Outer Space: Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, Scientific and Technical Subcommittee, 62nd session, 1026 meeting

Good afternoon, distinguished delegates.

Good afternoon.

I now declare open the 1026th meeting of the Scientific and Technical Subcommittee of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space. Distinguished delegates, this afternoon we will continue our consideration of Agenda Item 3, General Exchange of Views. We will continue and hopefully suspend our consideration of Agenda Item 14, Geostationary Orbit. Time permitting, we will begin our consideration of Agenda Item 15, Dark and Quiet Skies. We will then suspend the plenary meeting so that the Working Group on the Use of Nuclear Power Sources in Outer Space can hold its 3rd meeting. There will be 5 technical presentations this afternoon. As delegations are aware, the schedule of technical presentations is available on the session's webpage and in the Daily Journal. Are there any questions or comments on this proposed schedule?

No.

I see none.

Distinguished delegates, I would now like to continue our consideration of Agenda Item 3, General Exchange of Views. I now turn to the list of speakers. The first speaker on my list is a distinguished observer from the International Astronautical Federation. You have the floor.

Madam Chair, Excellencies, colleagues, ladies and gentlemen, on behalf of International Astronautical Federation, I would like to express our gratitude to Director Ardi Kollamaini for her ongoing leadership and support to the work of the Scientific and Technical Subcommittee. We wish to warmly welcome and acknowledge the hard work of the chair of the 62nd Scientific and Technical Subcommittee, Ms. Ulpia Eline Bordesatu, and thank her for the— for her leadership in steering a productive session that tackles many important issues. We assure you and the members of the subcommittee of our full support during this session. As the IAF Vice President for Relations with International Organizations, I am pleased to report to you our last year's achievements and briefly outline the IAF's upcoming activities for this year and the future. As we reflect on 2024, I am proud to share how the IAF continues to evolve alongside the expanding global space community. We are delighted to welcome 73 new member organizations Bringing our total membership to 563 organizations from 81 countries, and highlighting our position as the most diverse space advocacy board worldwide, an unparalleled leader in connecting at all space people. This remarkable growth underscores our shared commitment to advancing collaboration. across the space sector. Throughout last year, the IAF has hosted an array of impactful events demonstrating the diversity of our activities and the strength of our community, from the International Space Forum in Bahrain, hosted by our distinguished member, the Bahrain National Space Agency, and culminating in the record-breaking 75th International Astronautical Congress, IAC, in Milan, in cooperation with our members, IDA, ASI, and Leonardo. The 75th IASC edition reached unprecedented heights, drawing over 11,200 participants from 120 countries, making it not only the largest IASC ever, but also one of the most diverse gatherings of space people in our galaxy. The inauguration of IAF Global Space Leaders Summit was organized by the IAF on 15th October 2024 during the 75th IAC in Milan. The International Astronautical Federation made history by bringing together the largest group of space leaders represented by 60 heads of space agencies and offices from all over the world. The theme of this summit, Space Capabilities for Sustainability on Earth, highlights the critical role space technology plays in safeguarding our planet for future generations. This landmark event provided a unique opportunity for global space leaders to unite and discuss the critical issues in a cooperative spirit. UNOOSA, IAF, and ASI co-organized the 31st UNIAF workshop and had jointly selected the theme Space Sustainability as a Game Changer for Development, which was aligned with the theme of the 75th IASC, namely Responsible Space for Sustainability. In total, 192 individuals from 75 countries attended the workshop, workshop in person, which was the highest number of participants recorded for the event series. Looking ahead, 2025 promises to be an exciting year for the IAF. In May, we warmly invite you, together with our distinguished member of— distinguished member Indian Space Research Organization, ISRO, to join us for the Global Space Exploration Conference, GLAX 2025, from 7th to 9th May in New Delhi, India. GLAX 2025 will provide a unique platform to share insights on space exploration policies, programs, and challenges, with a record-breaking interest for an IAF global conference resulting 1,275 abstracts submitted from 57 countries. Later in the year, IAF invites you together with its member Space Industry Association of Australia, SIA, to convene in Sydney, Australia for the 76th International Astronautical Congress from 29th September to 3rd October 2025 under the theme Sustainable Space, Resilient Earth. IAC 2025 will explore critical topics including sustainable space activities, Earth-focused applications, and humanity's future in space. This IAC will particularly highlight advancements in the Asia-Pacific region, promising an unforgettable experience in one of the world's most iconic cities. With, with the Turkish Space Agency, we are tackling the preparations for the 77th IAC in 2026 in Antalya. After 60 years, the IAC will return to Poland in 2027 and will take place in the city of Poznań. Preparations are also well underway. Thank you for the opportunity to present main activities and plans of the International Astronautical Federation to the subcommittee. Thank you all for your attention. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished observer from the International Astronautical Federation for the statement. Next speaker on my list is a distinguished observer from the UNICEF Global. You have the floor.

Madam Chair and distinguished delegates, it is a great pleasure to be present here to make a statement about the latest activities of our international NGO, UNISEC Global, the Global University Space Engineering Consortium. I want to take this opportunity to thank Ms. Ulpia Elena Botezatu, the chairperson of the Scientific and Technical Subcommittee, for giving me the chance to make this speech. And Ms. Director of the Office of Outer Space Affairs, and her team for their well-organized preparation. Madam Chair and distinguished delegates, 2024 was a productive year for us in making some contributions to capacity building for emerging space countries. Let me highlight a few examples. Firstly, last August, we held an annual program, the 13th Cancer Cube Leader Training Program, CRTB-13, in Japan. CRTB is a unique instructor training program for future space educators. This 2-week hands-on training course uses Heftasat kit, a model CubeSat. Trainees not only acquire basic knowledge of space satellite technology, systems engineering, and project management skills, but also learn and practice how to teach about hands-on satellite development. We argue that this is one of the best tools for access to space and satellite technology in terms of costs and benefits. So far, we have had 144 participants joining the program from 59 countries worldwide. The second example is a general meeting of UNICEF Global held in South Africa last November. Together with the Nanosatellite Symposium. It was the first time for both to be held in the African continent. One highlight was a student session for university students and young researchers from South Africa and nearby countries. They had a precious opportunity to discuss space and space engineering topics with other participating students from around the world. Moreover, as a third illustration, I would like to introduce a new proposal made by at the meeting. It is called the Nano-Satellite IoT Constellation Program by international collaboration. It intends to provide access by each member to the merits of satellite constellations. Store-and-forward technology allows anyone to participate in the program in a way that suits their local needs, resources, and technology readiness. Madam Chair and distinguished delegates, in addition, may I draw your attention to the Kibo Cube on-site workshop, HEPTA training, our joint endeavor with UNOOSA and JAXA. Last November, we organized a 1-day HEPTA training workshop at Stellenbosch University, South Africa. 26 participants, including both engineers and non-engineers, mainly from Africa, took part in the training and reported positive outcomes. Our last capacity building effort was to organize preliminary workshop in the framework of the Mission Idea Contest during the UNICEF Global Meeting. This focused on a lunar mission with 2 components, a lunar orbit CubeSat mission and lunar surface rover mission. 4 teams from 3 continents presented their proposals, followed by a Q&A and panel discussion. This year, in 2025, we will organize a 9th Mission Idea Contest to the Moon in Japan. Madam Chair and distinguished delegates, I would like to conclude my statement by quoting my favorite African proverb: If you want to go faster, go alone. If you want to go farther, go together. Younger generations will be the ones leading us forward, farther and further into the future. Let us help them face this future and make something of it by joining efforts and taking action to go together. Thank you for your kind attention.

I thank the distinguished observer from Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organization.

Thank you, Madam Chair. Madam Chair, distinguished delegates, on behalf of the Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organization, it's my great honor to report and update our activities in the past year in support of the aims of the Scientific and Technical Subcommittee. Madam Chair, ABSKO is currently implementing its second 10-year strategic plan from the year 2021 to the year 2030, where its key strategy is to take advantage of the wide coverage area of the Asia-Pacific to multiply benefit to our members. Pooling and sharing of resources as well as networking our facilities is the heart of the plan realization. In the year 2024, under the supporting project implementation plan, we have the new— 3 new projects kick off, namely the vision-based close proximity orbital operation platform initiated by Thailand. The mineral prospection using satellite remote sensing proposed by Pakistan, and Linku Project, the satellite tether deployment system proposed by Peru. Currently, there are 8 cooperative projects under the implementation distributed in the domains of space science, technology, and application, and there are currently 5 in-operation networks including the GNSS monitoring and assessment service network, the network for ionospheric modeling through study of radio wave propagation, ABSCO Seismo-Ionospheric Observation and Application Platform, the radiometric calibration of satellite sensor network, and the Asia-Pacific Space Science Observatories Network. Madam Chair, in order to promote the data sharing service platform for social socioeconomic development of its members, EBSCO launched the first batch of the Earth Observation Data Application Projects based on One Country, One Project principle in 2021, and the project has been successfully concluded last year. Consequently, the second batch under the theme of climate change and its effect on agriculture has been promptly kicked off this year. Some projects, example, include include the determining effects of climate change on agricultural region in Mongolia, geospatial information management system for climate change adaptation of temperature extremity by Pakistan, regional crop monitoring and irrigation management by Turkey. And on the utilization of our data sharing service platform for disaster monitoring and management. The EBSCO Council has just approved the TOR of the Disaster Response Mechanism, or EBSCO Charter, this year. The estimation and the operation of the Charter shall begin promptly this first quarter of this year.

Thank you.

In the EBSCO countries— Okay, Madam Chair, on the degree education in space science and technology, currently there are 266 master's and 102 PhD students from EBSCO member strategy and regional countries granted free scholarship under the cooperation with China Scholarship Council, CSC. Besides, in order to improve its degree education, training, and capacity building activities, the EBSCO Education and Training Center are being upgraded to support the implementation of the EBSCO Space University concept that approved by the EBSCO Council last year. Where the educational resources as well as hands-on training facilities will be pooled up and shared among our members. Madam Chair, distinguished delegates, AFCO is strongly committed and putting its best efforts to support the works of COPAS in all domains. We are also open for cooperation with the global space community on exploring and exploiting peaceful uses of outer space. Thank you very much, Madam Chair.

I thank the distinguished observer from the Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organization. Next speaker on my list is a distinguished observer from the Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz International Prize for Water. You have the floor.

Madam Chair, ladies and gentlemen, it's my pleasure here today to speak about the 11th Awards Ceremony for Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz International Prize for Water, PSIPW, which was held here at the United Nations Office at Vienna on the 8th of November, 2024. Next. The event took place under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and was co-organized by UNOUSA and the Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the United Nations in Vienna. BSI-BW is a nonprofit NGO, and we are distinguished by having such gracious support and recognition for our work.

Next.

This IBW, 5 prizes of surface water, groundwater, alternative water resources, water management, and interdisciplinary creativity were awarded to 6 teams of leading international scientists with a diversity of background, including ecohydrology, chemistry, engineering, environmental science, and even medicine, as well as, of course, hydrology, for a wide variety of relevant groundbreaking solutions that promise to help provide needed drinking water to the world's people. The winners hail From institutions in 6 countries: China, the Czech Republic, Italy, Singapore, United Kingdom, and the United States.

Next.

