Outer Space: Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, Scientific and Technical Subcommittee, 62nd session, 1025 meeting General Assembly Date: 10 February 2025 Language: English Transcript: https://transcripts.un.org/en/asset/k1k/k1kzs4yplz Transcripts available through this tool are created by using automatic speech recognition and are not official records nor official documents of the United Nations. Official records and official documents are available on the Official Document System of the United Nations. --- STSC · Chair [32:38]: Good morning, distinguished delegates. I now declare open the 1025th meeting of the Scientific and Technical Subcommittee of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space. Distinguished delegates, this morning we will continue our consideration of Agenda Item 3, General Exchange of Views. We will continue and hopefully suspend our consideration of Agenda Item 11, Future Role and Method of Work of the Committee, pending the discussions in the Working Group. We will continue and hopefully conclude our consideration of Agenda Item 12, Space and Global Health. We will begin and hopefully suspend our consideration of Agenda Item 13, Use of Nuclear Power Sources in Outer Space, pending the discussions in the Working Group. Time permitting, we will begin our consideration of Agenda Item 14, Geostationary Orbit. We will then suspend the plenary meeting so that the Working Group of the Home can hold its 5th meeting today. There will be 5 technical presentations this morning. 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? 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. speakers. The first speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of Austria. You have the floor. Austria [34:19]: Thank you, Madam Chair. Distinguished delegates, Madam Chair, as this is the first time that I take the floor personally at this session, let me repeat that Austria fully supports your chairmanship, and I thank Director Arti Holomaini and her team for the excellent preparation of this meeting. Austria expresses its alignment with and full support of the statement of the European Union under Agenda Item 3, as it was delivered on the first day of this session of the subcommittee last Monday. Let me start by warmly welcoming the 2 new member states of COPUS, Latvia and Djibouti. In September 2024, UN Member States adopted the Pact for the Future. Action 56 contains important decisions for our work in UN COPUOS. To us, especially the encouragement to further consult on the proposal to hold a 4th United Nations Conference on the Peaceful Exploration of Outer Space, UNISPACE 4 in 2027 is of particular importance. We expect Unispace 4 to be an important milestone for the implementation of the Pact of the Future— for the Future. We thank UNOOSA for supporting the decision-making process of the Member States and hope that the decision on the organization of the conference will be adopted soon to allow sufficient time for substantive preparations. The results of the midterm review on the Space 2030 Agenda, which we need to carry out this year, can serve as a basis for the design of targeted and effective activities. In this context, we thank Germany for hosting the World Space Forum 2024, Sustainable Space for Sustainability on Earth, in Bonn, together with Peru and the United Arab Emirates. We see the World Space Forum as an important platform to strengthen partnerships and continuous dialogue between global community, and for involving all relevant actors in the space sector, in particular the private sector, NGOs, and young people. Another opportunity to raise awareness for outer space issues will be the International Year of Planetary Defense and Asteroid Awareness in 2029, supported by Austria. We see an important role for the Space Mission Advisory Group in preparing possible events in the run-up and during the International Year. We would like to thank Ivan and CEMPEC for setting up clear communication lines for the recent asteroid warning concerning a potential impact of Asteroid 2024 in 2032. Austria welcomes the new agenda item on dark and quiet skies. We would like to thank the Group of Friends of the Dark and Quiet Skies for Science and Society for their suggestions for immediate actions as reflected in Conference Paper 22. Thank you. To support the coexistence of satellite constellations and astronomical research. Let me inform you about some national activities. The Federal Ministry for Climate Action, Environment, Energy, Mobility, Innovation and Technology serves as Austria's national authority for authorizing and continuously supervising space activities. Austria is in the process of licensing a CubeSat developed by the Vienna University of Technology under the Austrian Outer Space Act, which has been in effect since 2011. Finally, I would like to inform that Austria has signed the Artemis Accords on 11 December last year. We see this initiative as a significant step in fostering international cooperation for the peaceful exploration of the Moon and expanding humanity's presence in outer space. By signing the Accords, Austria reaffirms its commitment to the peaceful, responsible, and cooperative use of outer space, while also underlining its support for strong multilateral partnerships and scientific progress. Austria remains a a strong supporter of UN COPUOS, and we assure you once again, Chair, of our full support for a successful session 2025. Thank you. STSC · Chair [39:11]: I thank the distinguished representative of Austria for the statement. Next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of Uruguay. You have the floor. Uruguay [39:21]: Muchas gracias. Thank you, Chair. It's an honor to address this subcommittee to represent Uruguay. We would like to highlight Uruguay's recent progress regarding positioning our country as a technological hub and our development project for a spaceport in our country. Uruguay has seen growing interest in the development of a space spaceport to launch small satellites from our territory. In 2024, this private initiative was formally presented to the national government. This was an important milestone in our path towards consolidating a strategic space infrastructure in our country. Uruguay has several advantages because we have more than 100 kilometers of coastline, which means we can launch polar and equatorial orbits from the same point without flying over bordering countries. We have reliable institutions, social stability, and the absence of adverse climate events. It's easy to do business there. We are a logistic hub. We have tax incentives, good telecommunications, and innovation. We hope to go on to feasibility analysis very soon. Uruguay believes that a spaceport will not just strengthen our national capacities, but it will also be a catalyst for regional international cooperation, fostering technology transfer and developing new economic opportunities. Apart from the spaceport project, we continue to work to make Uruguay into a technological and space hub in Latin America. We have several initiatives for that, promoting a dynamic space ecosystem, working with the private sector and startups to foster satellite production and space applications to participate in the value chain. We have also made more efforts to strengthen our educational infrastructure with specific emphasis on STEM subjects. Chair, Uruguay is strongly committed to international cooperation. We participate actively in multilateral initiatives and working with strategic partners in different regions such as Asia, Europe, and North America, including the Artemis Accords. This reflects our belief that access to space should be inclusive and sustainable, and that progress in space capacities should be accompanied by cooperation which promotes its peaceful use to the benefit of all of humanity. Uruguay reaffirms its commitment to the principles and aims of this subcommittee. We believe that the peaceful development of space is a shared responsibility that requires the equitable participation of all countries. space. In this regard, we reiterate our call to strengthen the mechanisms for international cooperation so that all developing countries can have access to the benefits of space. Uruguay will continue to work to consolidate its place in the global space community, promoting space development and peaceful applications to the benefit of all humanity. Thank you. STSC · Chair [42:49]: Next speaker on my list is the distinguished observer from the International Thank you. IAU · Observer [42:57]: Madam Chair, distinguished delegates, the International Astronomical Union presents its perspective that the Moon offers unique opportunities for major discoveries in astronomy. The Moon combines the advantages of the vacuum of space with the stability of ground-based platforms. Cheaper launches and the development of lunar infrastructure will enable scientific opportunities. If co-located, some other planned activities would be incompatible with this critical need for astronomical facilities to be free from noise, contamination, and interference. I call your attention to Conference Room Paper 8. 2019 on the need for the designation and preservation of sites of special scientific interest on the Moon, prepared by the Committee on Space Research, the International Academy of Astronautics, the International Astronomical Union, and the Moon Village Association. The conference room paper presents several examples of opportunities for astronomy. Ultra-low-frequency radio observations in the shielded zone on the far side of the Moon probe conditions in the early universe and in the magnetospheres of exoplanets. The rare large planes suitable for arrays of antennas would need to be designated for exclusive scientific use and protected against unintended electromagnetic radiation. A large aperture single mirror telescope or multi-telescope array would have sensitivity and image resolution substantially higher than that of the James Webb Space Space Telescope, extending the latter's entire scientific domain. To suppress the thermal noise that would swamp the faint cosmic signals in the infrared, the observatory must operate under very cold conditions, ideally placed in a permanently shadowed region on However, many of these craters are also attractive for extraction of frozen water ice, an activity incompatible with the low dust, low noise environment required for telescope operations. Third, gravitational waves propagate through the universe from the mergers of extremely dense objects like neutron stars and black holes. The Moon is so seismically quiet that gravitational wave detectors there would be sensitive to frequencies undetectable on Earth or from orbit. The seismic noise generated by nearby landings and launches or by heavy equipment for exploration or mining would be incompatible with these extremely sensitive observations. Distinguished delegates, the ability to make use of the freedom of scientific investigation on the Moon, in particular the unique advantages of the Moon as an astronomical observing platform, will depend on the development of internationally accepted methods to communicate, signal intentions between actors, foster coordination and safety, pay due regard to the interests of relevant users and stakeholders, and avoid contamination and harmful interference. Designating unique sites for major international astronomical facilities to be developed in the longer term, with mission lifetimes of years or even decades, will require such methods. In the nearer term, prototype scientific facilities, sometimes from single nations, will be deployed closer to the sites of landings and other exploration activities. The scientific effectiveness of these prototypes would benefit from the development of a similar process of international agreement to minimize interfering actions to the degree practicable. IAU will work with other organizations to inform the STC's thinking and planning on this complex issue. We welcome the recent initiatives between COPUAS member states on the usefulness of an international mechanism to consult, and in particular ATLAS, suggested by the delegation of Romania, approved by COPUOS at its 67th session, and advanced at this session, as we firmly believe that international consultations can be instrumental in advancing much-needed progress on this issue. Madam Chair, distinguished delegates and observers, thank you for your kind attention. STSC · Chair [48:29]: I thank the distinguished observer from the International Astronomical Union for the statement. Next speaker on my list is the distinguished observer for the Moon Village Association. You have the floor. MVA · Observer [48:49]: Distinguished delegate, it is an honor for the Moon Village Association as an observer member to address this session of the Scientific and Technical Subcommittee. Madam Chair, as the EMEA delegation takes the floor for the first time, we would like to congratulate you for the second year as Chair of this subcommittee. Under your wise leadership, important results were achieved in 2024, and this session will reach fruitful results. My delegation would also like to extend its gratitude to the Director of EUNOSA, Dr. Harti Holomaini, and her team for the excellent operation of this meeting. Madam Chair, in 2024, MBA has carried out many activities. I will just summarize a few of them, with more can be found on our website and in the annual report. MBA has created in 2021 a neutral forum for the multi-stakeholder