Today, the European Commission has proposed the EU Space Act, a new set of measures to enhance the safety, resilience, and environmental responsibility of Europe’s space sector while boosting competitiveness. The current fragmented rules hinder innovation, increase costs, and reduce market share. A harmonized framework will support companies in expanding across borders.

The EU Space Act aims to cut red tape, protect space assets, and create a fair, predictable environment for businesses.

The proposal is built on three pillars:

• Safety: With over 11,000 satellites currently in orbit and an additional 50,000 expected to launch in the next decade, the risk of collisions is increasing due to space debris. The EU Space Act will enhance tracking of space objects and mandate safe disposal of satellites.
• Resilience: As space becomes more contested, the Act will require all space operators to perform risk assessments and implement cybersecurity measures to protect against potential threats.
• Sustainability: The Act will establish common rules for measuring environmental impacts to support the EU’s sustainability goals and encourage innovation in reducing space debris.

These new rules will apply to both EU and non-EU operators, ensuring a consistent regulatory environment that supports industry growth. The Commission will also provide support for start-ups and SMEs to help them navigate these regulations.

For further details, you can explore the EU Space Act and the Vision for the European Space Economy.