Space Traffic Management and Space Situational Awareness: The EU Perspective

Abstract

The article aims to provide a brief analysis of the EU approach on Space Traffic Management (STM), with a focus on the European Commission and the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (EC-HR) Joint Communication of 15 February 2022. After some references to the relevant international and EU legal framework, the Joint Communication will be examined, taking into account the definition of STM as well as the main policy actions and regulatory measures (a blend of binding and non-binding ones). This approach will be compared with other possible levels of intervention, such as international governance (a possible International Civil Aviation Organization - ICAO model), national law (as envisaged by the US in Space Policy Directive No. 3 of 2018) or self-regulation. The EU regulatory approach to STM seems to replicate the modus operandi adopted in other policy areas (such as climate change and digitalization). Issues concerning the legal basis of future EU secondary legislation on STM, however, cannot be overlooked. The emphasis on EU strategic autonomy and security issues linked to STM shows an increasing awareness in EU institutions of the Union’s geopolitical role. Space Traffic Management, Space Situational Awareness, European Union, Joint Communication of 15 Feb. 2022, regulatory approach, legal basis