discussion on lunar exploration utilization, the Global Expert Group on Sustainable Lunar Activity, short GEXLA, to bring the issues to the attention of the delegation. Published in 2023, the recommended framework and key elements for peaceful and sustainable lunar activity with its annexes. Since January 2023, GAGSA initiated its operational phase, engaging over 200 experts from more than 40 countries, including space agencies, governments, industry, research centers, academia, and international organizations. GAGSA initiated 3 working groups focusing on the following areas: Lunar Environmental Protection, Technical Coordination, and Multi-Stakeholder Coordination. Detail of the activities and plan of each Working Group are included in the relevant CRP and the 2024 report available on the MVA website. Delegation and observers not yet involved are welcome to join and support the group. At this COP, MVA has organized on February 6th a side event titled Lunar Site of Special Scientific Interest Designation and Preservation, in coordination with COSPAR-IU and IWA. Recordings of the event are available on the MBA website. MBA and GAGRA are welcome and support the creation of the United Nations Action Team on Lunar Activity Consultation, ATLAS, as this should be the focal point for any future consultation on lunar activity. GEXLA is ready to support ATRACS when required. In 2024, the 8th Global Moon Village Workshop and Symposium was successfully held in Luxembourg, hosted by Luxembourg Space Agency. This event attracted participation from over 150 individuals and industry from all over the world. In 2025, the 9th Global Moon Village Workshop and Symposium is scheduled to be held in Abu Dhabi, UAE in November. This event will be hosted by the Emirates Council for Work Relationship Development. Madam Chair, the 3rd International Moon Day took place in July 2024. An International Moon Day project within MBA supported the creation of global events in more than 40 countries that took place the week before and after July 20th. The main event took place on July 20th in Harbin, This was hosted by the Harbin Institute of Technology and the Chinese Society of Astronautics. Details of the event are included in the relevant conference room paper and has been presented at the technical presentation held on February 4th. The annual report is also available on the IMD website. International Moon Day 2025 is themed One Moon, One Vision, One Future. This reflected the united ambition to explore, innovate, and create a suitable, sustainable future together. The main event, together with the Global Moon Village Summer School, is set to take place in Abu Dhabi, UAE, in the week of July 20th, in cooperation again with Emirates Council for Work Relationship Development. We cordially invite all members and observers of the Committee on Principal Views of Outer Space to participate in this important event. Event registrations, sponsorship opportunities, and other relevant information can be found on the IMD website. The Moon Village Association initiated also the participating of emerging space country PEX project in January 2020. The goal is to facilitate emerging space country participation in lunar exploration and utilization. So far, PEX has involved more than 15 countries supporting capacity building. Details can be found in the PEC's annual report that can be downloaded on the EMEA website. Thank you for your attention. STSC · Chair [53:52]: I thank the distinguished observer for the Moon Village Association for the statement. Next speaker on my list is the distinguished observer for Canaus International. You have the floor. CANEUS · Observer [54:05]: Good morning. Madam Chair and distinguished delegates, on behalf of CANES and our collaborators, it is my pleasure to update this committee with the outcome of our side event, which was part of the UN Summit of the Future Action Day held on September 21st, 2025, in a hybrid manner co-hosted by UN DESA and the Ford Foundation. The side event entitled A Sustainable Future for All: Innovative Global Collaboration Platform for Accelerated Implementation of the Pact of the Future was sponsored by the Italian Permanent Mission to the UN in New York, UNDESA, the intergovernmental organization PHILAC, CANES, Pawan Ka Fund, and SDA Bocconi School of Management. Madam Chair, the goal of this event was to offer global stakeholders an opportunity to contribute and influence the development of a collaborative platform for the accelerated implementation of the Pact of the Future, with the understanding that achieving this goal requires robust multi-stakeholder collaboration— government, private sector, civil society, indigenous people, youth, women, and intergovernmental organizations. Must unite towards a better future. Madam Chair, participants agreed that central to this effort is the establishment of a collaboratory which should serve as a dynamic platform where diverse stakeholders come together, ensuring their voices are heard and integrated into the decision-making process. This inclusive environment fosters capacity building and promotes scientific and technological cooperation. Collaboration, ensuring access to affordable technologies and enhancing digital literacy. By aligning with the goals of the 2030 Agenda, these collaborative efforts contribute to creating a more inclusive and innovative global community. The announcement of the incorporation of a foundation called Inspire for Tomorrow was well received by participants, as it has seen as a platform which may play a pivotal role in advancing the Pact of the Future. Acting as a facilitator, the Inspire for Tomorrow Foundation brings together civil society, research and education entities, the private sector, and public institutions within to find common grounds for cooperation and to advance the implementation of the Pact's action item. Additionally, the foundation supports the broader objective of the 2030 Agenda and our common agenda, fostering equal access to technological benefits and indigenous knowledge for a more prosperous and sustainable future. Through the Inspire for Tomorrow Foundation, we can also act as a think tank to discuss transparent, ethical, and inclusive policies that ensure technologies and digital progress and are used progressively, creating a secure and digital future for all. Participants agreed on this approach and supported the idea to continue working together and with other stakeholders covering short- and long-term actions to fulfill the objectives of the announced Inspire for Tomorrow Foundation. Participants underlined that by positioning themselves at the crossroads of technology Technology, Diplomacy and Sustainable Development, and New Social Contracts will aim at accelerating initiatives that support the successful implementation of the 2030 Agenda and the Pact on the Future. Madam Chair, I'm pleased to share that last week, on February 5th, 2025, the UN 2025 ECOSOC Partnership Forum included a side event on Inspire for Tomorrow initiative to spotlight this innovative partnership aligned with the 2025 Forum theme. The outcome of this forum was further contributed to the 2025 ECOSOC Coordination Segment, which was held on February 6th and 7th last week, providing inputs to the preparation of the UN global events throughout 2025, including the High-Level Political Forum in July 2025. We look forward to sharing the progress at the upcoming COPUS session in June 2025. Thank you, Madam Chair. STSC · Chair [58:35]: I thank the distinguished observer from Kaneos International for the statement. We will continue our consideration of Agenda Item 3, General Exchange of Views, this afternoon. Distinguished delegates, I would now like to continue and hopefully suspend our consideration of agenda item 11, future role and method of work of the committee. The first speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation. You have the floor. Russian Federation [59:09]: Я благодарю вас. Thank you, Madam Chairperson. Thank you for giving the floor to my delegation. Madam Chairperson, the Russian Federation supports the leading role of COPROUS and its subcommittees in consideration and adoption of decisions on a broad range of issues related to the peaceful use of outer space. We consider politicization of COPROUS's work unacceptable. It undermines the committee's effectiveness in addressing the challenges and threats humanity faces in near-Earth orbit and in outer space alike. COPROS's intergovernmental nature is the cornerstone of its, uh, work. It must be preserved. We note the increased number of non-governmental actors exploring outer space. Against that backdrop, we support the United Space Bridge initiative. Which is aimed at building constructive dialogue with commercial operators and scientific and academic circles. At the same time, we caution against effect— or rather excessive reliance on extrabudgetary activities, including those financed by non-governmental structures, unless agreed with COPRO's member states. Madam Chairperson, periodic reviews of the agendas of COPOS and the subcommittees remain essential in order to prevent the inclusion of items that are of little practical import. We stand ready to engage in substantive discussions of substantive and topical issues with a view to working out and implementing solutions to them. We underscore the importance of having as a standing item in our agenda dark and quiet skies, astronomy, and large constellations addressing emerging issues and challenges. Distinguished colleagues, the problem of interference on astronomical observations emanating from an increasing number of anthropogenic factors definitely exists. One cause is the rapid expansion of large constellations of small satellites entering low Earth orbit. Such constellations pose a tangible risk to safe space operations in addition to interfering with astronomical observations. They also increase the risk of space debris formation in the most intensively used low Earth orbit. Thank you. The deployment of megaconstellations in low Earth orbit regions of outer space. Access to space as a whole is impeded. The owners and operators of such systems fail as a rule to take on board the interests of other space activity operators. This is at variance with Article 9 of the 1967 Outer Space Treaty. The treaty's consultative mechanism for megaconstellation deployment is never engaged. Artificial intelligence is used to manage systems consisting of tens of thousands of satellites. Each satellite maneuvers in orbit independently. Thus, as their number increases, situational unpredictability in the most intensively used low Earth orbit regions of outer space skyrockets. And the orbital frequency resource becomes depleted. The Russian Federation consistently draws the attention of the global community to the tendency of certain states to use so-called private or commercial systems to address geopolitical aims, including for interference in the domestic affairs of other states. This imperils the peaceful. Space exploration and use aims that are laid down in the 1967 treaty. We urge that discussions should be engaged on this matter. Madam Chairperson, we're compelled to turn our attention to the consultations that have begun at COPOS in accordance with UNGA Resolution 79 International Cooperation in the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space on organizing Unispace 4 in 2027. We urge against forcing this issue through during this session of the STSC. Instead, member states should be given the opportunity to agree on the substantive content of the conference, to agree on its organizational modalities, and to agree on financing. If the process is successful, during the summer session of the committee, we could envisage considering a relevant decision or resolution for UNGA approval. By way of conclusion, we wish to reiterate that the Russian Federation will continue our active participation in the work of the committee and its subcommittees, and our cooperation with UNOOSA delegations, the name of our common STSC · Chair [1:04:35]: I thank the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation for the statement. Next speaker on my list is a distinguished representative of Austria. You have the floor. Austria [1:04:46]: Thank you, Madam Chair, distinguished colleagues, delegates. Let me start by welcoming back the new chief of the Committee Policy and Legal Affairs section, Mr. and wish her all success in her new and important function. Austria further welcomes the decision on the co-chairmanship of the lunar team— of the Action Team on Lunar Activities and congratulates the co-chairs from Pakistan, Mr. Hassan Abbas, and from Romania, Ms. Ulpia Elena Botezatu, on your appointments. We wish you all success with your work to advance the discussion on this important topic. We would also like to thank the United Arab Emirates for their proposed establishment of an expert group on space situational awareness and followed the informal consultation during this session with great interest. For Austria, COPUOS and its subcommittees are unique platforms for international cooperation on the peaceful uses of outer space. We further appreciate the efforts of the Director of UNOSA and her entire team to make our work more efficient, impact-oriented, informed, and relevant. The UN Space Sustainability Days, with the workshop on space situational awareness and space traffic coordination, and a simulation exercise on space traffic coordination, on 30th and 31st January are