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Exciting opportunity to lead SGAC as Executive Director

Exciting opportunity to lead SGAC as Executive Director2023-07-14T12:50:29+02:00

Exciting opportunity to lead SGAC as Executive Director

Join the SGAC Leadership as our next Executive Director! This full-time, high-level, in-person role provides a unique opportunity to work closely with the Acting Executive Director and gain invaluable experience as you transition into a potential future role as the Executive Director.

About SGAC

SGAC is an international non-governmental, non-profit (US 501(c)3) organisation with more than 25,000 members worldwide, which represents university students and young space professionals to the United Nations, space agencies, industry, and academia. The organisation was born out of the UNISPACE III recommendations in 1999 and has strong relationships with the United Nations Office of Outer Space Affairs and the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space.

Summary

The SGAC Executive Director is a full-time, time-intensive and highly-rewarding role. The Executive Director leads the planning and execution of the strategy behind SGAC, driving workforce development by inspiring students and young professionals, and offering them a platform to discuss key issues of the space industry, interact with space leaders, and share their views about the future of the space sector.

The role of the SGAC Executive Director is to support building and managing all of SGAC’s global partnerships with entities in fields including space education, space science, business, and student engagement, that can help SGAC achieve its mission and objectives.

Upon selection, the candidate will assume the temporary role of Deputy Executive Director for a trial period of 3 months, working closely with our current Acting Executive Director. Subject to the successful completion of this trial period and a satisfactory performance review, the person will transition into the role of the Executive Director with the responsibilities, benefits and duties listed below. 

Duties and Responsibilities

The SGAC Executive Director is responsible for a broad range of activities in the organisation that are crucial to its day-to-day operation. This person will:

  • Support the Co-Chairs on strategic issues and management of the organisation, including preparing and executing SGAC’s Strategic Plan
  • Lead and coordinate the day-to-day activities of the SGAC office and staff. This includes providing strategic decision-making and direction for the organisation together with the SGAC Co-Chairs, from developing and executing SGAC’s short and medium-term strategic plan to day-to-day decision-making throughout the whole organisation.
  • Be the main point of liaison between the SGAC office and SGAC’s global event managers, including managing matters related to sponsorship, coordination, and strategic thinking
  • Lead the official representation of the SGAC at events and meetings, in external communication to our partners, sponsors, stakeholders, and the general public, and internally to our staff, teams, boards, volunteers, and members, including in all the activities related to UNOOSA and COPUOS and build on our relationship with the Director General and the Secretariat 
  • Lead and manage the teams directly reporting and accountable to the Executive Director, including, but not limited to, the Regional Partnership Managers, the Regional and Local Events Team, and the SGAC Global Events Managers. This includes:
  • Leading the SGx Managers in the coordination of SGx and ensure proper representation of SGAC at SATELLITE held yearly in Washington, DC
  • Lead the Space Generation Fusion Forum (SGFF) Managers in the coordination of SGFF and ensure proper representation of SGAC at the Space Symposium held yearly in Colorado Springs
  • Lead the Space Generation Congress (SGC) Managers in the coordination of SGC and ensure proper representation of SGAC at the International Astronautical Congress
  • Expand the reputation, role, and involvement of SGAC in the global space sector
  • Seek and maintain collaborations with industry organisations, space agencies, government, and academia to secure resources and support for SGAC to achieve its mission and objectives. This includes acting as the final decision-maker for business decisions within SGAC, including but not limited to reviewing and finalise the closure of key SGAC collaborations and partnership opportunities.
  • Inform and consult the SGAC Advisory Board, Honorary Board, and the U.S. Board of Directors on strategic and governance matters, including preparing documentation for their meetings
  • Ensure and coordinate with the Treasurer to prepare the SGAC Annual Budget, and meet all necessary financial reporting and compliance requirements in accordance with all relevant jurisdictions
  • Attend the International Astronautical Federation (IAF) Spring Meetings and Bureau Meetings and ensure proper representation of SGAC
  • Assist with the preparation of the annual General Assembly and attend the General Assembly
  • Keep abreast of relevant trends and best practices in young professionals and student engagement

This position reports to the SGAC Co-Chairs and works under the supervision of the SGAC Acting Executive Director. Specific deliverables and milestones for the role will be determined in the contract for this position.

Benefits

  • An annual net salary of up to 30,000 EUR depending on experience at the Deputy Executive Director Level. The salary may be increased should the selected candidate be promoted to the role of Executive Director
  • Two annual performance-based bonuses equivalent to a month’s salary each
  • A travel budget of up to 10,000 EUR for travel expenses and per diem according to our Staff Travel Policy to represent SGAC at conferences and events across the world, including but not limited to the International Astronautical Congress, the Space Symposium, SATELLITE, International Astronautical Federation Spring Meetings
  • SGAC is a registered employer in Austria. All SGAC employees are hired under standard Austrian contracts that allow for access to Austrian services related to social security and healthcare.
  • For candidates not already based in Austria, a small relocation budget may be made available
  • Attendance to UN Events such as UN COPUOS meetings and other Vienna events as a leader of the SGAC Delegation
  • Opportunities to network closely with current, high-level international space sector leaders
  • Special opportunities to contribute to SGAC’s briefings to the United Nations and other industry, agency, and academic organisations in the international space sector
  • Meeting and working with young space sector leaders from around the world
  • Unparalleled leadership opportunity and platform to lead teams from around the globe, building leadership and management skills that are directly translatable to your career
  • Contribute to the growth and sustainability of the organisation, in particular to SGAC’s brand and image on the international stage

Necessary Qualifications

  • SGAC membership: registration on the SGAC website and between 18 and 33 years old at the time of the recruitment
  • Citizenship of a UN member or observer state located in the region (as listed in the SGAC bylaws)

Qualifications and Experience:

  • Bachelor’s degree, preferably in business development, space science, international relations, or a related field
  • At least 3-5 years of prior experience in business development, fundraising, youth development, international relations, and/or in a space-related field
  • Experience and familiarity with SGAC are preferred
  • Experience and familiarity with the space sector and its stakeholders are a plus

