment of an Information Sharing and Analysis Centre (ISAC) to facilitate the exchange of best practices on resilience measures among commercial and public entities, a mechanism the EU Space Act could help operationalize. 
• Resilience: Protecting critical infrastructure and essential space systems and services, such as the EU's own Galileo, Copernicus, and IRIS² constellations, is paramount, but the protection of commercial space-based services in the EU Member States is equally important. The EU Space Act is likely to define resilience as the capacity to prevent, protect against, resist, respond to, mitigate, and restore operations following disruptions caused by ICT risks, physical threats, or hostile actions. Potential mandated requirements could include incorporating security considerations into system design from the outset (security by design), establishing minimum levels of security and resilience for critical or essential space services, and obliging operators to conduct thorough risk assessments and implement mitigation measures. At the EU Member State level, the EU Space Act might require the identification of essential national space systems and services, the establishment of national security monitoring centers for systematic incident notification, the identification of major supply chain actors, and the development of coordinated national preparedness plans and emergency protocols.

3.3. Sustainability

The third pillar of the EU Space Act aims to ensure the long-term sustainability of space activities, addressing not only the orbital environment but also the terrestrial impacts of the space sector. This reflects a growing global concern that the benefits from space technology must not come at the cost of jeopardizing the environment, be it in orbit or on Earth.

Based on preliminary information and results from consultations, the EU Space Act may introduce the following requirements to achieve its sustainability objective:

• Environmental Standards: The EU Space Act might establish binding environmental standards, which could include measures to curb light pollution and optical interference caused by large satellite constellations, which increasingly affect ground-based astronomical observations. This might also seek to limit the environmental footprint of space activities on Earth by addressing greenhouse gas emissions and pollution associated with rocket launches.
• Deorbiting/End-of-Life Management: Reinforcing the safety aspects, mandatory minimum deorbiting standards seem a key component of sustainability, aiming to prevent the long-term accumulation of defunct objects in outer space. This promotes responsible behavior throughout a mission's lifecycle and helps preserve the space environment for use by future generations.
• Life Cycle Considerations and Eco-Design: The Act may introduce requirements for conducting life cycle assessments of space activities, evaluating their environmental impact from design and manufacturing through launch, operation, and disposal. The application of eco-design principles to space systems could be encouraged or mandated, aiming to minimize negative environmental impacts at each stage. To incentivize compliance and provide market signals, the EU might consider introducing a voluntary sustainability label for companies or missions that meet specific criteria. Such a label could become a market differentiator, potentially influencing procurement decisions, especially for EU institutional contracts, and attracting environmentally conscious stakeholders.
• In-Orbit Servicing and Active Debris Removal: The EU seems to recognize the potential of emerging technologies like satellite refueling, repair, life extension, and active debris removal to contribute to sustainability. The EU Space Act might include provisions to support the development of these technologies. The use of such technologies would further require guidance on legal questions on the registration, liability, and control during servicing or removal operations. Currently, it is unclear whether the EU Space Act will provide such detailed provisions.

4 | Implications

The EU Space Act, if implemented as anticipated, will have far-reaching consequences for all actors involved in the space sector, influencing the development, operation, and investment in space missions and space-based products and services.

The introduction of the EU Space Act could potentially trigger a Brussels Effect in space law. Similar to the global impact of GDPR in data protection, the size and importance of the EU market could compel non-EU space actors (manufacturers, operators, service providers) to adopt EU standards for safety, security, and sustainability simply to maintain access. If successful, this could lead to an indirect global harmonization based on European norms and priorities, effectively exporting EU laws worldwide. This, however, would require acceptance and support by other major space nations and regions in the world.

Space operators, likely both within the EU and those providing services into the EU market, will face new compliance requirements across the three pillars (safety, security, sustainability). Adhering to potentially stricter and mandatory standards for collision avoidance, debris mitigation, cybersecurity (including supply chain security), and environmental sustainability may require investments in new technologies, operational procedures, and compliance monitoring systems, which represents an increased compliance burden. Access to the internal market of the EU could become contingent upon compliance with the EU Space Act. While this may pose barriers for actors unable or unwilling to meet the new standards, it could conversely offer a competitive advantage to those who do. Achieving compliance could function as a seal of confidence, potentially enhancing market reputation and becoming a prerequisite for participation in EU-funded projects or accessing certain markets in EU Member States. 

The effect on overall competitiveness is multifaceted. While harmonization aims to create a level playing field within the EU and potentially boost the standing of compliant EU companies globally, there is also a risk that overly burdensome regulations could stifle innovation or drive some commercial activities to jurisdictions with less stringent requirements. This creates a potential paradox: the EU Space Act seeks to enhance competitiveness through high standards but might raise entry barriers, especially for SMEs. Finding the right balance between rigor and pragmatism in the final EU Space Act and its implementing laws and regulations will be crucial.

Beyond its direct impact on space tech companies, the EU Space Act has the potential to significantly influence the evolution of global space governance. By presenting a unified, legally binding framework adopted by its 27 Member States, the EU could wield greater influence in international forums such as COPUOS. A common EU position based on the EU Space Act could lend significant weight to proposals regarding STM, debris mitigation, sustainability, and responsible behaviors in space. 

5 | Conclusion

A core objective of the EU Space Act is to replace the current mosaic of potentially conflicting or incoherent national space laws of EU Member States with a single, coherent legal framework applicable across the European Union. The EU intends to increase legal certainty for operators, reduce complexity when operating across borders within the EU, establish a level playing field for competition within the European single market, and to have a stronger, unified voice for the EU in international space governance forums.

Practical considerations, including whether licensing and enforcement will be managed at the EU level or delegated back to national authorities, are key questions that will have an important impact on space tech companies operating in the EU. 

The forthcoming EU Space Act represents a pivotal moment for space law in Europe and potentially globally. It signals a decisive shift away from reliance on international treaties directed to their signatories (countries), and voluntary guidelines, towards a comprehensive, legally directly binding framework designed to manage the complexities of the modern space sector, including but not limited to New Space. By establishing common rules on safety, security, and sustainability, the EU aims not only to mitigate the growing risks associated with space activities but also to achieve broader strategic goals. These include fostering a harmonized and competitive single market for space products and services within the EU, enhancing the competitiveness of its industry on the world stage, and bolstering the European Union's strategic autonomy in a domain of increasing geopolitical and economic importance.

With the formal legislative proposal expected soon, the detailed provisions of the EU Space Act will become clearer. The subsequent negotiation process involving the European Parliament and the Council of the EU will further shape the final EU Space Act. If navigated successfully, the EU Space Act has the potential not only to enhance the safety, security, and sustainability of space activities within and connected to Europe but also to significantly shape the future norms and global standards governing humanity's endeavors in space.

Credits: AI generated image

In terrestrial affairs, time is a well-understood construct: it structures our daily routines, underpins global financial systems, and governs legal deadlines and obligations. However, once we leave the Earth, the concept of time becomes far more complex — both scientifically and legally. As space activities increase, the question “What time is it in space?” is no longer merely philosophical. It is a growing operational, legal, and regulatory challenge.

This article examines the multifaceted nature of timekeeping in outer space, particularly as it intersects with space law, international coordination, and emerging policy debates at the European, transatlantic, and global levels.