one of several most welcome initiatives. Austria participated in the exercise and workshop with an expert. The recent UN conferences organized last year in June on sustainable lunar activities and in November on space law and policy are further excellent examples of experts' involvement, awareness-raising, and informing gatherings. For committee decision-making. Austria also participated in the latest external evaluation with an online interview in which we highlighted the important tasks of UNOSA in an international environment that has changed significantly in the last years. Examples include the registration of an increasing number of space objects, the comprehensive and and impact-oriented implementation of the tasks set out in the Space 2030 Agenda, and most recently, the implementation of Action 56 of the Pact of the Future. Furthermore, we have to take into consideration that the number of member states of COPROS has increased substantially. We welcome this success, but also note that this leads to an additional workload for UNOOSA. The implementation of the Space 2030 Agenda and of the decision of the Pact for the Future concerning outer space requires a major effort. The midterm review of the Space 2030 Agenda will provide a basis for developing targeted and effective actions based on the needs expressed by member states. We hope that the results of this review will stimulate the use of space solutions for the achievement of the SDGs. Austria supports the Pact for the Future, which calls for the widest possible adherence to and full compliance with the 1967 Outer Space Treaty. The pact mandates us to discuss the establishment of new frameworks for space traffic, space debris, and space resources. Austria welcomes the planned UNISPACE 4 conference, as an important milestone for the implementation of the Pact for the Future in improving the sustainability of space, increasing the availability of and access to space solutions, and further promoting international cooperation. Unispace 4 can thus also contribute to concerted efforts to anchor space on the next global agenda at international level beyond 2030. Austria will support it in the best possible way. Thank you. STSC · Chair [1:08:59]: I thank the distinguished representative of Austria for the statement. Next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of South Africa. You have the floor. South Africa [1:09:08]: Thank you very much, Madam Chair. South Africa extends its appreciation to Ms. Arti Holomiani for her outstanding leadership in elevating the work of COPIS and its 2 subcommittees. The recognition of space for sustainable development in the Pact of the Future is a testament to the growing acknowledgement of space technologies as indispensable tools for development. This milestone reinforces our collective responsibility to harness space for the benefit of all people. We also take this opportunity to warmly welcome Ms. Takemi Chiuza, and look forward to her contributions in advancing the subcommittee's important mandate. Furthermore, we join other delegations in commending the improvements in streamlining the agenda and enhancing the efficiency of our meetings. We do believe there is room for further improvement to ensure that the STSC remains fully aligned with the evolving priorities and concerns of its members. Madam Chair, South Africa supports the proposal to convene Unispace 4 in 2027. We extend our appreciation to Morocco and Italy for their comprehensive CRP, which provides an excellent framework for holding discussions on the scope and format of this important conference. Unispace 4 comes at a crucial moment as the global space landscape has transformed significantly over the past 25 years. The rise of new actors, particularly from the developing world, highlights the need for a more inclusive approach to space governance and cooperation. It is imperative that developing countries are not only included but fully empowered to become responsible and active participants in the space sector. In this regard, Africa's full participation in the space sector must be recognized as a global priority. Africa cannot afford to be left behind in the rapidly advancing space economy. This requires dedicated support, capacity-building initiatives, and where appropriate, the transfer of technology to foster equitable access to space. We also encourage UNOSA to continue its outreach activities for more African countries to join COPUS. Finally, Chair, we extend our congratulations to Romania and Pakistan on their appointment as co-chairs of ATLAS. We wish them success as they finalize the work plan to address key issues and drive forward meaningful outcomes. Thank you. STSC · Chair [1:11:41]: I thank the distinguished representative of South Africa for this statement. Next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of Germany. You have the floor. Germany [1:11:51]: Thank you, Madam Chair, distinguished delegates. This agenda item, as well as the Working Group as a whole, provide good opportunities to discuss a number of cross-cutting and overarching processes of relevance not just to this subcommittee, but to the committee as a whole. Let me briefly address some of them. We welcome the non-paper by the Secretariat, as well as the conference room paper by Morocco and Italy, outlining initial ideas for Unispace 4. This conference can be a welcome forum to advance a number of key processes and activities of the committee, and to strengthen international cooperation and capacity building to allow everyone to reap the benefits of space science and technology. The Pact for the Future, which was adopted by heads of state and government at the United Nations in New York last year, provided additional momentum for holding such a conference by encouraging COPUSS to further consult on the proposals proposal. The Pact tasked COPUS to discuss the establishment of new frameworks for space traffic, space debris, and space resources. And Unispace 4 could focus on these 3 key issues identified in Action 56 of the Pact and aim to produce actionable results without disrupting existing work streams. We therefore hope that the subcommittee can agree on a recommendation to the committee to hold Unispace 4 in 2020. 27, and look forward to receiving further information ahead of the session of the Legal Subcommittee on potential organizational arrangements, funding, and more. We welcome the establishment of the Action Team on Lunar Activities Consultation at the 67th session of the Committee. We congratulate the newly elected co-chairs of ATLAG, Ms. Ulpia Botezatu of Romania and Mr. Hassan Abbas of Pakistan. And assure you of our full support. It is a priority for us to fulfill the mandate of ATLAG and to ensure that you contribute to the constructive discussions at the forthcoming intersessional and informal meetings with a view to adopting the work plan at the 68th session of the committee. We would further like to thank Professor Stephen Freeland for reporting to the STSC on the work of the Working Group on the Legal Aspects of space resource activities of the Legal Subcommittee. We think this is an important means to strengthen the coordination and coherence between the work of the 2 subcommittees, and we would like to see this with regards to other topics as well. In the honor of Ambassador Michal, we remain committed to actively contribute to the Working Group on Space Resources, and we do look forward to continuing the important works under the skilled leadership of Professor Freeland as chair, hoping that the draft principles expected for April will feed a productive and engaged discussion between member states at the upcoming legal subcommittee. Madam Chair, the midterm review of the Space 2030 agenda provides a good opportunity to take stock of the progress made in advancing the use of space technology and applications for sustainable development. We thank the Secretariat, for providing the non-paper, entailing a questionnaire and templates to assist member states in preparing information on their actions taken to implement the Space 2030 agenda. We believe such a structured approach allows to gather substantive information for the midterm review, and we hope that it will support us in concluding a successful review at this year's session of the committee. Thank you for your kind attention. STSC · Chair [1:15:19]: I thank the distinguished representative of Germany for the statement. Next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative from the United Arab Emirates. You have the floor. United Arab Emirates [1:15:30]: Madam Chair, distinguished delegates, the United Arab Emirates recognizes the growing importance of space situational awareness, SSA, as a fundamental pillar for safety, security, and long-term sustainability of outer space activities. As the number of space objects and actors increases, the need for global coordination, integration, and information-sharing mechanisms increases to ensure the responsible and sustainable use of outer space environment. In this regard, we emphasize the necessity of international cooperation in exploring mechanisms that would enable and facilitate the exchange of relevant data on space objects and events. Strengthening information-sharing practices, we can improve operational coordination and promote responsible behavior in space. The UAE reaffirms its commitment to supporting initiatives that contribute towards safety, security, and sustainability of space activities and objects. Through global cooperation, data sharing, and transparency, we can continue the efforts in preserving space as a secure and sustainable domain for the future. Madam Chair, looking ahead, UNISPACE 4 will provide a pivotal opportunity to follow up on the Pact for the Future, addressing space traffic debris management and resource governance. This milestone coinciding with the 70th the 60th anniversary of the Outer Space Treaty in 2027 can drive renewed momentum for the signing and ratification of key legal frameworks like the Outer Space Treaty, Registration Convention, and Liability Convention. The UAE is committed to working with member states to advance these goals. Thank you. STSC · Chair [1:17:32]: I thank the distinguished Thank you, Representative from the United Arab Emirates, for the statement. We will suspend our consideration of Agenda Item 11, Future Role and Method of Work of the Committee, pending the discussions in the Working Group. Distinguished delegates, I'd like now to continue our consideration of Agenda Item 12, Space and Global Health. I'd now like to invite the coordinator of the Space I now invite the representative of the Asian Global Health Network, Mr. Antoine Geisbühler, to provide the status report to the subcommittee. Mr. Geisbühler, you have the floor. Space and Global Health Network · Coordinator · Antoine Geisbühler [1:18:09]: Thank you, Madam Chair. STSC · Chair [1:19:10]: We have some— we experienced some technical difficulties. I would like to give the floor to the distinguished representative of Switzerland For the statement, you have the floor. Switzerland [1:19:26]: Merci. Thank you, Madam Chair. I think it's the Swiss statement after the video, but I will. Take the floor now. Thank you, Madam Chair. Space activities, technology, and data are very useful in the field of global health, and they contribute to SDG number 3, among others. Earth observation data contribute to teleepidemiology Position navigation communication systems are useful to coordinate care systems and in the medical response to disasters and crises. They provide tools for telemedicine and distance learning in the effect— in far-off areas. Since 2015, Swiss has been involved in the subject space and global health, and together with Canada, we co-chaired the group of experts that followed up Action Team 6 established under Unispace 3. With Professor Antoine Geisbühler, we chaired the working group that was established during Unispace Plus 50, whose work led to to General Assembly Resolution 77/120 in 2022. With the support of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, the Geneva Digital Health Hub from the University of Geneva, we've been working on the establishment of the collaborative platform recommended by the General Assembly And we coordinate the Space and Global Health Network established by COPUS. We have just heard from the representative of the coordinator of the network, Dr. Awa Babington-Ashai— we'll be seeing that video later— present the annual report for 2024 as well as ongoing and future activities. More information is contained in CRP 29. Switzerland welcomes the progress made by the network in 2024. A curriculum, Space and Global Health, is currently under development. There is a specialized task force for that, and the syllabus is well underway. The Geneva Digital Health Day organizes every year a special session on space and global health during the World Health Assembly in Geneva. This year will take place on the 22nd of May, and a very successful hackathon was organized with the European Space Agency. Through these different initiatives and activities, the international network, which has strong links with COPPOS, is continue— is continuing to raise its profile. The subject Space Technologies and Global Health is now in the 2024 edition of the Science Breakthrough radar of the Geneva Science and Diplomacy Anticipator, GESDA. In October 2024, the network was presented on the Swiss stand at the International Astronautical Congress in Milan, and it worked towards