Skills and Qualities:

  • Fluency in English, both written and spoken. Additional language skills are a plus
  • Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work with individuals at all levels within an organisation, including high-level representatives from industry, government, academia, and agencies
  • Strong communication skills with experience in public speaking and in communicating with audiences with a diversity of backgrounds and experience
  • Cross Cultural and Communication Awareness: Ability to establish and maintain professional working relationships with people from various international and cultural backgrounds
  • Ability to be responsive to communication, with fast response times in email and other forms of communication
  • Proven success in meeting deadlines, with the ability to work independently and lead teams under pressure during fast-turnaround needs. Project Management experience is a plus
  • Ability to lead and manage large teams, with experience in leading volunteering teams is a plus
  • Ability to manage conflicts and challenging situations
  • Strong working knowledge and experience with computer and cloud applications, such as Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, WordPress, Slack, Ninja Forms, Zapier, Mailchimp, Zoom, and G-Suite, are required
  • Ability to flourish with minimal guidance, be proactive, and handle uncertainty

Other Requirements:

  • Must be able to be based in Vienna, Austria, and be able to travel internationally for about 30% of the time. SGAC will be able to sponsor the work permit of a qualified applicant. 

Time Commitment

This is a full-time paid position requiring some availability on evenings and weekends. As the organisation is volunteer-run and our volunteers are based across time zones all over the world, sometimes it will be required to adjust the working hours to meet organisational needs, and also to contribute more than a typical “9-to-5” office environment and 40-hour work week to meet deadlines. Passion for what SGAC does is key to the organisation’s success! 

Selection Process

A search committee comprised of the following members will be involved in the selection and interviewing of candidates:

  • The SGAC Co-Chairs
  • The SGAC Acting Director
  • Two SGAC Advisory Board Member
  • One SGAC Regional Coordinator
  • Two SGAC Executive Committee Members 

The recommendation of the search committee will be taken into account by the SGAC Co-Chairs to determine the selection of the Executive Director.

How to Apply

To apply for this position, please send your application to Hamza Hameed, SGAC Chair, and Antonino Salmeri, SGAC Co-Chair, at [email protected] with the following documents as attachments:

  • Your CV (maximum 2 pages) (Indicate Nationality and Date of Birth)
  • A Letter of Intent (maximum 1 page)
  • List of three past experiences and how they have prepared you for this role (maximum 1 page)
  • Contact information of 3 references
  • Recommendation letters are a plus

Only complete applications which are submitted in a timely manner will be considered. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis. Interested candidates are requested to submit their applications as soon as possible.

Contact

In case you have any questions pertaining to the position or application process, do not hesitate to reach out to [email protected].

Human Settlements in Outer Space: Do We Need Lex Specialis for Respecting Human Rights?2024-10-09T09:08:08+02:00

“The special environment of outer space, as a second home of humans, requires moving from lex generalis to lex specialis“

‘The legal system of outer space is today also closely linked with human rights’, Manfred Lachs (at p. 689). 

The world is changing rapidly. On the one side, humanity has seen global crises such as global warming, climate change, and the threat of nuclear war. On the other side, humans, by their very nature, are ambitiously seeking a new life, though not on Earth, but in outer space. Therefore, outer space is no longer regarded as a subject for science fiction writings and movies, but is becoming a potential place for human settlements.  

The term ‘human settlements in outer space’, is defined as establishing a second permanent house in outer space by human beings (Aram Daniel Kerkonian, at p. 2). There is no doubt that settlements in outer space should be compatible with general principles of space law regime, notably Article II of the Outer Space Treaty (OST) which prohibits any claim of sovereignty over celestial bodies.  

Among many issues raised by space settlements, respecting and protecting human rights represent one of the most significant concerns. The main question is whether lex lata (the law as it is) would be sufficient for respecting human rights in space settlements. If not, is it necessary to take specific steps to move from lex generalis (general law) to lex specialis (special law)?

Extraterrestrial Application of Human Rights

Legally, human rights rules are not limited to the Earth. They also extend to relations between international actors in other areas beyond national jurisdiction of States, including outer space. This is exactly what was expressed by Brownlie when he states ‘ There is no reason for believing that international law [including rules of human rights] is spatially restricted (James Crawford, at p. 726). Therefore, “it would seem counterintuitive to argue that the principles that are to guide the rights of humans on Earth would not also guide the rights of human in space” write Daniel Ireland-piper and Steven Freeland (at p. 110).

This assumption is also strengthened by the legal nature of the international legal system and space law’s place within it. International law is regarded as a unified legal order (Bruno Simma & Drik Pulkowski, at p. 17). This means that none of the current legal sub-systems in international law can fully derogate from general rules of international law (ILC, at. 37).

On this basis, interaction between different regimes, including space law and human rights law would be inevitable. Additionally, while the space law regime contains a set of specific primary and secondary rules, it is to be solely deemed as a special regime and not a self-contained regime. (Christopher D. Johnson, at pp. 154-155). It follows that where there is no lex specialis on space activities, lex generalis, including general rules of human rights will be applied. 

Considering that, the question is not whether general rules on human rights can apply and extend to outer space. But the main concern is whether we need lex specialis for human settlements in outer space? If yes, then why?

The Need for Lex Specialis in Space Settlements

The codification and progressive development of space law regime and international human rights regime fall within the competences of two different UN organs: the five space law treaties, as part of the hard-core corpus juris spatialis were formulated within the UN Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS), and the International Bills of Human Rights, representing the main part of the human rights regime, were adopted within the UN General Assembly and before the adoption of the OST.

While the COPUOS is regarded as a subsidiary organ of the General Assembly, its main concern has always been to promote international cooperation in peaceful uses of outer space. Accordingly, the primary goal of international instruments on human rights is respecting and protecting the fundamental rights of human beings.

One may argue that there is no need for lex specialis since (i) the General Assembly and its subsidiary organ-i.e., the COPUOS can interact with each other; and (ii) human rights principles as part of general rules of international law, extend to outer space and human settlements in this new environment.  This assumption, however, would break the logic of lex specialis principle, according to which special provisions are ‘more effective than those they are general’.(at p. 59).

