EU Space Act aims to protect satellites and clear space debris

On June 25, 2025, the European Commission made a significant proposal aimed at reforming and improving the conditions of Europe's space sector. The initiative, known as the EU Space Act, seeks to address various critical issues facing space activities in Europe. The Commission emphasized that the current regulatory framework is not effective due to a 'patchwork' of 13 differing national approaches to space activities. This confusion not only hampers innovation but also elevates costs while diminishing Europe's competitiveness in the global market. The proposed Space Act outlines essential measures that include a requirement for rigorous tracking of all space objects and a systematic approach to clearing space debris. These measures are designed to ensure secure and sustainable access to space for European nations and to uphold the integrity of the ecosystem surrounding satellite operations. In addition to environmental considerations, the act mandates enhancements in cybersecurity protocols to better protect European space infrastructure from potential cyber threats. Operators of space vessels will also have new obligations under the act, requiring them to monitor the environmental impacts of their activities beyond Earth. The European Commission pledges to support these operators with innovative technologies for debris removal and in-orbit servicing. This support illustrates a commitment not only to compliance but also to fostering advancements in the space sector that prioritize safety and sustainability. Importantly, the proposed act is not yet finalized and will undergo negotiations by the European Parliament and the Council. Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, expressed enthusiasm about bringing this legislation to fruition. She stated that the EU Space Act would pave the way for the next era of space innovation, making the skies safer and bolstering the European space economy. The proposals reflect a strategic move towards enhancing Europe's position in the international space arena while ensuring that companies providing space services to Europe adhere to the same regulations, scaled according to their size and risk profile.