1. Coordinated Universal Time (UTC): The Current Reference Standard

Despite the relativistic nature of time in physics, human spaceflight to date has required standardized coordination — primarily through Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). The International Space Station (ISS), for instance, uses UTC as its official time reference. This was adopted by consensus between the major space agencies involved — notably NASA, Roscosmos, ESA, JAXA, and CSA — to enable unified scheduling between the various control centers involved.

From a legal standpoint, this reliance on UTC aligns with current practices under the Outer Space Treaty (1967), which calls for international cooperation and mutual assistance (Art. IX). However, UTC’s Earth-based nature raises questions when extended to interplanetary missions or permanent off-Earth settlements.

2. Planetary Timekeeping: Mars and the “Sol Problem”

The divergence between planetary rotations introduces operational challenges for missions to other celestial bodies. A day on Mars, known as “sol” on Mars, is approximately 24 hours and 39 minutes long, and has forced NASA and other space agencies to adapt. Mission teams working with Martian rovers such as Curiosity and Perseverance have operated on “Mars Time,” shifting their circadian rhythms to follow Martian sols for synchronization.

Although informal timekeeping systems exist, such as the Mars Sol Date (MSD) or the Local True Solar Time (LST), which is determined by the sun's position, there is no recognized international time standard for Mars. Notably, discussions have begun within scientific and legal communities regarding the need for standardized planetary timekeeping frameworks. These are expected to grow in importance as plans for crewed Martian missions under the NASA Mars Exploration Program progress.

3. Lunar Time and the ESA Proposal

A more immediate challenge concerns the Moon. With NASA's Artemis Program and the Artemis Accords envisioning a sustained human presence on the lunar surface and in cislunar space, time synchronization has emerged as a pressing operational and legal issue.

In early 2023, the European Space Agency (ESA) called for the development of a unified lunar time reference, following proposals made during ESA’s Moonlight initiative — a project aimed at establishing a dedicated lunar satellite navigation and communication infrastructure.

ESA engineers noted that clocks on the Moon tick slightly faster than on Earth, gaining roughly 56 microseconds per Earth day due to the Moon’s lower gravity. While this discrepancy may seem negligible, it has significant implications for autonomous operations, scientific experiments, and GNSS-based lunar navigation.

In response, ESA has proposed the establishment of a "common lunar reference time ", later named Coordinated Lunar Time (LTC). This proposal is under discussion with NASA, JAXA, and other Artemis signatories but has not yet been formalized under international law.

4. U.S. Legislative Initiative: The Celestial Time Standardization Act

In parallel to ESA’s proposals, the United States has also recognized the strategic importance of space-based timekeeping. In March 2025, a bipartisan legislative initiative was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives: the Celestial Time Standardization Act (H.R. 2313). This bill mandates NASA to develop a standardized timekeeping system to support operations and infrastructure on and around the Moon and other celestial bodies.

The draft legislation notes the need for precise and consistent timekeeping to enable future lunar missions, deep-space navigation, and autonomous spacecraft operations. It also reflects the growing interdependence of legal, operational, and technological systems in space. If adopted, it would signal a major policy shift toward the institutionalization of off-Earth time standards within U.S. federal law — and possibly set a precedent for other national space agencies.

This legal development underscores the urgency of creating harmonized international approaches to timekeeping, especially given the increasing convergence of governmental and commercial activities in the cislunar domain around the globe.

5. Legal Considerations and the Need for a Regulatory Framework

The need for standardized timekeeping extends beyond technical and operational requirements. It carries profound legal implications, particularly in the context of:

• Contractual obligations: Time coordination is essential in satellite operations, space services delivery, and launch scheduling.
• Liability attribution: Under the Liability Convention (1972) and Registration Convention (1976), identifying the precise timing of incidents may affect legal jurisdiction and state responsibility.
• Dispute resolution: Timestamping can be critical in litigation/arbitration and legal claims, especially with increasing private-sector participation in space disputes.

Despite these needs, international space law currently does not offer explicit guidance on time standards for outer space activities. Scholars have begun to advocate for multilateral coordination via forums such as the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (UNCOPUOS).

At the European level, the growing focus on satellite-based services (e.g., Galileo, IRIS²) and the emerging EU Space Act provide a valuable context for addressing time standardization as part of broader Space Traffic Management (STM) and situational awareness frameworks.

It remains to be seen whether the US draft bill (see point 4 above) or European initiatives, will gain momentum and whether NASA and ESA, joined by other space agencies, will jointly agree on a coordinated lunar time. As Dr. Ben Ashman, navigation lead for lunar relay development, part of NASA’s SCaN program, stated:

A shared definition of time is an important part of safe, resilient, and sustainable operations.

6. The Role of Time in Space Traffic Management

Timekeeping is a core enabler of Space Traffic Management (STM). Precise time coordination supports collision avoidance, orbital maneuver planning, and real-time data exchange between spacecraft and ground stations. As STM frameworks develop globally, time synchronization is becoming increasingly recognized as a foundational element.

The European Commission seems to acknowledge the role of time in ensuring interoperability and safety among actors in orbit as part of the EU's Space Traffic Management. For tracking space assets reliably and managing space traffic in different orbits, a coordinated time would be beneficial. Harmonized timekeeping systems — across jurisdictions, platforms, and organizations — will be essential for both national security and commercial operations.

Conclusion: Towards a Universal Time for the Universe?

As humanity transitions from occasional exploration to permanent presence in outer space, the need for standardized, legally recognized time references is becoming urgent. Whether on the Moon, Mars, or in deep space, time is more than a technical abstraction — it is a key pillar of governance, safety, and law.

Initiatives like ESA’s Lunar Coordinated Time and the U.S. Celestial Time Standardization Act suggest that national and international actors are beginning to converge on the importance of this issue. Future multilateral frameworks will need to account for both scientific precision and legal interoperability.

Time in space is a technical, operational, and legal need — and the time to regulate it on a global level is now.

Further Reading and References

• NASA: What Time is it in Space
• ESA (2023): Telling time on the Moon
• U.S. H.R. 2313 – Celestial Time Standardization Act (2025)
• European Commission (2023): Towards a European Approach on STM

Credits: AI generated image

In this blog post, I am looking at Europe's future in space by analyzing three different key documents published recently: ESA's Strategy 2040, the Draghi report on EU competitiveness, and the proposed EU Space Act.

The European Space Agency (ESA) has unveiled its Strategy 2040, a comprehensive vision that sets the course for Europe’s role in space over the next 15 years. The strategy is structured around five overarching goals, each with specific objectives aimed at ensuring Europe’s leadership in space, fostering innovation, and addressing global challenges. Below is a detailed summary reflecting ESA’s Strategy 2040.

The Draghi report on EU competitiveness aims at providing specific answers and strategies to overcome the competitive weaknesses of the EU in the space sector.

The proposed EU Space Act (previously EU Space Law) currently is at a very early stage, providing little guidance and content only. It remains to be seen whether the European lawmakers will consider the Draghi report and the goals stated in ESA's strategy 2040 during the drafting process.