There is no doubt that given the extraterritoriality of human rights rules, space settlers as well as those who live on the Earth, are entitled to all fundamental rights such as the right to life, the right to privacy, the right to enjoy the benefits of scientific progress, the right to health, etc. However, special characteristics of outer space require creating concrete rules for ensuring space settlers’ rights. For example, the precise meaning of ‘personal data’ as a component part of the right to privacy was neither mentioned in Article 12 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and Article 17 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), nor in other international instruments. Additionally, while the human rights regime determined general requirements on limitation and derogation of human rights, evaluating  these criteria such as proportionality, legitimation, and legality test- cannot be done without taking special features of outer space into account. One important question in this regard is whether space law permits the limitation of space settlers’ right to enjoy scientific progress on the basis of the national security of States. This concern is of crucial importance since in the context of space law, national security of States often has priority over other aspects of international cooperation in outer space. One clear example can be found in Article 19(3)(C) of the ISS Agreement, according to which a transfer of technical data and goods ‘need not be conducted if the receiving Partner State does not provide for the protection of the secrecy of patent applications containing information that is classified or otherwise held in secrecy for national security purposes’ (ISS Agreement, Article 19(3)(C)). Needless to say, these lacunae should be filled by lex specialis.

 The need for special provisions in space settlements is not limited to primary rules, but extends to secondary rules. Certainly, the horrors of human rights violation by governmental and non-governmental sectors cannot be overlooked. This is where the secondary rules play a significant part. However, in the framework of space law treaties, there is no compulsory clause for submitting space-law disputes to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) or any other international tribunals. That said, the prediction of special provisions for both dispute settlement mechanisms and complaining procedures by space settlers seems necessary.

Another aspect of secondary rules relates to rules on responsibility in outer space. Due to the increasing number of space activities done by private sectors, it is possible that the rights of space settlers are violated by actors other than States. Article VI of the OST provides that private activities in outer space should be carried out under the authorization and supervision of States. For the purpose of this provision, authorization conditions are determined at the discretion of States (Michael Gerhard, in: Stephan Hobe, Bernhard Schmidt-Tedd et.al (eds.), Volume I, at pp. 415-416). While respecting fundamental rights of human settlers can be added as one of these conditions, resorting to general rule of interpretation as set forth in Article 31 of the VCLT, it appears that the sole intention of drafters was to authorize and supervise private space activities, not to bear international responsibility for human rights violation by these actors. This is the main reason why establishing lex specialis for responsibility of private sectors towards human settlers in outer space is crucial. 

These considerations demonstrate that the special environment of outer space, as a second home of humans, requires moving from lex generalis to lex specialis. Without doubt, in any case, general rules of human rights will remain in the background and support the correct interpretation of special law governing outer space.

 

About the Author

This post was written by Sima Moradinasab on behalf of SLP’s space settlements team. Sima Moradinasab is a PhD candidate in Public International Law at Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran. With a keen interest in space law, she started researching and writing in this area since she was a master student. She is currently a visiting researcher in the International Institute of Air and Space Law (IIASL) of Leiden University where she is writing her PhD thesis. Sima is also a research member of the ‘Space Settlements’ research group of the SGAC Space Law and Policy (SLP) Project Group. 

 

SGAC Announces the Winners of the SGAC-UKSA Scholarship SGC/IAC 20242024-10-08T06:30:36+02:00

In cooperation with UKSA, SGAC is pleased to announce  Sejal Jain and Laura Stroud as the winners of the 2024 SGAC-UKSA Scholarship to attend the 22nd Space Generation Congress (SGC): 10-12 October 2024 and 75th International Astronautical Congress (IAC): 14-18 October 2024 in Milan, Italy.

Sejal Jain

Sejal Jain is a master’s student in Aerospace Engineering at Tohoku University, Japan, as a Monbukagakusho (MEXT) scholar. She holds a foundation in Electronics and Communication Engineering from PES University, India, and has accumulated valuable professional experience in systems engineering at TSALLA Aerospace and Schneider Electric, where she worked on UAV systems, energy management solutions, and industrial automation. Her passion for space and robotics has fueled her involvement in research related to control and power subsystems for modular robots. She is also contributing significantly to sustainable technology projects, particularly in wireless power transmission systems for both aerospace and Earth applications.
Her academic and professional journey reached new heights through her participation in the International Space University’s Space Studies Program, where she was one of the recipients of the Dr. Kalpana Chawla Scholarship. Additionally, she has actively participated in various conferences, presenting her research and fueling her aspirations to advance robotic and sustainable energy technologies for space exploration missions.

I am incredibly grateful to receive the SGAC-UKSA scholarship. This opportunity represents a valuable platform provided by the SGAC and UK Space Agency, empowering youth like myself to continue advancing sustainable energy technologies for both Earth and space applications.

Laura Stroud

Laura Stroud is an undergraduate student at UCL, reading MSci Astrophysics and Mathematics and Statistics. She is entering her third year of university studies and aspiring to a career in planetary research. Sustainability is a particular interest of hers, having led a student news blog covering scientific research in this area. Forever passionate about space, science and technology, she has volunteered at the UCL ‘Your Universe’ festival, and for the Institute of Physics to widen access to these areas.

 I am beyond excited and grateful to receive this SGAC-UKSA Scholarship to attend the 22nd Space Generation Congress and 75th International Astronautical Congress. Sustainability must be prioritised and maintained, and I look forward to seeing how the space sector develops systems to facilitate this.

Regional Coordinator Election in the North, Central America & the Caribbean (NCAC) Region2024-09-26T11:11:02+02:00

The Space Generation Advisory Council is looking for an active young space leader from the North, Central America & the Caribbean (NCAC) region to become the next Regional Coordinator (RC) for this Region. This two-year role is a volunteer position that offers a chance to lead and be responsible for the voice of the next generation of young space leaders in the NCAC region, especially as activities and excitement in the region have expanded over the past years in the space sector, and at SGAC.

