T013 // Expanding the Horizon of Space Sustainability

At the SATELLITE 2024 conference, a critical discussion unfolded around the pressing issue of sustainability in space. Industry leaders gathered to address the current state of space development technologies and the need for clear guidelines and leadership in the realm of space sustainability. Richard DalBello, director of the Office of Space Commerce under the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), initiated the conversation, highlighting the transition of space traffic coordination from the Defense Department to the Commerce Department for civil and commercial satellites.

The discussions at SATELLITE 2024 shed light on various aspects of space sustainability:

• Emerging Technologies: The industry is witnessing the introduction of new sustainable technologies, such as highly maneuverable spacecraft, repair ships, and refueling depots, which are set to change the dynamics of space operations.

• Leadership and Coordination: In the U.S., there is an ongoing effort to establish the Commerce Department as the new hub for space traffic coordination, which involves building a next-generation space traffic coordination system with the help of commercial partners and international allies.

• Industry Practices: Companies like Intelsat are at the forefront of implementing space sustainability practices. Intelsat's vice president of Global Government Affairs and Policy, Peter Davidson, emphasized the company's long-standing commitment to safe and productive space operations.

• Historical Perspective: The industry's approach to sustainability has evolved significantly over the past two decades, with improvements in compliance rates for satellite disposal and operational changes in Low-Earth Orbit to ensure responsible mission design and timely deorbiting of satellites.

• Changing Mindsets: The rapid development of satellite constellations like Starlink has shifted the industry's focus from merely flying satellites safely to actively considering the long-term sustainability of space activities.

The sustainability of space is a critical issue that has far-reaching implications:

• Space Traffic Management: As the number of satellites and space debris increases, effective space traffic management becomes essential to prevent collisions and ensure the safety of space operations.

• Long-Term Viability: Sustainable practices are necessary to maintain the long-term viability of space as a domain for exploration, scientific discovery, and commercial activities.

• Global Collaboration: The transition to a more sustainable space environment requires global collaboration and the establishment of international guidelines that all space-faring nations and companies can adhere to.

• Economic and Security Interests: Ensuring the sustainability of space is not only an environmental concern but also a matter of economic and security interests, as space-based technologies are integral to modern life on Earth.

In conclusion, while the space industry has made strides in adopting more sustainable practices, the journey towards a fully sustainable space environment is ongoing. The discussions at SATELLITE 2024 underscore the need for continued innovation, leadership, and international cooperation to manage and build sustainability in space effectively.