The summary of ESA's Strategy 2024 (see part A) is followed by key learnings from the Draghi report on EU competitiveness (see part B) and remarks on the EU Space Act proposed by the EU (see part C), followed by conclusions.

A | ESA's Strategy 2040

The European Space Agency (ESA) has unveiled its Strategy 2040, a comprehensive vision that sets the course for Europe’s role in space over the next 15 years. The strategy is structured around five overarching goals, each with specific objectives aimed at ensuring Europe’s leadership in space, fostering innovation, and addressing global challenges.

1 Protect Our Planet and Climate

Space technology plays a fundamental role in tackling climate change and ensuring sustainable development on Earth. ESA’s commitment to environmental monitoring and Earth observation is reflected in the following objectives:

1.1 Enhance Earth Observation Capabilities

• Strengthen climate monitoring programs with next-generation satellites capable of detecting greenhouse gas emissions, ocean temperatures, and land-use changes.
• Improve integration of space data into climate models to support global and European climate policies.

1.2 Support Climate Adaptation Strategies

• Provide critical data for natural disaster prediction, mitigation, and response.
• Develop AI-driven analytics to enhance early warning systems for extreme weather events.

1.3 Foster Sustainable Space Operations

• Implement eco-friendly satellite designs and propulsion systems to minimize space debris.
• Establish guidelines and best practices for responsible use of space resources.

2 Explore and Discover

ESA is committed to pushing the boundaries of space exploration through robotic and human missions. Its objectives include:

2.1 Expand Lunar and Martian Exploration

• Develop European-led lunar exploration programs, including participation in Artemis and the Lunar Gateway.
• Advance Mars robotic missions as a stepping stone for future human exploration.

2.2 Advance Space Science and Deep Space Missions

• Launch flagship missions to explore exoplanets, cosmic structures, and fundamental physics.
• Foster international partnerships in planetary science and astrophysics.

2.3 Ensure European Leadership in Space Exploration

• Develop independent European capabilities for deep-space exploration.
• Increase investment in cutting-edge technologies such as in-situ resource utilization (ISRU) and AI-driven autonomy for space missions.

3 Strengthen European Autonomy and Resilience

To secure its strategic position in space, Europe must enhance its independence in critical space capabilities:

3.1 Guarantee Independent Access to Space

• Invest in reusable launch vehicles and innovative propulsion technologies to reduce reliance on foreign launch providers.
• Support the development of competitive European spaceports.

3.2 Enhance Space Security and Resilience

• Develop robust space traffic management systems to prevent collisions and satellite congestion.
• Strengthen cybersecurity for European space assets.

3.3 Secure Critical Space Infrastructure

• Establish redundancy and backup capabilities for satellite communications and navigation systems.
• Protect against threats from space weather and potential cyber threats.

4 Boost Growth and Competitiveness

ESA recognizes the importance of fostering a thriving space economy. Its key objectives include:

4.1 Foster a Competitive European Space Sector

• Support the growth of European space startups and SMEs through funding and innovation incentives.
• Encourage partnerships between public institutions and private space enterprises.

4.2 Drive Innovation in Space Technologies

• Invest in AI, quantum computing, and new materials for space applications.
• Promote the use of satellite data in commercial industries, including agriculture, finance, and logistics.

4.3 Strengthen Europe’s Position in the Global Space Market

• Secure trade agreements that benefit European space industries.
• Develop European-led space services that compete globally.

5 Inspire Europe

A strong space sector requires an engaged public and a skilled workforce. ESA’s goals for outreach and education include:

5.1 Promote STEM Education and Workforce Development

• Launch new space-related educational programs for schools and universities.
• Provide scholarships and internships to attract young talent to the space industry.

5.2 Increase Public Engagement in Space Activities

• Enhance communication efforts to showcase Europe’s achievements in space.
• Organize citizen science projects and interactive programs that allow public participation in space missions.

5.3 Encourage Inclusivity and Diversity in the Space Sector

• Support initiatives to increase gender and cultural diversity in the European space workforce.
• Establish mentorship programs for underrepresented groups in STEM fields.

Implementing the Strategy 2040

ESA’s Strategy 2040 lays out a structured approach to achieving these goals by:

• Strengthening collaboration between ESA, the EU, and national space agencies.
• Increasing investment in AI, digitalization, and next-generation space technologies.
• Encouraging international partnerships to ensure Europe remains a key player in global space initiatives.

B | Draghi Report on EU Competitiveness

The Draghi report analyses the current state of the European space economy and identifies several structural weaknesses limiting the ability of the EU to maintain leadership in the space sector.

Current State of the European Space Sector

Europe has historically been a leader in space exploration and satellite technology, with major programs such as Galileo (satellite navigation) and Copernicus (Earth observation). However, Europe’s global competitiveness in space is declining, particularly in comparison to the United States and China. The rise of private sector players, such as SpaceX, has also shifted the industry dynamics, while Europe remains dependent on non-European entities for key components, launch capabilities, and emerging space services.

Despite strong technical expertise and a well-established institutional framework, the European space industry faces several structural challenges that hinder its long-term sustainability and leadership.

Root Causes of Europe’s Competitiveness Gap in the Space Sector

The Draghi report identifies seven key root causes of this competitiveness gap.

1 Fragmented Governance and Decision-Making

The governance of the European space sector is overly complex, with responsibilities divided among multiple organizations, including:

• The European Space Agency (ESA), an intergovernmental agency outside the EU framework.
• The European Commission, which manages space-related policy and funding through programs like Horizon Europe.
• National space agencies, each pursuing their own priorities.

This fragmentation leads to inefficiencies, delays, and duplication of efforts. Unlike the U.S., where NASA leads a coordinated national strategy, Europe lacks a single, unified governance structure, making decision-making slow and less responsive to industry needs.

2 Lack of Sufficient Public Investment

Europe’s public funding for space activities is significantly lower than that of the United States and China.

• The U.S. space budget (NASA + commercial programs) is nearly four times the EU’s.
• China is rapidly increasing its space spending, with projections suggesting it could overtake Europe in the coming years.

This funding gap restricts the development of next-generation space technologies and prevents Europe from competing in new commercial space markets, such as satellite-based internet services and in-orbit servicing.

3 Weak Private Sector Investment and Risk Capital

Private sector investment in space remains limited in Europe compared to the U.S., where companies benefit from strong venture capital backing and government contracts.

• European space startups struggle to secure private investment due to risk-averse financial markets and limited access to venture capital.
• The European space industry lacks strong incentives to attract private funding, slowing the commercialization of space technologies.

Without a more dynamic investment ecosystem, European companies risk falling behind in the emerging space economy.

4 Declining Industrial Competitiveness

Europe’s space industry faces rising global competition, particularly from:

• U.S. private space companies, which benefit from strong domestic demand and government funding.
• Chinese state-supported space programs, which receive strategic long-term investments.

At the same time, Europe relies on foreign suppliers for key space technologies, such as advanced semiconductors and propulsion systems. This creates supply chain vulnerabilities and reduces Europe’s ability to compete on cost, speed, and innovation.