Deadline for Applications: 31 October 2024

Role Description

The Regional Coordinator sits on the SGAC Executive Committee and is tasked with representing the views of their region. They also coordinate the activities of SGAC in their region and oversee the work of National Points of Contact. RCs have voting rights on SGAC matters at the Executive Committee level and elect the co-Chairs of the organisation.

The elected RC will replace the outgoing Regional Coordinator, Ms Roxy Williams, in December 2024 and will work closely with Ms Christine Dubbert.  

Responsibilities

  • Oversee the activities of NPoCs and regional planning
  • Coordinate with your co-RC on a weekly basis
  • Represent the region at SGAC Executive Committee meetings
  • Maintain regular communication with co-Chairs and attend regional meetings with the Executive Director and co-Chairs
  • Submit a regional work plan at the start of the year
  • Submit a regional annual report at the end of the year
  • Recruit new NPoCs in the region and mentor them
  • Act as advisers for the Space Generation Workshop in the region, and for local events organized by NPoCs
  • Coordinate with NPoCs to activate regional and local partnerships and help achieve SGAC goals in the region
  • Coordinate new initiatives in the region, and formation of local networks within each State

Duration of term: 2 years

Time Commitment: The amount of time spent on this role is dependent on the level of activity of RCs. We expect a minimum commitment of 5 hours per week on average.

Necessary Qualifications

  • SGAC membership (requires registration on the SGAC website)
  • Citizenship of a UN member or observer state located in the region (as listed in the SGAC bylaws)
  • Be a motivated young professional or student between the age of 18 and 33 (Applications from those above 33 may be accepted, pertaining to the decision of the SGAC Co-Chairs)
  • Secure the nomination of two National Points of Contact (NPoCs) in the region
  • Regional Coordinators should preferably be residents in the region they represent
  • Experience/familiarity with the space sector
  • Teamwork capacity and proven leadership skills
  • Strong working knowledge of computer applications, such as Microsoft Word and Excel, and google apps
  • Professional Fluency (Speaking, Reading, and Writing) in English
  • Awareness of international cooperation principles, concepts, and techniques
  • Cross-Cultural and Communication Awareness: Ability to establish and maintain professional working relationships with people from various international and cultural backgrounds

Benefits

  • Opportunity to work with SGAC’s global sponsors and international space partners
  • Membership of the SGAC Executive Committee
  • Nomination and increased chances of winning the SGAC Young Leaders Award and Global Grants Programme
  • Opportunity to attend SGAC events as part of the SGAC team with registration discounts
  • Being the face of your region at SGAC

This is a voluntary role and has no monetary compensation. Active members of SGAC teams are considered for nomination for SGAC Scholarships and Awards, including fee waivers or discounts for SGAC event fees.

Application Process

If you are eligible and interested in this position, you will need to secure the nomination of two (2) National Points of Contact (NPoCs) in the region before submitting your application. Please check the current NPoCs of the NCAC Region here.

Complete applications must be submitted to the attention of the SGAC Chairs, Dr. Antonino Salmeri and Dr. Joshua Critchley-Marrows, at [email protected] with the subject line “[LAST NAME, 2024 RC NCAC Elections]” no later than the deadline.

Please include the following items in your application email:

  • Curriculum Vitae (including your Date of Birth)
  • A letter of intent including your suitability for the position
  • A vision document highlighting your plans for your two-year term
  • Names of your nominators in your application email only

Note:

  • Eligibility requirements can be found in the SGAC Statutes and Bylaws, and in the section above this notice.
  • To receive nominations from National Points of Contact, you must reach out to NPoCs in the relevant region to state your intent, and goals for the position, and have at least TWO of those NPoCs give their support to your application.
  • We strongly recommend a concrete plan, with measurable goals for 6 months, the first year, and the end of the term. You are welcome to informally interact with the region to include their views in your plans as well.
  • Following the deadline, the National Points of Contact in the region will be presented with these documents.
  • Only current NPoCs of the region are eligible to vote and will be notified of specific voting instructions.
  • The election will include a Q&A period with the region. This might include an online interactive teleconference, and/or a compilation of questions from the region to which applicants will need to respond to.
  • Election reports will be publicly posted on the SGAC website and might be shared through social media and other SGAC communication channels. By applying to this position, you consent to sharing your name, and nationality, and receiving votes as part of these reports.
  • Potential candidates seeking nominations are encouraged to check our team page or contact [email protected] for an up to date list of current National Points of Contacts. Candidates are also encouraged to contact our current regional coordinators to learn more about the role.

Election Timeline

Application Open

30 September 2024

Application Close

31 October 2024

Q&A Period

1-17 November 2024

Voting Period

18 November – 1 December 2024

Announcement of Outcome and Appointment

Results & Transition Period

  • December 3–31, 2024

Start of the term – January 1, 2025
SGAC Announces the Winner of the Airbus Scholarship SGC/IAC 20242024-10-08T06:01:12+02:00

In cooperation with Airbus, SGAC is pleased to announce  James Greer as the winner of the 2024 SGAC-Airbus Scholarship. to attend the 22nd Space Generation Congress (SGC): 10-12 October 2024 and 75th International Astronautical Congress (IAC): 14-18 October 2024 in Milan, Italy.

James Greer

James Greer works as a Spacecraft Platform Products Responsible Engineer at Airbus Defence and Space, and is recognised as an Innovation Ambassador within the Global Airbus Innovation Network. He has worked on a wide variety of missions from Earth Observation and Science Missions like the Rosalind Franklin ExoMars Rover and Solar Orbiter to Telecommunications missions such as Eutelsat 36D amongst many others. In addition to his roles as a Mechanical Analyst, Structural Design Engineer and Responsible Engineer – James has been deeply involved with innovation at Airbus since the beginning of his career. He has run several innovation projects whilst also acting as a coach, adviser and leader for innovation across the company. As the space industry continues to evolve and change, James continues to develop technologies and platforms that facilitate access to space..