This award ceremony highlights the close relationship between the PSI-BW and the United Nations. We are honored to have the virtual participation of the United Nations Secretary-General, Mr. António Guterres. Next. He praised the role of the PSIBW, saying the recent— recently adopted Pact for the Future calls for solutions rooted in science, technology, and innovation. And this prize responds to that call. It shines a light on bold thinkers and ideas. Congratulations To this year's Inspire to Win winner, your contribution will help advance a just, equitable, and sustainable world for all. Next. Likewise, UNOSA Director Ms. Arti Hola-Mini honored the event and spoke about the importance of the 20 years of collaboration between our organization. Next, she said our collaboration with the Peace IBW on the Space for Water project bridges the space and water sector, supports capacity building, and helps develop space-based solutions for sustainable water management. Our joint work connects over 110 organizations and 60 individuals, experts, enabling action-oriented dialogue and innovation for the local and the global level. Next, the Saudi Minister of Environment, Water, and Agriculture, His Excellency, Engineer Abdulmohsen Al-Fadli, to present— King Salman presented the trophies to the winners. Next, each winner team received a distinctive crystal trophy reflecting our PSIBW logo. Next. Each team member also received a custom certificate. Next. Nomination for the— for our 5 unique prizes are open for the 12th award until the end of the year this year. We are very interested in receiving work at the intersection of space technology and water science for all 5 of our prizes. For more information about the prize, the scientific achievement of the winners, and to make nominations, please visit our website. Thank you very much.

I thank the distinguished observers from the Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz International Prize for Water for the statement. We will continue our consideration of Agenda Item 3, General Exchange of Views, tomorrow morning. Distinguished delegates, I would now like to continue and hopefully conclude our consideration of Agenda Item 14, Geostationary Orbit. First speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of the United Kingdom, You have the floor.

Chair, thank you for giving me the floor. The United Kingdom would like to first thank the representative of the ITU for their attendance at these meetings, for providing regular updates regarding the work of the ITU relevant to COPUUS. The United Kingdom recognizes that access to the geostationary orbit is important to all spacefaring and emerging spacefaring nations. Additionally, the UK recognizes the need for institutions like the ITU to reduce the chance of interference when it comes to the use of geostationary orbits. The UK would also like to take this opportunity to once again encourage and endorse collaboration between the ITU and COPUS to resolve the growing issues we see in space, from work related to humanity's return to the moon to ensuring space remains dark and quiet for our astronomers. We can only find solutions to these problems through distinct yet complementary work of both the ITU and COPUS. With this in mind, the United Kingdom would like to reaffirm that spectrum and and the coordination of geostationary orbit slots is the subject within the remit of the ITU, and we should try to ensure that we do not duplicate discussions which are better suited to the expertise of other international bodies. This is why it's so useful to have bodies like the ITU speaking here at STSC to inform us of the latest developments in subjects of interest to this subcommittee. Thank you, Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of the UK for the statement. Next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of India. You have the floor.

Thank you, Madam Chair. Madam Chair and distinguished delegates, India is one of the fastest-growing digital economies, and the demand for the bandwidth is increasing with the proliferation of applications. From enabling global connectivity in remote and underserved areas to supporting critical applications like disaster management, in-flight and maritime communication, the role of satellite communication is substantial. Madam Chair, India has a fleet of communication satellites operating over the region with communication transponders in C-band, extended C-band, Ku/Ku-band, and S-band. Presently, the 19 satellites in orbit provide 317 operational transponders and 73 gigabits per second high-throughput satellite capacity. The nation has built advanced high-throughput satellites adopting multiple spot beams, providing users links in Ku and Ka band. These have played a significant role in meeting country's requirements in various sectors such as communication, broadcasting, meteorology, navigation, disaster warning, and search and rescue data services. SATCOM network in the country consists of more than 38 teleport operators with 72 teleports, 32 VSAT operators with 60 VSAT hubs and about 2.87 lakh VSAT terminals, 5 DTH operators 1 HITS operator and 47 DSNG operators of different sizes and capabilities. The flagship Digital India program and BharatNet, which are focused to enhance the digital connectivity to village level, are also well supported by the communication satellites. Madam Chair, India has launched exclusive satellite for meteorological applications. At present, 2 satellites namely INSAT-3DR and INSAT-3DS, are, are in operation providing the meteorological data in different bands. During the year 2024, tropical cyclones Rimal, Asna, and Dana were monitored with INSAT-3DR and 3DS. Bhutan, the Maldives, and Bangladesh are getting benefit of the South Asia satellites which was launched in 2017 by India. For the benefit of neighboring South Asian countries. Madam Chair, India is a member of the International COSPAS-SARSAT program for providing distress alert and position location service satellite system. Satellite-aided search and rescue payload is carried on 3 of our GSO satellites: INSAT-3DS, the INSAT-3DR, and the GSAT-17, operating in 406 MHz band. During 2024, Indian Mission Control Center provided search and rescue support to 11 distress incidents in Indian service area. Madam Chair, the mobile satellite services through GSO satellite provides the communication to the portable and handheld devices. ISRO has developed an MSS-based solution for tracking of fishing vessels and boats which go into deep sea for days. And sending emergency messages about natural disasters such as cyclone, tsunami, etc. It is being implemented in about 1 lakh marine fishing vessels and boats. Using MSS services, an indigenous solution has been developed and implemented to enhance the safety and efficiency of train services. So far, about 8,000 trains are covered with this feature of real-time tracking. Madam Chair, the Government of India has opened the space sector for large participation of non-governmental players. This enables and encourages the private initiatives to build, own, operate, and provide space-based services from both GSOs and NGSOs. With this, it is expected that the capacity will be augmented substantially for supporting socio-economic development. Madam Chair, India is effectively utilizing the geostationary geostationary orbit slot for operation of communication and meteorological satellites towards socioeconomic development and risk mitigation. Thank you, Madam Chair and distinguished delegates.

I thank the distinguished representative of India for the statement. Next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran. You have the floor.

Madam Chair, while all Earth orbit contains limited natural resources, that should be equally— that should be equitably accessible to all the geostationary orbit, GSO, stands out as a uniquely significant asset. The primary challenge to equitable access in the GSO is not the identification of a physical slot, but rather the complexities of acquiring the necessary spectrum resources for operation. The International Telecommunication Union, regulates spectrum utilization to enhance equitable access to orbits. Current regulations allocate many spectral and orbital resources on a first-come, first-served basis. Consequently, emerging space nations must coordinate their spectrum needs with pre-existing systems, primarily deployed by advanced spacefaring nations that historically had the technological and infrastructure advantages. Additionally, strict regulatory deadlines for frequency coordination and satellite deployment pose significant obstacles for developing countries seeking future access to these resources. With the continuous addition of satellite systems, primarily by developed nations, equitable access to the GSO is becoming increasingly impractical. To address the challenges posed by the first-come, first-served principle, the ITU introduced the plan approach, which reserved portions of the GSO's spectrum for future use by all nations. However, while this mechanism was forward-thinking at its inception, it does not sufficiently account for evolving technological and economic realities. The plan is based on fixed technical parameters that over time become outdated and insufficient, failing to keep pace with advancements. The Islamic Republic of Iran has previously highlighted these challenges in CRP 26 to STSC 2021 and CRP 21 to LS 2021. To address these issues, Iran proposed an innovative regulatory framework in the Legal Subcommittee, which extends beyond the GSO to other orbits. This initiative focuses on higher-frequency bands that were previously excluded from the ITU Plan due to past technological constraints. As fewer satellites currently operate in these bands, establishing a new regulatory mechanism offers a viable path forward. Notably, a similar concept proposed by some countries in 2023 has gained attention within the ITU and is now under study under Agenda Item 1.6 of the World Radio Communication Conference 2027, WRC 27, expected to conclude in 2027. In light of this consideration, and given that both STSC, and LSC have agenda items related to the GSO and equitable access. We propose that these subcommittees prioritize discussion on this issue. We believe it is important for these committees to explore ways to actively monitor, engage with, and contribute to efforts aimed at enhancing equitable access to orbital and spectrum resources. Including by considering various initiatives such as the potential establishment of a dedicated work plan on this issue. And thank you, Madam Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran for the statement. Next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of Indonesia. You have the floor.

Thank you, Madam Chair. With regard to the Outer Space Treaty, Of 1969, Indonesia believes that geostationary orbit or GSO, as part of outer space and infinite natural resources, possesses unique characteristics and conditions. Consequently, it should be treated as a distinct area within outer space. We emphasize the need to specific. Technical and legal frameworks to govern this GSO, recognizing its specific and economic importance to nations utilizing it. Due to geostationary orbit's physical limitations, such frameworks should be regulated— should regulate the utilization of GSO in a rational, balanced, efficient and equitable manner. These principles are essential to prevent saturation and ensure sustainable use of JSO. Indonesia would like to reiterate that Article 44 of the International Telecommunication Union Constitution underscores that access to and allocation to the JSO must be conducted equally in compliance with the radio regulations. Global framework on JSO should ensure equitable access for all nations or group of nations, considering the specific needs of developing countries and the geographical circumstances of specific states to achieve a fair balance in the use and management of orbital and spectrum resources. Aligned with the objective of Article 44 of ITU Constitution, Indonesia highlights the urgency of ITU Resolution 219 PP/22 Part 2, which calls for relevant studies on optimizing the use of radio spectrum and orbital resources. This includes ensuring long-term sustainability and equitable access to both GSO and non-GSO resources with rational and compatible utilization strategies. Indonesia acknowledges the emergence of non-GSO mega constellation satellites as a potential new approach to establishing nationwide telecommunication network. However, due to unique geographical characteristics, geostationary satellites remain indispensable. Therefore, preserving geostationary orbit regions is of critical importance. Furthermore, we note the ongoing imbalance in the distribution of GSO slots among countries. And we welcome the long-term sustainability guidelines which contribute to preserving the GSO. Nonetheless, further efforts are necessary to address this issue effectively. Madam Chair, it is regrettable that despite repeated concerns expressed by member states regarding GSO utilization, The subcommittee has not yet proposed practical solutions to these issues. In light of this, Indonesia urges COPOS to continue working to facilitating discussions with the ITU and formulating recommendations to enhance collaborations between the 2 bodies on the governance and sustainable use of GSO. I thank you very much, Madam Chair.

Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Indonesia for the statement. Next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of Pakistan. You have the floor.

Thank you, Chair.

Pakistan believes that the geostationary orbit, GSO, is a limited natural resource which must be available to all member states of the United Nations and the International Telecommunication Union, ITU, on equitable basis, irrespective of their technical capacities, and its use must be governed by Article 44 of the ITU Constitution and Outer Space Treaty of the United Nations. Pakistan has in orbit 2 GSO satellites, Paksat-1R and Paksat-MM1. The PakSat-1R satellite provides telecommunication services in the C and Ku bands. The PakSat-MM1 satellite was launched on May 30th, 2024, and it is a multi-mission communication satellite consisting of L, C, Ku, and Ka band payloads. It will allow millions of Pakistani citizens to have access to advanced telecommunication services. The equitable access to spectrum and orbital resources at geostationary orbit has several regulatory challenges at the International Telecommunication Union platform. Current regulations do not permit unbiased distribution of these natural resources to all nations of the world. It is a big challenge for new entrants in the commercial space industry due to certain factors, which includes, number one, the planned band regime would developed when satellite technology was not mature as it is today. It has certain technological limitations making it difficult to materialize. Number 2, the unplanned band regime is based on a first-come, first-served basis, which is not in favor of new space entities that are already late in filing their applications to the ITU. Number 3, certain provisions of ITU radio regulations, especially number 11.49, have developed a monopoly of active space entities for decades. And number 4, with the introduction of mega-LEO constellations, the protection of GSO satellites from harmful interference is severely undermined because of certain inefficiencies in the method to check the compliance of these mega-LEO constellations with the limits to protect the GSO satellites from harmful interference. Lastly, We consider that in order to ensure sustainability of the optimum utilization of the geostationary orbit, it is necessary to uphold this issue on the agenda of the subcommittee. Applications of developing countries, including Pakistan, which lost their rights at the ITU regarding GSO due to delays caused by the pandemic, should be accepted for development for the ICT sector. The subcommittee may also consider the revision of this agenda for the inclusion of other satellite orbits, LEO and MLO, for sustainability of the optimum utilization of orbit and spectrum resources through the technical studies by ITU, creation of appropriate working groups and panels as necessary. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Pakistan for the statement. Next speaker on my list is the distinguished Representative of Ecuador, you have the floor.

