“Building a common EU approach on Space Traffic Management” – Conference with MEP Marian Jean Marinescu

Hot on the heels of the recent publication of the Joint Communication on an EU approach for Space Traffic Management (STM) on 15 February 2022, DG DEFIS presented the results of its recently finalised study on “The rise of importance of Space Traffic Management” during this hybrid event on 23 March 2022 hosted by honourable MEP Marian Jean Marinescu in the European Parliament.

The study, a Pilot Project funded by the European Parliament and carried out by Deloitte together with the Katholieke Universiteit Leuven (KUL), developed a working definition for Space Traffic Management, mapped key stakeholders on European and international levels, and set the scene for STM through a range of space activity scenarios. It also assessed the current legislative and regulatory frameworks, looked into lessons learned from air and maritime traffic management frameworks and practices, and carried out a critical review of such current frameworks and practices. It concluded with main EU policy objectives and a high-level assessment of three policy actions resulting from the Joint Communication on STM.

The study results are clear: Space activities are here to stay and will continue to increase. Stakeholders must therefore put their heads together to identify ways to keep them manageable so that access to, activities in, and return from outer space are ensured for generations to come. The study is therefore an essential building block for fostering a common understanding on the need to address the increase in space traffic and will serve as a basis for implementing the EU approach for Space Traffic Management as set out in the Joint Communication.

During the final event chaired by honourable MEP Marinescu, DG DEFIS and EEAS supported by Deloitte and KUL presented the main study results along the four avenues of the Joint STM Communication with the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) confirming the need for action in space traffic. Approximately 200 participants onsite and online then engaged in insightful discussions enquiring on details of the EU approach to STM and sharing additional elements and ideas moderated by the Fondation pour la Recherche Stratégique. During its concluding remarks, the French Presidency of the Council of the EU reiterated its strong support for the EU approach on STM and invited participants to keep the momentum going, to continue engaging in constructive discussions, and, most importantly, to work together to keep space activities manageable in the future.