 I am honoured to receive the SGAC-Airbus scholarship to attend SGC and IAC 2024 this year. I can’t wait to meet and engage with everyone from around the world and I am sincerely thankful to both SGAC and Airbus for giving me this opportunity.

Call for Hosting City – AP-SGW 20252024-09-23T14:32:36+02:00

Based on the success of the previous Asia-Pacific Space Generation Workshops (AP-SGW), SGAC will organise the 11th Asia-Pacific Space Generation Workshop in 2025.

Deadline for Application: 20th October 2024

The call is open to SGAC members in the Asia-Pacific Region. Ideal bids should come from countries able to attract sponsorships and qualified speakers to the event.

In your bid, please explain why the suggested city would be a perfect place for the 11th Asia-Pacific Space Generation Workshop. For this, please provide information about the following:

  • Suggested date (Possible dates for the events shall be in second half of 2025)
  • Venue (cost, capacity, access)
  • Location (travel, accommodation, etc.) The city proposed shall be easy to access from abroad (max 1 flight).
  • Estimated budget
  • Possible local sponsorships for the event
  • Short bio (with date of birth) of the Event Manager and Co-Event Manager

The following items are a plus:

  • Prior experience with organizing events and with SGAC (either team membership or attending an SGAC event)
  • Suggested Event Planning Schedule with the main actions (Definition of venue, Definition of Organising Team, etc.). 
  • Letters of support to the bid from organizations, universities, associations etc.
  • Event in conjunction with the Workshop (major space event / conference / congress / program)
  • Suggested program for the workshop (including potential speakers)

Important to know:

  • Bid has to be submitted by National Point of Contacts. If your country does not have an NPoC, please liaise directly with the Regional Coordinators and  Regional Events Coordinator before submitting your proposal
  • The maximal length of the proposal is 5 pages (appendixes like supporting letters and full CVs of the Event Manager and Deputy Manager do not count in this limit)
  • The Event Manager could be any SGAC member (aged 18-35 and registered on the SGAC website), but citizenship or temporal residency of the given country is a requirement
  • The Deputy Event Manager could be any SGAC member (aged 18-35 and registered on the SGAC website)
  • The AP-SGW Manager and Deputy Manager will work under the supervision of the SGAC Regional Events Coordinator
  • This is a volunteer position
  • The bid will be evaluated by the Asia-Pacific Regional Coordinators, the SGAC Regional Events Coordinator and the Office
  • If the bid is accepted, the Event Managers will receive a starter kit for SGAC events and they will be asked to issue a Call for Organizing Team among SGAC members

How to Apply

To apply, please send an email with Subject [CITYNAME] 11th AP-SGW bid, together with your bid in attachment (see template for the bid).

Please don’t write on the original template, remember to make a copy first!)

All applications must be emailed to the Asia-Pacific Regional Coordinators:

And Regional Event Coordinators:

Only complete applications will be considered.

Application Timeline

Applications close: 20th October 2024
Review of bids and interviews: 21 October 2024– 10 November 2024
Announcement of results: 11 November 2024

 

SGAC Announces the Winner of the NASA Earth Science Scholarship 20242024-09-23T16:09:19+02:00

SGAC in cooperation with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) are pleased to announce Gabriela Himmele as the winner of the 2024 SGC/IAC – NASA Earth Science Scholarship. Gabriela will be sponsored to attend the 22nd Space Generation Congress (SGC): 10-12 October 2024 and 75th International Astronautical Congress (IAC): 14-18 October 2024 in Milan, Italy.

Gabriela Himmele

Gabriela Himmele is currently a graduate student in the Plasma and Space Physics PhD program at West Virginia University, where she is developing machine-learning-based diagnostics for laboratory plasmas. She has been fortunate to work as a graduate research assistant for NASA’s Climate Change Research Initiative (NASA CCRI) and be involved in other NASA Early Career Research (ECR) programs such as NASA SARP and NASA RockSatX. Presently, Gabriela is leading a team in the development of a payload to study atmospheric gravity waves using real-time machine learning on a sounding rocket set to launch in Norway in 2025. She also co-founded the NASA ECR Machine Learning Working Group and has convened sessions on machine learning for climate change research at international conferences. Gabriela has engaged in numerous outreach activities focused on atmospheric and space science in collaboration with the NASA Space Grant, including events surrounding the recent eclipse. She is passionate about promoting diversity in STEM and is actively involved in efforts to create inclusive opportunities for underrepresented groups. One of her most fulfilling experiences has been creating lesson plans for an atmospheric science summer course she taught through West Virginia’s Upward Bound Program for high school students. She cares deeply about space sustainability and climate change and enjoys storm-chasing in her free time.

I am incredibly excited and honored to receive this scholarship to attend the Space Generation Congress. This opportunity means so much to me, and I am fully committed to making the most of it by actively engaging, learning, and contributing in every way I can.

AIDAA is the Recipient of the 2024 SpaceGen Ambassador Award2024-09-25T16:41:10+02:00

VIENNA, AUSTRIA, 20 September 2024 – SGAC is very pleased and honoured to announce that the Italian Association of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIDAA) has been selected as the recipient of the 2024 SGAC SpaceGen Ambassador Award!

Through the SpaceGen Ambassador Award programme, SGAC wants to acknowledge organisations that deeply care for our generation, our talents, skills and needs that actively support us as the ‘next’ generation of space leaders, empower us as such and enable us to grow. The award is presented to an organisation from the space sector, either governmental, non-governmental, or private company that demonstrates genuine care for the next generation, actively supporting and empowering young space professionals and students.

AIDAA is an ideal candidate for this award due to its long history of empowering young aerospace professionals. As the second oldest aerospace society, AIDAA offers significant opportunities for young professionals to lead research and projects, aligning with SGAC’s mission. Their global events, including hosting IAC 2024, showcase and support young talent. AIDAA also promotes diversity and has been a steadfast supporter of SGAC’s activities through financial donations and expert contributions. AIDAA’s dedication to the next generation makes them deserving of this award.

