The European Commission has published the EU Space Law. This is a drastic legislative proposal designed to transform European fragmented space regulations into a unified framework.
The law seeks to make space activities in Europe safer, more environmentally friendly and more competitive, both within unions and in global markets.
The move reflects the growing urgency in Europe to address space governance challenges as increased satellite congestion, cyber threats and sustainability concerns call for a coordinated response.
By streamlining rules and helping the industry grow, the EU aims to regain its interest in the booming global space economy.
Defense Space Commissioner Andrius Kubilius commented: “The space revolution is coming. The 21st century will be the century of the universe.
“Europe needs to be on the forefront. Let’s embark on this extraordinary journey for our autonomy, resilience and competitiveness.”
United Ranchpad in Europe Space
Until now, the European space sector has operated under a patchwork of state regulations, creating inconsistencies that hinder innovation and reduce costs.
The EU Space Law aims to harmonize this regulatory environment and lay the foundation for a true internal market for space activity.
The legislation directly supports the goals laid out in Draghi and Leta reports, reflecting priorities from the European Commission’s 2025 work programme and competitiveness compass.
It also builds on recent joint communications on space traffic management and space security, and coordinates EU policies with an increase in calls from member states.
Three-pillar strategy for orbit
The proposal is centered around three key pillars of safety, resilience and sustainability, each aimed to ensure that European space infrastructure is being prepared in the future.
Safety is paramount as the Earth’s orbit becomes increasingly crowded. There are currently over 11,000 satellites active, with another 50,000 expected by 2035. In addition to more than 128 million space debris, the risk of catastrophic collisions is rising.
To address this, EU Space Law introduces mandatory tracking of space objects and implements safe satellite depletion at the end of the day.
Resilience targets the growing threat from cyberattacks and electronic interference that can lock satellites and critical ground systems.
The new rules mandate a comprehensive cybersecurity assessment and incident reporting throughout the satellite lifecycle, strengthening Europe’s defense against hostile disruption.
Sustainability focuses on managing the environmental impact of space activities. Operators need to measure and reduce emissions while employing greener technologies such as intra-orbit services to extend sanitary lifespan.
Standardized reports and validated data collection support sectors in meeting EU-wide climate targets.
Support innovation, startups and small businesses
Recognizing that One-size-Fit-All regulations can curb innovation, the EU Space Law proposes risk-based proportional requirements.
These are tailored to the size and maturity of each operator to ensure that start-ups and small businesses remain competitive while maintaining safety and sustainability standards.
To facilitate the transition, the committee will provide industry support through capacity building, technical guidance and access to test facilities, particularly for small operators navigating the new permitting process.
Henna Wilkunen, vice-president of technology sovereignty, security and democracy, added:
“EU Space Law puts us on a bold step towards ensuring that space infrastructure is resilient, the innovation ecosystem is empowered, and our autonomy in critical technologies is protected for generations to come.”
A picture of the future of Europe’s space economy
Announced alongside the legislative proposal is the Commission’s vision for the European Space Economy, a strategic plan that positions the EU as a global leader in space.
It acknowledges the growing sector’s relevance across the industry, from agriculture and energy to fundraising, defense and climate surveillance.
To promote implementation, the EU will form Space Team Europe, bringing together member states, the European Space Agency (ESA), the EU Space Programme Agency (EUSPA), and private sector partners.
A new competitiveness monitoring method will also be introduced in 2025 to track progress and performance.
What’s next?
EU Space Law is discussed by the European Parliament and Council under normal legislative procedures.
Once passed, it guides us through a new era of coordinated, responsible space governance, and promises to set Europe up not only to protect space assets, but to unlock the full economic potential of the ultimate frontier.
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