IAA Space Debris & Sustainability Conference to be Held at The University of Hong Kong
7 October 2024
Fostering Global Collaboration on Space Debris Mitigation and Sustainability
Hong Kong, 7 October 2024 – The International Academy of Astronautics (IAA) Space Debris & Sustainability Conference, co-hosted by EPFL and The University of Hong Kong’s Laboratory for Space Research (HKU-LSR), will take place at HKU’s main campus from 2 – 4 December 2024.
EPFL, based in Lausanne, Switzerland, is one of the two prestigious Swiss Federal Institutes of Technology. It specialises in natural sciences and engineering, offering cutting-edge education and research opportunities. With a vibrant community of over 10,000 students, EPFL is renowned for its innovation and excellence in various scientific disciplines.
The LSR is strategically positioned in Asia to foster connections with the global space science community, particularly in China. The LSR engages in interdisciplinary research, leveraging emerging Mainland funding and research opportunities to advance space science. By developing strategic partnerships with leading space science institutes and participating in high-impact international missions, the LSR aims to establish itself as a key hub of knowledge and expertise in space science and related disciplines.
This pivotal event will bring together leading experts and stakeholders to discuss critical issues related to space situational awareness, debris mitigation, and the international regulation of low Earth orbit (LEO).
Key Highlights:
- Official IAA Endorsement: The conference is officially endorsed by the International Academy of Astronautics (IAA), offering discounts for IAA academicians. The IAA is non-government organisation based in Paris, dedicated to promoting the development of astronautics for peaceful purposes. It has approximately 1,200 members from around the world.
- TCTB Group Partnership: In collaboration with the Three Countries Trusted Broker (TCTB) group, the conference will address space debris concerns by coordinating efforts between China, Russia, and the U.S. A half-day meeting will follow the conference.
- Keynote Introduction: Aarti Holla-Maini, the Director of the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA), will deliver the keynote introduction.
Why Attend?
This conference provides a platform for in-depth discussions on space situational awareness, debris mitigation, and the international regulation of LEO. Hong Kong’s unique position as an East-West nexus enhances the diversity and impact of the discourse.
Who Should Attend?
Policymakers, astrophysicists, engineers and technologists, legal experts, environmental scientists, industry professionals, and space enthusiasts from around the world will gather in Hong Kong to discuss this critical topic.
- Students: Gain insights into the latest advancements in space technology and policy, and explore potential career paths in the burgeoning space industry.
- Lawyers: Understand the evolving legal frameworks governing space activities and how they impact international law and commercial practices.
- Policy Researchers: Delve into the policy challenges and opportunities presented by space activities, and contribute to shaping sustainable and effective space governance.
- Professionals and Enthusiasts: Whether you’re already in the space sector or simply curious about its future, this conference offers valuable knowledge and networking opportunities.
We aim to bring together the brightest minds in space exploitation, sustainability, and technology for this crucial discussion. This multi-day conference is designed for those passionate about the future of space and maintaining a usable low-Earth orbit environment.
UNOOSA Director, Ms. Aarti Holla-Maini said, “Satellite solutions underpin our daily lives, from weather forecasts and global navigation to terrestrial communications and disaster mitigation. Space sustainability is critical to ensuring the continued availability of all these services on Earth as well as in our quest to explore beyond the earth’s orbit. Gatherings such as the IAA Space Sustainability Conference bring together diverse stakeholders to leverage international cooperation, inform of the UN’s work in this field and build needed support for collective action at the multilateral level.”
Prof. Olivier Contant, Executive Director of the International Academy of Astronautics, Paris, said, “As we venture into a new chapter of space exploration, our responsibility now extends beyond Earth. Just as we’ve embraced sustainability here, it’s critical to act decisively to preserve the space environment.”
Prof. Contant added, “The IAA has long led efforts to raise awareness about space debris, and we are proud to continue driving this important global conversation. This conference offers a unique platform for the international space community to collaborate and find innovative solutions, ensuring that space remains a safe and accessible frontier for all. With world-renowned institutions like the University of Hong Kong and EPFL co-hosting, we have a tremendous opportunity to unite diverse perspectives and expertise to address this global challenge together.”