“In the year of our 25th Anniversary we are delighted to give our Space Gen Ambassador Award to the Associazione Italiana di Aeronautica ed Astronautica – AIDAA – as an incredibly supportive and inspiring organisation. AIDAA really goes above and beyond to enable and empower the young generations, and we are pleased to recognise them for the high example they set for our community. We thank AIDAA for all their outstanding efforts and look forward to continuing our successful collaboration in the future” say, Antonino Salmeri and Joshua Critchley-Marrows, SGAC Co-Chairs. 

“I am truly honored that the Italian Association of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIDAA) has been recognized with this prestigious award from the SGAC. This recognition underscores the important role AIDAA plays in supporting the next generation of aerospace professionals and fostering innovation in the fields of aeronautics and astronautics.AIDAA has consistently worked to create opportunities for young professionals, including our efforts to secure the Space Generation Congress to be held in the same venue as the International Astronautical Congress in Milan for the first time in many years. This is a testament to our commitment to bridging the gap between generations and empowering the leaders of tomorrow.”, says Mr. Erasmo Carrera, AIDAA President.

Nikol Koleva, SGAC Executive Director, commented on the news saying “We are deeply grateful for the incredible support AIDAA has provided to SGAC over the years. They have been a steadfast pillar for us, always offering guidance and encouragement. AIDAA truly deserves this recognition, standing as a genuine ambassador of our shared values. Their dedication to empowering young generations is unmatched, and we are honored to celebrate their ongoing commitment to our community. We congratulate them on this well-earned recognition and look forward to continuing our strong partnership.”

The 2024 SGAC SpaceGen Ambassador Award will be presented at the closing ceremony of the 22st Space Generation Congress (SGC), held on 12th October 2024, in Milan, Italy. 

About SGAC

The Space Generation Advisory Council in Support of the United Nations Programme on Space Applications is a global non-governmental, non-profit (US 501(c)3) organisation and network which aims to represent university students and young space professionals ages 18-35 to the United Nations, space agencies, industry, and academia. Headquartered in Vienna, Austria, the SGAC network of members, volunteers and alumni has grown to more than 30 000 members representing more than 165 countries.

About AIDAA

The Italian Association of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIDAA) is dedicated to advancing aeronautical and astronautical sciences and promoting the development of related technologies and knowledge in Italy.

AIDAA’s mission is to foster and promote research, innovation, and knowledge dissemination in the fields of aeronautics and astronautics. The association achieves this through organizing conferences, workshops, and competitions, providing a platform for researchers and professionals to share their findings and collaborate. Additionally, AIDAA publishes research in its journal “Aerotecnica Missili e Spazio” and collaborates with national and international organizations to advance aerospace sciences​ (IAF)​​ (UniTN Web Magazine)​.

AIDAA envisions being a leading national and international hub for aeronautics and astronautics, driving forward the frontiers of aerospace research and technology. It aims to enhance the global competitiveness of the Italian aerospace sector by supporting innovative research, fostering academic and industry partnerships, and nurturing the next generation of aerospace professionals through educational initiatives and student engagement​ (IAF)​​ (UniTN Web Magazine)​.

Nominations to the SpaceGen Ambassador Award will be open again in 2025. 

For info, please contact [email protected].

Jeff Schloemer is the 2024 recipient of the SGAC Alumni Award!2024-09-20T12:35:38+02:00

VIENNA, AUSTRIA, 20 SEPTEMBER 2024 – SGAC is thrilled to announce that Mr Jeff Schloemer has been selected as the 2024 recipient of the SGAC Alumni Award! 

In 2019, on the occasion of SGAC’s 20th anniversary, the organisation launched its Alumni Award Programme intending to acknowledge selected alumni for extraordinary contributions to the SGAC community, demonstrating a high degree of commitment to SGAC, and for their outstanding leadership and ongoing support to the organisation.

Jeff Schloemer is the Senior Director of Engineering at Astroscale U.S. With over a decade of experience in the aerospace industry, he is working to establish a sustainable circular economy in space. Prior to Astroscale, Jeff led the CONOPS development of the space segment at Lockheed Martin. In his previous decade at Raytheon, he acted as a chief engineer and led business development efforts for new space system capabilities and enterprise testing development and execution. Jeff is also a patent holder, having received recognition for his work in space constellation management optimization, and has authored several papers on systems engineering advancements in aerospace. He graduated from the University of Michigan in 2008 with a BS in Aerospace and earned his MS in Aerospace in 2009.

“It’s an extraordinary privilege and a profound honor to be recognized by SGAC this year. From the moment I attended my first event, I was captivated by the organization’s global mission and far-reaching impact, instantly realizing I needed to expand my horizons and dream bigger. This community stands out because it nurtures ambitious dreams.

No one accomplishes big dreams alone. SGAC provided the opportunity to forge meaningful connections with delegates worldwide that have blossomed into enduring friendships. I’ve proudly watched many of my colleagues soar to remarkable heights, their success sparked
by the people, ideas, and concepts encountered through SGAC activities.

SGAC continues to impact my professional journey immeasurably. This organization has catalyzed my growth, inspiring me to push beyond my comfort zone, especially when advocating for space sustainability. As I look to the future, I’m excited about continued collaborations
with SGAC. I wholeheartedly believe that this generation will foster global change through space-based solutions, and I can’t wait to see what they create!”

Mr Jeff Schloemer was nominated by Tasman Powis:


“Jeff came late to the SGAC family, attending his first event, the Space Generation Fusion Forum two years ago when he was already 35. However, from that single experience, Jeff has become one of the strongest advocates of the SGAC, both in encouraging his employer to sponsor events and also through extremely generous personal donations. I have met several young professionals who are mentored by Jeff, all of which he has encouraged to apply for and participate in SGAC events and activities. Although Jeff’s time with SGAC as a regular member was brief, his level of support for all aspect of the organisation has been huge and ongoing.