5 Dependence on Non-European Launch Capabilities

European space access has been weakened by delays and setbacks in its launch programs:

• The Ariane 6 launch vehicle has been delayed multiple times.
• The Vega-C rocket has faced technical challenges.
• Europe lost access to Soyuz launches after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

As a result, Europe has been forced to rely on U.S. providers, such as SpaceX, for launching satellites—undermining European space sovereignty. Without a fully independent launch capability, Europe’s ability to deploy and sustain its space infrastructure is at risk.

6 Slow Innovation and Commercialization

Europe has strong research institutions, but the transition from R&D to commercial space applications is slow. Key obstacles include:

• Long approval processes for new space projects.
• Limited funding for technology transfer from research to industry.
• Regulatory barriers that slow down market entry.

This prevents new business models from emerging companies and makes it difficult for European startups to scale up. In contrast, the U.S. fosters faster innovation cycles, allowing companies to commercialize new space technologies more quickly.

7 Underdeveloped Synergies Between Civil, Commercial, and Defense Space Programs

Europe has not fully leveraged the synergies between civil, commercial, and military space activities. In contrast:

• The U.S. integrates military and commercial space to drive innovation.
• China’s state-driven model combines civil and defense efforts under a single strategy.

By keeping its military and civilian programs separate, Europe limits its ability to develop dual-use technologies and misses opportunities to maximize investments. A more integrated approach could enhance European security, resilience, and industrial competitiveness.

Strategic Recommendations to Strengthen Europe’s Space Sector

To address these challenges, the Draghi report proposes three core strategic priorities:

1 Achieve European Space Sovereignty

• Develop independent launch capabilities (accelerating Ariane 6 and next-gen rockets).
• Reduce reliance on non-European suppliers for key technologies.
• Secure uninterrupted access to space services for navigation, Earth observation, and communications.

2 Increase Investment and Industrial Competitiveness

• Boost public funding for strategic space programs.
• Support private investment in space startups and scale-ups.
• Strengthen Europe’s space manufacturing base to reduce supply chain risks.

3 Improve Coordination and Market Growth

• Establish a more unified European space governance framework.
• Streamline regulatory processes to speed up market entry for new space companies.
• Encourage cross-sector collaboration between civil, defense, and commercial space programs.

Conclusion

The Draghi report emphasizes the urgency of strengthening Europe’s space sector. Without action, Europe risks losing strategic autonomy and falling further behind the U.S. and China. By addressing the seven root causes outlined above, Europe can enhance its global leadership, build a competitive space industry, and secure its future in the new space economy.

C | EU Space Act

As of today, the proposed EU Space Act is still a black box with little disclosed to the public. Based on the limited information available, it seems that the EU Space Act will focus on three pillars: (1) safety, (2) security/resilience, and (3) sustainability.

A website by the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) indicates that a study group will discuss the proposed EU Space Act during the plenary session on September 17-18, 2025, and might publish an opinion or information report. The study group has stated:

The European Commission is therefore planning to propose an "EU space act" in the second quarter of 2025, with common rules on safety, resilience, and sustainability in space. Such a proposal would try to address the current challenges in the space domain, which include proliferation of satellites with the related risks of congestion and collision, and a high level of security threats against space infrastructures.

This is in line with the Joint Communication "European Union Space Strategy for Security and Defence" (JOIN/2023/9 final of 3 March 2023) which includes the following objectives of the EU's Space Strategy:

• Ensuring a shared understanding of space threats;
• Enhancing the resilience and protection of space systems and services in the EU;
• Strengthening the collective ability of the EU to respond to any attacks and threats putting at risk the EU security interests;
• Developing dual-use space capabilities, including for security and defence purposes;
• Fostering global partnerships.

Based on the initial Call for evidence for an impact assessment for the EU Space Act (previously "EU Space Law"), the European Commission planned to propose a regulation rather than a mere directive, and stated:

This initiative aims to lay down rules to ensure a coherent EU approach to: (1) safety, by laying down common rules on avoiding collision and mitigating space debris; (2) resilience, by laying down common rules on risk management and cybersecurity that are tailored for the space sector; and (3) sustainability, by laying down common rules for life cycle assessment of space activities and to prevent light pollution of the night sky.

However, it is unclear if, to which extent, and how the European Commission will include the three core pillars – (1) safety, (2) security/resilience, and (3) sustainability – in the draft proposal for a EU Space Act.

Conclusion

ESA’s Strategy 2040 represents a bold roadmap for Europe’s future in space. By focusing on autonomy, exploration, sustainability, and innovation, ESA aims to position Europe as a leader in the global space sector while addressing pressing challenges on Earth and beyond.

The goal of the detailed Draghi report is to provide specific solutions to overcome the current structural weaknesses of the EU in the space sector. It would be preferable if the weaknesses identified, and the solutions proposed would be discussed by the legislative bodies of the EU when drafting the EU Space Act.

Currently, there is little guidance on the content of the proposed EU Space Act. In view of the challenges discussed above, the European Union needs to find the right balance between a free market and regulating products and activities in the space sector. While each of the three key pillars identified so far (safety, security/resilience, sustainability) are important goals, some may be more important than others (perhaps safety and cybersecurity/resilience), and some may simply not be achievable for a – struggling – single market floating in space (sustainability). Sustainability must be achieved on a global level. For European space companies, it would be preferable if the EU Space Act will focus on product and mission safety as well as cyber security and resilience in the space sector by integrating the fragmented EU laws on cybersecurity and resilience (included in the NIS 2 Directive, CER Directive, CRA, etc.) in the future EU Space Act.

Credits: AI generated image

[German version below]

Germany’s New Space Strategy: Opportunities for Economy, Security, and Research

Yesterday, the CDU won the German parliamentary election, marking a significant political shift that will also impact the future of German space policy. The position paper by the CDU/CSU parliamentary group published end of January 2025, titled “Space as an Opportunity”, provides insight into the plans of the CDU. It outlines how Germany can strengthen its position in global space activities and what measures are planned in the areas of economy, security, research, international cooperation, and legal frameworks. While this position paper is not a full-fledged space plan of the new German government, it reveals the goals of the winner of the election who still needs to form a coalition to secure a functioning majority in the parliament. Here is what German companies and space actors can expect in the next years to come.

1. Space as an Opportunity

Space offers enormous potential for the economy, security, and environmental protection. Germany and Europe have yet to fully exploit these opportunities. The CDU is committed to positioning Germany as a leading space nation, leveraging both economic and security-related benefits.

2. Economy

With a rapidly growing global market exceeding €470 billion annually, the space sector presents vast economic opportunities. The CDU aims to foster a strong ecosystem of startups, SMEs, and large enterprises. Targeted investments, tax incentives, and reduced bureaucracy will help propel Germany to the forefront of European space activities.

3. Security

The war in Ukraine has underscored the critical role of space in national security. The CDU plans to expand Germany’s space situational awareness capabilities, protect critical infrastructure from cyberattacks, and invest in resilient satellite and communication systems. Additionally, Germany will be developed as a launch site for small rockets.

4. Research

Space research is a key driver of innovation across various industries. The CDU seeks to increase Germany’s space budget to reclaim its leadership position in Europe. Priorities include environmental protection, climate research, and promoting STEM education programs.

5. International Cooperation

Germany should play a central role in the European Space Agency (ESA) and take a more active part in astronaut missions. The CDU supports the goal of sending a German astronaut to the Moon as part of a European mission. Additionally, international partnerships will be expanded to support future space exploration and technology development.