Presidenta.

Madam Chair, Ecuador would like to make the following comments on this agenda item. Madam Chair, based on the premise of the rule of law and rules and standards as the basis of international coexistence, we note that geostationary orbit is a physical fact linked to our planet. 70% of this orbit is located above the oceans, while the remaining 30% is located above the equatorial countries, such as Ecuador. This feature means that the geostationary orbit is a natural finite resource, and accordingly, the segments of the geostationary orbit are part of the territory over which equatorial states exercise their sovereignty. As such, we have rights over the segments of the geostationary orbit located above our territory, as is indicated in our Constitution. Nevertheless, exercising this sovereignty does not in any way imply a monopoly or exclusive rights over these segments. Quite the contrary, its use rather should be governed by principles of cooperation and peaceful use, ensuring that its use is undertaken in cooperation with the equatorial states and in favor of all of humankind. This factual reality enshrined by COPUICE makes it necessary to work towards the definition and delimitation between airspace and outer space in compliance with the rights of equatorial states regarding the geostationary orbit and establishing limits to the capacity and satellite use of this orbit. I would like to underscore the following, that as my country is located above the equator, our country is a strategic site for the launch of spacecraft, given that it is possible to harness the maximum speed of rotation of the planet in order to boost the thrust of spacecraft and to enter orbit with a lower amount of fuel. A further advantage is related to the communications coverage of both hemispheres, which is particularly useful for communication and Earth observation satellites. This leads to significant savings for those undertakings involved in this area of activity. Madam Chair, in compliance with international law, Ecuador fully believes that space governance provides a safe and sustainable environment for the development of activities in outer space. Through its competent bodies, Ecuador has undertaken steps in order to promptly adhere to the Fourth Space Treaty, which is the Convention on the Registration of Objects Launched into Outer Space. Madam Chair, the peaceful use of outer space is essential in order to achieve scientific and technological progress. Discoveries derived from the exploration and investigation of space allow us to broaden and valorize our knowledge of the universe and its interactions with humankind. It is therefore vital that we protect and preserve space for future generations. Here, Ecuador believes that equitable access to the geostationary orbit is a matter of priority, all the more so for developing countries. This equitable access must be undertaken in a rational, effective, and economic form, guaranteeing the application of principles of equity and impartiality in the allocation of frequencies and orbital positions in keeping with the provisions set forth in the provisions of the International Telecommunications Union, the ITU, as well as other international rules and standards pertaining to outer space.

Thank you, Representative of Ecuador, for this statement. Next speaker on my list is the distinguished observer from the International Telecommunication Union. You have the floor.

Thank you, Madam Chair. Distinguished delegates, I'm honored to address again the Scientific and Technical Subcommittee of COPUOS to present the 2024 Annual Radio Communication Bureau's report on the use of the geostationary and other orbits. In accordance with paragraph 184 of the report of the 45th session of the subcommittee. Consequently, for the 17th year in a row, you will find the full report in the 6 languages of the Union on the ITU website. And to make it easier to read the data, it is provided in Excel format and inserted in the files for each language. A summary version of this report with links to the ITU website is also published In conference room document CRP25. In 2024, the Radio Communication Bureau also launched a new web application for consulting its space services data called ITU Space Explorer. Madam Chair, from these data, we can retain 4 trends this year. The first trend concerns the use of the geostationary orbit. While the number of submissions of coordination requests continued to decrease, the number of notices at the notification stage increased again in 2024. The second and third trends concern non-geostationary orbits. The number of submissions has continued to increase steadily since 2019. It is also noted that to date, 12 administrations have submitted bids for systems orbiting celestial objects other than the Earth. Finally, the latest trend: the number of administrations with ITU submissions continues to grow in 2024, with Thank you. To date, 65 administrations have GSO network submissions in non-planned frequency bands, and 99 administrations have submissions of systems on the non-geostationary orbits of all types. Madam Chair, I would like to end this statement by informing you that the ITU-R radio communications sector is beginning the second year of its 2023 to 2027 study cycle on the agenda decided at the 2023 World Radio Communication Conference. Madam Chair, distinguished delegates, thank you for your attention.

I thank the distinguished observer from the International Telecommunication Union for this statement. We have concluded our consideration of Agenda Item 14, geostationary orbit. Distinguished delegates, I would now like to begin our consideration of Agenda Item 15, Dark and Quiet Skies. The first speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of the United States of America. You have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. We look forward to engaging on this newly established agenda item and working together to address the challenges optical and infrared astronomy presented by the increasing number of satellites in low Earth orbit from a wide range of countries. We have already seen the benefits satellites and satellite constellations provide, including in times of natural disaster. The United States has experienced this recently with the provision of essential communication services during the devastating wildfires in California. We therefore need to ensure a balanced approach in both safeguarding astronomy while allowing for indispensable benefits offered by new and innovative satellites and satellite constellations. There's been significant progress in satellite design and operations to move us closer to the International Astronomical Union's brightness recommendation of 7th magnitude. One key observation is that there is not a one-size-fits-all solution and that there are many factors that contribute to a satellite's observed brightness from Earth. Additionally, it is clear that early engagement with when satellites are still being designed is both useful and economical. Early modeling and testing in the laboratory can help mitigate more expensive design changes later on. Satellite manufacturers in the United States, especially within the commercial sector, have worked diligently to test and implement changes including dielectric films, dark paints, visors, operational orientation modifications, bringing satellites to lower altitudes, and sharing high-precision telemetry. It's important to share these experiences and this information on technical solutions so that others can benefit from efforts to address these challenges. Many of the most effective solutions have been identified by commercial satellite operators committed to these concerns. We've learned that, somewhat counterintuitively, making satellites more reflective by attaching a dielectric film to a flat surface preferentially reflects light away from the Earth and makes them dimmer. It can also be helpful to darken small curved surfaces if it does not lead to thermal problems for the satellite. We've learned that in the absence of intersatellite links, the use of a visor that reflects sunlight away from Earth may be useful for satellites with more complex shapes. Modifying a satellite's orientation with respect to the ground can also help minimize reflected light. While the scope of this agenda item focuses on the optical and infrared astronomical impacts, we can also learn from mitigation methods developed by the radio astronomy community. For instance, in the United States, we have developed the operational data sharing technique where astronomical facilities and satellite operators dynamically coordinate to avoid boresight encounters using telescope pointing information. This type of dynamic coordination may also offer promise to ground-based optical and infrared astronomy sites to avoid the brightest reflections or glints. The United States Federal Communications Commission, or FCC, has continued to include coordination with the National Science Foundation, or NSF, as a requirement for licensing. These requirements are publicly available on the FCC's website, as are annual reports filed by companies about their own implementation of mitigation efforts. We would also highlight the importance of a multi-stakeholder approach to addressing these challenges. An effective, practical, and substantive solution can only be found by the space community working together. To facilitate this process, our Department of State and NSF convened a domestic discussion group of astronomers, satellite operators, academics, and other experts to discuss these challenges and feed their perspectives and ideas into our international engagements. We have found this to be an immensely useful endeavor and it has broadened our knowledge and moved us closer to finding solutions. We also welcome the Group of Friends for Dark and Quiet Skies and their recent conference room paper and side event, and we express our sincere appreciation to Chile and Spain for their leadership in this process. The awareness, technical work, and action that this group of friends has advanced cannot be overstated, and we look forward to bringing these ideas to the SDSC. Chair, in closing, the United States remains committed to preserving astronomy while still advancing the benefits of satellites and satellite constellations. We continue to reaffirm the Outer Space Treaty as the cornerstone of international law and reflect our commitment to these obligations in our national regulatory frameworks and licensing of space activities. Thank you, Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of the United States of America for the statement. Next, The next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of Spain. You have the floor.

Muchas gracias, señora.

Thank you very much, Madam Chair. My delegation wishes to thank you and the Secretariat for the highly efficient manner in which this session is being carried out. Spain is deeply committed to the protection of dark and quiet skies for science and society. As we have indicated in the various debates that have taken place in this subcommittee. As we see it, the sky is the natural resource indicating our location in the universe. It inspires thought and is the basis of data and information allowing us to explore and understand the laws of the cosmos, which in turn provide the basis for our existence as a species. In 2020 and in 2021, the International Astronomical Union and the Astrophysical Institute of the Canaries in cooperation with UNOSA organized 2 major international events attended by astronauts, scientists, lawyers, and other experts where significant conclusions were reached. These conclusions have allowed us to enrich our debates in the form of a presentation of a series of conference room papers supported by a group growing number of delegations, allowing us to reach this stage where we now have a specific agenda item to protect the dark and quiet skies for astronomy and society. Madam Chair, Spain is closely working with UNOSA and with the International Astronomical Union in order to further engage in a serious and constructive debate on the need to mitigate the harmful impact that human actions can have on sky observation. And we do this based on our belief in the need to protect international investment, as well as the need to promote the development of Earth-based astronomy, guaranteeing the sustainability of the space environment and protecting the safety and security of space objects. On this occasion, we are honored to co-sponsor a conference room paper, which was developed within the Group of Friends of Dark and Quiet Skies, aimed at promoting the growing coordination and cooperation among all interested parties. And we can tell you that we have already reached tangible results. We hope to be able to continue building on this substantial progress for the protection of Earth astronomy. I would like to recall that this group of friends saw the light in the island of La Palma, where a significant astronomical observatory is located. And this in itself is an example of international scientific cooperation. In order to present our conference room paper during this week, we will be organizing a side event together with the delegation of Chile and the observers SCAO, ESO, UAI, EAS, the Spanish Space Agency, and the Astrophysical Institute of the Canaries. The side event is entitled Preserving Our Celestial Heritage: Dark and Quiet Skies, with the participation of all interested parties. We would like to thank you for the great interest that this event has garnered, as well as for the introductory words of the Director. The conference room paper outlines further avenues for research and development that could help identify the challenges and equally further develop coordinated strategies to tackle them. The main conclusion reached is that the protection of astronomy and the sustainability of space activities requires further developing and fostering cooperation among astronauts, among satellite operators, and public authorities in order to continue promoting practical measures that will mitigate the impact of human activity on observation of our skies. The conference room paper Equally includes an annex outlining a set of practical measures that could be adopted as a result of the exchange of information among all interested parties.

Thank you, Representative of Spain, for the statement. Next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of New Zealand. You have the floor, Chair.

Distinguished delegates, New Zealand recognizes that satellites. In low Earth orbit can have unintended impacts on a range of uses of the night sky. We are grateful to the international astronomical community for their continued efforts in mitigating this important issue. This is an important issue for New Zealand. Our universities have strengths in astronomical research, and their work is being impacted by the growing number of satellites visible in the night sky. New Zealand is home to the Aoraki-Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, one of the largest dark sky reserves in the world and the only reserve of its type in the Southern Hemisphere. The night sky is also culturally important for Indigenous New Zealanders. We acknowledge that satellite-enabled services and data have become critical underpinning our daily lives. In 2023, a destructive cyclone damaged communication networks in impacted areas of New Zealand. Rescue and recovery efforts relied on connectivity provided by satellite communication constellations. Addressing the impact of satellites on uses of the night sky while preserving the benefits of satellites to society is an issue that requires international cooperation and coordination. New Zealand hopes that work under this agenda item will result in meaningful progress towards solutions that work for all affected groups, from astronomers and Indigenous peoples through to commercial satellite operators. To support this work, New Zealand hopes that a diverse range of perspectives will be heard on the issue. Experts from the astronomical community, the international space sector, and Indigenous communities will all have valuable insights as we look for a pragmatic way forward. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of New Zealand for the statement. Next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of China. You have the floor.