organizing the UNWHO Regional Conference on Space Technology for Advancing Global Health, which was co-organized and hosted in Vienna by the Office for Space Affairs and the European Space Agency. The network Space and Global Health continues to grow and now has more than 175 individual or institutional members from 48 countries. Those activities promote interdisciplinary cooperation and synergies between the different institutions and initiatives through specific projects. Switzerland is proud to continue to support the network and thanks all countries and partners committed to those efforts who make a significant contribution to improving global health. Thank you. STSC · Chair [1:24:36]: I thank the distinguished representative of Switzerland for the statement. Next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of China. You have the floor. China [1:24:48]: Madam Chair, distinguished delegates, China regards global health as a crucial area for space technology applications. Profoundly recognizing the importance of space technology for human well-being, geospatial information technology leverages high-precision, multi-source, and all-weather geospatial data, demonstrates significant advantages in timeliness, scope of application, and analytical capabilities, and brings revolutionary changes to global health. In 2024, Several Chinese research and medical institutions, by fully utilizing the strengths of geospatial information technology, achieved a series of important breakthroughs in disease surveillance, early warning, and environmental health risk assessment. Regarding prevention and control of infectious diseases, China successfully applied geospatial information technology to map the transmission risks of major infectious diseases such as schistosomiasis, dengue fever, plague, and brucellosis. These maps revealed the spatial patterns of disease transmission and confirmed the significant correlation between areas of residential activities and disease transmission risks, providing critical evidence for precise prevention and control. With regard to risk assessment of environmental health China focused on identifying health risks in key areas such as mining zones and highways. With special analysis technology, pollution exposure areas were identified. To address health issues caused by air pollution, China pioneered a nationwide county-level assessment of the mortality burden of lung cancer attributable to fine particulate matters, offering scientific support for urban planning and public health decision-making. China is also actively promoting the transformation and application of space-based medical technologies to support global health. Theoretical and technical innovations emerged from the building of the space hospital will serve the development of global health. For instance, the unique advantages of space environment can be leveraged to aid the research on and control of major clinical diseases. Additionally, portable and intelligent space medical equipment can be used to build mobile medical complexes, ensuring medical services during emergencies such as natural disasters and pandemics, thereby safeguarding human health. In 2024, China performed the first ultra-remote surgery via satellite using the Asia-Pacific 6D communication satellite flying over 36,000 kilometers above the Earth. Doctors remotely operated 5 surgeries in Lhasa, Tibet, Dali, Yunnan Province, and Sanya, Hainan Province. Data of each precise step in those operations were transmitted over a distance of nearly 150,000 kilometers between the Earth and space. This is the first of its kind in both China and the world. Madam Chair, moving forward, China is committed to further deepening the research on and application of geospatial information technology in public health and promoting international cooperation in this area. We are willing to share relevant technologies, data, and experiences with other countries to jointly address global public health challenges and promote the better use of geospatial information technology for the well-being of all humanity. Thank you, Madam Chair. STSC · Chair [1:28:43]: I thank the distinguished representative of China for the statement. The technical problems have been now resolved, so I would like to give the floor to Mr. Antoine Geis the coordinator of the Space and Global Health Network, to provide the report. Space and Global Health Network · Awa Bebbington-Asaye [1:29:10]: Thank you, Mr. Delegate. Thank you, Chair. It's the first time that the Space Technology Network is taking the floor in the session. Please allow me to congratulate you for your able leadership in this session. On behalf of the coordinator of the Space and Global Health Network, I'm quite pleased to share with you the past activities of last year, but also the conclusion of the meeting that was held last Thursday in the margin of this session. We had over 40 participants during this meeting coming from different sectors, from space and health, of course, also from academia. We had representatives from the World Health Organization, Also from the Office of Space Affairs. We are also quite pleased to inform you that our annual report is now available on our website, but also the CRP of the session. During the meetings, the participants will also acknowledge the significant growth of activity in the network last year. We have to say that it was a crucial year for the network. Regarding its goals and about its mission. And as well, we had various activities that were estimated as successful using different performance indicators. As an example, we conducted a high-level discussion during the Universal Health Day organized by GJP last May. And we also organized with the Open Space Agency an hackathon, and this hackathon was also the first in kind organized with our partner in that matter. As a last example, in last October, we organized with UNOSA a Human Innovation Conference focusing on the Americas and Caribbean. This session was also fundamental to understand local needs in terms of education, for example, for the curriculum that we want to develop in that matter. During the discussion, we also tackled our strategy for this year, focusing on 2 main pillars. The first priority is focusing on strengthening institutions and framework, and for that, we're going to ensure to leverage on space agencies, space ministries, but also the private sector, to promote collaboration between different stakeholders. The second priority is also fundamental, is about knowledge and raising awareness, and of course, education is the center of this priority. In that specific priority, we also going to develop a space and governance curriculum. I have to also mention that those priorities I fully align with the long-term strategy on space and global health 2025-2035 that we actually designed last year. If I'm coming back to the matter of education, we now have a draft syllabus available for comment, and during the session we also discussed some specific additions to the syllabus. As, for example, antiquating the local and, I would say, legal aspects of the use of space technology for global health. Now, this draft syllabus is going to be available for comment until February 24th. So we invite you to share with us your input for that. Finally, I also want to emphasize that we also discussed the need to focusing on essential health variables. And in that matter, we're going to develop a methodology of work and a strategy this year to really advance in a structural way regarding the specific work stream. I also want to invite once again members, delegates, stakeholders to disseminate information about the network, to sign or state what they intend to support us regarding our strategy. Finally, and not lastly, I would say I really want to thank and warmly thank our partners from UNOSA, also from the Government of Switzerland, for their strong support at the beginning of this journey, I would say, on the Space and Robotics Network. The support was fundamental in our success so far. Thank you very much, and I wish you the best for the rest of the session. Thank you again. STSC · Chair [1:33:57]: I thank Ms. Awa Bebbington-Asaye for the report on behalf of the coordinator of the Space and Global Health Network for the statement. Next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative Mexico. You have the floor. Mexico [1:34:20]: Muchas gracias. Thank you, Chair. Distinguished delegates, Mexico would like to acknowledge the work of the subcommittee in promoting space science and technology for the benefit of humanity. We would like to to highlight the importance of tackling the links between space and global health, something which reflects the transforming potential of space applications to deal with global public health challenges. In this context, Mexico reaffirms its commitment to capacity building in space medicine and its transfer to health on the ground. The Mexican Space Medicine Network has meant we can coordinate efforts between national institutions to foster research in microgravity, regenerative medicine, bio-tissue printing, the development of neuroprotection, protheses and other virtual reality devices. These initiatives are not just linked to space, but they also generate innovative and accessible solutions with a direct impact on people's health. Mexico would like to highlight the 9th Space Medicine Conference that took place in our country focused on Earth observation technologies to identify and mitigate impacts on public health of vector-borne diseases and environmental pollution. Those initiatives were essential in designing strategies for satellite monitoring and mitigation of risks in rural and urban communities. Mexico is also actively promoting the development and implementation of telemedicine and telehealth in remote areas through the design of innovative technologies which guarantee equitable access to health services. Those actions are aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, especially SDG 3, which aims to guarantee a healthy life and promote well-being for all The integration of space technologies in areas such as epidemiological satellite epidemiological monitoring, environmental monitoring, and vaccine development reflect our strong commitment to these global goals. Mexico would like to acknowledge its acknowledge UNUSA for the regional conference on space and global health. Focused on the Americas that took place in October 2024. Those were 2 very constructive days. Countries in our region was able to learn more about what we're developing and the shared challenges so that we can work on collaboration in medicine and space technologies. And finally, Mexico would like to reaffirm its willingness to continue working with the international community to maximize the positive impact of space technologies on global health. We are sure that through cooperation and the exchange of knowledge, we can build a better future for all nations. Thank you. STSC · Chair [1:38:01]: I thank the distinguished representative of Mexico for the statement. As a distinguished representative of Mexico was the last speaker on my list under this agenda item. We have now concluded our consideration of agenda item 12, Space and Global Health. Distinguished delegates, I would now like to begin our consideration of agenda item 13, Use of Nuclear Power Sources in Outer Space. The first speaker on my list Next is the distinguished representative of China. You have the floor. China [1:38:40]: Distinguished delegates and Madam Chair, the Chinese government always values the safety of NPS in space and actively participated in the work of STSC and NPS Working Group. Through the STSC, the Chinese delegation shared with the parties its practical experience in the use of NPS in Chang'e 3 and Chang'e 4 missions, and introduced China's implementation of the principles relevant to the use of NPS in outer space adopted by the General Assembly in 1992 under the Safety Framework for NPS Application in Outer Space jointly issued by the STSC under the IAEA in 2009. As human space exploration activities become more frequent, the in-orbit application of MPS will become more extensive. China will also use MPS in lunar and deep space exploration missions. Meanwhile, China notes that more and more countries plan to use MPS in space missions, and some non-governmental entities are also engaged in relevant work. China calls on all governments to fulfill their national regulatory responsibilities and strengthen the safety of NPS in outer space. All countries should strengthen cooperation and exchanges in this regard. We hope that experienced countries will share more expertise and lessons learned with other countries. Distinguished Chair, the STSC and its NPS Working Group play an irreplicable role in promoting the safe use of NPS in outer space. The NPS Working Group is the best platform under the COPUOS framework to discuss the safe use of NPS in outer space. We welcome more member states of the subcommittee and the relevant IGOs to join the Working Group. Under the leadership of its chair, Mr. Leopold Samaro, the Working Group successfully adopted in 2024 the 5-year implementation plan between between 2024 to 2028. It sets the direction and plan of work for the following years. The Working Group also agreed last year to collect information by surveying the work of NPS in each country and drafted the survey text. We commend Mr. Leopold Sommerer and the Working Group for their effective work. China notes that The scope of