Outer Space: Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, Scientific and Technical Subcommittee, 63rd session, 1046th meeting

Good afternoon, everyone. How was your lunch? I hope you have a nice lunch. Distinguished delegates, I now declare open the 1046th meeting of the Scientific and Technical Subcommittee of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space. Distinguished delegates, this afternoon we will continue and conclude our consideration of agenda item four on the general exchange of views. We will reopen and hopefully conclude our consideration of agenda item 15 on the GEO stationary orbit. We will then continue and hopefully also conclude our consideration of agenda item 16 on the dark and quiet sky. If time permitting, we will begin our consideration on agenda item 17 on the draft provisional agenda for the 64th session of the Scientific and Technical Subcommittee. Distinguished delegates, as you may recall, as agreed at the opening session of the subcommittee, the formal meeting of the working group on the use of nuclear power sources in outer space, originally scheduled for Tuesday morning, tomorrow on February 10th, will take place this afternoon instead of the working group of the whole. Therefore, after agenda item 16, dark and quiet sky, and agenda item 17, the dark and provisional agenda, we will suspend the plenary meeting so that the working group on the use of nuclear power sources in outer space can hold its second meeting this afternoon. Following the adjournment of the meeting of the working group, we will then come back to the plenary to proceed with the telecon presentations. This afternoon, we have six telecon presentations. Delegates are reminded that the full schedule of technical presentation is also available on the session webpage. Are there any questions or comments on this proposed schedule? I see none. Distinguished delegates, I would now like to continue our consideration of item four of our agenda on the general exchange of views. I now turn to the list of speakers. The first speaker on this afternoon on my list is the distinguished observer for Association of Space Explorers, or ASE. ASE, the floor is yours.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Distinguished Chair, Dr. Pakorn Apapan, distinguished delegates, Allow me at the outset to warmly congratulate you on your appointment as chair of the subcommittee and to express the full support of the Association of Space Explorers for the successful fulfillment of your mandate. We also wish to convey our sincere appreciation to the director of the office, Ms. Arti Holamini, for her leadership and for the continued achievements of the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs. The Association of Space Explorers, it's an international, nonprofit, professional and educational organization founded in 1985 by astronauts and cosmonauts from around the world. Since Yuri Gagarin's historic flight in 1961, 642 astronauts have flown orbital missions and 139 have conducted suborbital flights. More than 400 space travelers from 43 nations are members of the Association of Space Explorers, united by the unique experience of human spaceflight and by a shared sense of responsibility for humanity's future in outer space. ASE's vision, it's a world in which living, working, and exploring in space became as familiar to humanity as life on Earth. Our mission is to apply the unique perspective of those who have lived and worked in space to promote the global benefits of space science and exploration, strengthen international cooperation, inspire future generations, and foster responsible stewardship of our home planet. For four decades, ASC has pursued this mission through its planetary congresses, STEM education initiatives, policy engagements, publications, and participation in international forums. ASC structures its strategic engagement around three core pillars. First, STEM education and inspirational outreach. ASEE considers education and inspiration essential to the long-term sustainability of space activities. Our members engage worldwide in scholarship mentoring programs, hands-on science projects, teacher training, classroom visits, and curriculum development. Astronauts and cosmonauts represent a unique powerful source of inspiration motivating young people and educators to pursue scientific excellence, global responsibility, and peaceful international cooperation. ASC actively seeks strategic partnerships to enhance the reach, quality, and societal impact of those efforts. Second, ASC is a public policy resource. Human spaceflight is a complex long-term endeavor requiring sustained political commitment stable international frameworks and informed decision making. As access to space expands and technologies evolve, the legal, technical and ethical challenges associated with space activities continue to grow. AC offers its collective experience as an independent experience based resource to policymakers. Our members provide first hand operational, technical, medical and managerial insights into the realities of space exploration. These perspectives are particularly relevant to international cooperation, near object detection and planetary defense, astronaut health and performance, and space traffic management, including the mitigation of orbital debris risks. AC actively contributes to expert consultations, technical briefings, and collaborative initiatives at national and international levels. Third, forums for knowledge exchange and public engagement. EAC strongly believes that sustained dialogue among professionals and with the public is essential for responsible space development. We organize an annual international congress and regular technical forums that bring together experts from governmental, academic and commercial sectors. These platforms facilitate the exchange of operational experience, scientific knowledge and best practices. while also allowing us to communicate the realities, risks, and societal value of human spaceflight to a broader audience. Relevance to the work of the Scientific and Technical Subcommittee is high. AC fully supports the work of this subcommittee in advancing the peaceful, sustainable, and cooperative use of outer space. The lived experience of our members provide a human centered perspective that complements technical and legal analysis. We stand ready to contribute to discussions on long term sustainability of outer space activities, space debris mitigation, planetary defense, space situational awareness, human health in space, and the broader societal dimensions of expanding space activities. AC has already made substantive contributions to the working group on near Earth objects, and planetary defense. We are also prepared to further contribute in the fields of space traffic management and space debris mitigation, where AC maintains a dedicated working group that has developed extensive studies. In this context, we have submitted a conference room paper under agenda item 11, document number A/AC.105/C.1/2026/CRP12. ASE firmly believes that the future of space must be guided not only by technological capability, but also by responsibility, inclusiveness and long-term foresight. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

I thank the ASE representative for its statement. Thank you very much. So the next speaker on my list is the distinguished observer from European Space Agency or ESA. ESA, you have the floor.

Chair, distinguished delegates, let me express our sincere gratitude to Ulpia Elena Bottezatu of Romania for excellent readership as chair of this subcommittee. We warmly welcome you, Pakorn Apaphand of Thailand as the chair of the 63rd session. Let me also express our appreciation to the Office of Outer Space Affairs for the excellent organization of this meeting. We welcome Cote d'Ivoire, the Gambia, Honduras, Maldives, Malta and Zimbabwe as the new Member States of the Committee. In the interest of time, I will read an abbreviated statement. The full version is made available online. Chair, In March 2025, ESA published its new strategy 2040, our long-term vision guiding ESA's activities, and later in November, ESA member states convened in Bremen for our 25th Council meeting at ministerial level, where a historic budget of 22 billion euros over three years was approved. ESA is also pleased to announce that Republic of Cyprus has signed an association agreement with ESA that will enable the country to participate in ESA programs, thus further strengthening European cooperation in space. In April 2025, ESA successfully launched the Biomass satellite providing the first comprehensive global measurements of forest biomass using P-band synthetic aperture radar. ESA also launched Sentinel-1D and Sentinel-6B, strengthening the Copernicus programme's sea level monitoring and radar capabilities. The Hydro-GNSS Scout mission is now operational, complementing our broader climate observation portfolio. And our Earthcare mission, a joint project with JAXA, continues to exceed expectations with analysis indicating it could remain operational until 2034. In June 2025, the Polish project astronaut Slawosz Wisniewski launched to the International Space Station aboard Axiom Mission 4. and ESA has continued to advance key strategic capabilities at each exploration destinations in line with its Explore 2040 strategy. In November 2025, the International Space Station marked a 25 years of continuous human presence in the low Earth orbit, involving 21 ESA astronauts from 10 member states. And in September, the ESA Columbus Laboratory completed 100,000 Earth orbits and scientific and utilization activities continued on board. ESA's ground-based suborbital and space platforms supported 178 ongoing European-led high quality science projects in 2025. And furthermore, studies and technology development are underway to address capability gaps and mature early enabling technologies for future exploration missions. The first Proba-3 mission images of an artificially induced solar eclipse, a world's first achieved through precision formation flying of two spacecraft was successful last year. We also signed contracts to begin construction of Lisa, our gravitational wave observatory, marking a significant step towards detecting ripples in space-time from space. Our Euclid mission released its first comprehensive data set, advancing our understanding of dark matter and dark energy. Space safety and sustainability are among the top priority areas in ESA's strategy 2040. The space safety program encompasses ESA's activities in debris mitigation and remediation, in-orbit servicing, space weather, planetary defense and sustainability through life cycle assessment and eco-design. Numerous flagship missions are now being implemented. ESA continues to advance our zero-debris ambition to make ESA the first zero-debris space agency by 2030, while bringing the broader community along the zero-debris charter, which has now gathered more than 210 signatures. Looking to the future, we are preparing game-changing missions, developing a circular economy for space through satellite refurbishment and reuse, advancing asteroid deflection capabilities, and pioneering cislunar space surveillance and tracking. Chair, as ESA enters its next half century, we remain committed to peaceful international cooperation and using space to benefit all humanity. We look forward to continued collaboration with COPUOS member states and permanent observers and invite interested delegations to engage with us on shared priorities. Thank you, Chair.

I thank the distinguished observer. from Isa for her presentation, for her statement. The next speaker on my list is the distinguished relative of, sorry, European Space Agency, I'm sorry, Secure World Foundation, SWF.

Mr. Chair, distinguished colleagues and observers, on behalf of the Secure World Foundation, I appreciate this opportunity to present an update on the Foundation's work since February 2025 in support of the aims of the Science, Civic, and Technical Subcommittee. Secure World Foundation focuses activities in three primary themes. The first is ensuring the long-term sustainability of outer space activities. The second is fostering the development of sound policy for space and law. And the third is enhancing the use of space technology and international cooperation to support human and environmental security on Earth. In October, 2025, Secure World Foundation organized the seventh summit for space sustainability in Paris, France. We thank our co-hosts, the Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales, CNES, and the government of France for the successful collaboration and co-organization of this event. This policy forum was attended in person and online by over 500 participants. Key themes included debris mitigation and removal, space traffic coordination, atmospheric impacts of space activities, and the economics of space sustainability. Recordings of all sessions are available free of charge on the conference website and on Secure World Foundation's YouTube channel. Today, I'm also pleased to highlight that in 2026, the eighth Summit for Space Sustainability will be held at the Museu Nacional de Republica in Brasilia, Brazil, on November 4th and 5th, co-hosted with the Brazilian Space Agency. We would like to take this opportunity to extend an invitation to all delegations to join us in Brazil for this event, which will focus on topics relevant to this subcommittee. More detailed themes will be announced soon and will be available on the event website. I'd also like to take this opportunity to remind delegations of our various publications, including our updated Handbook for New Actors in Space, a guidebook that provides up-to-date information on the existing legal frameworks, national regulation and policy, and operational best practices for safe and sustainable space activities. We have also updated the COPUOS briefing book, a comprehensive guide to the history and current work of COPUOS and its two subcommittees. Both publications are available for free in electronic form on our website, and our delegation has also had a small number of printed copies available for distribution here at this session, in English and in several translated versions. Since the last session of STSC, we have continued our efforts to address and improve space situational data sharing and collaboration. In order to contribute to the important work of the expert group on space situational awareness, we delivered a statement under agenda item 11 that summarized all of our recent work in this area. Finally, in May 2025, Secure World Foundation submitted a statement to the GEO Global Forum 2025 to support and reinforce our support for the Group on Earth Observation Post-2025 Strategy and Work Programme. The statement commends GEO for its leadership in raising the profile of Earth observation data as an indispensable input for global development and disaster response. This statement also drew attention to the work of this subcommittee regarding the guidelines for long-term sustainability of outer space activities and other related agenda items. Mr. Chair, distinguished delegates, the Secure World Foundation looks forward to continuing our support of the subcommittee's efforts to achieve and sustain the continued peaceful uses of outer space. Thank you for your kind attention.