6. Legal Framework

The CDU aims to create a regulatory framework that fosters innovation while minimizing bureaucracy. A new German space law should not impose burdens on small and medium-sized enterprises. At the same time, international standards for responsible and sustainable space activities should be promoted.

Conclusion: Germany on Its Way to Becoming a Leading Space Nation

With these measures, the CDU seeks to position Germany as a key player in space activities. The focus is on economic growth, technological innovation, and international collaboration. The new government’s plans reflect an ambitious vision: Germany should not only benefit from space activities but also actively contribute to their future – economically, politically, and scientifically.

Photo credits: Jürgen Matern / Wikimedia Commons CC BY-SA 3.0

Deutsche Übersetzung:

Die neue deutsche Raumfahrtstrategie: Chancen für Wirtschaft, Sicherheit und Forschung

Gestern hat die CDU die Wahl zum deutschen Parlament gewonnen, ein bedeutender politischer Wechsel, der auch die Zukunft der deutschen Raumfahrtpolitik beeinflussen wird. Das Positionspapier der CDU/CSU-Bundestagsfraktion von Ende Jauar 2025 mit dem Titel „Weltraum als Chancenraum“ gibt einen Einblick in die Pläne der CDU. Es zeigt auf, wie Deutschland seine Position in der globalen Raumfahrt stärken kann und welche Maßnahmen in den Bereichen Wirtschaft, Sicherheit, Forschung, internationale Kooperationen sowie rechtliche Rahmenbedingungen vorgesehen sind. Dieses Positionspapier ist zwar kein vollwertiger Plan der neuen deutschen Regierung, aber es zeigt die Ziele des Wahlsiegers auf, der derzeit noch eine Koalition bilden muss, um eine funktionierende Mehrheit im Parlament zu erhalten. Nachfolgend werden die wesentlichen Punkte des Positionspapiers, die deutsche Unternehmen und die Raumfahrtindustrie in den nächsten Jahren erwarten können, zusammengefasst.

1. Weltraum als Chancenraum

Der Weltraum bietet enormes Potenzial für Wirtschaft, Sicherheit und Umwelt. Deutschland und Europa haben diese Möglichkeiten bislang nicht vollständig ausgeschöpft. Die CDU setzt sich dafür ein, dass Deutschland eine führende Rolle in der Raumfahrt einnimmt, um sowohl wirtschaftliche als auch sicherheitspolitische Vorteile zu nutzen.

2. Wirtschaft

Mit einem weltweit wachsenden Markt von über 470 Milliarden Euro pro Jahr bietet der Raumfahrtsektor große wirtschaftliche Chancen. Die CDU will ein starkes Ökosystem aus Startups, Mittelständlern und Großunternehmen fördern. Gezielte Investitionen, Steuererleichterungen und Bürokratieabbau sollen die deutsche Industrie an die Spitze der europäischen Raumfahrt bringen.

3. Sicherheit

Der Ukraine-Krieg hat gezeigt, wie wichtig der Weltraum für die nationale Sicherheit ist. Die CDU plant den Ausbau eines eigenen Lagebilds des Weltraums, den Schutz kritischer Infrastruktur vor Cyberangriffen sowie Investitionen in resiliente Satelliten- und Kommunikationssysteme. Zudem soll Deutschland als Standort für kleine Trägerraketen etabliert werden.

4. Forschung

Forschung im Bereich Raumfahrt spielt eine Schlüsselrolle für Innovationen in vielen anderen Sektoren. Die CDU will das nationale Raumfahrtbudget erhöhen, um Deutschland als Innovationsführer zurück an die europäische Spitze zu bringen. Besondere Schwerpunkte liegen auf Umweltschutz, Klimaforschung und der Förderung von MINT-Studiengängen.

5. Internationale Kooperation

Deutschland soll eine zentrale Rolle in der Europäischen Weltraumagentur ESA einnehmen und stärker in astronautische Missionen eingebunden werden. Die CDU setzt sich dafür ein, dass ein deutscher Astronaut im Rahmen einer europäischen Mission zum Mond fliegt. Gleichzeitig sollen Kooperationen mit internationalen Partnern für zukünftige Missionen und Technologien intensiviert werden.

6. Rechtliche Rahmenbedingungen

Die CDU will den regulatorischen Rahmen für die Raumfahrt so gestalten, dass Innovation gefördert und Bürokratie vermieden wird. Ein neues deutsches Weltraumgesetz darf insbesondere für kleine und mittelständische Unternehmen keine Hürden schaffen. Gleichzeitig sollen internationale Standards für ein verantwortungsbewusstes Handeln im Weltraum gefördert werden.

Fazit: Deutschland auf dem Weg zur Raumfahrt-Nation

Mit diesen Maßnahmen will die CDU Deutschland zu einem führenden Raumfahrtakteur machen. Der Fokus liegt auf wirtschaftlichem Wachstum, technologischer Innovation und internationaler Zusammenarbeit. Die Pläne der neuen Regierung zeigen eine ambitionierte Vision: Deutschland soll nicht nur profitieren, sondern aktiv zur Zukunft der Raumfahrt beitragen – wirtschaftlich, sicherheitspolitisch und wissenschaftlich.

Photo Credits: Jürgen Matern / Wikimedia Commons CC BY-SA 3.0

Today marks a pivotal moment in U.S. history as presidential power transitions to the newly elected President. As this significant political change takes place, our focus turns to the future of initiatives spearheaded by the outgoing administration, including the executive order issued on 16 January 2025, titled Strengthening and Promoting Innovation in the Nation’s Cybersecurity. This order focuses on bolstering the cybersecurity of critical infrastructure, particularly space systems. The continuity and potential evolution of this initiative under the new administration remain key areas of interest.

Background of the Order
The order confronts rising cyber threats targeting the U.S., especially from adversarial nations. It builds on prior efforts such as the Executive Order 14028 (12 May 2021) and the National Cybersecurity Strategy, aiming to strengthen and protect digital infrastructure. With space systems playing a growing role in national security and economic activities, the recent order underscores the urgent need to protect space assets from cyber threats.

Key Objectives of the Order

Key objectives of the order include (i) Strengthening software supply chain security by requiring software providers to demonstrate secure development practices, (ii) improving communication and identity access and management systems by enforcing end-to-end encryption for federal communications, including email and video calls, and implementing advanced, phishing-resistant authentication methods across government systems, and (iii) fostering innovation in cybersecurity by promoting the use of emerging technologies, e.g., artificial intelligence, to enhance defenses, and encouraging public-private partnerships to drive cybersecurity advancements.

Space-Centric Cybersecurity Measures

Given the strategic importance of space systems, the order includes specific measures to protect space assets:

• Setting Minimum Cybersecurity Standards
  Establishing baseline security requirements for U.S. space systems, including satellites, ground stations, and data networks, to maintain consistent protection.
• Strengthening the Space Technology Supply Chain
  Conducting detailed assessments to identify vulnerabilities in the supply chain, with a focus on preventing malicious components from foreign suppliers.
• Boosting Research and Development (R&D)
  Investing in advanced cybersecurity solutions tailored for space systems, including exploring quantum-resistant encryption to guard against future quantum computing threats.
• Securing Communication Channels
  Implementing end-to-end encryption protocols to ensure data shared between space systems and ground stations remains confidential and tamper-proof.

