Insider Brief
- At the recent ITU Space Sustainability Forum, Aarti Holla-Maini, Director of the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs, highlighted key actions needed to ensure the long-term sustainability of space.
- The Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space’s Guidelines for the Long-Term Sustainability of Outer Space offer a binding framework when integrated into national regulations.
- Key areas of focus for UNOOSA include Active Debris Removal, On-Orbit Servicing, Data Collection, and Space Traffice Coordination.
At the recent ITU Space Sustainability Forum, Aarti Holla-Maini, Director of the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA), highlighted critical actions needed to ensure the long-term sustainability of space. As space activity grows, the need for robust governance, clear guidelines, and global cooperation becomes increasingly critical. Here are the key takeaways from Director Holla-Maini’s talk:
The Role of COPUOS in Global Space Governance
The Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) has played a crucial role in developing global space governance over the past 65 years. It has produced treaties, principles, and guidelines that provide the framework for peaceful space activities. However, as Holla-Maini emphasized, these documents are only effective if nations implement them. While a new multilateral treaty may be unrealistic, the Guidelines for the Long-Term Sustainability of Outer Space (LTS Guidelines) offer a binding framework when integrated into national regulations.
Supporting National Space Laws and Policies
UNOOSA is actively working with nations to establish clear space laws and policies. One of its main goals is to clarify complex aspects of space sustainability, such as data-sharing and conjunction assessments. By doing so, the organization aims to equip states with the necessary knowledge to make informed and effective decisions regarding space operations.
Active Debris Removal and On-Orbit Servicing
A key area of focus for UNOOSA is Active Debris Removal (ADR) and On-Orbit Servicing. These technologies are critical for mitigating the growing problem of space debris. UNOOSA is collaborating with member states to identify space objects that can be deorbited and fostering the market conditions needed to scale the ADR industry. This approach encourages private sector investment in innovative technologies to address space debris.
Data Collection and Space Traffic Coordination
Since 2019, UNOOSA has been collecting data under LTS Guideline B.1. The next step involves operationalizing this data as part of a broader effort to improve Space Traffic Coordination. This initiative is vital for ensuring that space remains a safe and sustainable environment for all stakeholders.
Building on Existing Solutions for Space Debris Management
Rather than developing entirely new solutions, COPUOS is reviewing and expanding existing guidelines for space debris management. Member states have already put forward proposals under LTS Guideline D.2, which focuses on long-term measures for managing space debris. By leveraging these solutions, COPUOS can address the growing space debris population more effectively.
A Pragmatic Approach to Space Sustainability
UNOOSA’s strategy for advancing space sustainability is both practical and comprehensive. Through COPUOS, the organization is developing new guidelines, building capacity among nations, and offering services that support the implementation of existing agreements. This multi-faceted approach ensures that space remains accessible and sustainable for future generations.
Image credit: UNOOSA
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