I thank the distinguished for the statement. The next speaker on my list is the distinguished observer for the Asia Pacific Space Cooperation Organization or APSCO. APSCO, the floor is yours.

Mr. Chair, on behalf of the Asia Pacific Space Cooperation Organization or APSCO, I congratulate you on your election as chair of this session. We commend your effective leadership in guiding the work of the 63rd STAC and note the constructive progress achieved thus far. We are confident that the session will continue to yield meaningful outcomes. We also express our sincere appreciation to the Office of UNOSA and the Secretariat for their excellent arrangements. In the past year, APSCOP keeps working closely aligned with the priority of the STSC and COPUOS, as well as the global frameworks including UN SDGs, the Sendai Framework, the Paris Agreement, and the Space 2030 Agenda. Mr. Chair, distinguished delegates, In 2025, we are continually and actively implementing programs that reflect these shared concerns. To address data gaps and respond to disaster, we continue to facilitate data sharing among member states through the ABSCO Data Sharing Service Platform, or DSSP. With generous support from CNSA, EOSDC, and CRESDA, More than 5,000 scenes of images were supported to our member states for their own interested applications. We are also expanding contributions from private sector and member states own data sources and enhancing our ABSCode disaster response mechanism to complement broader international efforts. Last year, we supported totally 96 images to Peru and Thailand to respond to flood and earthquake. For sustainable development and climate resilience, ASCO has started the second batch of DSSP application under the theme of climate change and its effect on agriculture. Focusing on the impact of climate change and agriculture and disaster risk reduction, Eight projects from each member countries have been conducted with seven projects are under implementation and one project is under feasibility study. In the field of earthquake research and early warning, ASCO is implementing phase two of the earthquake research projects, which integrates satellite and ground-based observations to study to identify earthquake precursor and signatures. To date, five magnetometers have been installed in member states. We hope that this integrated approach will contribute to improving understanding and early warning capabilities for seismic events. Regarding space debris, the Asia-Pacific Space Science Observatory project is progressing steadily. Two optical telescopes were successfully installed in China and Mongolia. In addition, a meeting on data sharing policy and operational mechanisms were held to ensure that observational data and scientific expertise are shared effectively and responsibly among member states. In 2025, we also continue our education and training framework with degree education through partnerships with universities such as Beihang University, Harbin Institute of Technology and Northwestern Polytechnic University. 29 new students have been recruited and started studying in these universities. Short-term training has reached over 200 participants from more than 16 countries through more than five specialized courses. To further advance our activities and expand resources for operation and research, APSCO has strengthened cooperation with international organizations, universities, agencies, and associations, including UNOSAT under UNITA, the International Deep Space Exploration Association, Harbin Institute of Technology, JISDA, the Mongolian Academy of Science, and others. Looking ahead, APSCO remains committed to deepening cooperation with COPUOS and UNOSA and all international partners will continue to expand priority areas aligned with the STSC's work. Chair, we are here to learn, to share and to contribute collectively to our common goals for the peaceful and sustainable use of outer space. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished observer for ESCO for the statement. The next speaker on my list is the distinguished observer for UN Economic Social Commission for Asia and Pacific, ESCAP. ESCAP, the floor is yours.

Thank you, Chair. Distinguished delegates, across Asia and Pacific, ESCAP continues to advance the operational use of the space-based data, digital innovation and capacity development to support sustainable development and strengthen national institutions' ability to integrate geospatial information into public policy and practice. Implemented under the Asia-Pacific Plan of Action on Space Applications for Sustainable Development 2018 to 2030, ESCAP's work has focused on translating increasingly available climate, weather and earth observation data into timely actionable insights. Through initiatives such as deployment of the AI-enabled tools, including the SatGPT flood risk mapping service, ESCAP is helping lower the technical barriers and democratize access to satellite-derived information. These efforts support countries in South and Southeast Asia by strengthening institutional readiness, enhancing risk knowledge, and improving the integration of space-based insights into early warning systems and disaster preparedness. ESCAP is likewise expanding regional cooperation to improve the use of space applications in priority public services. In Indonesia, ESCAP has supported AI-driven geospatial tools to improve water resource planning and flood mitigation. While in Thailand, collaborative work on AI-based water quality monitoring is enhancing data availability for local authorities and communities. Similar approaches have been extended through South-South cooperation, youth engagement, and the network of the regional space application program for sustainable development in Asia and Pacific. So in Central Asia, ESCAP is working closely with national institutions to strengthen the operational use of Earth observation and drought monitoring systems, addressing a slow onset hazard that continues to threaten agriculture, water security and livelihoods. These initiatives contribute directly to the early warning for all efforts by reinforcing monitoring, forecasting and institutional capacities. Looking ahead, ESCAP will convey the fifth ministerial conference on space applications for sustainable development in Asia Pacific from 29 to 30 October 2026 in Bangkok, Thailand. This ministerial conference will provide a strategic platform to strengthen the commitment, promote regional cooperation and showcase practical applications of space technologies for sustainable development. We warmly invite our member states in the region to join us in the important event to advance regional cooperation on space-enabled disaster risk reduction and resilience building. So ESCAP reaffirms its commitment to working with all partners to harness space technology for inclusive, sustainable, and resilient development across the region. and to continue to the implementation of the Space 2030 agenda. Thank you, Chair.

I thank the distinguished observer for ESCAP for the statement. The next speaker on my list is the distinguished observer for three country trust vocal or TCTB. TCTB, the floor is yours.

Okay. Estimated chair, distinguished delegates and members of secretariat, I'm Qian Yuan, the international marketing director of AD Moto Technology, a Chinese space company. And I speak as the representative of three country trusted broker, referred to as TCTB. For several years, TCTP has had the privilege of addressing this committee on one of the most urgent challenges facing the outer space environment, the growing population of massive derelicts in low earth orbit. This large and controlled upper stages and defunct satellites are not hypothetical risks. The technical nature of this problem is well understood. What remains unresolved is how states can act together within existing legal frameworks to address objects that create shared risks and demand cooperative solutions. Today, representing the founding partner of TCTB, Mr. Chuck Dickey, and its Russian partner, Mr. Valentin Ruberov, and the Chinese partner, Mr. Guoyu Wang, I invited interested delegations to take a practical next step Consider establishing a UN COPUAZ working group or action team to cooperatively plan and ultimately conduct a pilot mission to remediate one or more massive derelicts. This is not a proposal to create a new law, assign liability, or privilege any national approach. It is a proposal for a structured delegation-led forum operating within existing UNCOPUAZ process. to jointly explore technical options, legal pathways, operational sequencing and confidence building measures before the collision forces decisions upon us. To support this discussion, TCTB has submitted a conference room paper entitled TCTB, a policy centric adaptive governance mechanism for cooperative remediation of massive derelicts. The paper explains how the working group can operate within the current international space law framework while remaining flexible enough to adapt to technical uncertainty, political sensitivity, and differing national priorities. It also explained TCTB's proposed role, not as a decision maker, but as a neutral functional facilitator supporting delegation lead outcomes. Our governance mode is intentionally polycentric and adaptive. Polycentric because it allows multiple states and institutions to contribute without requiring uniform policies. Adaptive because it enables phased decision-making, learning through practice, and adjustment as knowledge improves. During a future ANCCOPA session, we will host a side meeting to present common principles for collaborative remediation, a phase working group work plan, and several alternatives institutions structures for your consideration. Immediately following, we will host a reception, bring together delegations, permit observers, and invited technical industry experts who would support the working group's activity to enable candid discussion and practical ordination. Distinguished delegates, for massive derelicts with many shared challenges, speed matters, but cooperation matters more than leadership. No single state can stabilize the orbital environment alone, and unilateral solutions will not resolve a shared risk. UNCOPUS has long served as the forum where shared problems and a framework and cooperative pathway emerge. A working group would allow this committee not merely to continue study the issue, but begin shaping the practical cooperative action on your terms. Let's demonstrate that UN COPUOS remains not only in a forum for dialogue, but a platform for collective action in specific space program animation before the next decision decides for us. Thank you.

I thank very much the distinguished observer for TCTB for her statement. The next speaker on my list is the distinguished Observer for Moon Village Association. Moon Village Association, the floor is yours.