Within the Alumni team, there is a list of known and generous donors who make contributions through the Alumni website. Jeff is the most generous of these. Twice now he has contributed $2,000 to help a student or young professional attend the Space Generation Fusion Forum and he contributes monthly donations of $100. Jeff has allowed us to advertise his generous contributions, which in turn help to garner further support from the Alumni community. We continue to look forward to engaging with Jeff to attract further support for the Alumni team and its goals.

As well as being a generous donor and strong advocate for the SGAC and its events, Jeff has also returned to several Space Generation Fusion Forums as a speaker and mentor. He has participated in several speed-networking sessions, which companies often attend as a way to attract delegates to their companies. Jeff is of course a strong advocate for his own employer; however he is also a generous mentor, who will often provide advice and insights to students and young professionals. It’s clear that Jeff not only enjoys his work, but also cares about helping the next generation succeed in their future goals to lead a sustainable and successful space industry.”

Space Resource Regulation: From National Approaches to the Need for a General Framework2024-09-19T02:28:21+02:00

“Through international cooperation and forward-thinking policies, we can harness the vast potential of space resources to serve all humanity while preserving space as a peaceful, shared domain for future generations.”

Introduction

Imagine a world where we mine asteroids for rare metals and establish colonies on the Moon and Mars. Space resource utilisation is no longer a distant dream. As our quest to explore and settle the cosmos intensifies, the need for robust legal frameworks to govern space activities has never been more critical. The surge in space missions, including lunar exploration, asteroid mining endeavours, and ambitious Mars mission plans, underscores the necessity for clear regulation to manage resource extraction, ensure fair access, and promote international cooperation.

National Approaches to Space Resource Utilisation

Several countries have enacted national legislation to regulate space resource utilisation, reflecting their individual ambitions in space exploration.

The United States, through the 2015 U.S. Commercial Space Launch Competitiveness Act, allows private entities to own and sell space resources, stimulating investment in space mining.

Similarly, Luxembourg’s ‘SpaceResources.lu’ initiative has established the country as a hub for space resource activities, offering legal certainty to companies involved in the exploration and use of space resources.

The UAE’s Federal Law 12 (2019) enables the commercial exploitation of space resources, while Japan’s Space Resources Act (2021) provides for the ownership of mined space resources by licensed companies.

While these national regulations promote space resource utilisation, they also highlight the need for a comprehensive international framework to ensure equitable access, sustainable practices, and cooperation beyond national interests.

The Need for a General Regulation and International Cooperation

Though these national regulations have spurred innovation and development, the absence of a unified international framework poses significant challenges. Article 2 of the Outer Space Treaty (OST) explicitly prohibits national appropriation of outer space, complicating efforts by individual states to grant ownership rights over space resources. Without a general framework, the conflicting interests of nations and private entities could lead to disputes over resource ownership, access, and exploitation.

Moreover, Article 3 of the OST links international environmental law with space exploration, stating that activities in space must be conducted in accordance with international law, including environmental protection. Space resource extraction poses substantial environmental risks, such as contamination or alteration of celestial bodies. An overarching legal framework is needed to address these concerns, ensuring that space resource activities adhere to global environmental standards.

The lack of ratification of the Moon Agreement, which specifically governs the utilisation of lunar resources, further illustrates the difficulties in achieving global consensus. As of 2024, only 17 countries have ratified the Moon Agreement, showing the reluctance of major spacefaring nations to commit to a common framework. However, a global agreement on space resources is critical to ensuring that all countries, not just the technologically advanced, can benefit from the wealth of resources that space offers.

A general regulation would facilitate international cooperation, promote equitable resource sharing, and ensure that space remains a peaceful domain. Such a framework must balance the interests of spacefaring nations and emerging space economies while preserving the environment of outer space.

The Importance of a Legal Framework

A robust legal framework is crucial for the sustainable development of space resource utilisation. Without clear regulations, disputes over ownership and resource allocation could threaten the peaceful exploration of space. International cooperation is vital to ensuring that space resources are managed fairly and equitably, balancing national interests with the collective good.

For investors and companies, legal certainty is key. While the prospect of space resource extraction is enticing, legal ambiguity poses significant risks. A well-structured international framework would provide the necessary assurances to attract investment by reducing the uncertainty surrounding ownership, access, and environmental sustainability.

Environmental preservation is another critical aspect of space resource utilisation. Much like Earth’s resources are safeguarded by environmental regulations, the extraction of space resources must be governed by laws that prevent harmful exploitation. Without such a framework, the unchecked extraction of resources could irreversibly damage celestial bodies. Article 3 of the OST mandates that space activities, including resource extraction, must respect international environmental standards. A legal framework ensuring environmental responsibility would support the long-term viability of space exploration and prevent the degradation of outer space environments.

Challenges and Future Prospects

Despite the progress made in space law, several challenges remain. Ownership of space resources is a contentious issue. Article 2 of the OST prohibits national appropriation of celestial bodies, but as nations enact laws that grant ownership of resources, questions about how space resources can be legally owned and used arise. Crafting an international framework that reconciles this with commercial exploitation is essential to preventing future disputes.

Jurisdiction poses another major challenge. Activities in outer space occur beyond the territorial jurisdiction of any single state. Regulating such activities on a global scale requires an innovative legal approach that adapts traditional jurisdictional concepts to the realities of space. A legal framework must establish clear rules for compliance and enforcement, ensuring that space activities adhere to international laws while accommodating the specific challenges posed by outer space operations.

Ethical considerations also play a pivotal role in the discussion on space resources. The commercialization of space must be balanced with the responsibility to preserve and protect celestial environments. A global framework would set ethical standards that ensure space activities do not lead to the exploitation or irreversible degradation of space environments, much like how terrestrial environmental regulations protect Earth’s ecosystems.

Looking ahead, the future of space resource utilisation will be shaped by technological advancements and evolving legal frameworks. Upcoming missions by private companies and national space agencies are expected to explore and mine asteroids and other celestial bodies, testing the feasibility of space mining on a larger scale. As these technologies develop, legal regulations must evolve in tandem, addressing new challenges and opportunities while ensuring the sustainability of space activities. Future frameworks will need to incorporate detailed provisions for environmental protection, commercial rights, and international cooperation.