Madam Chair, China appreciates the adoption of the new agenda item, Dark and Quiet Skies, Astronomy and Large Constellations, addressing emerging issues and challenges at the 61st session of the subcommittee. This marks an important step in building consensus among nations on the governance of large constellations. And China supports discussions on this matter. Large constellations are being deployed rapidly. While bringing benefits to humanity, they pose challenges to space environment, ground-based astronomical observations, the safe operations of spacecraft, and the fair use of frequencies and Orbital resources. China believes that both governmental and non-governmental entities, in their activities of large constellations, must comply with international law, including the Outer Space Treaty, and adhere to provisions regarding the peaceful use, space object registration, national risk. Responsibility and equitable access so as to ensure the long-term sustainability of outer space activities. Regarding protection of astronomical observation, dark and quiet skies are valuable natural resources and cultural heritage for humanity, providing essential conditions for scientific investigation and space exploration by astronomers. China gives priority to protecting dark skies and mitigating the impact of satellite constellations on astronomical observations. The Chinese astronomical community continues to develop and implement standards for dark sky protection, conducting quantitative measurements of satellite light pollution and brightness distribution, to safeguard optical astronomy sites. Scientists and the local governments are also working together to establish agreements and regulations for dark sky protection areas at existing and potential observation sites. When it comes to the protection of radio astronomy sites, with the development and successful operation of the 500-meter Aperture Spherical Radio Telescope, FAST in short, significant progress has been made in protecting radio astronomy. China has promoted research on electromagnetic compatibility methods for radio telescopes, studied techniques for mitigating radio frequency interference, and established radio quiet zones around radio telescope facilities. to maximize their effectiveness. With FAST, scientists in China and around the world have made significant achievements and discoveries in fields such as HI surveys, pulsar research, and fast radio bursts, contributing to the understanding and resolution of fundamental astrophysical problems. The governance of large constellations is crucial for the sustainable use of outer space. China believes that efforts should be made within the United Nations framework to build consensus and promote beneficial international practices. Additionally, China would suggest that coordination and cooperation be made between discussions on this item and other related agenda items within this subcommittee, such as the long-term sustainability of other space activities and item on space traffic management at the legal subcommittee. It is essential to define the scope and the priorities of this discussion to efficiently achieve meaningful outcomes. Thank you, Madam Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of China for the statement. Next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of France, you have the floor.

Merci, Madame la Présidente.

Thank you very much, Chair. Ladies and gentlemen, the French delegation would like to express its view on the agenda item Dark and Quiet Skies during this STSC meeting. We have done so for 5 years now since the proposal made by Chile and Spain in 2020. As during previous meetings, we're well aware of the numerous challenges here, those scientific and industrial aspects, those for operators, cultural and educational aspects, the impact of astronomy for the public at large, and the dissemination of scientific culture. So as to take this all into account, we've introduced a new requirement into our regulations so as to limit interference with astronomical observations. And thus, from 1 January 2028, the operators of megaconstellations falling under the regulation will have to design, produce, and deploy their satellites upholding a luminosity indicator set at an apparent magnitude threshold of 7 or more. This will limit optical perturbations when it comes to astronomical observations that are ground-based or space-based. This draws fully on the work carried out by the ISO. We would like to see it universalized through domestication into national regulations. So as to better detail these mitigating measures and use others also, we work hand in hand with operators. Studies are underway, in particular through the Tech for Space Care project. This is so as to better identify methods and acceptable solutions. This program is headed by the CNES. It seeks to provide industrial and space operators with technological solutions such that they can comply with their obligations under French regulations. UN-COPUOS plays a key role here. On the one hand, it can facilitate the implementation of internationally calibrated indicators so as to qualify perturbations induced by satellites on astronomical observations on the ground and in low Earth orbit, but then also defining standardized methodology so as to implement said indicators. Madam Chair, the French delegation would like to reiterate the importance of this agenda item remaining there until 2029. We'd like to once again hail this initiative and all the delegations that have supported it. Seen in this manner, the establishment of a Group of Friends in 2024 will be a time for exchanges between countries on dark and quiet skies. We think it is a great way to make headway on effective international cooperation. The goal is to provide acceptable solutions for all, so as to bring together the development of human activities in outer space and ground-based scientific activities. My delegation hails the establishment The focus group bringing together representatives of academia, industry, as well as amateur astronomers and operators. We also welcome CRP 2022 and CRP 13 from SKAO. Chair, my delegation thanks the organizations who have participated in the discussion groups. We welcome the spirit of cooperation of these discussions which led to the CRP. We support the balanced recommendations made for solutions that are acceptable for all parties and underscores the positive trend of international cooperation establishing these recommendations. We also welcome the forthcoming holding of a workshop on on this topic by the— by UNOOSA and SKAO. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of France for the statement. Next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of Canada. You have the floor.

Chair, distinguished delegates, increasing optical interference from growing satellite constellations could have significant impact on the sensitive astronomical observatories across the globe. These observatories require dark and quiet skies to achieve their purposes: to probe fundamental physics, to learn the life cycle of planets, stars, and galaxies, and to understand the context and development of the life in the universe. Historically, astronomical needs for dark skies have been met through the use of remote, secluded sites. However, even these sites will see an impact from satellite constellations. International efforts will will be required to develop and implement effective mitigation strategies and realize the benefits of these constellations without impairing humanity's views to the universe. Over the past 50 years, Canada and its international partners have established several ground-based optical-infrared observatories, such as the Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope and the International Gemini Observatory. These observatories enable access to the Canadian— for the Canadian and international astronomical communities to powerful world-class observing capabilities, including wide-field camera capable of imaging large areas of the sky in exquisite details. Canadian astronomers have leveraged such imaging capabilities to establish a worldwide reputation in conducting large surveys that have consistently delivered groundbreaking discoveries and higher bibliometric impact. They can probe different timescales corresponding to different astrophysical transient phenomena by repeating— repeatedly imaging the same sky location through multiple visits at different cadence. However, surveys represent large investment observing time and are at high risk of exposure to optical interference. Deep images of the sky are produced by collecting and stacking large numbers of images. The relatively short duration of individual satellite events is helpful, but higher numbers of satellites may ultimately produce a cumulative impact that cannot be mitigated with— without significant improvements to existing algorithms. Deep image stacking typically involves large amount of data that must be processed at once, and As satellite interference grows, more computationally intensive data reduction strategies will be required for standard astronomical data processing. Therefore, Canada continues to invest in astronomical data processing initiatives such as the Canada Canadian Astronomy Data Center and then at the National Research Council that are used by the international astronomy community. The pursuit of time domain astrometry. astronomy, which requires observation on timescales as short as a few tens of seconds, has emerged as top priority to probe powerful phenomena. The shorter observing timescales are closer to those of passing satellite events, which may result in increased susceptibility to optical interference. Fully removing the effect of satellite trails has proven difficult and remains a significant source of false positive identification of moving objects. Quantitatively, a survey of solar system objects sees roughly 2 to 6 streaks per hour, with the streaks spanning the entire length of the camera field of view. The streaks are bright enough to consider all intersected pixels as lost data. These rates tend to increase closer to twilight where satellites appear brighter. So, Mitigation strategies are limited and range from rejecting affected observations to better statistical identification of optical interference. The interest in optical interference in Canada's astronomical community is very high, and community members have been very active. These efforts have produced a number of recommendations aligned with similar efforts in other countries. This alignment reinforces the need for coordinated efforts at the international level. Thank you. National level. Although astronomers have been so far able to partially mitigate optical interferences through a combination of careful observation planning, innovative instrumentation choice, and better data processing algorithm, these remain substantial uncertainties about the long-term impact as the number of satellites continues to grow. Sophisticated modeling based on ongoing surveys will be the key to producing higher fidelity forecasts, and Canada will continue to actively participate in this modeling effort. In conclusion, as even more powerful facilities such as the Rubin LSST and extremely large telescopes become operational, the need for dark skies for astronomical research will remain of prime scientific importance. We believe that international cooperation such as the Group of Friends, is essential to understanding and mitigating the impact of satellite constellation on astronomical observation. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Canada for the statement. Next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of Russian Federation. You have the floor.

Thank you very much, Chair. for giving this delegation the floor. Madam Chair, as per the Space Treaty of 1967, outer space activities are undertaken so as to retain international peace and security, so as to promote cooperation and mutual understanding. We are sure that the exploration of outer space, including the Moon and other celestial bodies, must be carried out so as to serve all states This is a process which necessarily offers to users broad perspectives and possibilities, in particular in communication, navigation, as well as ERS. Yet the explosion in the quantity of small satellites into orbit and the frequency of their launching into outer space brings with it an exponential increase in related risks of natural and anthropogenic sources. This creates new problems for the long-term sustainability of our space activities and the safety of space operations, as well as for scientific research. One of the most tangible impacts is a worsening of the conditions for the conduct of astronomical observations. The reflections of sun's light on from many satellites means that the dark skies are no longer dark, and this complicates the observation of celestial bodies and has a harmful impact on scientific projects such as seeking exoplanets, as well as the studying of deep space and monitoring space threats. An important measure for ensuring effective radio astronomy is to protect ranges which are of astronomical interest from harmful interference created by artificial radio emissions in a targeted frequency or in the background from megaclusters. There's a significant threat growing from the formation of additional space debris in LEO, in the near-Earth space, which is actively used, including for the conduct of manned flights. Orbital frequency resources are less and less available. Furthermore, there are a number of other issues of an international and legal nature. In essence, this could be a violation of the provisions of the Space Treaty of 1967. The virtually internationally unregulated level of the exponential increase in small satellite clusters significantly hampers access to orbit for for outer space actors, which is a breach of Article 1 of the treaty. This treaty— rather, this situation jeopardizes the enjoyment by states of their right to free access to outer space. Another separate and extremely pressing issue would be the use of large groups of small space devices and their related ground-based infrastructure registered as for civilian purposes Thank you. To support the combats of foreign force— military forces of foreign governments, as well as interference in the sovereign— into the internal affairs of sovereign states. I would note that the use of mega-clusters very often is concentrated in the hands of private companies, and their interests rarely fall in line with the interests of the long-term sustainability of outer space activities. Madam Chair, it is evident that should this trend continue when it comes to the development of mega clusters of small satellites, in the years to come, the situation regarding the exploration and use of outer space could significantly become more difficult. Thus, we think it need to— that there is a need to launch right away in UN COPUOS a structured, constructive, depoliticized, and results-based dialogue Thank you. An important area for discussions should be the elaboration and implementation of self-restrictive measures so as to prevent a harmful development of events in outer space. Important elements of these measures and standards would be the following. Number 1, necessary assessment of the impact on astronomical observations in outer space before the clusters are launched, establishing limitations to the number of satellites in the clusters, as well as mechanisms to prevent the formation of space debris, including the withdrawal after, after end-of-life cycle. There should be a balance between the international community taking control over the situation with regard to mega clusters, but also ensuring free access to the exploration of outer space. The view of the Russian Federation on this matter has been reflected in CRP 27. We hope all delegations will take a look at that. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished delegate of the Russian Federation for the statement. Next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of Italy. You have the floor.

Madam Chair, distinguished delegates, Italy is deeply deeply committed to leading initiatives that support the dark and white sky. At the national level, scientific institutions such as the National Institute for Astrophysics and the regional authorities have taken proactive measures to mitigate light pollution and protect our dark and white skies. In recent years, Italy has implemented severe lighting regulation in areas surrounding our astronomical observatories and dark sky parks. At the international level, Italy has actively contributed to working groups under the auspices of both International Astronomical Union and the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs, while participating in the Group of Friends and Dark and white skies. In conclusion, off-target white skies item on STSG agenda marks a significant step forward. We advocate for approach that is holistic and inclusive, one that involves governments, industries, academia, and civil society by integrating efforts to reduce the risk terrestrial light pollution with strategies to manage and regulate space activities. We can develop a comprehensive regime that protects our night skies while fostering innovation in the space sector. Thank you, Mr.

Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Italy for the statement. Next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of Australia. You have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. Distinguished delegates, Australia welcomes the consensus to include dark and quiet skies, astronomy, and large constellations, addressing emerging issues and challenges as a single issue item on the draft provisional agenda of the subcommittee for its next 5 sessions. Chair, Australia has both a growing civil space sector and strong research capabilities in astronomy, supported by world-class infrastructure. Additionally, we acknowledge the close connection held by First Nations Australians with the night sky. Satellite services deliver benefits to the well-being and resilience of our society. Australia relies on space technologies such as navigation, communications, and Earth observation satellites to deliver essential services. In particular, space technologies enable connectivity and access to the digital economy for the most remote communities in Australia and increase levels of digital inclusion. Rapid developments in satellite communications networks are bringing choice and a change in broadband capability to businesses and households in regional and rural Australia. Australia is also invested in global science infrastructure projects such as the Square Kilometre Array Observatory, the SKAO, and European Southern Observatory. The membership of the SKAO now includes 16 partners across 5 continents, demonstrating the ongoing global value of ground-based astronomy infrastructure. Australia will host the SKAO's low-frequency radio telescope, the SKA-Low, at Inyarrimana, Ilguri Bundarra, the CSIRO's Murchison Radio Astronomy Observatory. The Wajarri Yamatji are the traditional owners and native title holders of the land on which the SKA Low Australian Observatory site is located. The project is proceeding with their consent, formalised through an Indigenous Land Use Agreement between the Wajarri Yamatji, the Australian Government, the Western Australian State Government, and the CSIRO. Australia's national science agency. Chair, Australia recognises that satellites can have unintended impacts on observing conditions for astronomy, particularly in low Earth orbit. Australia's Space Launches and Returns Act 2018— the Act establishes a system for regulating space and high-power rocket activities in Australia or by Australian nationals overseas. Australia's regulatory framework includes measures which require potential applicants to consider the safety and sustainability of their space activities. The Act includes a debris mitigation strategy as a requirement for launches conducted under an Australian launch permit or overseas payload permit. Chair, in 2023, In 2024, the Australian Space Agency— the agency consulted with the Australian space sector to seek input on a potential Australian Sustainability of Space Activities policy. The policy aims to support the long-term viability of the Australian space sector so Australians can continue to benefit from space services for current and future generations. The agency asked the sector for feedback on the proposed themes of the policy, including supporting astronomy and space science by advocating for the protection of dark and quiet skies. Feedback indicated that technological solutions have an important role to play in protecting Australia's dark and quiet skies. However, Respondents raised that care should be taken not to place regulatory burden on the sector. The agency is considering this feedback as it continues to develop an Australian Sustainability of Space Activities policy. We look forward to updating delegations on the development of this policy in due course. Chair, Australia is pleased to contribute to international dialogue on the exploration and use of outer space. Australia looks forward to the subcommittee's consideration of this agenda item.

Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Australia for the statement. Next speaker on my list is a distinguished representative of South Africa. You have the floor.

Chairperson, South Africa has a vibrant scientific community working on both radio and optical astronomy. It is a home to the Southern African Large Telescope, the largest single optical telescope in the Southern Hemisphere. It is also home to the MeerKAT radio telescope, which is the most sensitive telescope of its kind in the world. And a precursor to the Square Kilometre Array radio telescope to be built in South Africa and Australia. Chairperson, the rapid growth of large satellite constellations poses challenges for astronomical research, from a streak of reflected sunlight for optical telescopes to increase their power, potentially overwhelming faint astronomical signals for radio telescopes. As a co-sponsor of this conference room paper calling for this agenda item, South Africa is of the view that Scientific and Technical Subcommittee is the most appropriate forum to address the challenges faced by the optical and infrared astronomy and has the appropriate mandate, technical expertise, and processes necessary to achieve this result. Chairperson, while various limits have been proposed for maximum acceptable satellite brightness, the International Astronomical Union currently recommends each satellite to appear fainter than 7th magnitude. Constellations at lower orbital heights need more satellites to provide ground coverage for communication missions, which seems to suggest that constellations at higher orbits would require fewer satellites and therefore would have a lesser impact. Satellites at lower orbital heights also move more quickly through the focal planes of telescopes and may be more out of focus, resulting in larger angular size and a lower brightness per pixel. This means that for the optical astronomy, lower constellation orbital heights would be preferred. The distinct and complementary roles of the UN Corpus and ITU-R in protecting radio astronomy are well established. However, effectively addressing current and future challenges may require coordinated action and collaboration mitigating efforts which both organizations to ensure— from both organizations to ensure the preservation of astronomical research. Thank you, Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of South Africa. for the statement. Next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of the Republic of Korea. You have the floor.

Thank you, Madam Chair. The Republic of Korea reaffirms its unwavering support for the protection of dark and quiet skies. Safeguarding them from the potential impact of satellite constellations is, we believe, one of the key agendas for COPUS. The Republic of Korea remains committed to advancing astronomical research while preserving our invaluable cultural heritage from potential disruptions caused by satellite constellations. At the same time, we recognize the indispensable role satellites play in our daily lives, including in communication, disaster management, and weather forecasting. This agenda provides a crucial opportunity to explore a balanced approach, one that safeguards dark and quiet skies while maximizing the benefits of satellite constellations. Given the scientific and commercial significance of this issue, it must be addressed with broader engagement with diverse stakeholders, including government, academia, industry, and civil society. In this regard, on February 3rd, the Korean Astronomical Society, representing professional astronomers and astrophysicists, in Korea, released an official statement emphasizing the importance of protecting dark and quiet skies and encouraging its members to actively participate in relevant initiatives. Furthermore, outreach campaigns have been carried out with stakeholders in the space science community and the aerospace industry, raising awareness of the challenges posed by satellite constellations and underscoring the importance of collaboration in addressing this issue. The Republic of Korea is dedicated to continuing these efforts to raise awareness and fostering collaboration with all stakeholders. We stand ready to work with other COP member states to ensure the protection of dark and quiet skies for future generations. Thank you, Madam Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of the Republic of Korea for the statement. Next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of Chile. You have the floor.

Señora Presidenta.

Madam Chair. Chile welcomes the inclusion of this specific item on our agenda, the outcome of various years of joint efforts. We prize this opportunity to be able to discuss this matter in detail at the upcoming sessions of the Scientific and Technical Subcommittee, given its relevance both for science as well as for society and the common heritage of humankind. As was stated at the first day of our session, Chile, along with a group of states and observers, presented a conference room paper, CRP, which is the outcome of cooperative work carried out in the Group of Friends of Dark and Quiet Skies. This has been a markedly inclusive effort, bringing together various actors, including governmental representatives, scientific organizations, as well as the private sector, with the common aim of protecting the integrity of the night sky from the impact of satellite constellations. Chile fully recognizes the significant advantages of satellite constellations, including the contribution that they make to developing telecommunications, global connectivity, and disaster management, among a number of essential areas for the well-being of our societies. However, hand in hand with these benefits come challenges that we must tackle, and that is why what we are seeking is to strike a balance between harmonizing these technological advances with the protection of our dark and quiet skies, which are fundamental for scientific research, culture, and connecting humankind to the universe. As such, the CRP sets out a series of recommendations that we would like to share with other delegations. And to encourage other delegations to contribute to further strengthening a collective approach for their implementation, promoting cooperation among member states, industry, and the scientific community, promoting the development and implementation of technologies and practices that can reduce the impact of satellite constellations on astronomical observation. Promoting scientific and technological research in order to assess the impact of constellations on radio astronomy, optical and infrared observation, as well as the environmental impact of satellite launches and reentries. Promoting the adoption of mitigation measures by satellite operators and further promoting the implementation of voluntary practices aimed at reducing the luminosity of satellites and reducing the interference to scientific observation. Facilitating access to relevant data for the scientific community, heightening transparency, and enhancing the exchange of information on the position and features of satellites, which will make it possible to strengthen the planning of astronomical observations and mitigating possible interference. Madam Chair, we trust that these proposals will make a significant contribution to addressing the emerging challenges related to the protection of dark and quiet skies, and we hope to count on the support of delegations present here in order to progress towards reaching consensus-based solutions to guarantee the harmonious coexistence between technological progress and the preservation of dark skies as the common province of humankind. And to conclude, I would like to welcome the workshop on dark and quiet skies that is being organized by SKAO and EUNOSA. in October in Manchester in the United Kingdom. Undoubtedly, this is an excellent opportunity in order to continue making further progress in this discussion, which we deem vital. Thank you, Madam Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Chile for the statement. Next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of Brazil. You have the floor.

Thank you, Madam Chair. Madam Chair, distinguished delegates, Brazil reaffirms its commitment to the preservation of dark and quiet skies, which are essential for the continuity of vital scientific services such as radio astronomy and Earth exploration by satellite services. It is with great honor that we announce our decision to join the Group of Friends for Dark and Quiet Skies. Reflecting Brazil's, Brazil's strong interest in actively contributing to the mitigation of satellite constellation impacts and ensuring the protection of the scientific environment. We also commend the decision to include the agenda item titled Dark and Quiet Skies: Astronomy and Large Constellations on this committee's provisional agenda for the next 5 years. This decision represents a significant step towards addressing the cumulative impacts of satellite constellations while balancing technological development and space sustainability. Brazil has an active astronomical community with access to important national and international astronomical facilities affected by light and electromagnetic pollution and interference from satellite constellation. Preserving dark and quiet skies aligns directly with the long-term sustainability of outer space activities. Mitigating optical and radio frequency interference is essential to safeguard ongoing scientific observations and protect critical services that benefit all humankind. We also highlight the critical relationship between radio astronomy and space weather. Events such as the The 1989 geomagnetic storm illustrates the tangible risks of solar emissions. Such phenomena can significantly disrupt aeronautical communications, air traffic control, satellite navigation, GNSS, electrical power grids, climate monitoring, and geopardize disaster prevention. Protecting the radio frequency bands used for these services is indispensable for ensuring global technological resilience and public safety. Brazil, through its state institutions such as the National Telecommunications Agency, ANATEL, actively protects radio frequency bands used by radio astronomy in line with ITU-R recommendations, including RA 769, which establishes criteria to protect scientific observations from harmful interference, RA 1513, which addresses the mitigation of out-of-band emissions and passive services. We emphasize the importance of strengthening coordination between COPUS and ITU-R while fully respecting their respective mandates and competencies, ensuring the implementation of harmonized and effective solutions. Projects such as the SCALE, ALMA, CTAO, SOAR, Gemini, and the next generation of extremely large telescopes, namely GMT, TMT, and ELT, which represent large-scale international collaborations, exemplify the vital role of radio and optical astronomy in advancing fundamental scientific discoveries about the universe's nature. Moreover, these projects drive technological innovation with direct applications in telecommunications, climate monitoring, data processing, and medicine, delivering tangible benefits to global socioeconomic development. In this regard, Brazil believes that future revisions of the COPUOS Guidelines for the Long-Term Sustainability of Outer Space Activities should incorporate preserving dark and quiet skies into its umbrella. The ongoing discussions within the Working Group on Long-Term Sustainability provide a concrete opportunity to advance this issue and consolidate practices that ensure a balance between technological innovation and the protection of scientific services. Madam Chair, distinguished delegates, Brazil reaffirms its commitment to achieving a balance between technological development and the preservation of the environment necessary for scientific progress and the long-term sustainability of outer space activities. International cooperation remains fundamental to addressing emerging challenges and ensuring that space remains a safe, accessible, and sustainable environment for all. Thank you, Madam Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Brazil for this statement. Next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of the United Kingdom. You have the floor.