Distinguished delegates, it is an honor for the Moon Village Association as an observer member to address this session of the Scientific and Technical Subcommittee. As the MVA delegation takes the floor for the first time, we would like to congratulate you as a chair of this subcommittee. Under your wise leadership, we believe that important results will be achieved in 2026. My delegation would also like to thank the excellent leadership of Dr. Ulpia Elena Botezatu as the outgoing Chair of the STC and extend his gratitude to the Director of UNOSA, Dr. Harti Holamaini, and her team for the excellent operation of this meeting. Mr. Chair, MVA is the oldest and most complete lunar organization fostering peaceful cooperation and supporting UN COPUOS. In 2025, MVA carried out many activities. I will summarize just few of them with more detail can be found in the relevant CRP A/AC.9 as well on the relevant newsletter available on the LinkedIn. MVA created the Global Expert Group of Sustainable Lunar Activity in 2021, and it is now in its operational phase, engaging over 100 experts from the world and more than 40 countries. The activities are related to lunar environmental protection, technical coordination, as well as multi-stakeholder coordination. It is important to note that given the importance of the interoperability issue, a technical presentation was held on February the third to discuss the result of the virtual workshop held last year, explain future plan and invite cooperation. GECILA is continuously providing important contribution to COPOS and its associated subcommittee and working group, including ATOL. As of this year, GEGSLA will start to provide services related to lunar technical and governance issues. Delegation and observer not yet involved are welcome to join the group and inquire for services at GEGSLA@moonvillageassociation.org. MVA together with IWA, COSPAR and IU consider urgent the issue of defining and managing lunar sites of special scientific interest to balance the scientific and commercial activity. For this reason, the Friends of SSI on the Moon has been created last year to involve national delegation in preparing the relevant decision. A joint side event meeting of this group open to all delegation took place on February the sixth. Mr. Chair, In 2025, the ninth Global Moon Village Workshop and Symposium was successfully held in Torino, Italy, hosted by the Italian Association of Aeronautics and Astronautics under the patronage of the Italian Space Agency. This event attracted participation from more than 100 individuals from all over the world. In 2026, the tenth Global Moon Village Workshop and Symposium is planned in Bangkok, Thailand, 26-27 October, alongside the Asia-Pacific Regional Space Agency Forum and Thailand Space Expo, making it one of the largest integrated space gatherings in Southeast Asia. The event is hosted by the Geo Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency, part of the Thailand Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation. To foster lunar cooperation, the Moon Village Center has been defined as a world class facility dedicated to implement the vision and activity of the Moon Village Association, as well as create synergy and outreach with the host priority. The call for the Moon Village Center is open on the relevant website, and I'm pleased to inform you that one good proposal already has been received, and we are looking forward to receive more from the delegations. Mr. Chair, the fourth International Moon Day took place on the 20th of July, 2025, with involvement of more than 30 countries with 60 global events. The main event took place in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, hosted by the University of Dubai. The annual report is available on the IMD website. The call for the IMD 26 global event is open on the website for events to be held in the period 1st of July to 31st of October. We cordially invite all the members and observers of the STC to observe this important day by organizing event. Information can be found on the IMED website. Thank you for your attention.

I thank the distinguished observer for the Mu Village Association. The next speaker on my list is the distinguished observer for Space Generation Advisory Council, or SGAC. SGAC, the floor is yours.

Thank you, Chair, distinguished delegates. On behalf of the Space Generation Advisory Council, it is our pleasure to provide a brief update on our recent activities. We are proud to share that the SGAC has reached a new milestone in its growth with our global membership now exceeding 38,000 young professionals and students worldwide, reflecting the growing demand for meaningful youth engagement in space policy, industry, and international cooperation. Over the past year, SGSC successfully delivered an exceptional Space Generation Congress in Australia, featuring an outstanding lineup of speakers, highlights including guest appearance by Professor Brian Cox, as well as participation of Director RT Olamini. During these events, SGAC was pleased to lead discussions on our intergenerational pact for the future, reaffirming our commitment to fostering dialogue across generations and continuing SGAC longstanding work in support of the United Nations Space for Youth initiatives. We are also pleased to note that SGSC Executive Director, Mrs. Nicole Koleva, has been selected as a Vice President of the International Astronautical Federation, an appointment announced during the International Astronautical Congress in Sydney. SGSC is honored to continue elevating the voices of the youth within the global space governance and international decision-making forums. Moving ahead, we would like to announce the selection of SGSC new co-chair and welcome Mr. Marcos Rojas Eduardo Ramirez to this position. In 2025, SGSC delivered six regional and ten local events worldwide, strengthening grassroots engagement and capacity building for young professionals across all regions. Complementing this, SGAC awarded over 200 scholarships ranging from zero-G flights and astronaut camps to master degrees and professional training programs alongside scholarships for major global partner events such as AIC and Space Symposium as well as SGAC flagship events. In addition, preparations were well advanced for the upcoming Space Generation Fusion Forum, organized in conjunction with the Space Symposium. We are pleased to announce the expansion, relocation of the SGFF to Cheyenne Mountain Resort, reflecting a growing scale and ambition of this flagship global event. We are also delighted to share that SGX will enter a new partnership phase and will take place in conjunction with ASCEND at the Washington Hilton in Washington, DC. We look forward working closely with the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics on this important collaboration. SGSC remains proud to be a member of the group of friends on dark and quiet skies and welcomes ongoing efforts to preserve scientific research and the night sky. We had the opportunity to join the UNSKO workshop on dark and quiet skies for science and society 2025 in December, appreciating its focus on raising awareness while considering economic, scientific, and cultural aspects involving the broader space community. As every year, SGSC is currently developing two key policy reports. The first provides an overview of projects, reports, working groups and recommendations on diversity, equity and inclusion conducted by our members, made possible thanks to the contributions of our partners, sponsors and broader community within the aim of informing best practices across the space sector. The second is an official policy position on Space for Earth, Further developing the ideas first presented in our 2022 position, saving our future on Earth through our presence in space, which was shared and discussed with our global membership and partners, and will explore how space activities can more effectively support sustainable development and resilience on Earth. We warmly welcome expressions of interest from member states, observers and partners to support our policy teams in the development of these reports. To conclude, we are grateful for the opportunity to address this honorable subcommittee and stand ready to work together with all member states and observers to foster the peaceful, sustainable and cooperative uses of space for the benefit of all humanity, present and future. Thank you for your kind attention.

Thank you very much, the distinguished observer for SGAC for your statement. The next speaker on my list is the distinguished observer for the Center of Humanitarian Dialogue. Center of Humanitarian Dialogue, the floor is yours.

Mr. Chair, I have the honor to take the floor in the name of the Center for Humanitarian Dialogue, HD. Allow me to express our gratitude for being granted the ad hoc observer status to the current session. Established in 1999 as a non-profit organization with headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, HD has long-standing experience in mediation and informal diplomacy. Its mission, based on the principles of humanity, independence, and impartiality, is to help prevent and mitigate risks to international peace and stability. HD enjoys consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council, ECOSOC, and is recognized by the Swiss Confederation as an international body. The Center for Humanitarian Dialogue operates in more than 40 countries with approximately 400 staff members. It runs multi-track dialogues on key policy issues, including the impact of advanced and emerging technologies on international peace and stability. Complementing its current avenues of work, HD has established a new programme on outer space, focused on addressing the growing risks and threats to the safety, sustainability, and security of outer space activities. This work involves convening informal dialogues among officials and experts across and within regions, conducting bilateral outreach to established and emerging spacefaring nations, and engaging with non-governmental and commercial space entities. Recognizing the central role of the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, COPUOS, as the leading multilateral forum for global space governance, HD's interest in attending the current session is to learn about various states' perspectives, exchange with delegations, and contribute its expertise as appropriate. in support of the crucial role of the Committee. The Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue and its representatives remain available for providing any further information to Member States and permanent observers of the Committee, as well as to the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs. Its application letter is available on the session website. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished observer for HD for her statement. Distinguished delegates, we have now concluded our consideration of agenda item four, the general exchange of views. Thank you very much. Thank you all, all speakers for the last six days on this agenda. Distinguished delegates, We would now like to open, I would now like to open, reopen and hopefully conclude our consideration of agenda item 15 on the geostationary orbit as ITU was not given the floor to deliver its statement this morning due to technical issues. May I apologize to the observer for the ITU. I give the floor to the observer for ITU.

Thank you, Chairman. Ladies and gentlemen, I'm very pleased to speak to the STSC of COPUOS. I'd like to present the yearly report 2025 for the ITU on the use of geostationary satellite orbits and other. As per para 134 of the 45th session of the subcommittee. you will find the full reports of the last 18 years in the six languages of the ITU on our website. And so as to facilitate the reading of data, you can find them in Excel format. A summarized version of the report with the link to the ITU website is also published in CRP 16. More generally speaking, The IT Space Explorer application facilitates consulting all data having to do with radio spatial services. Chair, from data from 2025, we see five trends. On geostationary orbit, the number of notifications is slightly increasing, twofold. with respect to non-geostationary orbit notifications. Furthermore, the number of submissions regarding non-geostationary orbits has continued to increase since 2019. Then, when it comes to non-geostationary constellations with more than 1,000 satellites, 20 administrations have submissions pending. We also note that for other orbits than the Earth, two administrations have submitted. By way of conclusion, the last trend is that for geostationary orbits, for non-planned frequencies, there are 65 administrations and 96 administrations with non-geostationary orbits of all types. Chair, I would finish my statement by informing you that the Radio Communication Sector of the ITU is entering its third year of the research cycle or study cycle 2026-2027. That means that before October 2026, we will prepare the preliminary report. It will assist all those to be taking part in the World Radio Communications Conference of 2027. The report comprises the agenda of the conference and the results of data analysis and methods used, as well as regulatory and procedural related considerations. In 2026, the ITU will continue its monthly Space Connect publications, sharing information on innovation in the space sector. Thank you, Chairman. Thank you, delegates.

I thank very much the distinguished observer for ITU for the statement. Distinguished delegates, we have now therefore concluded our consideration of Agenda Item 15 on the geostationary orbit. Distinguished delegates, I would now like to continue and hopefully conclude our consideration of Agenda Item 16 on the dark and quiet skies. The first speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of United Kingdom. The United Kingdom, the floor is yours.