Conclusion

The regulation of space resource utilisation is not merely a legal necessity but a critical component of humanity’s journey into space. As nations and private entities extend their activities into outer space, the development of a comprehensive and collaborative international legal framework becomes increasingly important. This framework would ensure that space resources are used sustainably and equitably, fostering a new era of exploration and innovation. Through international cooperation and forward-thinking policies, we can harness the vast potential of space resources to serve all humanity while preserving space as a peaceful, shared domain for future generations.

 

 

About the Author

This post was written by SLP Member Ridima Sur on behalf of SLP’s Space Resources team. Ridima holds a BSc in Astronomy, Astrophysics, and Space Sciences, where she explored space law alongside physics through her dissertation on Mitigating space debris via propulsion systems for end-of-life deorbiting services. She is currently pursuing an MSc in Astrophysics at the University of Glasgow and is part of the SGAC Space Law and Policy Project Group’s Space Resources Research Team. Additionally, she is writing a paper for an upcoming book with Durham Law School on Human life after contact with extraterrestrial civilizations.

References

  1. U.S. Commercial Space Launch Competitiveness Act, Pub L No 114-90, 129 Stat 704 (2015).
  2. Luxembourg Government, ‘Luxembourg SpaceResources.lu Initiative‘ (SpaceResources.lu, 2016), accessed 15 August 2024 and Law of July 20th, 2017, on the exploration and use of space resources (“Loi du 20 juillet 2017 sur l’exploration et l’utilisation des ressources de l’espace”), available here.
  3. United Arab Emirates, Federal Law No. (12) of 2019, ON THE REGULATION OF THE SPACE SECTOR, available here.
  4. Japan, Act on the Promotion of Business Activities for the Exploration and Development of Space Resources (tentative translation), available here.
  5. Outer Space Treaty, 1967, 610 U.N.T.S. 205.
  6. Moon Agreement, 1979, 1363 U.N.T.S. 22.
  7. Chernykh, I., Gugunskiy, D. ‘Space Resource Utilization as Sustainable Economic Growth Perspectives: Legal Aspects.’ In: Inshakova, A.O., Inshakova, E.I. (eds) New Technology for Inclusive and Sustainable Growth. Smart Innovation, Systems and Technologies, vol 288. (Springer, 2022)
  8. Hofmann M, Bergamasco F (2020), ‘Space resources activities from the perspective of sustainability: legal aspects’, Global Sustainability 3, e4, 1–7. https://doi.org/ 10.1017/sus.2019.27
  9. Sapienza University of Rome, ‘Space Law Experts Discussed the Implications of the Legal Framework for Natural Space Resource Activities at the International Conference on Space Resources‘ (Outer Space Law Sapienza, 2024), accessed 15 August 2024.
SGAC Welcomes the New Team Members!2024-09-17T13:56:42+02:00

SGAC Welcomes New Team Members!

SGAC is proud to announce the following appointments to our team. 

  • Viktor Loh – Event Scholarships Liaison

  • Zuzanna Filipecka – Commercial Space Project Group Project Coordinator

  • Philipp Feth – Events Scholarship Liaison

  • Gabor Tatar – Partnership Coordinator

If you are interested in being part of the SGAC Team, you can find the latest vacancies here.

Viktor Loh

Event Scholarships Liaison

Viktor is an undergraduate at Columbia University studying Physics and Astrophysics, with a focus on planetary sciences. He is interested in the study of exoplanets, asteroids and icy moons, as well as how remote sensing technologies can be used for the study of Earth. Viktor has also previously worked as an educator and procurement officer, and hopes to bring these skills to his role in the Finance Team.
Outside of work, Viktor enjoys tennis, learning languages, and intense Geoguessr rounds. As a native Singaporean, he thinks everywhere else is too cold and is constantly on the lookout for the best food places in his city.

Zuzanna Filipecka

Commercial Space Project Group Project Coordinator

Zuzanna holds a BSc in Artificial Intelligence with a specialization in Entrepreneurship and is currently completing her MSc in IT Management at Erasmus University Rotterdam. She is a student of the Space Studies Program, organized by the International Space University in collaboration with NASA and Rice University in Houston, Texas, with a focus on Aerospace Engineering.

Professionally, Zuzanna has been working as a Business Developer at Meteory, a space startup incubated at ESA BIC, for nearly two years. She is also an active member of the Girls in Aerospace Foundation program team, dedicated to fostering interest in the aerospace industry and creating opportunities for young students.

Passionate about space commercialization/entrepreneurship, AI applications in space, and space robotics, Zuzanna has also participated in mentoring programs such as IT for SHE and LeaderSHEp in Tech Academy organized by Perspektywy Foundation in Poland. Apart from that, Zuzanna enjoys her free time playing tennis, backpacking, and running.

Philipp Feth

Events Scholarship Liaison

Philipp studied law in Saarbrücken and Exeter. He specialized in international and European law.

After his studies, he completed his legal clerkship and is now a licensed lawyer in Frankfurt am Main.

His interest in space law was awakened during a working stay in Luxembourg. He first wrote a master’s thesis on Luxembourg space mining law. He also worked for the EU Commission on the draft of the EU Space Law. He is currently writing his doctoral thesis on space mining at the Cologne Institute for Air and Space Law and Cyberlaw.

Gabor Tatar

Partnership Coordinator

Acting Chief Operating Officer with an engineering mindset who is dedicated to building the future of space. After finishing his civil engineering studies in Budapest, Gábor worked at market-leading firms to pick up skills in recruitment, financial, and management consulting.

The excitement for space drove him to Stockholm, where he educated himself in finance, entrepreneurship, and collaborative project management in international, multidisciplinary environments at KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stanford University, and Stockholm School of Entrepreneurship. Gabor has finished his MSc Degree Project about megaproject governance with regard to collaboration where he explored the case of the International Space Station.

Currently, he is working on gaining experience in business operations of early-stage ventures, while building his network and knowledge within the space industry. 

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