Key Recommendations and Requirements

• Continuous Assessment and Resilience of Federal Space Systems
  Federal agencies must verify that space systems are equipped to handle evolving cybersecurity threats through ongoing assessments, testing, exercises, and simulations.
• Updates to Civil Space Contract Requirements
  • Within 180 days, designated agencies, including NASA, must review and recommend updates to civil space cybersecurity requirements in the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR).
  • These recommendations must adopt a risk-based, tiered approach and cover on-orbit and link segments for civil space systems. For high-risk tiers, requirements must include:
    • Command and Control Protection
      • Encrypting commands to ensure confidentiality.
      • Preventing modification of commands during transit.
      • Verifying commands are from authorized sources.
      • Rejecting unauthorized command attempts.
    • Anomaly Detection and Recovery
      • Implementing methods to detect, report, and recover from anomalous system or network activity.
    • Secure Development Practices
      • Using secure software and hardware development practices aligned with the NIST Secure Software Development Framework (SSDF).
• Review and Implementation by FAR Council
  • Within 180 days of receiving recommendations, the FAR Council will review and amend the FAR as needed, ensuring compliance with applicable law.
• Study and Inventory of Space Ground Systems
  • Within 120 days, the National Cyber Director must submit a study to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) on space ground systems owned, managed, or operated by Federal Civilian Executive Branch (FCEB) agencies. The study must include:
    • A comprehensive inventory of space ground systems.
    • Classification of systems under ‘major information systems’ per 44 U.S.C. 3505(c).
    • Recommendations to enhance cybersecurity defenses and oversight of these systems.
• Ensuring Compliance with Cybersecurity Requirements
  • Within 90 days of the study's submission, the Director of OMB must ensure that FCEB agency space ground systems comply with relevant cybersecurity standards.

This framework highlights a structured approach to enhance the cybersecurity of U.S. space systems, addressing command and control, anomaly detection, secure development, and compliance oversight.

Looking Ahead: The Order’s Future
The trajectory of this executive order will depend on the priorities of the new administration. While bipartisan agreement on the importance of cybersecurity suggests its foundational elements will persist, updates may be introduced to address evolving threats and technologies.

Lessons for Europe

The U.S. executive order highlights key strategies Europe can adopt to secure its space infrastructure. Continuous assessment and adaptive resilience, such as regular cybersecurity testing and simulations, ensure systems remain operational in contested environments. A tiered, risk-based approach to cybersecurity, focusing on high-risk systems, can help Europe allocate resources effectively while ensuring robust protections like encrypted commands and unauthorized access prevention.

Supply chain security is another critical lesson, as Europe’s reliance on global components necessitates stringent reviews to prevent vulnerabilities. Adopting a unified regulatory framework across EU member states would enhance consistency and resilience in European space systems, strengthening their defense against evolving cyber threats. It remains to be seen whether the proposed EU Space Act will include such cybersecurity requirements and safeguards against the increasing number of cyber threats.

Conclusion
This executive order represents a significant step in safeguarding U.S. cybersecurity, with a strong emphasis on space systems. As leadership transitions, a sustained focus on cybersecurity will be critical to protecting vital infrastructure from emerging threats. Stakeholders in the space sector are encouraged to stay informed and actively engage with evolving policies to ensure alignment with security goals.

For further details, the full text of the executive order is available on the White House website. For continuous updates on space-related cybersecurity, visit spacetech.law. If you seek legal advice, you may consult a lawyer from DLA Piper’s Space Exploration and Innovation group.

As a DIY guy and hobby carpenter in love with wood I was fascinated reading about the first wooden satellite that made it to space and even to the ISS! Here are my thoughts:

A New Chapter in Sustainable Space Technology
The world’s first wooden satellite, LignoSat, arrived at the International Space Station (ISS) on November 5, 2024. This innovative project, developed by researchers at Kyoto University in partnership with Sumitomo Forestry, marks a significant step in sustainable satellite technology. LignoSat’s unassuming 4-inch / 10 cm cubical form may appear modest, but it represents a bold experiment in reducing the environmental impact of satellite technology.

The Environmental Drawbacks of Traditional Satellites
Modern satellites are typically made of metal alloys like aluminum, which, while strong and durable, have environmental costs. When conventional satellites complete their life cycles and re-enter Earth’s atmosphere, they burn up, releasing aluminum oxides. These particles can impact Earth’s thermal balance and damage the ozone layer. As more satellites are launched, particularly with the rise of massive constellations like SpaceX's Starlink, concerns over their environmental footprint have intensified.

The Advantages of Wood and its Surprising Durability in Space
Wooden satellites could offer a cleaner alternative. By using wood, LignoSat’s creators aim to reduce the release of harmful substances upon atmospheric re-entry. The research team ultimately selected magnolia wood due to its strength, dimensional stability, and ease of handling.

The idea of sending a wooden structure into space might seem counterintuitive, but recent tests have shown that wood can withstand the rigors of the space environment. The LignoSat project began in April 2020, with Kyoto University researchers and Sumitomo Forestry subjecting various wood samples to simulated conditions of low Earth orbit. These samples were launched to the ISS and exposed to the vacuum of space for ten months. The results were surprising: the wood showed no cracking, warping, or surface damage, even after exposure to extreme temperatures and cosmic radiation.

Next steps - The Journey of LignoSat
After arriving at the ISS on November 5, 2024, LignoSat will soon be deployed from the Kibo module to test its performance in orbit. Over the next six months, the satellite’s onboard sensors will monitor temperature and structural strain, transmitting this data back to Earth. This trial period will provide crucial insights into the feasibility of wood in space and assess how it interacts with atomic oxygen and radiation.

If LignoSat’s test mission succeeds, it could spark a new wave of eco-friendly satellite technology. Wooden satellites promise a range of benefits: they are cheaper, easier to produce, and fully burn up upon re-entry without leaving harmful residues. For Earth-bound satellites that inevitably end up in the atmosphere, wooden materials could mean a cleaner re-entry and a reduced environmental footprint.

Towards a More Sustainable Space Exploration
LignoSat’s journey isn’t just about testing a new material; it is about rethinking our approach to technology and sustainability in space. Wooden satellites could be one solution to the growing issue of orbital pollution, offering an eco- and Earth-friendly alternative to non-renewable resources. If LignoSat’s trial is successful, we could be entering an era where wooden satellites orbit Earth, marking a unique milestone in sustainable usage of outer space.

Keep watching this space - perhaps I will post my own wooden satellite one day!

Credits: All photos from https://www.nanosats.eu/sat/lignosat with further references.

[German version below]

Baden-Württemberg, known as the "Ländle" or more recently "The Länd," has established itself as a leading aerospace hub. With its new strategy, the state aims to expand its strengths in research and industry, with a focus on sustainability, digitalization, and cooperation to ensure both national and international competitiveness. Around 16,000 employees generate over €5 billion in the aerospace sector. The region stands out with its robust research infrastructure and specialized supplier industry, fostering innovation in areas like lightweight construction and object positioning.