Chair, distinguished delegates, the United Kingdom acknowledges the vital role that astronomical observations from space and Earth-based installations play in our ability to understand our universe, enable deep space navigation and exploration, and provide early warning detection of near-Earth objects. The United Kingdom also recognizes the benefits satellite constellations can bring to bridge the digital divide as well as provide global connectivity. The United Kingdom welcomes the addition of this agenda item to our program of work and hopes we can remain focused on the discussion around how to balance our access to vital services from space whilst minimizing the impact on important scientific research. Addressing the issues and challenges of dark and quiet skies requires international collaboration. The United Kingdom is an active member of the Group of Friends for Dark and Quiet Skies for Science and Society and has UK representatives from the astronomical community as well as industry contributing to the group's work. The United Kingdom welcomes the CRP developed by the Group of Friends shared at this session as a key source of possible implementation actions for member states, including areas such as increasing the accuracy of predictions and optical brightness. To support the awareness-raising on this topic, the United Kingdom invited Eutelsat OneWeb to provide a technical presentation under this agenda item during week 1 of this session titled Dark and Quiet Skies: Perspective from a Satellite Operator. Eutelsat OneWeb is an operator of a large constellation, and the presentation provided insight into the steps being taken in the design of the constellation, brightness predictions, and sharing of satellite ephemeris to attempt to mitigate the impacts of operations on ground-based astronomy. The United Kingdom hopes the presentation proved useful to member states, and we continue to encourage sharing of best practice from operators within the subcommittee on this topic. The United Kingdom is host to the Square Kilometre Array Observatory's international headquarters and co-funded the site's expansion in 2019. The United Kingdom is contributing 15% of the cost of constructing the Square Kilometre Array Observatory from 2021 to 2030 and is the largest contributor to the observatory. The Square Kilometre Array Observatory is a co-host of the International Astronomical Union Centre for the Protection of the Dark and Quiet Sky from Satellite Constellation Interference, and the United Kingdom fully supports the work of this group. The United Kingdom has reformed its all-party parliamentary group for dark skies, which aims to work with major organisations, experts, and communities to identify political priorities on dark sky issues, discuss lighting and planning policies, and advocate them— advocate for them in the UK Parliament. The group's objectives are to highlight the importance of preserving the environmental benefits of a dark sky at night, promoting the adoption of dark sky friendly lighting and planning policies, protecting existing UK dark sky reserves, and support potential new reserves, as well as collaborating with overseas groups such as Dark Sky International and Dark Sky UK. The group held its inaugural meeting in November 2024. To continue to develop knowledge on the impacts of space activities on astronomical observations, the United Kingdom Space Agency has recently funded— recently provided funding to conduct 2 studies in relation to the agenda item. The first study's intention is to take a first step towards the development of a standard for visible wavelength satellite brightness. The second study will look at the prediction— the precision of the Fenris data needed for astronomical community to effectively predict satellite positions, plan observations, and implement mitigation strategies to reduce the impact of satellite interference. We hope to present the results of these studies at the next session to advance understanding of some of the proposed actions of the group of friends. The UK wishes to reiterate the need to remain focused on the impacts of constellations on astronomical observations and the ways in which these can be mitigated. The United Kingdom will continue to emphasize the importance of finding solutions to the issue of dark and quiet skies, and it is our strong hope that progress can be made at this meeting and across the duration of the COPUS agenda item. Thank you, Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of the UK for the statement. Next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of Colombia. You have the floor.

Thank you very much, Madam Chair. Before we begin, allow us first to convey our condolences to Poland following the passing of Ambassador Andrzej Misztal, who through his leadership at the Working Group on the Legal Aspects of Activities Related to Space Resources has left behind an invaluable legacy for COPUOS. Madam Chair, Colombia welcomes the inclusion of the item on dark and quiet skies, astronomy and large constellations on our subcommittee's agenda with the aim of addressing the important emerging challenges in our official dialogue. Colombia recognizes the need to preserve dark and quiet skies as essential common heritage for astronomy, environmental preservation, and space sustainability. Accordingly, we have co-sponsored the conference room paper that was made available for the consideration of this subcommittee, and we hope that it will provide a basis to launch our dialogues on this matter. We value and support the initiative of Chile and Spain and underscore the work accomplished by the Group of Friends of Dark and Quiet Skies, bringing together renowned international experts, lending significant weight to this proposal with a view to ensuring the correct use of space resources for scientific research in the future, as well as a fundamental tool to analyze current challenges and future challenges resulting from the rapid growth of the global space sector through the launching of space objects. Madam Chair, the rapid increase— the rapid growth of satellite constellations has posed significant challenges such as light pollution, which has an impact on astronomical observation, radioelectric interference, which limits the ability— the capacity of telescopes, as well as the rising risk of collisions threatening orbital sustainability. Colombia appeals to those countries with advanced space capacity to step up their cooperation with the developing countries by promoting initiatives that will include support to universities, training programs, satellite development projects, and ensuring equitable access to the benefits of space technologies. These initiatives are fundamental in order to understand through studies and astronomical Earth-based observation, all matters pertaining to outer space. Colombia promotes initiatives geared towards reducing excessive luminosity in outer space. We have set up a monitoring group studying light pollution. We are equally building our astronomical capacity through academic institutions and observatories. However, the impact of satellite constellations on astronomical observation is an emerging matter which requires particular attention. Colombia hosts numerous astronomical tourist destinations such as the Desert of Tatacoa and the observatory of the city of Leyva. However, light pollution is rising in cities and areas near these natural resources. Therefore, we are particularly interested in taking stock of current practices globally in this area, which will allow us to establish a law of the skies on luminosity for the benefit of the scientific community in our country, and which will further strengthen astrotourism activities, guaranteeing astronomical research as well as radioastronomical activities, and to ensure that they can be used used as a tool for education and research. Finally, we hope that these significant discussions will focus on achieving tangible actions beyond 2030, given that this is a growing problem and one which is unlikely to be resolved in the short term.

Thank you. Thank you, Representative of Colombia, for the statement. We will continue and hopefully conclude our consideration of Agenda Item 15, Dark and Quiet Thank you very much. We will now suspend the plenary meeting so that the Working Group on the Use of Nuclear Power Sources can hold its 3rd meeting. Following the adjournment of the Working Group meeting, we will then resume the plenary with a view to proceeding with technical presentations. Distinguished delegates, I'll now turn to proceed with technical presentations. The first presentation on my list is on health research in the SSA-HSF1 mission by the representative of Saudi Arabia. You have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. Good evening, Chair and distinguished delegates, my name is Hamid Idris. I serve as a director of the Microgravity Research Department at Saudi Space Agency. It's a pleasure to be here today. We will present an overview of the human physiology experiments conducted during Saudi mission SSA-HSF-1 with Axiom-2 mission, with a special focus on Saudi Arabia's contribution to space research. Next slide, please. During this session, we will start with an introduction, then the Saudi mission and human healthcare research, an overview about the research, present the results and findings, the impact, and we will conclude with what's next. Next slide, please. We'll start with introduction. Next slide. The Saudi Space agency is dedicated to achieving the Kingdom's ambitious vision of becoming a global leader in the space sector. It aims to contribute to local scientific and economic advancement through innovation and space exploration, fostering an environment that encourages innovation and supporting investment in space sciences and exploration. Next slide, please. The slides outline the Saudi Space Agency's key initiatives in space exploration and science, focusing on training Saudi astronauts, inspiring future generations, building strategic partnerships, ensuring sustainability, and leading in global scientific community. Next slide, please. Therefore, in order to work with the scientific community, This— the agency developed a roadmap for microgravity research including the following technologies: physiological studies, drug studies, circular and molecular experiments, high entropy materials, and photovoltaics and thermoelectric applications in collaboration with related local entities in Saudi Arabia. Next slide, please. Now let's begin by taking a closer look to one research from Saudi mission itself. Next slide, please. One of the major challenges of long-duration spaceflight is the impact of the— of the impact on the brain and nerve system. The human brain has evolved over thousands of years to function optimally under Earth's gravity. In space, however, the brain faces numerous stressors, including microgravity, radiation exposure, altered sleep pattern, increased carbon dioxide levels, and isolation from familiar environment. A particularly well-known condition linked to spaceflight is spaceflight-associated neuroocular syndrome, or as known as SANS, which is— which can cause changes in both vision and brain structure. This condition is seen in approximately 70% of astronauts during long-duration missions. Understanding how the brain adapts to fail or adapt to space environment is critical for developing strategies to protect astronauts' brain health, not only during their time in space but also after returned to Earth. The scientific community in Saudi Arabia started before the mission by publishing the research, discussing, discussing the current understanding of and future research in space of neuroscience. You can access by the QR. Next slide, please. The AX-2 mission achieved several important milestones. It was the first mission to have a woman command a private spaceflight, and it marked the historical occasion of the first Saudi woman entering space. Additionally, it was the inaugural voyage of Saudi astronauts to the ISS. The astronaut crew AX-2 was notably diverse. The team included individuals from different age groups ranging from their 30s to their 60s. And different nationalities. The team also had gender diversity, with 2 men and 2 women contributing their unique expertise and perspective to the mission. Next slide, please. Now let's transition to an overview of the research studies conducted during the AX-2 mission. Next slide, please. The AX-2 studies expanded on our understanding of the effect of the microgravity and space-related hazards on human health by analyzing these changes at the molecular, cellular, and physiological level. This research supports the development of effective countermeasures for future missions and informed mission planning for long-term space exploration. This work also aligns with Saudi Arabia's national priorities in research and development, contributing to their country's goals of establishing a leadership role of— in space research. Next slide, please. These studies provided key contribution to space research. Autonomous papillometry and ultrasound were used to noninvasively study intracranial pressure during a short-duration space mission for the first time. EEG and fNIRS were tested as new tools for real brain monitoring in space. The biomarker and telomere studies offered novel insight into the biological effect of short-duration spaceflight on brain health and aging. Next slide, please. The AX2 research portfolio was divided into 2 main categories. The first one, the biological sample studies, where examined blood marker— markers related to the brain health and analyzed changes to telomere length, which is a biomarker for aging. Number 2, the device-based studies. We used several innovative tools, automated pupillometry, to measure changes in pupil size, which can indicate shifts in intracranial pressure. Ultrasound images to access the optic nerve sheath diameter as an indicator measure of intracranial pressure. EEG to measure the brain's electrical activity. FNIRS to evaluate challenges in blood— in brain blood flow.

Next slide.

