Towards a European Approach to Space Traffic Management

Summary:

This study aims to investigate more thoroughly the whys and wherefores of a European approach to STM and to provide an independent perspective on this matter. More specifically, the study aims to:

• Look into available definitions of Space Traffic Management and contribute to a common understanding among European stakeholders of concepts and issues at stake;
• Examine imperatives for Europe related to STM and assess the relevance and added-value of a European engagement in this domain;
• Provide an overview of the current state of affairs in Europe and identify existing frameworks, activities and initiatives directly or indirectly related to STM;
• Investigate and discuss key elements and principles to be considered for the development of a European approach to STM.

For the purpose of this research, the concept of European approach is understood as the set of measures that could be taken by different European stakeholders in the domain of STM including Member States, European institutions (ESA, EUMETSAT…), the European Union and its agencies, private industry and any other relevant European organization. The arrangement of this European approach and the level of coordination between its different components is discussed in this report as an element for consideration among others. This study focuses on high level policy concerns related to STM and does not attempt to address legal and technical aspects related to the provision of STM data or services.

ESPI: Towards a European Approach to Space Traffic Management - Executive Summary (January 2020) https://espi.or.at/publications/espi-public-reports/send/2-public-espi-reports/495-towards-a-european-approach-to-space-traffic-management-executive-summary

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