Chair, distinguished delegates, the United Kingdom welcomes this opportunity to engage on the issue of dark and quiet skies. The United Kingdom notes the growing importance of this subject as our activities in orbit continue to expand. We maintain our view that the international community's focus should centre on successfully addressing the balance between accessing vital services in space and minimising impact on scientific research through astronomy. To find this balance, the United Kingdom recognises the critical contribution of international partners in discussing and constructively finding ways forward. The United Kingdom remains committed to the Group of Friends and other international forums where it can meaningfully participate and contribute through research and studies. Recognising the Group of Friends' valuable work, the United Kingdom would like to thank the Steering Committee and focus groups for their sustained efforts in driving these important technical discussions forward. The United Kingdom would like to take this opportunity to thank Square Kilometre Array Observatory and UNOSA for organizing the December 2025 Dark and Quiet Skies Workshop, which brought together key stakeholders to share insights on global impacts. As host and main contributor to Square Kilometre Array Observatory, the United Kingdom continues to support these collaborative efforts and values the diverse international input on satellite effects from astronomy to the preservation of darkened quiet skies for cultural and social purposes. Last year, the United Kingdom funded two studies related to dark and quiet skies. We are pleased to note that these studies have been acknowledged and referenced in the 2026 STSC conference room paper submitted on behalf of Group of Friends of Dark and Quiet Skies. The UK believes that these studies offer useful insights in mitigating the impact of satellites. The first study explored initial steps to develop a standard in line with the International Organization for Standardization's requirements for visible wavelength satellite brightness. The study provided a comprehensive scientific summary of the technical challenges and opportunities designed to inform the creation of a future technical standard. The study is intended to evolve further, helping stakeholders understand the trade-off in satellite design, offering guidance to satellite manufacturers on meeting the standards and pointing them to relevant software tools to support this process. The second study examined the precision of satellite ephemeris data required by the astronomical community to accurately predict satellite positions, plan observations, and implement mitigation strategies against interference. It reviewed current methods for calculating satellite ephemeris, compared their accuracy, and assessed their suitability for astronomical needs. Additionally, the study investigated the potential of radio interferometry to enhance satellite positional accuracy, a development that could benefit both astronomy and broader space situational awareness efforts. Following the completion of these studies, the UK Space Agency funded a third study this year, which has now concluded. This research examined how different satellite constellation configurations influence satellite trails in astronomical observations. While the United Kingdom is still reviewing the detailed findings, the study underscores the highly context dependent nature of these impacts, which vary according to instrument type and observing strategy. It also highlights that accurate measuring satellite light sources require advanced modeling alongside detailed knowledge of satellite design, attitude, and orbital parameters. These insights will support ongoing discussions under the Dark and Quiet Skies agenda, particularly regarding the merits of global brightness thresholds versus more tailored mitigation approaches. The United Kingdom intends to share the study's findings and methodologies through the Group of Friends Forum and other relevant international platforms to help inform evidence-based mitigation strategies. With notable progress over the past year and increased international collaboration, the United Kingdom remains confident that the international community will continue to make progress on this important topic. In particular, the UK is aware and appreciative of satellite operators' effort and engagement on this topic to find feasible and appropriate solutions. The UK appreciates the industry's proactive approach and cooperative spirit. We look forward to our continued engagement with Member States, the astronomical society and industry in COPUOS and international forums. Thank you, Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of the United Kingdom for her statement. The next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative from Brazil. Brazil, you have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, distinguished delegates, Brazil welcomes the decision to retain the agenda item Dark and Quiet Skies Astronomy and Large Constellation through 2029, as agreed by the subcommittee at its 62nd session. We support a balanced approach that safeguards astronomy while recognizing the societal benefits derived from satellite systems and large constellations that comply with the Outer Space Treaty and the fundamental principles of international space law. Brazil values the exchange of experience and technical solutions under this agenda item, including the recommendation advanced by the Group of Friends of Dark and Quiet Skies, which were positively reflected in the STSC report and to which Brazil has actively contributed. Brazil congratulates the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs and the Square Kilometre Array Observatory, SKAO, for convening the UN-SKAO workshop on Dark and Quiet Skies for Science and Society. Brazil participated in the workshop held at the United Nations Office at Vienna from 9 to 11 December 2025, followed by a scenario-based exercise on 12 December. Discussions focused on practical mitigation of optical trails and radio frequency impacts, advances in prediction and measurement tools, and regulatory interfaces with CCOWs and ITU-R. There's a size highlighted the value of coordination among astronomers, satellite operators, and regulators, while also identifying remaining gaps, particularly concerning unintentional electromagnetic radiation and cumulative effects. In the spirit of cooperation and in line with this existing mandate, Brazil would like to suggest three practical avenues for consideration. First, voluntary reporting on mitigation. Operators and administrations could be invited to submit non-binding annual reports on dark and quiet skies mitigation practices, including constellation design choice, optical trail reduction, radio frequency emission control, and operational measures. This would allow the STSC to aggregate lessons learned and support evidence-based dialogue. Second, a crosswalk with the long-term sustainability guidelines. We propose that the DKS related concerns, especially the protection of passive scientific services such as the radio astronomy service and the Earth exploration satellite service, be mapped into future LTS work without expanding the existing mandate and recognizing the QES practice as a part of sustainable space operations. Third, I stand in technical interface with ITOR. Brazil encourages regular virtual technical exchange between the STSC and ITOR, aligned with relevant working party calendars and supplemented by short ad hoc coordination before key milestones. Outcomes would be captured in brief writing notes after each exchange and consolidated annually in the STC report where appropriate. They could also be reflected in COPUOS reporting consistent with existing arrangements. These interactions would focus on practical interference mitigation guidance relevant to astronomy and other passive services like radio astronomy or exploration satellite service passive with full respect for institutional mandates and be facilitated by designated focal points in each body to streamline information flow. Mr. Chairman, distinguished delegations, Brazil's scientific community and regulatory institutions remain committed to protecting dark and quiet skies and the radio frequency environment essential for scientific observation. We stand ready to contribute data, regulatory experience and cooperation in line with the decisions of the 62nd session of the STSC in the interest of science, innovation and the sustainable use of outer space. I promise that I will be better in my English in the next step. Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman.

Thank you very much, the distinguished representative of Brazil for your statement. The next speaker on my list is the distinguished from Austria. Austria, the floor is yours.

Thank you very much, Chair, colleagues, distinguished delegates. First of all, Austria would like to thank the UN Office for Outer Space Affairs and Square Kilometer Array Observatory for the excellent workshop on dark and quiet skies for science and society that took place here in Vienna from 9 to 11 December 2025. This workshop met great interest and many different aspects were discussed from different perspectives. Proposals were also discussed on how to achieve a balance between the various uses and users, economic and scientific, taking into account the social importance of dark and quiet sky. Austria clearly sees the added value of establishing international standards for the preservation of dark and quiet sky, as these can contribute to ensuring continuous and meaningful access to a shared space environment. The development of appropriate and effective standards requires a solid foundation, which in turn can be provided by research aimed at understanding and quantifying the negative effects of constellations on astronomy. Furthermore, work and measures by international bodies and organizations such as UN COPUOS, the ITU, and the International Astronomical Union, are very valuable. Until international standards are established, the recommendations by the IAU should be followed. Once standards are in place, transparent regulatory action, for example, through public licensing agreements, are most effective in ensuring that only constellation operators that comply with environmental and dark and quiet sky standards are granted access European and international markets. Best practices for operators must include accurate independent impact assessments of the intended and unintended emissions from satellites throughout the entire life cycle of satellites and constellations. In this context, Austria would like to highlight another issue. the Zero Debris Charter, an initiative by the European Space Agency and the space community to implement zero debris approaches for their missions. Austria, or more precisely the Austrian Space Agency, which is part of the Austrian Research Promotion Agency, has also signed this charter. The Zero Debris Technical Booklet published by ESA and 40 space industry stakeholders contains high level guiding principles and specific jointly defined targets for achieving zero debris by 2030. Chapter six in particular deals with the topic of, end of quote, understanding and mitigating the negative consequences of space debris, unquote. It focuses on understanding the environmental impact of re-entry and protecting the dark and quiet sky, including solutions and important enablers. The goal is a circular economy in space. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Austria for her statement. The next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of Indonesia. Indonesia, the floor is yours.

Thank you, Chair. Indonesia recognizes the critical importance of preserving dark and quiet skies as part of efforts to ensure the long-term sustainability of outer space activities, particularly through the protection of the space environment from light pollution and radio frequency interference. Indonesia is pleased to report its active engagement in this area. In 2025, Indonesia participated in the United Nations workshop on dark and quiet skies for science and society. During which we shared national perspectives and experiences, including the importance of maintaining an appropriate balance to preserve between scientific advancement and the preservation of social and cultural value of dark and quiet skies. Indonesia also has held consultations with the relevant partners to explore potential contributions to initiatives of dark and quiet skies. including the recent visit of the Square Kilometer Array Observatory to the National Research and Innovation Agency of Indonesia. In this regard, Indonesia's national observatory has the potential to support research and monitoring efforts that could contribute to international discussions and practical solutions in this

field.

Indonesia welcomes international cooperation in this issue and look forward to working closely with the scientific community and relevant stakeholders to preserve dark and quiet skies for the benefit of science and well-being of society. I thank you, Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Indonesia for her statement. The next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation. The Russian Federation, the floor is

yours.

Thank you very much, Chairman, for giving this delegation the floor. on item 16. Chairman, the Russian Federation continues to call the international community's attention to the growing trend of the exponential placement in low orbits of mega constellations of small satellites. This is a process which necessarily paves the way for broad opportunities and prospects when it comes to communication, navigation and remote sensing of the earth. However, the striking rise in the number of small satellites in orbit and their frequency leads to an exponential rise in related risks of natural and man-made nature. creates a new problem for the long-term sustainability of outer space activities as well as the safety of space operations and for scientific research. One of the most tangible consequences is the worsening conditions for astronomical observation. The reflection of the sun's light by satellites violates the dark and quiet skies, making it difficult for telescopes and scientific projects such as seeking exoplanets and monitoring space threats. Ensuring effective radio astronomy means protecting the frequency bands that are of astronomical interest. and ensuring that there be no interference from devices from the so-called mega constellations. There is a significant threat regarding the formation of additional space debris in the near-Earth space, which is actively used for the conclusion of crude flights. There is a significant reduction in orbital frequency resources. Also, there is an issue of an international legal nature. This is actually probably a violation of the 1967 Space Treaty, including the requirements of Article 9 of the treaty, which says that operators of the satellite systems must carry out their operations taking into account the interests of all other space actors. The advisory mechanism stipulated by the treaty before the placement in outer space of megaconstellations has not been invoked. The exponential rise in the number of small satellites complicates access to orbit for other space actors and this runs counter to requirements of Article 1 of the Space Treaty of the same 1967. This situation jeopardizes the states enjoyment of their free access to outer space. A separate and most pressing issue is the use of mega satellites commercial small satellites and their related ground-based infrastructure registered as for civilian purposes so as to assist the military actions of foreign armed forces and to interfere in the affairs of sovereign states. We would note that the use of mega constellations is focused in the hands of private companies. And this is hardly in line with the interest of the long term sustainability of outer space activities and use of outer space. Chair, it is clear that should the common this trend continue. In the forthcoming years, the situation when it comes to research and use of outer space could significantly become more complicated. Thus, we think it necessary to launch immediately in Kobos, a structured, depoliticized, and results-based dialogue on the matter. A key area of discussion should be drafting and implementing self-limiting measures. so as to prevent negative situations from developing in outer space. An important factor of these measures or standards must be necessarily conducting an assessment on the impact on outer space before launch of constellations, establishing limitations on the number of satellites in the constellations and a mechanism for preventing the formation of space debris in outer space, including satellite breakup in outer space. There must be a balance struck between the need to ensure international control of the situation regarding mega constellations and also ensuring the free exploration of outer space. So as to emphasize the relevance of this problem, we have presented a draft resolution to the General Assembly called Space Science and Technologies for the Promotion of Peace. Chairman, For a number of years now, we have been in intensive consultations, open consultations on said document, the draft resolution. All colleagues can have a look at it. We stand ready to engage in contact on this matter with all constructively minded delegations. And I thank you for your attention. You can find the full version of this statement on the website. Thank you.

very much the distinguished delegates of the Russian Federation for his statements. The next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of the Republic of Korea. Korea, you have the floor, please.