Future Concept: Digitalization, Sustainability, Cooperation
The strategic plan emphasizes three pillars: digital transformation, sustainable technologies, and increased cooperation between industry and research. The goal is to support innovative business models and advance climate-neutral technologies.

Aviation: Innovations for the Future
Baden-Württemberg is investing in the development of eco-friendly propulsion systems and test areas for future-oriented aircraft, such as hydrogen-powered planes and eVTOLs (electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft). The University of Stuttgart and the H2STR Excellence Center at Stuttgart Airport are driving forward hydrogen technology development.

Space: Sustainability and New Space
The IRAS project supports agile development methods for SMEs, while the Green Space Center and collaborations with startups like HyImpulse promote innovative approaches to sustainable space exploration. The focus is on using satellite-based services for environmental protection and climate monitoring and reducing space debris. Satellite constellations also open new opportunities in areas like autonomous driving and space-enabled vehicles, where the strategy aims to build internationally competitive products.

Ecosystem: Supporting Startups and Cross-Industry Networking
Through initiatives like Start-up BW and the ESA Business Incubation Centre, the state supports innovative aerospace startups. A new event series, "BW Space meets," will foster collaboration with other industries, further establishing Baden-Württemberg as a high-tech hub.

Cutting-Edge Research and International Reach
Baden-Württemberg combines high-tech industry with excellent research. Universities like the University of Stuttgart and institutes of the German Aerospace Center (DLR) play a key role in education and research, positioning the region as an internationally significant location. Innovations in urban air mobility and hydrogen technology are critical competitive advantages. The state promotes creative research ideas and the establishment of an excellence center for hydrogen-electric aviation.

Specific Measures for the Space Sector

1. Agile Technology Development – Continuation of the IRAS Project
   Baden-Württemberg focuses on agile technology development through the IRAS project, promoting collaboration between industry and research. This project offers SMEs affordable, innovative space solutions through partnerships with the University of Stuttgart and other research institutions.
2. Sustainable Space as a Quality Mark
   Baden-Württemberg aims to take a leading role in sustainable space exploration with several planned projects:
   1. Launch Vehicles Made from Sustainable Paraffin: Startup HyImpulse is developing a rocket fueled by eco-friendly paraffin, supported by the state to create a cost-effective, climate-friendly rocket.
   2. Green Space Center: A "Green Space Center" will be established to promote satellite-based services for environmental and climate protection, supporting ecological and social projects and positioning Baden-Württemberg as a pioneer in sustainable space technology.
   3. University Research – Sustainable Space 2050: At the University of Stuttgart, new concepts for sustainable orbital technologies and debris management will be developed, focusing on satellite protection and space debris reduction.
3. Supporting Startups through Start-up BW
   As part of the Start-up BW campaign, the state supports startups developing new applications based on satellite data. These programs promote innovative business models in areas such as climate protection, autonomous driving, and cybersecurity.
4. Strengthening Cross-Industry Collaboration
   The space sector will be more closely linked with other industries through the "BW Space meets" network, promoting knowledge transfer and advancing new product and service development in Baden-Württemberg.

The full strategy paper is available at https://www.theaerospacelaend.de.

German version:

THE aerospace LÄND – Die Luft- und Raumfahrtstrategie des Landes Baden-Württemberg

Baden-Württemberg, auch bekannt als "Ländle" oder neuerdings als "The Länd", hat sich als führender Standort für Luft- und Raumfahrt etabliert und will mit der neuen Strategie seine Stärken in Forschung und Industrie weiter ausbauen. Ziel ist es, die Branche nachhaltig, digital und kooperativ zu gestalten, um sowohl nationale als auch internationale Wettbewerbsfähigkeit zu sichern. Rund 16.000 Beschäftigte erwirtschaften über 5 Milliarden Euro in der Space Branche. Die Region zeichnet sich durch eine starke Forschungsinfrastruktur und eine spezialisierte Zulieferindustrie aus. Forschungsthemen wie Leichtbau und Objektpositionierung fördern Innovationen.

Zukunftskonzept: Digitalisierung, Nachhaltigkeit, Kooperation
Das Strategiepapier setzt auf drei Säulen: digitale Transformation, nachhaltige Technologien und eine verstärkte Kooperation zwischen Industrie und Forschung. So sollen innovative Geschäftsmodelle gefördert und klimaneutrale Technologien vorangetrieben werden.

Luftfahrt: Innovationen für die Zukunft
Baden-Württemberg investiert in die Erforschung klimafreundlicher Antriebe und in Testfelder für zukunftsweisende Luftfahrzeuge wie Wasserstoff-Flugzeuge und eVTOLs (senkrecht startende Lufttaxis). Die Universität Stuttgart und das Exzellenzzentrum H2STR am Flughafen Stuttgart treiben die Entwicklung von Wasserstofftechnologien voran.

Raumfahrt: Nachhaltigkeit und New Space
Das Projekt IRAS unterstützt agile Entwicklungsmethoden für KMUs, während das Green Space-Zentrum und Kooperationen wie mit dem Start-up HyImpulse innovative Ansätze in der nachhaltigen Raumfahrt fördern. Der Fokus liegt auf der Nutzung von satellitenbasierten Diensten für Umwelt- und Klimaschutz sowie der Reduzierung von Weltraummüll. Die Nutzung von Satellitenkonstellationen bietet für New Space Unternehmen aber auch etablierte Unternehmen neue Möglichkeiten, etwa in den Bereichen Autonomes Fahren und space enabled vehicle. Ziel der Strategie is es, hierauf aufbauend international wettbewerbsfähige Produkte zu entwickeln.

Ökosystem: Unterstützung für Start-ups und branchenübergreifende Vernetzung
Durch Initiativen wie Start-up BW und das ESA Business Incubation Centre fördert das Land innovative Start-ups in der Raumfahrtbranche. Eine neue Veranstaltungsreihe "BW Space meets" soll die Zusammenarbeit mit anderen Branchen stärken und Baden-Württemberg als Hightech-Standort weiter etablieren.

Spitzenforschung und Internationalität: Baden-Württemberg verbindet Hightech-Industrie mit exzellenter Forschung. Universitäten wie die Universität Stuttgart und Institute des Deutschen Zentrums für Luft- und Raumfahrt (DLR) sind zentrale Akteure in der Ausbildung und Forschung und positionieren Baden-Württemberg als einen international bedeutenden Standort. Innovationen in Urban Air Mobility und Wasserstofftechnologien sind entscheidende Wettbewerbsvorteile. Das Land fördert kreative Forschungsideen und den Aufbau eines Exzellenzzentrums für wasserstoffelektrische Luftfahrt.

