Applied Research

Space Technologies

Analysis of space debris mitigation, satellite governance, and sustainable space utilization to ensure responsible development and use of outer space.

Research Overview

The Space Technologies research area examines the environmental, resource, and governance dimensions of human activities in outer space. As space becomes increasingly accessible and utilized for various purposes, understanding how to ensure sustainable and responsible use becomes essential for preserving this shared domain for future generations.

Our research in this area spans technical approaches, governance frameworks, and sustainability principles, with a particular focus on:

  • Space Debris Mitigation: Developing approaches to reduce the creation of space debris and manage existing debris, ensuring the long-term usability of orbital space.
  • Satellite Governance: Exploring frameworks for coordinating satellite activities and managing orbital resources, including spectrum allocation and collision avoidance.
  • Environmental Impacts: Examining how space activities affect both the space environment and Earth's environment, including launch emissions and atmospheric effects.
  • Sustainable Space Utilization: Developing principles and practices for using space in ways that preserve its accessibility and utility for future generations.

Current Projects

Space Debris Mitigation Framework

Development of technical approaches and policy frameworks for reducing the creation of space debris and managing existing debris, with a focus on practical implementation.

Satellite Coordination Initiative

Research on frameworks for coordinating satellite activities and managing orbital resources, including spectrum allocation, collision avoidance, and information sharing.

Space Environmental Impact Assessment

Development of methodologies for assessing the environmental impacts of space activities, both on the space environment and Earth's environment.

Sustainable Space Principles

A collaborative project developing principles and practices for sustainable space utilization, drawing on input from diverse stakeholders.

Research Methodology

Our research in this area employs a multidisciplinary approach, combining:

  • Technical Analysis: Examination of space technologies and their capabilities, limitations, and environmental impacts, drawing on expertise in aerospace engineering and space science.
  • Policy Research: Analysis of existing and potential governance frameworks for space activities, including international treaties, national regulations, and industry standards.
  • Environmental Assessment: Evaluation of the environmental impacts of space activities, using methodologies adapted from terrestrial environmental impact assessment.
  • Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborative work with diverse stakeholders including space agencies, industry, researchers, and civil society to develop inclusive governance approaches.

Featured Publication

Space Debris Mitigation: Technical Approaches and Policy Frameworks

This comprehensive report provides a systematic overview of approaches to space debris mitigation, examining both technical methods and policy frameworks, with recommendations for strengthening mitigation efforts.

Read the report