Space Safety Coalition publishes updated best practices for space operations
Space diplomacy Space diplomacy UpdatesThe Space Safety Coalition has released updated Best Practices for Space Operations, emphasizing coordination between space objects to prevent collisions. Guidelines stress avoiding intentional collisions or fragmentations, promoting information exchange, considering space environment sustainability in launch choices, and prioritizing safety in mission and spacecraft design. Endorsed by 27 entities, including Airbus and Inmarsat, notable omissions are SpaceX and OneWeb.
Scientists call for global consensus on governing Earth’s orbit
Space diplomacy Space diplomacy UpdatesAn international group of scientists is urging for a global agreement to govern Earth's orbit due to the increasing number of satellites, which may reach over 60,000 by 2030. They emphasize the need for shared responsibilities among satellite producers and users, including measures from launch to disposal, and highlight the importance of considering commercial costs to promote accountability. Without immediate action, Earth's orbit could face environmental damage similar to that of the unregulated High Seas.
US Space Command publishes tenets of responsible behaviour in space
Space diplomacy Space diplomacy UpdatesUS Space Command's tenets of responsible behavior in space call for operations to be carried out considerately and professionally, limiting debris, interference, ensuring safe trajectories, and enhancing communication for domain safety. The guidelines align efforts with long-term sustainability practices, emphasizing commitment to avoiding destructive actions like antisatellite missile tests.
Nigeria and Rwanda sign Artemis Accords
Space diplomacy Space diplomacy UpdatesNigeria and Rwanda have become the first two African countries to sign the Artemis Accords, a set of nonbinding commitments aimed at promoting peaceful and safe exploration of outer space. The accords outline principles and guidelines for governing civil space activities, focusing on issues like transparency, emergency assistance, and protection of space heritage.
Gender equality in space diplomacy
Gender and diplomacy, Space diplomacy Space diplomacy UpdatesSpace diplomacy should become more gender-inclusive – from changes in the language used in space negotiations, to greater involvement of women in space diplomacy.
Moon Agreement
The Moon Agreement is an international agreement that was adopted in 1979 by the United Nations General Assembly. It is a set of principles that govern the exploration and use of outer space, including the Moon and other celestial bodies. The agreement sets out the legal framework for activities in space, including the establishment of a framework for international cooperation and the sharing of resources. It also establishes principles for the equitable and peaceful use of outer space, as well as the protection of the environment. It entered into force on 11 July 1984. The agreement states that all activities in outer space should be conducted for the benefit and in the interests of all countries and should be carried out with due regard to the corresponding interests of all other states. It also states that no country should claim sovereignty over any part of outer space, including the
