Elon Musk responds to Russia’s International Space Station potential threat
Updates Science diplomacy, Space diplomacy UpdatesElon Musk assures SpaceX will intervene to prevent the International Space Station from deorbiting due to Russia's threats post-Ukraine invasion, negating the necessity of Russian support. Despite Russia's insinuations, any craft with extra fuel, like SpaceX's Dragon, can uphold the space station's orbit. This underscores that the station does not depend solely on Russian Soyuz support.
European leaders discuss region’s space ambitions
Space diplomacy UpdatesEuropean leaders recently met to discuss the region's space ambitions. They focused on improving space traffic management, enhancing connectivity through satellites, defining European space exploration policy, and deploying resources to combat climate change. A high-level advisory group was also formed to advise on space exploration and human spaceflight, with progress to be reported in November 2022.
European astronauts call on region’s leaders to accelerate space-related efforts
Space diplomacy UpdatesEuropean astronauts urge leaders to speed up space-related efforts, emphasizing the need for Europe to enhance its space capabilities in transportation and exploration. They stress the importance of Europe establishing itself as a recognized partner in global space endeavors, advocating for autonomous access to space for humans. Additionally, they call on decision-makers to empower the European Space Agency to create a comprehensive roadmap for Europe's future in space exploration.
SpaceX and risks for satellite collisions
Space diplomacy UpdatesSpaceX's second-generation constellations heighten the potential for satellite collisions, prompting calls for established regulations from organizations like the Federal Communication Commission and national regulators to manage increasing space traffic risks. China has already raised concerns about collision risks posed by SpaceX's constellations.
European Commission proposes satellite-based connectivity system and EU approach on space traffic management
Space diplomacy UpdatesThe European Commission has introduced a €6 billion proposal for a secure satellite communication system and an approach for space traffic management to enhance Europe's digital resilience and space sustainability.
SpaceX loses satellites in a geomagnetic storm
Space diplomacy UpdatesSpaceX lost 40 out of 49 Starlink satellites in a geomagnetic storm, causing them to reenter the Earth's atmosphere. SpaceX has launched over 2,000 Starlink satellites aiming for global internet coverage, but concerns about collisions with other satellites and disruptions to space missions have been raised by organizations like the International Astronomical Union.
Anti-monopoly action in Russia against Google (Youtube)
UpdatesRussian authorities are taking anti-monopoly action against Google's YouTube, citing non-transparent user account rules and content handling tactics as limiting competition and infringing on user interests. Google is accused of abusing its dominant position and may face a fine following an administrative investigation.
Use of Google Analytics in violation of the GDPR
Privacy and data protection UpdatesFrench and Austrian data protection agencies found Google Analytics transfers user data to the US in violation of GDPR. An evaluation is ongoing to find compliant website audience measurement tools as authorities investigate data transfers to the US impacting European users.
Meta’s Oversight Board issues policy advice on sharing private residential information
Privacy and data protection UpdatesMeta's Oversight Board advises on sharing private residential information, suggesting the removal of exceptions in privacy rules, establishing support for doxing victims, and enhancing user control over consent for sharing residential details.
Russia and China reiterate readiness to advance cooperation in ‘international information security’
Cybercrime, Cybersecurity UpdatesRussia and China reaffirm commitment to enhancing collaboration in 'international information security', emphasizing the importance of joint efforts in developing new norms and legal instruments. They support the Open-ended Working Group and the Global Initiative on Data Security, while advocating for equal rights in internet governance and rejecting limitations on their sovereign right to regulate national internet segments.