EU Unveils Ambitious Space Act to Revolutionize Space Industry

The European Commission has taken a significant step by introducing the EU Space Act, a comprehensive overhaul designed to unify the regulations governing its burgeoning space industry. The proposed legislation seeks to establish a single market for space services in the EU, enhancing the bloc's ability to compete with the United States and other space-faring nations.

A major focus of the Act is addressing the escalating issue of congestion in space, with millions of debris pieces encircling the Earth. To this end, the legislation requires that operators safely dispose of satellites once they reach the end of their operational life. It also emphasizes the need for robust risk assessments and cybersecurity protocols to counteract potential cyberattacks and electronic threats.

Andrius Kubilius, the EU's space and defense commissioner, underscored the transformative potential of this initiative, stating that we are on the brink of a space revolution. The Act awaits approval from the European Parliament and the EU Council before becoming law, positioning the EU at the forefront of environmentally sustainable space exploration.

(With inputs from agencies.)