work to be addressed by ADLAC established in 2024 may overlap with that of the NPS Working Group. We suggest the NPS Working Group coordinating with ADLAC to define the boundaries of their respective work and avoid duplication of effort. Chair, the Chinese delegation will as always continue to support the activities Activities of the STSC and the NPS Working Group, and is willing to work with other countries to promote the safe use of NPS in outer space. Thank you. STSC · Chair [1:41:46]: I thank the distinguished representative of China for the statement. Next speaker on my list is a distinguished representative of France. You have the floor. Madame la Présidente. France [1:41:56]: Madam Chair, ladies and gentlemen. First of all, allow me to thank Mr. Leopold Sommerer for his chairmanship and pledge the support of France for the work of this subcommittee. Our meetings and current developments show our shared interest in making progress on this subject. Madam Chair, the preamble of General Assembly Resolution 4768 of 1992 recalls that nuclear Power sources are well adapted, if not indispensable, to some outer space exploration missions, but that using this solution must be done responsibly and in respect of the best safety and security standards. Space exploration is still on the agenda. France would like to reiterate its will to. to promote safety, security, and non-proliferation standards which are the strictest possible for the use of nuclear power sources in outer space. That should be taken into account right from the beginning of programs to not hamper their later development. The principles on the use of nuclear energy sources in outer space, as well as the safety framework established in 2009, are essential for future technologies and activities. New space exploration programs and the development of new space mobility solutions mean we have to complete this framework. Over and above announcements and international projects, the 2020s could see the return to orbit of nuclear reactor, and therefore we need to— the working group needs to make a very important decision. We have to examine this framework bearing in mind technology innovations with regards to radioisotopes, americium-241, and the return of space reactors to Earth's orbit and also their new potential use on the surface of the Moon. The upcoming work of the Nuclear Energy Source Group could complete the framework, the safety and security framework, if necessary. France believes that using nuclear energy sources in space in the midterm And we responded to the survey issued by the chair of the working group. In this context, the CNES, the Atomic Energy Commission, and the nuclear regulator are leading reflections on technological orientation and the safety of nuclear space equipment. We have a law from 2008 that has always considered space operations using radioisotopic generators. The European perspective is currently being designed, but we need to update this regulatory framework to make sure that it can take into account the necessary requirements. International cooperation is more essential than ever to share knowledge acquired by states that use these energy sources in space missions, as well as understanding and implementing the principles contained in the safety framework. We have to maintain the quality of exchanges and information for the future use of nuclear energy in space. In order to do that, We believe we have to involve non-state actors too. For example, companies who will be in the front line for implementing the standards contained in the framework, and then the IAEA, which is uniquely placed for the use of nuclear technology for peaceful purposes by its member states. Nuclear regulators and space regulators have to strengthen their links to effectively deal with these issues. Madam Chair, you can count on France's longstanding expertise in safety, security, and nonproliferation in the nuclear field and in the space field to make a constructive contribution to this work. Thank you. STSC · Chair [1:46:43]: Representative of France for the statement. Next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of Canada. You have the floor. Canada [1:46:52]: Chair, distinguished delegates, a key challenge for exploration of the solar system is access to an abundant, clean, reliable, resilient, and high-performance source of electrical and thermal power. In its global exploration roadmap, the International Space Exploration Coordination Group, ISEC-G, considers enabling nuclear power generation as a critical technology to provide a reliable source of surface power for extended exploration missions and to enable a sustained human presence on the Moon and Mars surfaces. Fission surface power reactors are nuclear reactors that can provide electrical and thermal power for an extended period of time. Radioisotope power systems, RPS, which include radioisotope thermoelectric generators and radioisotope heater units, supply long-term heat in the cold temperatures of space without any maintenance. Chair, Canada is a longstanding global leader in nuclear research and technology, exporting reactor systems as well as a high proportion of the world's supply of radioisotope isotopes used in medical diagnosis and cancer therapy. Canada has a new— a full nuclear fuel cycle from cradle to grave, including uranium mining, fuel processing, and refining, nuclear power plant operations, as well as nuclear waste management. Canada has created significant economic, geopolitical, social, and environmental benefits due to investments in nuclear power. The Canadian government has also committed to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 with the development and deployment of sustainable and clean energy sources. Nuclear energy plays an integral role in addressing climate change on Earth. Small modular reactors, SMRs, and microreactors are considered a source of safe, clean, reliable, and affordable energy. Opening opportunities for a resilient, low-carbon future. Since many communities in northern Canada, in addition to remote mining sites, continue to be powered by fossil fuels, SMRs are considered as candidates to replace fossil fuel generators while providing highly qualified jobs in these regions. Due to existing parallels between operating a reactor at a lunar base and operating it in Northern Canada, the Canadian Space Agency, CSA, will explore how to leverage the synergies to ensure that space investments in this technology area maximize benefits for Canadians. In order to stimulate the nexus of space and nuclear, Canada is therefore undertaking activities related to space nuclear power systems, such as exploring nuclear power system concepts, including small modular and the feasibility of producing radioisotope fuel for radioisotope power systems using Canadian CANDU reactors. Chair, in conclusion, in advancing Canadian space nuclear power technologies, Canada could leverage the alignment between our national objectives to establish a long-term sustainable human presence on the Moon, to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, to enhance Canada's innovation performance, and to support socioeconomic growth. To advance Canada's expertise on the topic of nuclear power systems for space exploration activities, the CSA has been engaging in preparatory activities with federal government partners, Canadian industry, research and development organizations, academia, and international partners. Thank you for your attention. STSC · Chair [1:50:36]: I thank the distinguished representative of Canada for the statement. Next speaker on my list is a distinguished representative of the Russian Federation. You have the floor. Russian Federation [1:50:48]: Thank you, Madam Chair. At the present stage of the development of space technologies to explore outer space, including planets, satellites, and other celestial bodies, new needs are emerging that require the use of compact sources of thermal and electrical energy that can address new challenges and assure space exploration's transition to an entirely new level. Nuclear power sources in outer space Thorough analysis of those risks has allowed member states of COPROs and its subcommittees to document key approaches to ensuring the safe use of nuclear power sources in outer space. These are contained in the principles and in the safety framework. Framework for nuclear power sources application applications in outer space. The Russian Federation has devised rules for ensuring safe missions with nuclear power sources at all life cycle stages. Our approaches have due regard to the safety framework recommendations and are in line with the principles. Thus, for decades now, the Russian Federation has been applying its own national system of governance. The Russian Federation has legislated for organizational and technical measures to ensure the safe use of nuclear power sources on satellites. We believe that the principles and the framework form an adequate regulatory basis for states and intergovernmental and international organizations that are building and using nuclear power sources in outer space. In view of the foregoing, we see no grounds at present and no need for the revision of the principles and framework. Madam Chairperson, the Russian delegation supports and welcomes the activity of the Nuclear Power Sources Working Group of the STSC. We also support the need for establishing mutually beneficial relations for exchange of information between the NPS Group and ATLAS. Thank you. STSC · Chair [1:53:57]: I thank the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation for the statement. Next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of You have the floor. Italy [1:54:06]: Madam Chair, distinguished delegates, Italy has long been committed to responsible and innovative nuclear energy application, both on Earth and in space. Italy actively contributes to the UN Working Group on the Use of Nuclear Power Sources in Outer Space, supporting safety standards and collaborating with the International Atomic Energy Agency. The Italian Space Agency has recently intensified efforts to explore space nuclear power systems. In 2022, ASIE and ENEA signed an agreement to assess the feasibility of a mini nuclear reactor for lunar-based and deep space missions. This initiative aims to design a compact, lightweight, and reliable reactor with modular power output and enhanced safety features. These efforts also focus on advanced fission reactors and potential nuclear propulsion systems for long-duration missions. To further this vision, Italy launches the SELENE projects in collaboration with universities and industry partners. This initiative seeks to develop the Moon Energy Hub, a system designed to produce, store, and transmit electrical and thermal energy. By investing in safe and sustainable nuclear solutions for space, Italy reaffirms its commitment to responsible innovation and international cooperation. Thanks for your attention. STSC · Chair [1:55:52]: I thank the distinguished representative of Italy for this statement. Next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. You have the floor. United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland [1:56:04]: Chair, distinguished delegates, the United Kingdom recognizes the value of the 1992 Principles and the safety framework. As essential guidelines for member states in developing and applying them to their national activities, ensuring the safe and responsible use of nuclear power sources in outer space. We reaffirm our strong support for the work of the Working Group on the Use of Nuclear Power Sources in Outer Space and value its significant achievements in recent years. Building on the final report on on the implementation of the safety framework for nuclear power sources applications in outer space, along with the recommendations for potential enhancements published under the United Kingdom's leadership 2 years ago, we emphasize the need for further work on the safety aspects of space systems utilizing nuclear power sources, particularly nuclear fission reactors and innovative applications of radioisotopes. To all power systems. We also recognized the development of a comprehensive 5-year work plan last year and are committed to contributing to its successful implementation during this and future sessions. The United Kingdom expresses full support for the chairmanship of Mr. Leopold Summerer from the Austrian delegation and welcomes his suggestions for engaging the private sector in the work plan's implementation. The private non-institutional sector is making notable progress in consolidating nuclear systems for space and exploring novel solutions. To ensure these efforts are effectively captured and leveraged, we must establish a suitable mechanism, mechanism to track these developments, incorporate lessons learned, and integrate all relevant feedback into the safety framework. The United Kingdom is dedicated to collaborating with Mr. Sommerer and the Working Group to achieve the objectives of the Scientific and Technical Subcommittee and advancing the next critical phase of ensuring the continued safe and responsible use of nuclear power sources in outer space. Thank you. STSC · Chair [1:58:17]: I thank the distinguished representative of the UK for the statement. Next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of Indonesia. You have the floor. Indonesia [1:58:28]: Thank you, Madam Chair. Indonesia would like to extend our appreciation to the chair of the Working Group on the Use