Thank you, Chair. Chair, distinguished delegates, the Republic of Korea has been supporting international cooperation to advance safe, secure, and sustainable space activities. As a country operating multiple nationwide and worldwide space monitoring facilities, the Republic of Korea has always recognized the importance of protecting dark and quiet skies and adjusting the impact of satellites and satellite constellations on astronomy and the night sky. This led to our case decision to join the group of friends of the dark and quiet sky for science and society last May. In 2025, the Republic of Korea made several efforts to align with the international community's commitment to protecting dark and quiet skies. In November 2025, Korea Aerospace Research Institute gave a presentation about low Earth orbit satellite constellations and sustainability with a specific focus on international discourse regarding dark and quiet skies at the Korean Society for Aeronautical and Space Sciences. It raised awareness among relevant domestic stakeholders about the status quo of the DQS agenda and the need to protect dark and quiet skies. Furthermore, in December 2025, Korea Astronomy and Space Science Institute introduced ROK's perspective on the DQS agenda in Dark and Quiet Sky for Science and Society 2025, co-organized by the Square Kilometer Array Observatory and United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs. ROK also took part in the activities of the DQS group of friends including discussion to prepare the conference room paper on the protection of dark and quiet skies for science and society, a comprehensive document encompassing various aspects including optical, infrared astronomy, radio astronomy, mitigation measures, and policy recommendations. Before closing, let me reaffirm the Republic of Korea's strong commitment to peaceful uses of outer space. We are ready to cooperate with international community in this DQS agenda. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of the Republic of Korea for his statement. The next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of Islamic Republic of Iran. Iran, you have the floor.

Mr. Chair, the limited operational capacity of orbital resources combined with the rapidly increasing deployment of satellite mega constellations underscores the urgent need for an orderly, equitable and internationally coordinated approach to their deployment and operation, fully aligned with the peaceful purposes of outer space. In this regard, all activities in outer space, including the deployment and operation of satellite mega constellations and related operations, must be conducted in full conformity with the United Nations Charter, international space law and the relevant principles and guidelines adopted within the United Nations framework. Such activities must also fully respect national laws and regulations and must not undermine the sovereignty of states in the conduct of satellite mega constellation activities. Mr. Chair, the uncontrolled expansion of satellite mega constellations has resulted in significant light pollution and radio frequency interference, transforming dark and quiet skies into bright and polluted environments and causing adverse impacts on both optical and radio astronomy. Moreover, the indiscriminate deployment of satellite mega constellations without the due consideration of orbital limitations not only occupies and saturates limited orbital and frequency resources and leads to their inequitable use but also disrupts the launch activities of other states particularly emerging space fairing countries these developments create multiple challenges including increased collision risk greater complexity of collision avoidance maneuvers, constrained launch windows, elevated launch risk for other states, and the exponential growth of space debris. Currently, some orbits are so congested that they require connection assessment and precise injection procedures for new satellites, further complicating safe and reliable access to space for all states. Continuing along this path could result in outer space being monopolized by a small number of states exploiting it solely for their own purposes. Mr. Chair, as elaborated in its 2025 CRP on the challenges posed by dark and quiet skies, astronomy and the large satellite constellations, Iran considers the unauthorized activities of satellite constellations within the territorial jurisdiction of states to be one of the fundamental challenges posed by satellite megaconstellations. At the same time, disparities in technical capabilities, unequal access to space data and infrastructure, and insufficient capacity for space situational awareness should not undermine the free and equitable access of all states to outer space. Accordingly, the integration of debris tracking and collision avoidance programs through the establishment of necessary technical infrastructure in emerging space-faring nations is an essential measure. Some satellite megaconstellations, due to the absence of binding international rules, are violating the principle of national sovereignty and engaging in dual-use developments. In doing so, they contravene international law and fail to implement decisions made by relevant international bodies. such as the radio regulations board under the itu Mr. chair the illegal operation of the star starlink broadband satellite internet service by SpaceX within the territory of the Islamic Republic of Iran without observing Iran's Landing rights is a clear example in this regard such unauthorized and irresponsible actions contraven article 12 of the UN Charter violates international law including the 1967 out of States Treaty and undermine the principle of sovereign equality among UN member states. Furthermore, in recent months it has become evident that claims by certain private companies and their respective governments regarding the use of space for peaceful purposes and commercial services are misleading. The unauthorized military use of commercial satellite mega constellations without accountability exacerbates the challenges in this domain and poses a threat to the national security of all states. To conclude, it is hoped that the representative scientific experts and political leaders of the member states of COPUOS will work together to develop appropriate rules and deterrent measures to prevent violations of the state sovereignty and to prohibit the military use of satellite megaconstellations by any state in outer space, particularly in low Earth orbit. Thank you for your attention.

I thank the distinguished representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran for his statement. The next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of Pakistan. Pakistan, the floor is yours.

Thank you, Chair, and good afternoon to all colleagues. Pakistan underscores the vital role of astronomy in fostering science, innovation, and STEM education, particularly for emerging space nations. We view the.

Preservation of dark and quiet skies not just as a technical requirement, but as a shared scientific heritage of humankind.

That must be safeguarded. While Pakistan recognizes the socioeconomic value of large satellite constellations for global connectivity, We note with concern that the rapid deployment in low Earth orbit has introduced significant challenges for both ground-based and space-based astronomy.

Chair, this issue is of direct relevance to Pakistan.

We are currently strengthening our national capabilities by identifying potential sites for deep space observatories. Most notably, this includes the Deosai Plains.

The second highest plateau in the world, which offers some of the best seeing conditions, altitude, and clear nights globally.

Concurrently, we are working to identify and protect radio quiet zones for future radio astronomy.

Consequently, optical and radio frequency interference from mega constellations poses a direct risk to our developmental objective.

We formally conveyed these national perspectives at the UN.

And SKO workshop on dark and quiet skies held in December 2025. And we are also positively considering joining the group of friends of the dark.

And quiet skies for science and society and contributing at the forum. Chair, Pakistan emphasizes the need for a balanced approach, and we must ensure that the benefits of.

Connectivity do not come at the cost of long-term sustainability of astronomy. It is crucial that emerging space nations are central to these discussions, as unchecked interference could disproportionately stunt our scientific programs and limit capacity building. And in view of the increasing technical complexity of the issue, Pakistan believes that further structured work is required.

And in this regard.

We propose that at an appropriate stage, consideration be given to elevating this topic from a provisional.

Agenda item to a dedicated expert level group under the subcommittee. Such a mechanism would facilitate focused technical analysis and consolidate best practices, ensuring that our discussions are evidence-based.

And consistent with the mandate of COPUS.

I thank you.

Thanks very much, the distinguished delegate from Pakistan for his statement. The next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of Chile. Chile, have the floor, please.

Thank you.

We are fully committed.

To dark and quiet skies and we have a lot of research into this, studying electromagnetic frequencies this scientific Heritage is facing serious challenges because of economic development the energy transition technological progress and urban and industrial growth in this context Chile is grateful to un USA for organizing the workshop in on dark and quiet skies in December 2025 this contributes to progress of our discussions on dark and quiet skies, and that is why we encourage UN OOSA to continue with this kind of events. We are also grateful to UN OOSA for organizing a side event, dark and quiet skies from science policy. Chair Chile appreciates the work made by the group of friends of dark and quiet skies that now has 33 members, which allows us to collectively consider how to deal with these challenges and keep the integrity of the nocturnal sky as a global scientific resource with other states and observers. The group of friends has drawn up a questionnaire which was presented at the December workshop and we would like the and we asked the secretariat to distribute it. It would be great to have contributions from states and observers to better understand this challenge. Chair, Chile is proud of being a sponsor of the conference room paper 22, which details updates and suggestions for member states and for the subcommittee. It was introduced by the distinguished delegation of Spain, we are requesting UN USA to use existing resources and to work with the relevant international bodies to facilitate a technical study to identify the main gaps in our knowledge regarding ongoing mitigation efforts and those areas where we need greater cooperation at international level. Chair, At national level, Chile has developed policies to protect its astronomic skies. That includes restrictions on industrial activities close to observatories, the adoption of a national light regulation, and the establishment of areas of scientific interest for astronomic research. as part of a strategic response to consolidate its global leadership in astronomy vis-a-vis emerging challenges. In the last year, the Ministry of Science, Technology, Knowledge and Innovation convened a group of experts with the participation of the Ministry of the Environment to analyze technical and legal criteria to strengthen the protection of astronomic activity. Last December, the recommendations of this committee were disseminated in in order to update prevailing regulations on these scientific areas. Among the most relevant recommendations, I can highlight the conditions to facilitate the observation of the universe, the evolution towards a differentiated zoning, which considers specific areas of protection according to the kind of observatory, and the assessment of a cumulative impact in neighboring areas. incorporation of multiple sources of interference including light interference, radio frequency interference, particulate materials and other environmental factors that have an impact on the quality of observations. These efforts aim to grant greater legal and scientific certainty to the protection of the night sky and to guarantee the continuity of excellent research. upcoming, we are considering developing specific environmental regulations for the Atacama Desert, the establishment of protocols to monitor the impact of emerging space technologies, including low orbit constellations, and strengthening a national constantly changing catalog of astronomic sites to improve their protection. Chile reaffirms its commitment to preserving dark and silent skies as the scientific heritage of humanity with the strengthening of international cooperation to guarantee their protection to the benefit of future and current generations. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Chile for her statement. The next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of South Africa. South Africa, the floor is yours.