Ms. Isabelle Mauro, Director General of the Global Satellite Operators Association (GSOA), highlighted the importance of responsible satellite operations, stating, “Satellites in all orbits deliver vital connectivity and high throughput broadband services. While they offer great promises in bridging the digital divide, they must be launched, deployed, operated and disposed of in a responsible manner. Cooperation and dialogue between key stakeholders is key so that we can make informed decision in this important area”
Dr. Anthony Neoh, SC JP, Co-Chair of the Asian Academy of International Law, emphasised the importance of this gathering, stating, “Space debris poses a threat to our planet’s sustainability. China is one of the world’s leading space-faring nations. As a crucial link in the international dialogue for ensuring prosperity, Hong Kong plays a special role in highlighting sustainability concerns to the country’s Space Authorities and our global audience.”
Dr. Neoh added, “Participation in this conference offers a unique opportunity to share your perspectives and engage with leading figures in the field, fostering impactful change together.”
Prof. Jean-Paul Kneib, conference co-chair and Executive Director of ESC – Space Innovation, Switzerland, said, “With the development of new large constellation, the space sustainability topic is becoming acute and need to be addressed. Outer space is part of the tragedy of the commons, and by a global discussion and cooperation we can mitigate the crowding of the space orbits.”
Prof. Kneib added, “This meeting aims to make further steps in this needed cooperation. ”
Dr. Gregg Li, Executive director of the Orion Astropreneur Space Academy (OASA), added, “OASA is proud to be a local co-organiser of the December conference because it addresses the timely and relevant topic of space debris and sustainability. Our recent SpaceBiz Dialogues event in August featured Prof. Quentin Parker and Dr. Meng Su, highlighting both the opportunities and risks in pursuing NewSpace ventures.
Dr. Li added,” This conference underscored the critical need for innovative solutions to address the growing issue of space debris, while also revealing new commercial opportunities in space debris removal.”
Prof. Quentin Parker, conference co-chair and Director of HKU’s Laboratory for Space Research, added, “We believe this conference can move the dial forward on this existential issue of the viability of the Low Earth Orbit ecosystem, where thousands of satellites make modern life possible. International cooperation and regulation are essential to safeguard this critical environment for us all.”
Prof. Parker added, “We look forward to welcoming you to Hong Kong for this significant event.”
Key Dates:
Conference Dates: 2-4 December 2024
Find out more about the IAA Space Debris & Sustainability Conference at
https://iaaspace.org/event/space-debris-and-sustainability-conference/
For further inquiries, please contact us at ssclsr@hku.hk or complete the enquiry form: https://shorturl.at/fC2KA.
About the International Academy of Astronautics (IAA)
The International Academy of Astronautics (IAA) is a premier global organisation dedicated to fostering the development of astronautics for peaceful purposes. Established in 1960, the IAA brings together experts from around the world to collaborate on space research, technology, and policy. With a mission to promote international cooperation and the advancement of space science, the IAA plays a crucial role in addressing global challenges related to space exploration and sustainability. Find out more at https://iaaspace.org/.
About EPFL
EPFL, located in Lausanne, Switzerland, is one of the two prestigious Swiss Federal Institutes of Technology. It specialises in natural sciences and engineering, offering cutting-edge education and research opportunities. With a vibrant community of over 10,000 students, EPFL is renowned for its innovation and excellence in various scientific disciplines. Find out more at https://www.epfl.ch/.
About the Orion Astropreneur Space Academy
Based in Hong Kong, Orion Astropreneur Space Academy (OASA) is dedicated to providing a platform for aspiring astropreneurs, aiming to bridge the gap between groundbreaking ideas and commercial success. One of OASA’s flagship events is the monthly SpaceBiz Dialogues, which brings together industry leaders, investors, and startups to discuss the latest trends and opportunities in the space sector.
These monthly talks cater to an academic and professional audience, covering topics such as Smart Cities, Space Asset Leasing, Space Food, Low-Altitude Economy, Space Insurance, Space Debris, and Financing New Space Ventures. Find out more at https://www.oasahk.org/.
About The Laboratory for Space Research
The Laboratory for Space Research (LSR) at The University of Hong Kong (HKU) is strategically positioned in Asia to foster connections with the global space science community, particularly in China. The LSR engages in interdisciplinary research, leveraging emerging Mainland funding and research opportunities to advance space science. By developing strategic partnerships with leading space science institutes and participating in high-impact international missions, the LSR aims to establish itself as a key hub of knowledge and expertise in space science and related disciplines. Find out more at https://www.lsr.hku.hk/.