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Saudi Space Agency to host space debris conference in February

The primary objective of this occasion is to increase worldwide awareness regarding the escalating challenges posed by space debris and to establish a forum for international discourse on this urgent matter.

The Saudi Space Agency has announced plans to host its inaugural conference, aimed at elevating international awareness about the challenges and risks associated with space debris. The conference, titled “Securing the Future Growth of the Global Space Economy,” will span two days, commencing on February 11 in Riyadh. The Saudi Communications, Space, and Technology Commission will serve as the host, with the UN Office for Outer Space Affairs acting as a content partner.

Positioned as a leading platform, the conference will bring together industry leaders, experts, and enthusiasts in the space sector. It seeks to shed light on the escalating issue of space debris, fostering global dialogue on effective governance, policy formulation, and legislation, while also promoting groundbreaking research initiatives.

Dr Mohammed Al-Tamimi, CEO of the Saudi Space Agency, emphasised the significance of the space debris conference in aligning with the agency’s commitment to sustainability in space. He highlighted the event as an opportunity for meaningful interaction, knowledge exchange, and collective progress toward ensuring a sustainable and future-oriented space environment.

The conference is poised to generate innovative outcomes, with a specific focus on enhancing international collaboration in space management. It aims to facilitate partnerships among government agencies, the private sector, academic institutions, and research centres, fostering creative solutions to sector challenges, including the mitigation of space debris impacts.

Key topics of discussion during the conference will include a thorough analysis of the escalating issue of space debris, exploration of legislative and policy-making hurdles, and the development of adaptive strategies for space debris mitigation. The deliberations will be consolidated into a strategic roadmap to address these critical challenges.

A significant portion of the conference agenda will be dedicated to encouraging discussions on innovative research in space debris removal, with a special emphasis on the role of cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence in managing space traffic.

The Saudi Space Agency’s announcement of this conference underscores its unwavering dedication to promoting environmental sustainability and the responsible utilization of outer space.