Thank you, Chairperson. The coexistence of radio astronomy facilities and large satellite constellation has become very important for science and for bridging the digital divide in rural areas. Both radio astronomy facilities and optical astronomy facilities are located in remote areas because of the natural advantages that support scientific activities. large satellite constellations encroach in remote areas as they increase to cover all parts of the world. Chairperson, remote areas protected by national legislation and national regulation in South Africa for the benefit of both radio astronomy and optical astronomy are not protected from large satellite constellations. The MeerKAT radio telescope and the Square Kilometre Array radio telescope located in remote parts of South Africa need to find a way to coexist with large satellite constellation. Similarly, the Southern African Large Telescope, the largest single optical telescope in the southern hemisphere, also needs to find a way to exist with large satellite constellations. Chairperson, given the global nature of this topic, The breadth of requirement for astronomical research and the diversity of satellite system, meaningful change requires the coordinated action and cooperation of government, satellite owner operators or manufacturers and astronomers from around the world. All stakeholders need to work together if there is to be any progress on the matter. POPAS has goals to achieve on the five years agenda item of dark and quiet skies, astronomy and large constellations, addressing emerging issues and challenges. Dark and quiet skies are important for both radio astronomy and optical astronomy. Large satellite constellations negate the dark and quiet skies. Balance needs to be restored to recover the dark and quiet skies in parts of the world that are protected for radio astronomy and optical astronomy. Chairperson, the effort is not made by COPOS to protect dark and quiet skies. The International Telecommunication Union, ITU, has a four-year agenda item to protect radio quiet zones. The ITU has a database of radio quiet zones to allow large satellite constellation to implement mitigation measures or to coordinate with radio astronomy operators. The radio frequency spectrum for large satellite constellation have priority of use, whereas parts of the spectrum used in RQZ are not allocated for radio astronomy purposes. The RQZ make use of some of the radio frequency bands on an opportunities opportunistic basis the strategy of placing of the strategy of placing RQZ facilities in remote areas enable the opportunistic use of some of the radio frequencies bands allocated to other services when large satellite constellation cover all parts of the world RQZ facilities lose the pristine environment for astronomy Chairperson, for optical astronomy, satellite coating helps to reduce the reflective visibility of satellite units. While the satellite brightness is important, the interference from the whole constellation is also important. Changing coatings on satellite may have trade-off between satellite brightness and the thermal budget of the spacecraft. Minimizing brightness should be conditioned for issuing a license for low Earth orbit satellites. Chairperson, accurate, timely, and openly shared orbital information will assist both optical astronomy facilities and radio astronomy facilities in implementing the necessary mitigation measures to preserve the scientific integrity of astronomical observation. To meet the needs of the dark and quiet skies communities, predicted satellite position must evolve from collision avoidance grade data to astronomy grade. Chairperson, satellite operators are encouraged to coordinate their operations with astronomy observatories to ensure that satellites avoid transmitting directly towards radio telescopes. Satellites can move their beams away from radio telescopes and satellites can switch off beams directed towards radio telescopes. Data sharing between the satellites operator and the radio astronomy facility is recommended. Satellite Telemetry can also be provided to radio astronomy site to help in telescope scheduling. Thank you, Chair.

Thanks very much, the distinguished representative of South Africa. The next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of Mexico, Mexico de.

Thank you, Chair. The night sky is part of humanity's natural and cultural heritage, and its protection and conservation is a benefit for science, local communities and education. Launching satellites and large constellations at low orbit entails significant challenges for the protection of dark and silent skies, and that protection is not just a technical responsibility that can affect the sustainability of scientific activities linked to sky observation, but also a social and cultural responsibility. Mexico is a member of the group of friends of dark and silent skies and welcomes the results that that mechanism has made regarding that subject. Including this item on the subcommittee's agenda is proof of that, as well as how the group has promoted an active dialogue on how to protect and mitigate issues linked to the challenges of protecting dark and quiet skies. Mexico is one of those delegations that is co-sponsoring CRP 22 presented by Chile and Spain, which provides a scientific viewpoint based on solutions and mitigations measures to protect dark and quiet skies so that scientific disciplines linked to the observation of the sky can continue. Mexico is grateful to UNOSL for having hosted a workshop in November 2025. Mexico operates one of the most significant astronomy sites in the northern hemisphere in Baja California, apart from many different optical and radio facilities in Nuevo Leon, Sonora, Puebla, Hidalgo, and Michoacan. Our community has interest in the subcommittee making progress to protect scientific activity stemming from the observation of dark and quiet skies. Apart from CRP 22, we would like to highlight several priorities regarding dark and quiet skies. Regarding brightness and optical mitigation of objects in low earth orbit, Mexico believes we should include satellite brightness models validated by third parties with explicit error estimates and simulations of specular highlights. We also think we need to establish an international library on the distribution function of BRDF, that is bidirectional reflectance distribution function. as with public and confidential components so we can have a standardized evaluation of mitigations proposed by operators. Regarding orbital data and accuracy, Mexico believes that satellite constellations should provide the necessary information with sub-arcosecond precision and updating the time slots We also believe that it should use the standards of the Consultative Committee on Space Data Systems. We would support the establishment of an interoperable international repository with the Centre for the Sky Protection of the IAU. With regards to operational mitigations, Mexico believes we should have a global catalog of priority optical telescopes administered by the same organization, that is to say, the Center for the Protection of the Sky of the International Astronomical Union, so that operators can implement strategies to minimize glare and flares regarding critical scientific installations. Mexico supports the work of the ITU to protect radio astronomy and believes we need to have coordination mechanisms between operators and zones of radioelectric silence, as well as measures to protect and mitigate issues from NGSOs. In this context, we would like to recall the importance of dialogue and coordination between COPUOS and the ITU so that we can have consolidated governance of space activities. Scientific disciplines related to the dark and silent skies require access to data and best practices, and we believe that this This committee is the best place for that. Thank you.

Of Mexico for her statement. The next speaker on my list is the distinguished observer for European Astronomical Society, or EAS. EAS, you have the floor?

Chair, distinguished delegates, it is an honor to address the 63rd session of the Scientific and Technical Subcommittee on behalf of the European Astronomical Society, the EAS. The EAS has grown to represent nearly 6,000 professional astronomers across Europe and beyond, collaborating with over 30 affiliated national societies and major research organizations. As it is the first time we take the floor, we wish to extend our sincere appreciation to you, Chair, and to the Office for Outer Space Affairs for the excellent preparation of this meeting. Chair, the AS notes with great appreciation the constructive and forward-looking discussion held within the subcommittee under the agenda item, Dark and Quiet Skies, Astronomy and Large Constellations, Addressing Emerging Issues and Challenges. This forum remains an essential venue where scientific reality, technical innovation, and policy framework can converge to ensure the long-term sustainability of outer space activities. We also wish to express our appreciation for the ongoing work and leadership of the Group of Friends for Dark and Quiet Skies, whose efforts have been instrumental in fostering constructive dialogue on this critical issue. Furthermore, the EAS extends its gratitude to UNOSA for organizing the dedicated side event on this topic to facilitate engagement. share, astronomy is not only our oldest science, but a catalyst for technological progress that shapes our future, making it a shared heritage we must strive to preserve. While we recognize the significant societal benefits provided by low-Earth orbit satellite constellations, the rapid transformation of the orbital environment presents a complex challenge for astronomy. This impact is multifaceted and affects our ability to perform cutting edge science from monitoring potential asteroid threats to exploring the earliest epochs of the cosmos and understanding the origin of life. Shared solution to the problem are urgently needed. In this context, the EAS wish to highlight the value of the recent workshop organized by UNOSA and SKA Observatory. This event served an important platform for technical dialogue, bringing together the astronomical community, industry stakeholders, and policymakers. The discussions held there underscored that while technical mitigations are possible, they benefit greatly from early and consistent coordination. Chair, the EAS is committed to facilitating these critical discussions. We are pleased to announce that our next annual meeting, which regularly attracts over 1500 scientists from around the globe, will be held in Lausanne, Switzerland at the end of June. As part of this major event, we will host a dedicated session on dark and quiet skies, fostering further dialogue between scientists, policymakers and industry representatives to identify sustainable solutions. Chair, while we value collaborative and voluntary efforts, the sheer scale of current and planned deployments, including recent filings, suggest that relying solely on voluntary measures will not be sufficient in the long term. The EAS encourages the consideration of normalizing impact assessment for optical radio astronomy as a standard part of the life cycle of satellite system from design to deorbiting. We believe that incorporating these practices within national and international regulatory frameworks would help ensure that benefits of space access are balanced with the need to preserve the scientific capabilities of all nations. In this context, we welcome the consideration of dark and quiet sky protection included in the proposed EU Space Act. Chair, the AAS is proud to support CRP-22 presented by the Group of Friends for Dark and Quiet Skies. that outlines comprehensive recommendations for ensuring a sustainable coexistence of satellite constellations and astronomical research. We invite the subcommittee also to consider the implication of new satellite concept designed explicitly to reflect sunlight, which could artificially extend daylight hours with very severe negative implications on ground-based optical and infrared instrumentation. Additionally, as we look to the future, we remain mindful of the importance of preserving the unique radio quiet environment of the lunar far side. Chair, in conclusion, the AAS reaffirms its commitment to working within COPUS and building upon the momentum of the initiatives like the UNOSA SKO workshop and the work of the group of friends. The pristine night sky is a scientific and cultural heritage belonging to the whole of humanity. It is our shared responsibility to ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy unfettered access to it. Thank you for your kind attention.

So I thank the distinguished observer for EAS for her statement. The next speaker on my list is the European Southern Observatory, or ESO. ESO, you have the floor, please.

