The EU is acting on its space ambitions by tabling two initiatives - a proposal for a Regulation on a space-based secure connectivity and a Joint Communication on an EU approach on Space Traffic Management (STM). Space technology is essential for facilitating our daily lives, contributing to a more digital, green and resilient future for our planet.

Space-based secure connectivity

In today's digital world, space-based connectivity is a strategic asset for EU's resilience. It enables our economic power, digital leadership and technological sovereignty, competitiveness and societal progress. The Commission is thus putting forward an ambitious plan for an EU space-based secure communication system that will:

• Ensure the long-term availability of worldwide uninterrupted access to secure and cost-effective satellite communication services. It will support the protection of critical infrastructures, surveillance, external actions, crisis management and applications that are critical for Member States' economy, security and defence;

• Allow for the provision of commercial services by the private sector that can enable access to advanced, reliable and fast connections to citizens and businesses across Europe, including in communication dead zones ensuring cohesion across Member States.
•  

Space Traffic Management (STM)

With an exponential increase in the number of satellites in orbit due to new developments in reusable launchers, small satellites and private initiatives in space, the resilience and safety of EU and Member States' space assets are essential.

In particular, the EU approach focuses on four elements:

• Assessing the STM civilian and military requirements and impacts for the EU;
• Strengthening our technological capability to identify and track  spacecraft and space debris;
• Setting out the appropriate normative and legislative framework;
• Establishing international partnerships on STM and engaging at a multilateral level.

The goal is to develop concrete initiatives, including operations and legislation, to promote the safe, secure and sustainable use of space while preserving the EU's strategic autonomy and industry‘s competitiveness.