Next slide, please. Our research measurements were collected at specific time points. Pre-flight baseline data were gathered before the mission began. In-flight data were collected during the mission to observe the effective— the effects of microgravity. Post-flight follow-up measurements were taken after the astronauts returned to Earth to track their recovery. Next slide, please. Now we will discuss the finding and results. Next slide. The, the research findings have been published in well-respected academic journals, and some of the key findings are automated pupillometry provided insight into intracranial pressure and autonomic nervous system responses to microgravity. Optic nerve sheath ultrasound identified dynamic changes in optic nerve sheath diameter associated with fluid shifts in microgravity. Wireless portable EEG highlighted changes in device adoption to microgravity and provided recommendations for system improvements for space environments. Functional near-infrared SpectroBxP observed task-specific hemodynamics responses demonstrating potential for non-invasive brain monitoring in space. Blood-based biomarkers investigated— 134 biomarkers provided fundamental data of monitoring neurodegenerative and stress-related processes during space mission. Telomere length dynamic, understanding cellular impact of microgravity and implications for aging and neurological health. Next slide, please. Now, the impact of the mission. Next slide. The AX-2 mission led to establishment of Saudi Arabia's first Space Innovation Lab, designed to promote education and research design and fostering a collaboration scientific community. The success of the research tools inspired their use in subsequent missions. For example, the automated populator was used in the Polaris Down mission, and FNIRS was used and adapted by European researchers in AX-3 mission. Next slide, please. What's next? Next slide. In 2025, scientists and researchers will be able to submit their microgravity experiment proposals in different research areas that align with microgravity research RDI roadmap through an open call platform managed by Saudi Space Agency. Also will be a community of practice specialized in space biomedical research. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Saudi Arabia for the presentation. Second presentation on my list is on disease prevention and control in China based on spatial information technology by the representative of China. You have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. Distinguished delegates, I'm Yong Wang from Institute of Geography Science and Natural Resource Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences. I would like to share with you the development history and current research status of spatial information technology in health field in China. Next slide, please. My presentation is divided into 3 parts. First part, I will introduce development history of information technology in health field in China. Here we show the 4 Cs. Second, I will introduce the main scientific research institute of CS in China simply. And last, I will introduce research and application in China detailing. Next slide, please. So what is spatial information technology? Spatial information technology integrates 4 key technologies: GPS for precise position, GIS for spatial data management and analysis, RS for remote observation and image collection, and the most important key ones, GeoAI for intelligent spatial analysis and image recognition. Those technologies are crucial for understanding and managing specialties-related health and disease. Next slide, please. Let's divide into evolution of shifts in China over past decades. The shift in China began in the late 1980s. During this initial stage, GIS was first applied to public health issues. In the late In the 1890s, RS and GS were first used together to investigate infectious disease such as chestersmyosis and the plague. Thus, studies evaluated disease risk across different cities in China. Next slide, please. The use of CHIS expanded further, particularly During the SARS outbreak in 2003, GIS played a significant role in real-time tracking and management of the epidemic. Next slide, please. The 2008 Wenchuan earthquake marked another turning point. During this disaster, vast areas suffering extensive damage, and people, and the people come to rely on a large-scale rapid information acquisition and analysis capabilities provided by spatial information technology. This demonstrates its value in disaster relief and hazard assessments, becoming a model for much department collaboration. Next slide, please. The application of SEIS became more widespread, especially in major public health incidents like H1N1, MERS, COVID-19 pandemic, et cetera. This period saw significant achievements in predicting public health emergency and disease outbreaks. Next slide, please. AI technology has empowered enabling health disease detection, personalized health monitoring, and promoting medical equality. In the near future, it's believed that this will better serve residents' health and well-being. Next slide, please. Now I will introduce the second part, main scientific research institute of CIS in China. Next slide, please. With ever-deepening integration of spatial information technology and public health an increasing number of esteemed scientific research institutes in China has emerged as pioneer in field of CSIS. Those institutes can be primarily categorized into 2 distinct groups. On one hand, they are the research-oriented scientific research institutions. such as the Institute of Geography Science, the China CDC, and the Chinese Medical University, etc., all of which are dedicated in deep explore region and research. On the other hand, there are the comprehensive university and medical school engaged in teaching, including, for instance, the Institute of Space and population at Peking University Medical College, and the School of Environment at Tsinghua University, and School of Environment at Beijing Normal University, etc., all of which play a significant role in converting professionals. And the one thing academic research. Next slide, please. Now, let's discuss some specific application shifts in China. Next slide, please. One of the representative application areas in dengue fever prediction. The acute infectious disease transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes requires careful monitoring. Models have been developed to analyze the spatial heterogeneity of dengue risk and to predict future risk areas, as shown in this prediction map of 2030. Next slide, please. There's also significant progress in implementing new technologies. For instance, we focus on rapid construction of big data information system for epidemics, including spatial tracking and spatial temporary trajectory and analysis. Next slide, please. UAV remote sensing has opened new avenues for shifts. For example, we developed an intelligent identification model based on deep learning, uh, Gauss terms for UAV images and demonstrate its value for remote identification, monitoring, and management of cattle. Next slide, please. Despite remarkable Advancements, numerous challenges persist that demand our attention. Technology-wise, several factors slow the application of spatial information technology. The further utilization of spatial models, spatial data analysis, and professional software lags behind.

developed country.

Data-wise, multiple factors led to inadequate data sharing. The exchange and openness between spatial data and public health data are lacking, thereby potentially restricting further development. Personnel-wise, there is a scarcity of interdisciplinary personnel. Public health professionals frequently lack the necessary understanding of special information technology. In conclusion, WearShift has made significant contributions to public health in China. Substantial efforts are still required to overcome those existing challenges and propel the field forward. Next slide, please. Thank you for your attention.

I thank the distinguished representative of China for the presentation. The 3rd presentation on my list is on Australian progress in digital health leveraging technologies by the representative of Australia. You have the floor.

Esteemed colleagues of the UN COPES Scientific and Technical Subcommittee, 62nd session. Thank you for the opportunity to present Australian Progress in Digital Health Leveraging Space Technologies. I would like to begin by acknowledging the traditional custodians of Australia and recognise their continued connections to land, waters, and community. I pay my respects to them and their cultures and to elders both past and present. Earth observation and communication satellites provide a range of critical capabilities for Australia's emergency services in coordinating evacuations. ACCESS, a system that uses satellites to enable national weather and climate forecasting data for predicting fires, floods, cyclones, and provide early warning To emergency services. During fires, the NBN Company's Skymaster satellites provide fire service depots and evacuation service centres with reliable connectivity across Australia. Satellites provide a backup option for emergency personnel when fixed lines are severed or flooded. Communication satellites help rural communities stay in touch with news and evacuation announcements in times of crisis. Traditional networks are limited by blind spots, such as the lack of cellular towers. In Australia, for remote communication, satellites help bridge the coverage gaps found in vast oceans, mountainous areas, the remote outback, and the desert to enable emergency service workers receive timely and accurate exchanges of information. For location tracking using space technologies, vital imagery is used. Australian emergency managers can quickly access Earth observation imagery and information from satellite data operators across the world through the Landsat International Cooperator Network. These services are coordinated by Geoscience Australia on behalf of Emergency Management Australia And state-based emergency services. In locating distress beacons, a distress beacon emits a signal detectable by the International Search and Rescue Satellite System. The nearest ground station is notified as the system relays this distress call to local emergency services, particularly when it is impossible to contact them by phone or radio. Another area is locating water for firefighting. Geoscience Australia's Digital Earth Australia Water Bodies product helps aerial firefighters understand where water is available on the ground to support aerial firefighting by clarifying when the satellites last saw water and provide an estimate of the surface area of available water. Digital Earth Australia Hotspots, managed by Geoscience Australia, is a national fire monitoring system that, that sees unusual temperature hotspots that are used to identify potential fire locations and threat to communities. The hotspots appear in a digital map of Australia as dots. Hotspot data over Australia is collected 24 hours a day, by 6 different satellites. Satellite sensors detect areas with high levels of infrared radiation. The DEA hotspot can be viewed online and is updated every 10 minutes. The information is publicly available and assists emergency services in planning quicker responses to bushfires. For disease prevention and drug development, vaccines and drugs are being developed through space experiments in microgravity in Australia. In space, researchers study molecular structure to understand how microorganisms behave and observe how human cells respond, an activity that is challenging to reproduce on Earth. In telemedicine, satellite communications connect patients to medical experts for telemedicine services in remote or hard-to-reach areas of Australia. It helps experts intervene in time-sensitive situations, enables virtual care to limit evacuations, and saves lives. precious resources during times of crisis. For disease prevention and spread prevention, environmental conditions influence how infectious diseases spread and evolve, and environmental data is used to help predict the vector of diseases. Remote sensing by satellite sensors shows scientists temperatures of the land and sea, rainfall, humidity, air pollutants, cloud coverage, salinity, and bacteria in the ocean, population, livestock density, bare soil coverage, and land at altitude to help plan effective health strategies. In advancing health, the extreme microgravity environment in space provides important insights into physiology. Some of the effects of microgravity include early aging, metabolic and protein changes, immune system impairments, muscle mass atrophy, bone density loss. Medical research experiments are being conducted in space using tissue chips instead of animals or humans. These offer living microscale cells that are like human tissue and organs. They can be used for long-term trials to assist medical science on Earth. For medical rehabilitation, astronauts lose bone density 10 times faster in space than patients on Earth with osteoporosis. Medical technology originally developed for space has influenced rehabilitation tools on Earth. For example, a vibrating rehabilitation chair can stimulate muscle contractions like weightlifting exercises. This innovative treatment assists hospitals and sport medicine specialists to keep joints limber after an injury or surgery. Telemetric health monitoring refers to astronauts' health information being constantly relayed to Earth in real time. While being critical for longer space flights, this method has also been integrated into Intensive care units on Earth. It allows doctors to monitor patients' vitals and medical metrics from outside the hospital. The same technology has been miniaturized into smartphones and fitness trackers. Some newer devices use algorithms that can interpret health data and suggest diagnosis. An Australian company, Human Aerospace, has designed several compression skin suits that benefit healthcare and aged care in Australia, including supporting Athletes with recovery from exercise injuries, surgeries, treat burns, lymphedema, osteoporosis, cerebral palsy, and prevent deep DVT. The gravity loading countermeasure sub-skeleton tricks the body into believing it's standing on Earth to maintain bone density. The orthostatic intolerance garment helps maintain blood flow to the brain to reduce fainting during and after landing. Which is also used in aged care. The sensory motor suit provides specific skin contact and movement resistance that helps astronauts maintain their balance and coordination. Australian company Aiken Australia have developed an AI that can handle complexities as it needs to work without cloud resources. It is more efficient and less reliant on brute force learning. Ekans AI and robots monitor and assist people in challenging environments, responding with empathy. Ekans Robot Zero senses qualities in the room for habitat management, while Ekans Robot Murphy assists per— people at home with disabilities, including aged care, with mobility issues, intellectual disabilities, etc. Thank you for your attention.

I thank the distinguished representative of Australia for the presentation. The 4th presentation on my list is on Space and Earth Science at Low Earth Orbit: Prospects of Cosmonautics by the representative of the Russian Federation. You have the floor.