Chair, distinguished delegates, the European Organization for Astronomical Research in the Southern Hemisphere, ESO, appreciates the opportunity to contribute to this agenda item. ESO recognizes the pivotal role COPUS and specifically this subcommittee plays in advancing collegiate discussions on dark and quiet skies. ISO's mission is to build design and operate advanced ground based astronomical observatories and to foster international cooperation in astronomy. To fulfill this mission, access to high quality night sky is essential, one that is dark and free from harmful interference from artificial light sources, both from the ground and from space. ISO recognizes the significant benefits that low earth orbit satellites bring to society at the same time. ESO wishes to emphasise that these developments must not come at the expense of astronomy. Sustainable approaches to the use of orbital space, the radio spectrum and artificial light emissions are necessary to ensure that society continues to benefit from astronomical research for decades to come. In support of this objective, in 2025, ESO joined the International Astronomical Union Centre for the Protection of Dark and Quiet Skies, the IAUCPS, as a contributing member. Additionally, ISO welcomes ongoing work by the group of friends on dark and quiet skies and is pleased to co-sponsor the conference room paper presented under this agenda item. These activities reflect ISO's strong commitment to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to identify and implement practical evidence-based mitigation strategies for the responsible use of low earth orbit. Chair, ISO's contribution to this work have been multifaceted. Our facilities have been used to undertake systemic measures of satellite brightness and trail frequency, providing quantitative assessments of their impact on optical and infrared astronomy. ESA scientists have also contributed to the development and evaluation of mitigation techniques, including surface darkening, satellite orientation strategies, and observation strategies to support predictive scheduling and post-processing mitigation. These efforts demonstrate that constructive dialogue between astronomy and industry can lead to meaningful reductions in impact when mitigation is considered early in system design. Chair, ISO notes with concern that threats to the quality of the night sky continue to increase. Over the past year, notable advancements have been made in the development of satellites that are by design significantly brighter than the International Astronomical Union recommended threshold of visual magnitude seven. Bright satellites, those brighter than magnitude seven, not only cause direct impact by being visible to the naked eye, but also by saturating astronomical detectors, particularly those used by the best wide field survey facilities. In parallel, radio astronomy facilities depend on access to exceptionally quiet radio environments. Unintended emissions out of one leakage and aggregate interference from large number of satellites pose additional challenges that require careful coordination, compliance with existing regulations and ongoing monitoring. Chair, ISO also wishes to draw attention to emerging space-based concepts that introduce new categories of optical impact. These include proposals sometimes described as sunlight as a service involving large reflective structures for a direction of solar illumination. While such concepts may be motivated by potential societal or economic applications, they will introduce very bright sources of light in the night sky incompatible with sensitive astronomical observations. Furthermore, through atmospheric scattering, these very bright satellites increase sky brightness even at angular distances of seven tens of degrees from the satellites' apparent position. These effects are cumulative and can significantly degrade astronomical observations, even for satellite constellations of moderate size. Unlike conventional satellites, such systems are designed explicitly to reflect or redirect sunlight affecting all astronomical observations that rely on dark sky, effectively reducing the duration of the night usable for astronomical observation. ISO therefore encourages that the implications of such concepts for dark and quiet skies be carefully assessed through transparent modeling, measurement, and consultation within the scientific community before any deployment is considered. Chair, ISO family believes that outer space is a shared environment and that its use should remain compatible with humanity's ability to observe, understand and explore the universe. Dark and quiet skies are not only a scientific necessity but also a natural and cultural heritage of value to all nations. ISO welcomes the continued attention of this committee to these matters and stands ready to contribute its technical expertise, observational data and constructive engagement in support of international cooperation and sustainable solutions. Chair, distinguished delegates, I thank you for your kind attention.

I thank the distinguished observer for the European Southern Observatory for her statement. Distinguished delegates, we will continue our consideration of agenda item 16 on the dark and quiet skies on Wednesday afternoon. We will now suspend the plenary meeting so that the working group on the use of nuclear power sources in can hold its second meeting. Following the adjournment of the meeting of the working group, we will then resume the plenary to proceed with the agenda presentation. The meeting is suspended. Distinguished delegates, I would like now turn to proceed with the technical presentation. We have three technical presentations this afternoon. Before I move on to the technical presentations, I would like to advise all the presenters that if they wish to have interaction to questions and answer after presentation, they may wish to finish their presentation a few minutes earlier than the allotted time of 10 minutes. The very first presentation on my list is on satellite communications for sustainable development and disaster management by the representative of Luxembourg.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Thank you, distinguished delegates. It's an honor to be here and I also thank you, the Luxembourgish delegation for allowing me to present at this very important meeting. My name is Fabio Romano. I represent the Luxembourgish company SES. We are a satellite operator, satcom operator, owning a fleet of more than 100 telecommunications satellites. We are Luxembourgish based and we are the biggest European satcom operator and among the three biggest satcom companies all over the world. Trying to, yes. So this is our headquarter in Bestdorf in southern Luxembourg. And as you can see, we cannot really hide what we do. All this antenna connects to a fleet of more than 100 satellites that we also fly from this location. And we are present almost in every orbit This is an overview of our satellite fleet with more than 90 satellites in geostationary orbits and more than 30 satellites in MEO, in medium earth orbit, plus agreements for the use of telecommunication from LEO. We are the only true multi-orbit satellite operator in the world. And we also count on an extensive network of teleport locations around the world where we can uplink and downlink these telecommunications. Now, the purpose of my presentation here is to show how this capacity can be used to support society and make them more resilient in face of extreme natural disasters. Nowadays, we know that We live online and therefore when disasters strike, it is not just and not only a matter of survival, but also of restoring the connectivity that is needed to coordinate the first responders. And then after the extreme recovery phase, also to restore some working of our society. To do that, of course, We know now that telecommunication infrastructure are always the first to go following a man-made or natural disasters. And to restore connectivity, we believe that satellite communication is extremely helpful. And what make us unique in supporting this recovery efforts is the global coverage that we can offer to our fleet of satellites. The fact that we can support connectivity in all the bands, wide bands that support telecommunications and we can deploy rapidly and with a different variety of hardware to ensure immediate response, but then also long term recovery that means a scale up of connectivity to support basic societal needs. Now disasters are of very different nature, but what puts them all together is that from a connectivity perspective we always have the same goal, which is to restore connectivity as soon as possible and then to prepare different concept of operation, first of course for the immediate response, then after for the transition to full restoration of the connectivity. The challenges, of course, are that we never know when a disaster is going to strike. And we also need to rely on fast deployment of infrastructure, which is sometimes a bit of a challenge. But luckily, we can rely on presence in many regions in the world and readily deployable equipment. I'm going to present a couple of use case of what we have done to restore connectivity. But first I want to speak about tight cooperation between SES and the government of Luxembourg to restore emergency connectivity immediately after a disaster. This is called emergency.lu and it consists of a very portable deployable satellite terminal, this sphere that you see in the picture. that can restore connectivity between 24 and 72 hours because it is paired with rapid deployment capabilities from the Luxembourgish government. And this is a very virtuous example of public-private partnership in the face of natural disasters. On a broader example, we have restored connectivity following different type of natural disasters. So I'm going to try to cover the major one, but there are countless examples where this has come into use. One of these is the 2022 Tonga underwater eruption. There is a very big underwater eruption that took place in the ocean near Tonga a couple of years ago. And luckily, the human toll of the disaster was limited, but undersea cable that connects the island to the rest of the world was severely impacted. That meant no connectivity for basically an entire nation. What SES was able to do is to leverage existing infrastructure on the island, pair with geostationary satellite to deliver two different satellite links. immediately after, a few days after the disaster, that we were able to restore connectivity for first responders coordinating the intervention, but also to restore government and basic societal services. Now, this was an example of a natural, of an eruption. We also stepped in following Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico, 2017. Now this time, the hurricane has again impacted undersea cables and therefore hampered connectivity all over the country. But thanks to our satellite this time, satellite in medium earth orbit, we were able to restore promptly connectivity and therefore to allow government to resume operation including first response. I will accelerate a bit for the sake of time. After eruptions and hurricane, same example could be drawn following the earthquake in Papua New Guinea. in 2019. Here again, we were able to leverage existing infrastructure to deliver up to 1.5 gigabit of connectivity soon after the disaster from our satellite in medium earth orbit. This is again another example of how satellite connectivity can be used to restore basic services immediately after natural disasters. And similarly, we have supported these countries, Somalia, the Congo and Madagascar following fiber outages that lasted respectively 21, 15 and 14 days supporting the functioning of society and the responders in the immediate aftermath of natural disasters. Now the following example is not strictly a disaster, but it speaks to the power of satellite communication in readiness situation. So SES supports the mercy ships. These are. huge floating cities, hospital ships that deploy when a disaster strike or even when there is no disaster to support surgery or operations for a population that otherwise have limited access to medicine. And SES provides connectivity to this magnificent ships to the medical personnel on board, not just of course for the security and the communication of the ship, but also to allow the performance of telemedicine wherever the ships are navigating. One last example is SES effort in European connectivity. European representative will know that the European Commission is working on Europe sovereign satellite constellation, which is called Irish Square. SES is the leader of the consortium implementing this constellation that, of course, will be a global communication constellation that will come very useful for supporting connectivity in case of natural disasters. I see that I have still one minute, but I've concluded the presentation and I thank you for your time.

Thank you, Luxembourg, for presentation. Any question or comment to Luxembourg? I see none. So the second presentation on my list is on maritime communication, navigation and surveillance system by WIS, SWIR-based star tracker and cloud adaptation. by the of Italy, Italy, the first use.

