The imperative of ensuring space sustainability and a safe airspace

30. June 2025, 1:10 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. (CEST)
online, Vienna, AT

This side event, held within the framework of the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS), aims to raise awareness of the risks associated with orbital debris, including re-entries, satellite collisions, and launching activities.

Organizer

Permanent Representation of Austria to the United Nations in Vienna
Permanent Mission of Canada to the International Organizations in Vienna
United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs

Content Description

There are over 11,000 satellites currently orbiting Earth, with thousands more planned for launch in the coming decades. This rapid expansion of space activities has brought unprecedented opportunities for economic growth, technological advancements, and security. However, it also raises urgent concerns regarding space sustainability and the safety of airspace management.

Governments, space agencies, and industry leaders must work together proactively to establish the operational and regulatory frameworks that ensure the long-term sustainability of outer space while maintaining the safety and security of national and global airspace.

Attendees will gain insights into current initiatives and proposals for actionable strategies regarding air and space governance within the scope of activities of the UN Office for Outer Space Affairs (OOSA), the UN Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS), and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

These efforts underscore the importance of developing a joint approach to air and space traffic coordination, enhancing preparedness, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders.

Program

Speakers

Matthew Miller - UNOOSA Office of Director, Strategic Partnerships, Communications, and Initiatives
H.E. Gabriela Sellner - Permanent Representative of Austria to the UN in Vienna
Valentin Eder - CEO Space Analyses GmbH
Sven Kaltenhäuser - DLR, Head of Department ATM Simulation
Andrea Harrington - Associate Professor and Co-Director Institute of Air and Space Law Faculty of Law McGill University
Angela Veitch - Deputy Permanent Representative of Canada to the UN in Vienna

Downloads

Event flyer (pdf, 2.09 MB)

Participant Information

Online event link

Contact Address

United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs
E-Mail: unoosa-events@un.org