Good afternoon, Madam Chair, distinguished delegates. I'm pleased to present information today about Earth and space science activities at low Earth orbit and within the Russian human spaceflight program. Next slide, please. Uh, the basis of, uh, space station use for scientific research includes, uh, 3, uh, key aspects. Firstly, the opportunities which are provided by the space infrastructure. And here I would like to note that Russian space industry provides large-scale and full-cycle research opportunities from idea to onboard implementation, scientific data processing on Earth, and further results application. Secondly, sustainability of the program, meaning the importance of a long-term time basis for space experiments. And thirdly, the exact resources which the station can provide for science, such as crew time, cargo delivery, payload interfaces, extravehicular activities, et cetera. The Russian Federation has historically formed an institutional structure of space station science program. There are 8 specific fields which are indicated on the slide. Next slide, please. Russian specialists, science and industry entities together with international partners provide a basis for further space exploration and space application for the benefits of the Earth. Science experiments are being carried out during the missions, from basic or, better say, pioneering researches in the beginning of space era to complex experiments aboard the Russian segment of the International Space Station today. Significant milestones here are the following. Uh, transition from autonomous flight to a long-term utilization of space station and, uh, international programs such as Interkosmos, which provided access to space for many, uh, partner countries, the Mir shuttle, and today's International Space Station with dissimilar redundancy and 2-segment configurations that ensure sustainability of the program for more than 25 years. Cosmonautics at low Earth orbit is a priority. On the slide you can see also a future Russian orbital station configuration. Next slide, please. The Russian space infrastructure provides the station orbital flight, launches of modules, crew transportation and cargo vehicles, as as well as unconditional fulfillment of responsibilities within the international program. Next slide, please. For Russia, as an international partner, cooperation in the field of peaceful use of outer space, including human spaceflight, has a historically formed nature of a genuine partnership. The implementation of numerous successful international projects and programs provided a system of a proven mechanism for achieving complex objectives together with international partners. It is a kind of know-how which will be applied both for future space program and solving global challenges on Earth. Next slide. I would like to highlight, uh, the exact objectives of, uh, the Earth science on space station. which are considered by Russian specialists. There are 2 key areas: the space station for a new hardware and technology demonstration for its first application, for robotic Earth observation satellites, and even for deep space missions. Space station program has a flexibility and allows install new payloads for its verification, hardware updates, and crew assistance. In most cases, such a flexibility is not achievable for robotic spacecraft. The second is development of scientific methods for Earth observation, again, uh, with flexibility of the program. On the slide, you can see examples of, uh, the data which were received during the Earth science researches on board the International Space Station. Next slide, please. Space science in, uh, the Russian human spaceflight program includes 3 key areas. Solar system, which studies including near-Earth space, heliosphere, the Sun, planets, and bodies of the solar system. Astronomical observation in different modes: all-sky, scheduled, and alert observations. Astroparticles, both fundamental and applied research, including interaction with— of the space radiation with materials cells in human body. Next slide. Significant progress has been achieved, uh, within the Mir orbital station program, and today we continue, uh, successfully continue science on, on board the International Space Station. There are a number of space experiments, uh, implemented on current, uh, or, or currently on board or in the line, both for the ISS and for future Russian orbital station. Next slide. Uh, several significant, uh, payloads has been delivered and installed to the ISS in 2024. Uh, All-Sky Monitor payload for high-precision measurements of, uh, the X-ray background. The objectives, uh, address the key task of modern astrophysics, in particular the cosmological evolution of supermassive black holes. Next slide. Uh, the second stage of BTN neutron, uh, experiment, uh, has, uh, was launched in, uh, also in 2024. The goal is to measure, uh, neutron flux with different energies and directions inside and outside of the pressurized volume of the space station in different geomagnetic conditions of the orbital flight. The results will allow, uh, to compare neutron fluxes in the vicinity of, uh, solar system bodies: Earth, Moon, and Mars. Next slide. Research results are available through Roscosmos and Russian Academy of Science resources. For example, a handbook for the Russian segment of the ISS is available. In 2023, uh, the year of 25th anniversary of the ISS flight, the 3rd International Conference Science on ISS was hosted at the Space Research Institute, IKI, of Russian Academy of Science. And the proceedings of the conference were published and include information about ongoing and future researches. Next slide. The Russian Orbital Station program has been initiated. The station is in design phase, and the first modules as well as crew transportation vehicles are already in production. ROS will apply open architecture, which will ensure the capability of, uh, old modules' replacement. At the same time, some standards are being applied for the modules' design to reduce costs and time of production. Orbit with higher inclination was selected for the future station. For Earth and space science, uh, higher inclination will give new extended opportunities. For example, for Earth science, the station will provide all Earth observation, and, uh, about 25% of the flight time will be at open magnetic field lines, which means, uh, the environment resembles deep space.

Thank you.

space. Next slide. Additional Sun-Earth system research objectives will include polar emissions, optical atmospheric events, both natural and artificial, more detailed studies of microparticles, microparticle fluxes at LEO, in situ ionosphere plasma measurements, and et cetera. Next slide. The scientific program for the ROS is being developed, and some payloads for scientific experiments are already in the design phase. And here you can see Earth and space science cooperation opportunities which are promising, traditional for Russian space science, and are already in place. Russian space science is open for international cooperation based on partnership and peaceful use of outer space. Next slide. Thank you for your attention.

I thank the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation for the presentation. The 5th presentation on my list is on Dark and Quiet Skies: Thoughts on Copernicus ITU Collaboration by the representative for the Square Kilometre Observatory. You have the floor.

Madam Chair, distinguished delegates, on behalf of the SKO, I am honored to address the subcommittee on this important topic of the possible roles of UN-COPUS and ITU with respect Next slide, please. By now, all committee members are well aware that satellites can reflect sunlight, producing streaks on optical telescopes and even some being visible with the naked eye. In addition, the radio emissions produced by the same satellites, intended and unintended, can interfere with very sensitive observations conducted with radio telescopes. It is clear that these 2 very different effects are caused by the same source, but from different processes. Light from the sun is reflected when satellites are still visible in dawn or dusk, and it's a function of the satellite geometry and its external materials. Intentional radio emission is directly related with the frequencies used for communication with Earth, or those used by instruments on board. Using different technologies such as parabolic antennas or electronically beamformed antennas. Unintentional electromagnetic radiation, or UEMR, is a byproduct of the electronic components on board satellites. While these effects are different, they are inherently coupled. For example, a much larger antenna surface allows for smaller radio beams on the ground, benefiting radio astronomy. but that would imply a larger surface that would increase the light reflected by a satellite. Next slide, please. The ITU is the oldest specialized agency of the UN with 193 member states. Its radio communications sector, ITU-R, maintains and updates the radio regulations, an international treaty which regulates the use of the radio spectrum. With a structure intended to produce a multi-stakeholder framework, the ITU-R works on a 4-year cadence to update the radio regulations, a process which includes as much input from member states as from industry and academia in the form of sector members. This particular working method allows the ITU to advance the regulation of the use of the radio spectrum in concordance with the rapid technological advancements. The mandate of the ITU-R is to ensure the efficient, equitable, and economical use of the radio frequency spectrum and satellite orbits, where the satellite orbits part is interpreted as the radio frequency use from satellite orbits, as the ITU-R does not consider the physical occupancy of satellites in space. The ITU at its 2023 plenipotentiary meeting in Bucharest has produced Resolution 219, named Sustainability of the Radio Frequency Spectrum and Associated Satellite Orbit Resources Used by Space Services. This resolution has started several actions at ITU to address space sustainability from the perspective of its mandate. The agenda items for WRC 27, 1.16 and 1.18, related to the interaction between radio astronomy and LEO satellite constellations, are currently addressing part of dark and quiet skies, and EoEncopos is mentioned in one of the resolutions which established them. Next slide, please. As the issue of optical brightness of satellites is not covered by the ITU mandate, it is a possible route that UN-COPUOS can address it. Of course, one would need to recognize that the committee has very different working methods, like producing guidelines such as the LTS guidelines, which can still be effective. A clear example of the recently started agenda item on dark and quiet skies, where member can share their opinions and ideas on how to address this situation. This agenda item could be the starting point for guidelines on dark and quiet skies, or maybe the starting conversations to include dark and quiet skies as a guideline inside a future edition of the DLTSA guidelines. Next slide, please. So, if we are saying that the ITU-R DLTSA with the use of the radio spectrum, including the use of radio waves from space, and UN-COPU could address the optical brightness of satellites, why is there a need for collaboration and communication between them? As we mentioned in the beginning, both optical reflection and radio emission are coming from the same source, and mitigation on one effect can have unexpected consequences on the other. As an example, lowering Lowering the altitude of satellites can lower the negative effects on optical astronomy but could result in a need to increase the number of satellites to cover the necessary service area. Another example is when satellites need to have extremely large antennas, like some that are football field-sized antennas, to have small beams on the ground, resulting in a very large reflective area and therefore very bright. So both Both EUNCORPUS and ITU-R would benefit from cooperating and communicating when discussing and proposing regulation, mitigation measures, recommendations, or guidelines to protect dark and quiet skies. Next slide, please. It is clear to us that EUNCORPUS and the ITU have complementary mandates which can address different parts of the issue of dark and quiet skies. skies and space sustainability in general. Following the example of the LTS guidelines, COPOS could produce recommendations or guidelines to protect the dark and quiet skies. Focusing on optical brightness and effects on the night sky, these guidelines could assist member states in implementing national measures to ensure sustainable access to the dark skies. Furthermore, such guidelines could include high-level considerations for the radio quiet sky in the same way as the guideline number A4 in the current long-term sustainability guidelines talks about ensuring the equitable, rational, and efficient use of the radio frequency spectrum and the various orbital regions used by satellites, recognizing that regulation is under the mandate and scope of the ITU. Now, the ITU is well geared to assess the technical and regulatory considerations that can lead to ensure a sustainable use of the radio spectrum with special consideration to the vulnerability of radio telescopes to satellite radio emissions. Furthermore, the ongoing work by the ITU-R on space sustainability led by its Study Group 4 could include considerations for dark and quiet skies. Next slide, please. COPUOS and ITU-R are very different fora which we believe can effectively communicate and collaborate to address this pressing issue. A liaison already exists through a representative of the ITU-R in COPUOS meetings reporting the ongoing work at ITU-R Similarly, a representative of UNOSA could inform ITU-R about the ongoing work at UN-COPUS, for example. Other possible avenues to strengthen collaboration could include establishing bidirectional information sharing mechanisms, considering the drafting of technical recommendations on optical and radio pollution as a joint effort between the 2 bodies, and considering the creation of mechanism that can enhance participation of industry in the discussion of the recommendations. We believe these are possible actions which will benefit the work of both UN bodies in finding the balance between the protection of astronomy and the night sky and the technological advancements to connect the unconnected. And in consideration of these possible options, organizations such as the SKA SKAO, which status of sector member of the ITU-R and permanent observer of COPUOS could play a facilitating role.

Next slide, please.

As a conclusion, the SKAO believes that space sustainability is a shared responsibility. The coordinated efforts of ITU-R and UN-COPUOS are essential to consider a holistic protection of the access to dark and quiet skies while enabling responsible and sustainable space exploration and development. Strengthening collaboration between these 2 UN bodies can ensure a balanced approach to innovation and conservation, one that preserves dark and quiet skies for future generations. The SKO stands ready to assist in our capacity in both ITU and UN COPUOS. Madam Chair, distinguished delegates, thank you very much for your attention.

I thank the distinguished observer for the SKAO. Distinguished delegates, I will shortly adjourn this meeting. Before doing so, I would like to inform delegates of our schedule of work for tomorrow morning. We will meet promptly at 10 AM. We will continue our consideration of agenda 3, General Exchange of Views. At the request of the distinguished delegate of the United States of America, we will continue and hopefully suspend our consideration of Agenda Item 4, Space for Sustainable Development, tomorrow morning. At the request of the distinguished delegate of the Russian Federation, we will continue and hopefully conclude our consideration of Agenda Item 6, Space System-Based Disaster Management We will continue and hopefully conclude our consideration of Agenda Item 15, Dark and Quiet Skies. We will then suspend the plenary meeting so that the Working Group of the Whole can hold its 6th meeting and the Working Group on the Use of Nuclear Power Sources in Outer Space can hold its 4th meeting. We will have 5 technical presentations tomorrow morning. Delegates are reminded I would like to inform delegates that the informal consultations of the Working Group on the Use of Nuclear Power Sources in Outer Space will be held in Conference Room M6 tomorrow morning from 9 AM to 11 AM. I would also like to inform delegates that the informal consultations on Unispace 4 will be held in Conference Room M3 tomorrow morning from 9 AM to 10 AM. The consultation will be available also on MS Teams link contained in the circular dispatched on January 23rd, 2025, CU/2025/18. Delegations should use the link for the working group of the hall. The schedule of consultations is available on the webpage of the session. I would now like to give the floor to the Secretariat to provide information on the side events.

Thank you, Madam Chair. Distinguished delegates, at 6:30 PM this evening, there will be a side event co-organized by Germany and the European Space Policy Institute entitled Shaping an Effective Framework for Space Traffic. This event will take place at the European Space Policy Thank you very much, Madam Chair.

I thank the Secretariat for the information provided. Are there any questions or comments on this proposed schedule? I see none. Distinguished delegates, this meeting is adjourned until 10 AM tomorrow morning.