Thank you, Chair. My name is Mauro Cardone from Italian Space Agency. And today I will deliver a presentation about this new project, Maritime CNS with short wave infrared basis start trigger and cloud adaptation. A bit of context, the celestial navigation is something that we already did in the past through the use of a standard sextant and the compass. Now the use of widespread use of GNSS has replaced this ancient method. The problem is that these systems are incredibly fragile, easily spoofable and constantly jamable. So now in these difficult times, now we are rediscovering the tools of the past. In this sense, the new automatic navigation could be an alternative, capitalizing the experience in aerospace of the Star Trek. This project aims to remediate this increased vulnerability of GNSS by the use of this new and old system, and then the objective is to develop a next generation maritime celestial navigation system. to ensure a continuous and reliable estimation of position, speed, and altitude. So we'll use a sub-trigger in the band of short wave infrared, and then we'll track also the cloud because of the problems in the cloud, compensate the motion, and correct the drift of the inertial platform. The highlight of innovation include the fact that we are working in a very challenging environment, the maritime. So we have the clouds, the fog, the rain, the saturation of the daylight star, distortion due to the atmosphere and water and the movement of the ship. So we'll compensate all these effects. by use of the short wave infrared capable of see the stars also in the day, in the early day, the moment of the day or last part of the day. And then we compensate the motion. And we'll include also a fault detection exclusion of pipeline to eliminate the residual error. the we couple the with the inertial platform and we compensate for the drift of the instrument itself. We're able to bootstrap the system also without the GNSS by using only the mathematical rights on reference. The architecture of the hardware is we will use as said before the inertial platform, Doppler speed sensor, pressure sensor, of course, and all the other parts that are necessary as the onboard processing unit. In one snapshot, this is the concept of operation. So we are the ship. On board of the ship, we have the inertial platform and the auxiliary sensor that are necessary to compensate the drift of the inertial system. The software architecture is based on the, I will not go in all the details, but I will use the software, the beam control, and then the diffusion is implemented by the factor graph. And then we have the cloud tracker star catalog to be uploaded on board, motion compensation login and display. This is in one shop to all the pieces and the keeps that I already explained before. The performance goal, we are estimated that we can have accumulated error a day of 150 meters and we can reduce it by artificial intelligence to the half, considering another speed of four meter per second. That is quite normal for this kind of vessel for scientific application. And the attitude error is inside the point 0.5 degrees for pitch and roll and 0.2 for yaw. That's our estimation and the goal of the project. Also, we've intermittent SAR visibility. So it's not necessary to have the SAR visibility all day, but every six hours. Use cases, we foresee in the market potential user for this new concept. naval and commercial maritime use, Arctic rules where it's not possible to receive the navigation satellites or in particular condition under bridges, ports or sea tunnels. And anyway, it's an opportunity for maritime vessel to have this system in redundancy to the satellite navigation. Of course, this is very important for all the automated vessel underwater and surface. that will integrate this new capability. The future work will imply the extension from starts. We will track also the satellites, the resident space object. This will make the system more robust. And possible evolution include the space situational awareness. That means that the RSO that is in the catalog may be detected so we can estimate its position. So this will be very helpful in case of object to be tracked in the space. A further extension is for navigation in deep space. The concept for a rover that is in navigation in deep space is quite similar to the ship navigation in the sense that they will benefit from a specific stellar catalog. And then, of course, we don't have any other means to initiate bootstrap. This is we use the mathematical horizon. In this case, the drift also is contained by our system and is possible following the stars that are visible from this rover to have put the positioning and navigation also in deep space. For further information, you can go and consult this book that is called Automated and Autonomous Navigation Powered by GNSS that will explain more in detail the concepts of celestial navigation. Thank you for the attention. I've been very quick, but I think it's better. Thank you.

Thank you very much. for your presentation. Any questions or comments? All right. I see none. Thank you again for your presentation. So the third presentation on my list is on the scientific results of the ISPRS in space system-based asset management support by the observer for International Society of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing or ISPRS. Please.

International Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing was founded already in 1910, but still it's included in the science and development. Next, please. Thank you. So the society is focused on photogrammetry. It means for 3D modeling, remote sensing, spatial information sciences, science serving also for disaster risk reduction management.

The green one.

The green.

The green.

There are many hazards, often with increasing frequency. Each disaster occurs in a certain place with given geographical coordinates in a certain moment under given conditions. The disaster risk frequency is raising, especially in case of floods. Can we avoid or mitigate them? It is necessary to understand their conditions to be able to prepare a protection of sensitive areas and population living there. We have to model disasters and their risks in the spatial temporal models. We need to be ready to use such protecting systems. There are two photographs on the right side. The upper one without any protection and the lower one with permanent or temporary constructions. What are conditions for having such constructions ready? Analysis of potential hazards, which, where and how to protect. These analyses are, in fact, special modeling in geographic information systems of local conditions of potential areas of floods, of areas with special construction systems due to seismicity, et cetera. These are, again, two examples. The upper one shows a protection made ad hoc and built up nearly at the moment of disaster. The lower one shows the case that the location was protected before. It requires a policy of the city, region, country. Another part is an education of people to analyze the region from various aspects using spatial data from maps, in to management measurements, aerial photographs and a lot of other data to find the locations requiring permanent or temporary protecting that can be repeatedly applied is needed. The spatial modeling for proposal of protections is a matter of research of IPRS. Atmospheric conditions, land use, land cover, three-dimensional surface model, geological structure and other environmental data are inputs into such spatial temporal models. They are necessary to know to prepare risk reduction and how ISPRS can help. Atmospheric conditions in ISPRS. These meteorological point data are collected in individual places. However, it is necessary to convert the point data to the entire spatial coverage using also 3D surface models. Everything is made in GIS models. One of ISPRS terms of reference. Large number of now existing sensors provide an ever increasing number of observations at various scales and resolutions, making the processing pipelines strive for efficient and powerful methods to extract valuable geometric and semantic information from the data. They are implemented into GIS modeling for prediction, for mapping, for an immediate and their post-event inventory. Land use/land cover and ISPRS remote sensing. Another input to the models is land use/land cover. It is a basic knowledge for all hazards and disasters that should be collected from satellite, airborne carriers and drones from image data. However, only processed data provide information. The data have to be processed repeatedly due to ongoing changes. ISPRS experts provide such products using the best known tools for their automated mapping. Land use and land cover and ISPRS information science. There are three purposes, predictions for and planning, disaster period and post-disaster period. For the prediction, what and where are the areas with potential risk which require protection for a given disaster development, briefly set who and what is in danger, which way to evacuate and so on. lend us land and spatial information science, the modeling of disasters can reply to the following questions. What are the ways, roads, railways, and so on? Three-dimensional surface models. They are describing and forming digital terrain models on the earth's surface, and they are measured and calculated by ISPRS experts. three-dimensional models of cities, this is another example. And ISPRS terms of reference, GIS tool for providing complex knowledge about the earth from many views that all organized are in spatial models. These models are stored in various databases. And these systems are based on intelligent data preparation, considering diverse input data among those remote sensing has an important position. ISPRS has a working group dedicated to disaster management. This is an internal commission working group which has following goals to reduce loss, mitigate, prevent future damage to a community, reinforce infrastructures, create a more robust and resilient environment, and meet SDG 2030 agenda. So my message from ISPRS is, ISPRS members can provide models for disaster risk reduction using big spatial data volumes and their analysis. However, these are politicians who are responsible for readiness for disaster risk reduction, disaster mitigation and resilience of their region. responsibility and management organisations in the preparation phase, in the face of disasters and in the post-disaster phase. And ISKEERS can only provide science advice in these different parts of the tool which is necessary to bring all these requirements for mitigation of disasters. Thank you for your attention.

Thanks, ISPRS for your presentation. Any question to ISPRS?

Yes, Chair.

All right, I see none. Oh, I saw one here, please.

Thank you, Chair. The question that I wanted to ask has to do with temporal and spatial resolution. particularly for predictive analytics when it comes to disaster and risk management. So a lot of analytical tools provide analysis during and post-disaster or to do with meteorological, you know, weather type of patterns.

This particular technology or system, is it able to provide predictive analytics on an atmospheric?

Bases as well as stratospheric bases.

And I relate this, for example, to the current solar storms that we're having as predicted by the South African Space Weather Center, in terms of the space agency. So I'd like to know that. Atmospheric, stratospheric, as well as our magnetosphere, would it be able to pick up predictive analytics for disaster risk management in those aspects?

Unfortunately, I cannot reply to your questions because I'm, as a member of the society, always relying on the message from meteorologists. So this is a question to meteorologists.

All right. Thanks for question and answer. Well, distinguished delegates, As you may recall, I agreed in the opening session of the subcommittee, I will shortly suspend this session. The session will be resumed on Wednesday morning on February 11. Before doing so, I would like to inform delegates of our schedule of work for Wednesday morning. We meet promptly at 10 a.m. in line with the agreement endorsed by the Committee at its 68th session in June last year concerning the organisation of technical presentations. The plenary meeting on Wednesday morning will be fully dedicated to technical presentations. We will have 13 technical presentations focusing on item 6, on the space debris and item 11 on the long-term sustainability of outer space activities. Following the technical presentations, we will adjourn the plenary meeting so that the working group on the long-term sustainability of outer space activities can hold its third meeting. Distinguished delegates, I would like to also inform delegates the schedule of informal consultation tomorrow on Tuesday, February the 10th. The informal consultation of working group on the use of nuclear power sources in outer space will be held in the conference room M6 from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. in the morning. The informal consultations of action team on lunar activities consultation will be held in the conference room M2 from 10:30 to 12 noon. The informal consultation of the equity impact on the 65th session of the legal subcommittee will be held on Tuesday, February 3rd in conference room M2 from 12 noon to 1pm. There will be another informal consultation of the action team on the loan activities consultation and will be held also in the conference room M2 from 1pm to 2pm. Informal consultation of the working group on the long-term stability of outer space activities will be also held in Conference Room M2 from 2.00 pm to 2.50 pm. This informal consultation will be held in a hybrid format for the participation through Ms. teams with the connection to be made available to members respectively. The ABES team links for informal consultation schedule for the working groups on the use of nuclear power sources in outer space, the action team on the lunar activities consultation, and the working group on the long-term security of outer space activities are available on the informal circular USA 2026/4 dispatched on the January 26, 2026. Please note that the informal consultation of the liquidity impact of the 65th session of the Legal Subcommittee will be found in the informational circular USA/26/8, dispatched on February 6, 2026. The figure of the consultations is available on the webpage of the session. I would also like to inform the delegates that the industry symposium organized by the Office of Outer Space Affairs on the topic, long-term sustainability of outer space activities and space solution for sustainable development will be held tomorrow afternoon at M Penary, this room, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. The program of industry symposium is also available online. Are there any questions? or comments on this proposed schedule? I see none. I would now like to give the floor to Mr.

Thank you very much, Mr. Chair. It's already past 6:00 p.m. I apologize for the interpreters. I'll just do it in English only for this announcement part. Distinguished delegates, tomorrow morning, there will be a side event entitled Dark and Quiet Skies from Science to Policy, organized by the Office for Outer Space Affairs. 00 AM, will be held in the press room on this building and also will be available via virtual connection. The schedule of the side event is also available on the webpage of the session. Thank you very much, Mr. Chair.

Thanks for the information provided. Are there any questions or comments on this proposal? I see none. Distinguished delegates, thanks very much for staying with us until now, after 6:00 PM. This meeting is adjourned until Wednesday, 10 a.m., February 11. Good night.