Synopsis
The “GSOA Code of Conduct on Space Sustainability” is a document that outlines the practices and principles endorsed by the Global Satellite Operator Association (GSOA) to promote sustainability in space. The key points of this document include:
- Purpose and Goals: The purpose of the GSOA Code of Conduct is to identify and endorse industry space sustainability practices that will enable the world to maximize the use of, access to, and benefits from space resources. The goal is to recognize that space provides significant benefits to people and our planet and that preserving those benefits in the face of greater utilization of orbits for valuable services requires timely action.
- Scope of Practices: The document acknowledges that there are matters relating to space sustainability not addressed in this Code of Conduct. These include the collective impact of entire satellite systems and multiple satellite systems on collision risk, orbital debris, satellite reflectivity, continued availability of spectrum and orbital resources, impact on the Earth’s atmosphere, and potential infrared interference into astronomy observations.
- Mitigating the Risk of In-Orbit Collision: This involves designing spacecraft to minimize collision risks, ensuring they are trackable by Space Situational Awareness (SSA) systems, and coordinating safety-of-flight operations with other spacecraft, both existing and future.
- Spacecraft Design and Operations: The code recommends designing spacecraft to mitigate risks and to ensure they are trackable. It also advises on coordinating operations and de-orbiting in a manner that minimizes risks and adheres to international rules.
- Monitoring and Information Sharing: The importance of tracking operational spacecraft, monitoring orbital debris, and promoting situational awareness of the space environment through information sharing and transparency is emphasized.
- Minimizing Non-Trackable Debris: This includes designing satellites to minimize debris generation and ensuring appropriate post-mission disposal of spacecraft and suborbital space objects.
- Preserving Human Life in Space: Ensuring that spacecraft do not endanger human life in space through careful design and operation is highlighted.
- Limiting Satellite Reflectivity and Impact on Astronomy: The document stresses the importance of designing low-Earth orbiting spacecraft and their constellations to minimize impact on ground-based optical astronomy.
Overall, the GSOA Code of Conduct on Space Sustainability provides a framework for space operators to follow, aiming to preserve the long-term sustainability of space resources and activities.