of Nuclear Power Sources in Outer Space. We take note of the produced working paper entitled Draft Questionnaire Containing a Primary Set of Questions Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The draft questionnaire is a draft questionnaire to be used to collect information relating to the objectives of the work plan of the Working Group on the Use of Nuclear Power Sources in Outer Space. Regarding the draft questionnaire, Indonesia currently has no intention to develop or use the NPS for outer space application over the next decade. However, Indonesia fully supports the adoption of NPS principles and safety-first framework by the UN for implementation by member states. Indonesia recognized that the safety framework serves as a foundation for the sustainable development of a state and regions. Madam Chair, allow me to inform you that Indonesia is currently seeking a possibility to develop more aerospace technologies, including satellites and also nuclear reactors for electric Indonesia shares the concern about safety and security aspects of NPS. Therefore, Indonesia hopes we could have good guidelines related to the types of nuclear technology that can be used and guarantee the safety and security of NPS. Finally, Indonesia will highlight the importance of fruitful intersessional working group meetings that could produce decisions and recommendations to be followed up. Thank you. STSC · Chair [2:00:11]: I thank the distinguished representative of Indonesia for the statement. Next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of the United States of America. You have the floor. United States of America [2:00:24]: Thank you, Chair. The United States calls on member states and international organizations that are considering the use of space nuclear power sources to implement the Joint Safety Framework developed in 2009 by this subcommittee in partnership with the International Atomic Energy Agency. The United States actively participates in the NPS Working Group, which provides a useful forum to discuss specific aspects of the safety framework's guidance and to learn from presentations and papers of others. Our experience of more than 30 missions involving space nuclear power sources during the last 60 years allows us to offer mission-specific experiences implementing the guidance of the framework. The United States remains committed to the development of safe and small modular nuclear reactors for human and robotic space exploration efforts, as evidenced by the 2021 executive order on promoting small modular reactors for national defense and space exploration. Since 1961, nuclear power has opened the solar system to exploration, allowing us to observe and understand dark, distant planetary bodies that would otherwise be unreachable. For the last 4 years, the NASA Mars 2020 Perseverance rover, powered by radioisotope power, has been exploring Mars, seeking signs of ancient life and collecting samples of rock and regolith for possible future return to Earth. Earth. Perseverance brought with it the world's first extraterrestrial rotorcraft, Ingenuity, which just recently ended its mission on the Red Planet after surpassing expectations and making dozens of flights— dozen more flights more than planned. Another example of exploration uniquely enabled by nuclear power in space is the NASA Dragonfly mission, scheduled to launch to Titan in 2028. and arrive at Saturn in 2035. Dragonfly adds nuclear power to enable nearly unlimited flights with 8 rotors to fly like a large drone on multiple journeys through the atmosphere. The United States has formalized a partnership with the European Space Agency through the signing of the NASA-ESA Memorandum of Understanding in May 2024 on the Rosalind Franklin Mars Rover mission, which will be enabled by HEAT from radioisotopes. Chair, use of nuclear power sources for in-space propulsion of spacecraft is a potential technology for crew and cargo missions to Mars and scientific missions to the outer solar system, enabling faster and more robust human and robotic missions. Expanding into a new era for space exploration depends on the ability for— on mass-efficient, high-energy solutions to power deep space vehicles, as well as operate in harsh environments and increase mission flexibility. NASA nuclear technology investments are targeting power for surface operations and propulsion for fast transit deep space missions, all with the ability to reliably operate without the need for repair or refueling. NASA and the U.S. Department of Energy, or DOE, are partners in ensuring the safe use of these vital space power technologies that enable and enhance such ambitions and exciting exploration missions for the benefit of humankind. Chair, the United States believes the principles relevant to the use of nuclear power sources in outer space and the safety framework provide a comprehensive foundation to support the safe use of nuclear power in space. The safety framework allows for states and international intergovernmental organizations to innovate new approaches based on the expansion of knowledge and best practices from experience, and thereby continuously improve safety. The United States supports continued opportunities and efforts to allow for the sharing of information to— in order to promote further understanding and awareness of effective processes to ensure the safe use of nuclear power in space. To support the objectives and the new 5-year work plan for the NPS Working Group, The United States supports the collection and analysis of relevant technical information about potential future uses of NPS in outer space, particularly those involving nuclear reactors, by inviting more member states and international intergovernmental organizations, in particular the International Atomic Energy Agency, to join the working group collecting information about potential future uses of nuclear power systems in outer space and analyzing safety implications of gathered information. Chair, the United States delegation extends our gratitude to Austria for its chairmanship of the MPS Working Group and to the Secretariat for facilitating the work of the MPS Working Group. Thank you, Chair. STSC · Chair [2:05:02]: I thank the distinguished representative of the United States for the statement. We have suspended our consideration of Agenda Item 13, Use of Nuclear Power Sources in Outer Space. Pending the discussions in the working group, distinguished delegates. I'd now like to begin our consideration of agenda item 14: examination of the physical nature and technical attributes of the geostationary orbit and its utilizations and applications, including in the field of space telecommunications, as well as other questions. Relating to developments in space communications, taking particular account of the needs and interests of developing countries without prejudice to the role of the International Telecommunication Union. The first speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of Venezuela. You have the floor. Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of) [2:06:00]: Muchas gracias, señora presidenta. Thank you, Chair. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela reiterates its. Commitment to the peaceful use of outer space as a shared asset of humanity, and we acknowledge the potential of space technologies to have a favorable impact on the development of states and the quality of life of people. In this regard, Venezuela welcomes the initiatives and guidelines that this subcommittee can foster to enable equitable access to the geostationary orbit, as well as the benefits stemming from the use of space technology as a fundamental, inalienable right of states. Madam Chair, Venezuela is especially interested in those actions that contribute to the SDGs, as well as universal access to build upon space capacity in developing countries, emphasizing the needs of these countries through space technology whilst guaranteeing their fair access to the opportunities and benefits of the use of outer space, such as universal access to education and reducing inequalities. Venezuela also values the importance of international cooperation and the debates of this subcommittee to tackle the challenges in the following areas of global interest, such as space for climate action, dark and silent skies, the use of nuclear power sources in outer space, and the long-term sustainability of outer space activities. In this regard, our delegation considers that the results of the debates will be the basis to promote and foster the development of an international legal framework apart from regulating the aforementioned subjects and strengthening the principles of equity, sustainability, and the peaceful use of outer space. Thank you. STSC · Chair [2:08:17]: I thank the distinguished representative of Venezuela for this statement. Next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of China. You have the floor. China [2:08:32]: Distinguished delegates, Chair, GEO slots and related frequencies are limited natural resources and play an irreplaceable role in supporting space technologies for socioeconomic development. China is ready to work alongside all countries to promote their fair and rational use, and we appreciate efforts by countries and international organizations aimed at their more efficient use. In satellite orbit slots and frequency management, China accelerated legislative efforts To improve related legal framework, we carried out in-depth research and drafted a domestic coordination mechanism for satellite networks, which is currently undergoing public consultation, so as to further clarify coordination rules, optimize coordination procedures, and ultimately use satellite orbit frequencies more. More efficiently. We provided guidance to domestic operators on international frequency filings and coordination. We piloted batch licenses for LEO satellite constellation and space radio service so as to improve frequency management for space services. We advanced coordination efforts in a holistic manner to meet the frequency needs of major projects such as the Chang'e-6 lunar mission and the Queqiao-2 mission, and to ensure their timely launch. We organized bilateral meetings with competent authorities from France, Germany, and Japan to strengthen frequency coordination for China's satellite internet and our Beidou satnav system in international exchange and cooperation. China actively participated in relevant ITU meetings to develop and revise radio regulations, and we also participated in relevant international consultations. China is represented by more than 100 experts from over 30 domestic institutions in ITU Study Groups IV and VII meetings. They submitted written contributions and actively participated in efforts to develop and revise international regulations for satellite fixed broadcasting and mobile services and space research frequencies and orbit resources. China sent a delegation to participate in consultations on ITU Resolution 609. China also organized the Global Forum on Equitable, Rational, and Efficient Use of Frequencies, which focused on experience sharing and consensus building around satellite frequency and orbit resource utilization, LU constellation deployment, ground space radio frequency sharing. The forum proved beneficial for furthering in-depth cooperation. We also sent experts to EBSCO to give lectures on frequency resources, and we also actively participated in ITSO meetings. China notes that With the rapid development of large constellations in LEO, many low Earth orbit slots have been allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, and they have become a scarce resource. We suggest carry out research on non-geostationary orbit, in particular in low Earth orbit less than 2,000 kilometers from Earth. Thank you. STSC · Chair [2:12:10]: I thank the distinguished representative of China for the statement. Next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation. You have the— Russian Federation [2:12:21]: Madam Chairperson, the geostationary orbit is a unique natural resource of strategic importance for space activity. Its unique characteristics mean that geostationary orbit is the most reliable and economically effective way of transmitting data over large distances to remote corners of the planet where terrestrial networks are absent. Presently, there are more than 300 communications satellites in GSO. These are owned by both large and small satellite communications operators. At the same time, the increased number of space objects caused by the increased activity of commercial operators in LEO and also the emergence of large constellations is heightening the demand for real-time data on emergency events in low Earth orbit and rapid response to such events. The Russian Federation has therefore begun creating a system of data and analytical support for the safety of space activity in low Earth orbit. It's known as Milky Way. It allows for monitoring of of the actual orbital characteristics of non-GSO multi-satellite constellations, which at present are completely blocking the possibility of jointly using entire segments of low Earth orbits and also radio frequency bands when deploying satellite systems. The Russian Federation supported the decisions of the World Radio Communications conferences of 2015, '19, and '23 on issues related to eSIMs, terrestrial stations in motion, and it's participating in developing the ITU-R regulatory basis for eSIM operation in authorized frequency bands. We believe that