Spezifische Maßnahmen für die Raumfahrt:

1. Agile Technologieentwicklung – IRAS-Projekt fortführen
   Baden-Württemberg setzt auf die agile Technologieentwicklung im Rahmen des Projekts IRAS, das eine Zusammenarbeit zwischen Industrie und Forschung fördert. Dieses Projekt bietet kleinen und mittelständischen Unternehmen (KMUs) Zugang zu kostengünstigen und innovativen Raumfahrtlösungen durch Kooperationen mit der Universität Stuttgart und anderen Forschungseinrichtungen.
2. Nachhaltige Raumfahrt als Qualitätssiegel
   Baden-Württemberg will eine führende Rolle im Bereich nachhaltiger Raumfahrt einnehmen und plant mehrere Projekte:
   1. Trägerraketen aus nachhaltigem Paraffin: Das Start-up HyImpulse entwickelt eine Rakete mit umweltfreundlichem Paraffin als Treibstoff. Das Projekt wird vom Land gefördert, um eine kostengünstige und klimafreundliche Rakete zu realisieren.
   2. Zentrum für Green Space: Ein "Zentrum für Green Space Baden-Württemberg" wird aufgebaut, um satellitenbasierte Dienste für Umwelt- und Klimaschutz zu fördern. Die Initiative unterstützt ökologische und gesellschaftliche Projekte und positioniert Baden-Württemberg als Vorreiter nachhaltiger Raumfahrt.
   3. Universitäre Forschung – Nachhaltige Raumfahrt 2050: An der Universität Stuttgart sollen neue Konzepte für nachhaltige Orbitaltechnologien und der Umgang mit Weltraummüll entwickelt werden. Diese Forschung adressiert den Schutz von Satelliten und die Vermeidung von Weltraumschrott.
3. Förderung von Start-ups unter Start-up BW
   Im Rahmen der Landeskampagne Start-up BW werden Start-ups unterstützt, die neue Anwendungen auf Basis von Satellitendaten entwickeln. Diese Programme fördern innovative Geschäftsmodelle in den Bereichen Klimaschutz, autonomes Fahren und Cybersicherheit.
4. Zusammenarbeit mit anderen Branchen stärken
   Die Raumfahrtbranche wird durch das Netzwerk "BW Space meets" stärker mit anderen Branchen verknüpft. Dies soll den Wissenstransfer fördern und die Entwicklung neuer Produkte und Dienstleistungen in Baden-Württemberg vorantreiben.

Das Strategiepapier ist auf https://www.theaerospacelaend.de abrufbar.

At the recent Munich New Space Summit, I had the pleasure of meeting Evgeny Onutchin from Spacefood, a Berlin-based startup bringing an exciting twist to space nutrition. Spacefood is transforming the concept of astronaut meals, creating food that’s not only packed with essential nutrients but also tastes delicious—a rare feat for space-ready nutrition. Designed for the rigors of space travel, their meals are equally appealing here on Earth, offering a convenient, healthy option for anyone with a busy lifestyle or a taste for innovation. This innovative venture is redefining what we imagine when we think of “space food,” bringing delicious and highly nutritious food options that are as appealing on Earth as they are essential in space.

Spacefood has taken on the challenge of creating convenient, tasty food designed to nourish astronauts on long missions, but they’re equally enjoyable on Earth. Each product in their range is packed with balanced nutrients, offering a delicious, easy-to-consume, and science-backed meal option for anyone who values health and convenience—whether you’re an adventurer, a busy professional, or a dedicated space enthusiast.

Their Extra Stellar Mix includes everything you need for another late night shift, be it in the office or on board of a space craft.

This young startup is at a crucial juncture in its journey and is seeking €500,000 in funding to propel its business to the next level. This investment will allow Spacefood to expand its research, enhance production, and scale distribution to meet growing demand. Supporting companies like Spacefood is crucial for fostering innovation within the space industry and pushing the boundaries of human endurance and nutrition.

If you’re curious to try Spacefood’s offerings or even consider supporting their mission, check them out at getspacefood.com.

Credits: Header Image by Ola Liola via Spacefood

Building upon its Space Strategy released in 2023, the German government recently shared their initiative (in German) to create a dedicated Space Act (Weltraumgesetz, or WRG), identifying six key areas in their Key Points of the Federal Government for a Space Act (Eckpunkte der Bundesregierung für ein Weltraumgesetz) of 4 September 2024 (published in German only). The proposed German Space Act shall address the expanding role of private actors in space and the need for a legal and regulatory framework to manage non-governmental space activities. Driven by international obligations under treaties like the Outer Space Treaty, the Registration Convention, and the Liability Convention, Germany seeks to oversee these activities, ensuring their compliance with public safety, national security, and environmental standards. Currently, Germany, as many other states, lacks legal means to control or intervene in private space activities effectively. The purpose of a German Space Act would be to establish such means and to shield Germany from liability vis-à-vis other countries for damages in space caused by private actors acting within the German territory or under German control.

The six key areas identified by the German government can be summarized as follows:

1. Scope of Application: The German Space Act shall apply to all space activities undertaken by German citizens, companies, and organizations operating within German territory or using German-registered vehicles, except for certain government-affiliated and international projects. This scope covers civilian and commercial space activities, ensuring that operations do not threaten public safety, order, or national defense.
2. Licensing Requirement: Any German entity involved in space operations must obtain a license under the German Space Act. This includes meeting criteria around operator reliability, public safety measures, and adherence to sustainability practices. Licensing will also require evidence of effective operational controls and accountability, enabling the German government to mitigate risks associated with space activities.
3. Liability and Insurance: The German Space Act introduces a financial accountability mechanism for private operators. Operators must secure liability insurance or a financial guarantee to cover potential damages Germany may be liable for under international agreements. The proposed liability of private actors includes a liability cap based on the operator's revenue and excludes public and research-based organizations from liability unless in cases of intentional or gross negligence.
4. Monitoring and Enforcement: The German Space Act shall provide for continuous monitoring of space activities to ensure compliance with national and international obligations. Authorities will have the power to enforce regulations to prevent risks to public safety, national defense, and environmental sustainability. The government may require operators to prioritize resources for national security in cases of emergency.
5. Registration of Space Objects: Space objects launched by German entities must be registered in accordance with the Registration Convention. This provision ensures transparency and traceability of objects in orbit, essential for international accountability and coordination.
6. Implementation and Execution: The German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (Bundesministerium für Wirtschaft und Klimaschutz, BMWK) will oversee the implementation of the Space Act, potentially involving organizations like the German Aerospace Center (Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt, DLR) to assist with specific tasks. A coordinated approach across governmental departments will streamline licensing and regulatory compliance, integrating relevant stakeholders into the decision-making process.

The proposed legislation also encourages innovation by making compliance more accessible for start-ups, scale-ups, and SMEs in the space sector. Recognizing potential future EU legislation on space, namely the EU Space Act initiative, Germany’s initiative for its own Space Act remains open to alignment with broader European policies, emphasizing both national and international cooperation in upholding environmental and operational standards in space activities.

In fact, the legislative initiative for an EU Space Act, due to the limited competencies of the EU institutions, which is based on, among others, the EU's focus on the single market and the subsidiarity principle, will likely have a limited scope and, for example, not cover local licensing requirements, liability and insurance, or national security.

Credits: Photo by Patrick Hendry / Unsplash

Ever wondered how far away the Kármán line really is and if it is possible to travel from earth to space in an orbital lift?

Neal Agarwal made a beautiful website which is fun to use and educational - check out his Space Elevator.

Credits: AI generated image

This is Space | Tech | Law, a brand new site by Holger A. Kastler that's just getting started. Things will be up and running here shortly.