eSIM use in any geostationary satellite networks or non-geostationary orbit systems must be in line with the systems of eSIM centralized control and monitoring. The SGSC should consider ways of addressing the following non-frequency-related issues in the purview of ITU, namely developing measures to reduce instances of unauthorized eSIM use from territories that have not issued eSIM use licenses for their territory, and measures to guarantee eSIM operators that they only operate within the territory of administrations that have manifestly authorized eSIM use. The development of measures to allow administrations at any time to exclude their territory from the global service zone of coverage of foreign non-GSO satellite systems so as to realize their national interests regarding access to the limited frequency resource of non-GSO satellite orbits. And then ways of achieving the above without impairing service provision in remaining segments of satellite service zones. We note with regret that at the present time the use of the GSO is impaired for developing countries and new satellite operators that do not have access to existing satellite communication systems. That's due to the fact that orbital frequency resources in the C and Ku ranges have already been shared out between existing operators, while for some developing countries with highly developed technologies, it's— well, these have captured the global network, the global market for LEO communications. We hope that the SGAC's contribution to addressing these issues will ensure more sustainable use of the limited GSO and non-GSO satellite slots by fixed satellite services. Thank you. STSC · Chair [2:16:28]: I thank the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation for the statement. We will continue and hopefully conclude our consideration of Agenda Item 14 Geostationary orbit this afternoon. It was brought to my attention that under item 13, the floor was not given to a state inscribed on the list of speakers under that item. Therefore, I will now reopen the item 13 to give the floor to the distinguished delegate of Mexico. You have the floor. Mexico [2:16:58]: Muchas gracias, señora presidenta. Thank you, Madam Chair. Distinguished delegates, the countries in Latin America and the Caribbean established through a treaty for the prohibition of nuclear weapons in Latin America and the Caribbean, the Treaty of Tlatelolco, the first region free of nuclear weapons in a highly populated area. The adoption of that instrument in 1967 meant that there was now a legal obligation to prevent the development, production, possession, transfer, and especially use of this type of weapons in the region. By joining the Treaty of Tlatelolco, states parties committed to nuclear energy to the benefit of humanity and promoting nuclear disarmament at international level. To ensure the observance of the obligations stemming from the Treaty of Tlatelolco, the Organization for the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons in Latin America, OPANAL, with its head office in Mexico City, with the participation of the IAEA and its safeguard system, the Treaty of Tlatelolco led to the negotiation of the NPT, the only multilateral treaty covering nuclear disarmament and nonproliferation in force since the 5th of March, 1970. It is worth remembering that the treaty on the principles that should govern the activities of states in the exploration and use of outer space in It's Article 4 establishes that state parties commit to not placing in orbit around the Earth any object carrying nuclear weapons or any other kind of weapons of mass destruction, and to not locate those weapons in celestial bodies, and to not locate them in outer space in any other form. That provision establishes a general legal prohibition of using or locating nuclear weapons in outer space. In this context, Mexico reiterates the importance of carrying out space activities for only peaceful purposes. Our country will continue to promote the prohibition of the use of nuclear weapons on the whole of our planet and in outer space. Therefore, we would like to highlight the importance of research on the development and use of nuclear energy sources in outer space should continue to be aligned with the objectives outlined by the working group established for that purpose. Thank you. STSC · Chair [2:19:55]: The distinguished representative of Mexico for the statement. We have suspended our consideration of Agenda Item 13 Use of nuclear power sources in outer space, pending the discussions in the working group. We will now suspend the plenary meeting so that the working group of the whole can hold its fifth meeting. Following the adjournment of the working group meeting, we will then resume the plenary with the 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 progress and prospects in extraterrestrial resource utilization by the representative of China. You have the floor. China · Yao Wei [2:31:20]: Ladies and gentlemen, I'm Yao Wei from Chen Shisan Laboratory of Space Technology of CART. I'm very glad to have this opportunity to present the progress and prospect in extraterrestrial resource utilization. Firstly, I will talk about the background. With the rapid development of science and technology, challenging space missions such as returning to the Moon and manned mission to Mars is becoming more feasible. Utilization of extraterrestrial resources has become a priority direction for future space explorations. For example, lunar resource utilization is listed as a key mission objective of the Chinese International Lunar Research Station. The NASA's Artemis The European Space Agency, ESA, has been working on a space resource utilization program to develop resource utilization technology for returning to the Moon and has successfully completed a Mars resource utilization experiment. ESA has proposed a space resource strategy to demonstrate the capability to produce water, fuel, and other As well as construct facilities to the Moon. How can we develop manufacturing system on Mars? Is it possible for humans to live long-term on another planet? We can see utilization of extraterrestrial resources have become a frontier research direction And several very important scientific questions and technological challenges need to be solved. We believe utilization of extraterrestrial resources has 2 vital significance. The first one is for space. It will enable humans to develop off-Earth survival capabilities. And to support future long-term manned Moon and Mars explorations. The second one is for Earth. Obtaining mineral resources from space will transform Earth from a closed system to an open system, may break through the limitations of global sustainable development. The second part, I give a brief introduction of our research progress. To achieve the long-term manned mission on the Moon and future Mars, the very important task is to establish a comprehensive supply station. Provide water, oxygen, fuel, and energy by in-situ energy and material resources. The first challenge is how to obtain water resources. Many evidences have confirmed the presence of significant amount of water and other volatile resources in the lunar poles, Mars surface and small celestial bodies. Several conceptual schemes for extracting water resources have been proposed, but lack of intensive experiment validations. We proposed a new method for solar concentration into a driller to heat and evaporate ice in regolith directly. The evaporated vapor is condensed by nanomagnetic material coated surface, and the liquid water is collected by directed surface tension forces. Based on this principle, we developed a prototype and tested in typical lunar environment. If the 6% ice content of a simulated ice regolith is used, a water extraction rate of 23 grams per hour is achieved. The second challenge is how to produce oxygen and fuel. The NASA's MOXIE payload successfully Produce oxygen from the Martian atmosphere by high-temperature electrolysis method. Is it possible to synthesize fuel and produce oxygen in normal temperature and pressure conditions? We propose the method of extraterrestrial artificial photosynthesis, which can mimic nature Photosynthesis through physical and chemical processes by photoelectrocatalysis. We achieve efficient CO2 conversion and oxygen production through the optimization of catalytic materials, realize efficient conversion and gas separation through interface control, and multi-channel structures, establish a multiphysical field model for multi-channel chemical reactor, and optimize the reaction performance. The reactor performance testing, ground test verification, and space experiment pilot prototype were carried out to achieve The high performance of the extraterrestrial artificial photosynthesis. The 3rd challenge is how to construct infrastructure. Insight in resource utilization must be adopted to reduce the launch mass. So concentrating directly melting 3D printing Is a promising method for in situ mandible factoring and construction. We developed a fresh nail length conjugated setting with a conjugation rate of 1,800 and verified the reckless backing capability outdoors. We conducted a statistical analysis of the physical-chemical characteristics and melting-solidification behavior of tungsten file drilling samples, discovered that drilling particles can be quickly and effectively fused. We carried out a process parameter matrix test using simulated light spots. Achieving the melting and printing of simulated lunar regolith. The shape was controllable with a densification about 78%. The 4th challenge is how to provide continuous electrical and thermal power for future lunar base. Utilizing electrochemical resources, to solve energy storage and power generation problems is an important direction for the future extraterrestrial energy technologies. We proposed a lunar regolith densification energy storage and power generation technology, establish a solar-driven finite-time thermodynamic model We explore new methods for continuous thermal and electrical supply. We developed a prototype system to verify the feasibility of in-situ resource energy storage method. The energy storage temperature of 1,033 Kelvin and heat storage capability of 275 are achieved. The third part, I will present a brief outlook. We hope step by step we should gradually carry out space experiments and develop the capability for the utilization of extraterrestrial resources. And finally, the extraterrestrial resource utilization can effectively support the future space exploration missions and promote the sustainable development on Earth. Thank you for your attention. STSC · Chair [2:41:10]: I thank the distinguished representative of China for their presentation. The second presentation on my list is on method— methodological approach to assessing the impacts of space debris and meteoroids on orbital vehicles, taking into account the cumulative impact of small size fraction, by the representative of the Russian Federation. You have the floor. Russian Federation [2:41:41]: Madam Chair, distinguished delegates, good afternoon. The next slide, please. According to the results of the conducted research, it is noted that taking into account the long-term operation of space facilities in orbit, the cumulative effect of small-sized fractions of space debris occurs, reducing the efficiency of sensitive elements, optical means, solar panels, etc. which leads to the need to develop an appropriate methodological framework. The second slide shows the threshold effects and criteria for their occurrence. The same slide shows the possible effects of damage to such critical elements as solar batteries, portholes of orbital stations, and optical elements of automatic spacecraft. The next slide. The main methodological aspects corresponding to the stages of the process of assessing the impact of space debris and meteoroids on orbital assets, taking into account the cumulative effects of small fractions, are presented on slide 3. These include calculation of the flux density of small-sized particles of meteoroids and space debris on critical elements of orbital facilities, and determination of a coefficient that takes into account the shape and orientation of the spacecraft element exposed to the particles. Calculation of the flows of space debris and meteoroids during the active existence of the spacecraft. Determination of the characteristics of impenetrable collisions of meteoroids and space debris with orbiting vehicles causing a cumulative effect. Assessment of the characteristics of multiple impenetrable impacts leading to erosion of surfaces. The next slide, please. Based on the results of modeling and analysis of experimental data on the erosion of spacecraft optical element, it was determined that based on the results of using the methodological approach, the convergence of a simulation results with the extrapolated experimental optical data and data on the critical surface area is achieved. It's necessary to take into account the influence of small-sized particles, meteoroids, and space debris on critical elements of orbital assets during long periods of active spacecraft existence. The next slide, please. As a conclusion, It should be noted that during the development of the methodological approach, an analysis was carried out and threshold effects were identified: penetration of the structure without leakage and surface erosion. The criteria for the occurrence of the main threshold effects caused by the cumulative effect of small-sized fractions of space debris and meteoroids are substantiated. The cumulative fluxes of particles of small-sized fractions of space debris and meteoroids are estimated. The process of assessing the impact of cumulative effects of small-sized fractions of space debris and meteoroids has been formalized. This approach makes it possible to assess changes in probability of spacecraft failure during the long-term operation in orbit. The research results are intended to clarify national regulatory documents on limiting man-made contamination of near-Earth space and requirements for projected space assets. The next slide, please. Thank you for your attention. STSC · Chair [2:45:25]: I thank the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation for the presentation. The 3rd presentation on my list is on on a call for action from Tunisia on international regulatory frameworks by the representative of Tunisia. You have the floor. Tunisia [2:45:48]: Thank you, Madam Chairperson. Excellencies, delegates, when comparing industrial pollution and carbon emissions on one hand and the intensive space activity, we are compelled to put forward a practical proposal. It should help gain time and advance practical and technical approaches for the disposal of and reduction of space pollution in the future. Historically, industrial activity contributed to greenhouse gas emissions. Similarly, accelerated space activities Developing relevance and diversity of actors generate ever-increasing space debris. Such residues, as is the case of defunct satellites, rocket fragments, and other objects, constitute a major collision risk, particularly in low Earth orbit collisions. This could lead to a chain reaction and the generation of more pollution, which could render such space environment unusable for future missions. In addressing such challenges, space debris management and regulation become necessary. Drawing inspiration from the carbon footprint and the outcomes of global summits on global warming, A group of states concerned with space activities may adopt a space debris management regulatory framework based on the following 4 pillars: space footprint calculation per mission through a methodology identifying the likelihood of debris generation and impact, adoption of reduction and compensation policies, implementation of debris reduction measures, reduction of hazardous missions and testing, development of debris collection, storage, and removal, strengthening of space data and techniques sharing, technology transfer to meet the needs of states, thus reducing the need for the launch of unnecessary missions. Such measures require policies, incentives, measures for a behavioral change through the adoption of regulations to manage space debris through good governance, through raising awareness, the provision of economic incentives, technical cooperation through treaties, agreements, and expertise exchange. Undoubtedly, such a proposal will have a different impact on states based on the level of their advancement and contribution in space. For advanced countries, most of whom are major investors in space, they will experience an increase in costs in the short term. Nonetheless, they have enough technological and financial resources to adapt with the implementation of the measures. Equally, they will be front-runners in the development of space debris solutions. Again, this will correspond to their historical responsibility, as they were amongst the first to contribute to the accumulation of debris in space. For developing countries, the adoption of such a space footprint will a challenge financially and technologically speaking. Therefore, they will need international support, transfer, and technology without impeding their access to the benefits of space. Therefore, they need to be encouraged, and international cooperation in this field, the building of capacities, should be further enhanced. Therefore, we wish to propose the following cluster of criteria to be taken into consideration: the size, the mass of the spacecraft, the satellites, the duration of the mission, engineering aspects. This will increase exponentially according to the likelihood of their producing debris. Again, there needs, there needs to be a focus on systems of launching stages, the propulsion of satellites in orbit. Thirdly, deorbiting needs to be taken into consideration and operations for for the return to the atmosphere, in addition to bearing in mind the further congestion and the ever-increasing hazardous environment in space. Equally, regulations and recommendations should be complied with by producers, suppliers, and operators. There needs to be a follow-up on such compliance. Finally, we believe that this will affect space activities in terms of further bolstering their sustainability, and in turn, this will contribute towards the achievement of the Pact for the Future and the space-related targets therein. Thank you. STSC · Chair [2:51:43]: I thank the distinguished representative of Tunisia for the presentation. 4th presentation on my list is on collaborative potential for synergies between AI and quantum science and technology with space applications by the observer for Canoes International. You have the floor. CANEUS · Observer [2:52:02]: Thank you very much, Chair. I would like to present you here a topic which is very important for the United Nations, which was last, last week on the International Year for Quantum Science and Technology. So I will be presenting on the collaborative potential for synergies between AI and quantum science with space applications. Next. So why now? What is the state of status of AI, quantum science, and space. What are the collaborative potential? What emerging technologies and opportunities that we offer? What challenges exist? What is the vision for 2025 and beyond? And then the conclusion and call for action. Next. So why now? There are significant advancements in AI and quantum, especially leading for the space tech, leading for the 2025. we see from last 3, 4 years, there is a significant international quantum and AI collaborations that we see. Next. As I said, there is a UN recognition of quantum science as the year for 2025 to advance quantum science for sustainability. Next. So why now? There is a very strong interaction that you see between AI, quantum, and space, and the collaboration potential that you see in addressing some of those complex space exploration missions. There is a strong synergy now, and the role of synergy is something that we can explore, uh, moving forward. Next. So the ongoing evolution and the opportunities I'm going to cover in the AI first, especially we see there is the significant developments in machine learning, neural networks in AI. The same thing in quantum science, we see there are significant quantum technologies, sensing and communication. Next. We see also opportunities for space application in terms of addressing the challenges of the space missions. We have 3 challenges. We have the massive datasets, we have the limited power, and then the extreme conditions as such as for radiation and the resource constraints. And then of course there is a demand on the computational and sensing capabilities. Next. There are potential for, especially when we are looking into AI augmented with the quantum computing, AI that's used for the error correction in quantum systems, AI optimizing the quantum algorithms for space mission planning, and also for the astrophysics exploration. Next. For the quantum-enhanced AI, we see there are 2 possibilities, especially for the optimization problem in the satellite deployment. Here you see the difference in the traditional and enhanced AI. For— you see there is a significant potential that you see, especially when you are looking into the deployment mechanisms. Next. Now there are combined applications in space when we are looking into the autonomous spacecraft navigation using quantum sensors guided by the AI, and then you have enhanced image imaging and analysis of exoplanets with quantum-enhanced AI algorithms. These are some of those ideas which are something— has significant collaboration possibilities. Next. We also see now some of those emerging technologies and opportunities. So the technology opportunities, the first one we see is the quantum sensors for the AI and space exploration. Here, example is the mapping the gravitational anomalies of the planetary studies, also detecting some of those astrophysical signals with quantum precision and AI pattern recognition. Next. We see also for deep space communication using the AI quantum networks for secure and efficient interstellar data transmission. Next. And finally, we see the emerging technologies for quantum computing in astrophysics, especially when we're looking at the phenomena to stimulate the black hole-like behavior or galaxy formation with quantum-assisted machine learning. Next. Now look at the challenges and the roadblocks. So first, we see there are significant technological challenges. The first challenge is integrating AI with the quantum systems. The issue is both for the integration process and also the end results. The next— the second challenge we see on the deployment difficulties, especially in extreme space environment. As I mentioned, The space radiation shielding has one of the big challenges when you look at the technological challenges. Next. We are also looking at the scalability issue and ethical problems. So when we are looking at the— taking the path from the concept, from the research to the space-ready systems, here we see there are significant issues when we are looking at those concerns. both for the AI and quantum into the ethical aspects. Next. Now I'm going to look at the roadmap for the 2025 and beyond. Where do we see the AI and quantum integration moving forward? So we are at the 2025 and we are looking at the initiatives that would lead to 2030, especially both looking at the integration and developing possibly to a quantum spacecraft. Next. So we have the journey starting from 2023 where we began the integration process with AI and quantum. Last year we had the quantum sensors for space testing. This next— this year we are seeing the quantum year of the science and technology. Next year we see— look at quantum optimization for space mission. And then hopefully by 2030, we expect an autonomous quantum spacecraft. Next. So looking at the vision for the 2025 and beyond, we see there are 2 issues. One is the policy and the collaboration. The policy side, we see there are significant potential for the global partnership with the UN initiatives, international space agencies, and looking at the collaboration, looking at the issues as ethical and the quantum AI autonomy. So these are something we are hoping that we'll be addressing through policies and collaboration. Next. Now look at the— finally, the future possibilities. These are some of the speculative ideas that we see. AI quantum-powered terraforming simulations, interstellar travel optimization. These are number of possibilities that which are possible among the interagency collaboration. Finally, next. We are calling for some of the call for action as we are meeting at the STSC and the next COPUS session. So specifically, how we can leverage the transformative power and the synergies between AI and quantum tech working together, first base. Second, we are looking at engaging and support for the interdisciplinary collaboration. And the third one, we are looking for the importance of 2025 as a launchpad for the innovation. So we are requesting this committee at the STS session, if using this quantum year, uh, the committee could possibly take this issue at the next COP session. Next, final. So I'd like to thank you for this opportunity, and we have this Inspire for Tomorrow Foundation which was launched last week at the United Nations headquarters for the Summit of the Future implementation, and this topic will be addressed by the Foundation. I thank you, Madam Chair, and we look forward to working with you. Thank you. STSC · Chair [3:00:52]: I thank the distinguished observer from the CANAUS International for the presentation. Distinguished delegates, I will shortly adjourn this meeting. Before doing so, I'd like to inform delegates of our Schedule of work for this afternoon. We will meet promptly at 3 p.m. We will continue our consideration of agenda item three, general exchange of views. We will continue and hopefully suspend our consideration of agenda item fourteen, geostationary orbit. Time permitting, we will begin our consideration of agenda item fifteen, dark and quiet. 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. Following the adjournment of the Working Group meeting, we will then resume the plenary to proceed with technical presentations. We will have 5 technical presentations this afternoon. Delegates are reminded that the full schedule of technical presentations is available on the session's website. I'd like to inform delegates that the informal consultations of the Working Group on the Long-Term Sustainability of Outer Space Activities will be held in Conference Room M2 from 1:30 to 2:50 PM. I would like to inform delegates that the informal consultations on the Working Group on the Use of Nuclear Power Sources in Outer Space will be held in Conference Room M6 from 2:00 to 3:30 PM. Are there any questions or comments on this proposed schedule? I see none. Distinguished delegates, this meeting is adjourned until 3:00 PM today.