Key Takeaways

• Global space governance involves over 50 diverse national and regional agencies.
• Agencies like NASA, ESA, and CNSA lead in exploration, while others focus on satellite applications.
• Newer agencies in Africa and Asia reflect a shift toward democratizing access to space technology.

Introduction

The exploration and utilization of outer space are no longer the exclusive domain of a few superpowers. Today, a vast network of national and regional organizations coordinates humanity’s activities beyond Earth’s atmosphere. These entities range from established giants capable of deep-space exploration to emerging agencies focused on leveraging satellite data for sustainable development. This article provides a detailed examination of the space organizations recognized by the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA), analyzing their mandates, capabilities, and current status as of late 2025.

Regional and International Organizations

Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organization (APSCO)

Headquartered in Beijing, APSCO is an intergovernmental organization dedicated to promoting collaborative space programs among its member states in the Asia-Pacific region. Formally inaugurated in 2008, the organization facilitates resource sharing in space science, technology, and applications. Its primary focus involves pooling resources to develop remote sensing satellites, communication systems, and space education programs. APSCO operates the Data Sharing Service Platform, which provides member states with critical satellite imagery for disaster management and environmental monitoring.

European Union Agency for the Space Programme (EUSPA)

EUSPA manages the European Union’s space program components, ensuring they deliver tangible benefits to European citizens and businesses. The agency oversees the operational management of Galileo, the European global satellite navigation system, and EGNOS, which improves navigation accuracy for aviation. EUSPA also coordinates the security of these systems and promotes the commercial utilization of data from the Copernicus programme. As of 2025, EUSPA plays a central role in the EU’s Secure Connectivity Programme, IRIS², designed to provide secure satellite communications for government users.

European Space Agency (ESA)

The European Space Agency constitutes Europe’s gateway to space. It is an intergovernmental organization with 22 member states, dedicated to the peaceful exploration and use of space for the benefit of everyone. Headquartered in Paris, ESA operates a broad portfolio of missions, from Earth observation to planetary exploration.

• Launch Capabilities: ESA ensures independent access to space for Europe through the Ariane 6 and Vega-C launch vehicles, operating from the Guiana Space Centre.
• Exploration: The agency is a key partner in the Artemis program, providing the Service Module for NASA’s Orion spacecraft. The Rosalind Franklin rover, part of the ExoMars program, represents ESA’s commitment to searching for signs of life on Mars.
• Science: ESA’s science program includes the Euclid telescope, mapping the dark universe, and the JUICE mission, currently en route to study Jupiter’s icy moons.

African Space Agencies

Algerian Space Agency (ASAL)

Established in 2002, ASAL is responsible for designing and implementing Algeria’s national space policy. The agency focuses heavily on Earth observation for resource management and disaster mitigation. ASAL operates the Alsat series of satellites, which provide high-resolution imagery used for agriculture, cartography, and oil exploration. The agency maintains a strong emphasis on technology transfer and training, partnering with international entities to build domestic capacity in satellite engineering.

National Space Program Management Office (GGPEN) – Angola

GGPEN manages Angola’s strategic space initiatives, primarily the Angosat telecommunications satellite program. Following the loss of Angosat-1, the agency successfully operates Angosat-2, which launched in late 2022. This satellite provides essential connectivity across Angola and the broader African continent, supporting telemedicine and distance learning. In October 2025, the Angolan government formally announced the transition of GGPEN into a full-fledged Angolan Space Agency, expanding its mandate to include regulatory oversight and broader international cooperation.

Egyptian Space Agency (EgSA)

EgSA acts as the central body for Egypt’s space activities, focusing on acquiring space technology capabilities to support national security and development. The agency oversees the construction of Satellite City near Cairo, a hub for satellite assembly, integration, and testing (AIT). Egypt recently launched MisrSat-2, developed in cooperation with China, to enhance its Earth observation capabilities. EgSA also hosts the headquarters of the African Space Agency, positioning Egypt as a diplomatic leader in continental space affairs.

Kenya Space Agency (KENSA)

The Kenya Space Agency promotes and coordinates space activities in Kenya. KENSA prioritizes the utilization of space-derived data to address challenges in agriculture, forestry, and urban planning. The agency utilizes the Broglio Space Center (San Marco) in Malindi, a facility with a long history of international satellite launches. In 2025, KENSA continues to develop nanosatellites, such as the Taifa-1, to build local engineering expertise and monitor agricultural trends.

South African Space Agency (SANSA)

SANSA integrates South Africa’s space-related activities, which include a robust ground station network and space weather research. The agency’s Hartebeesthoek Radio Astronomy Observatory (HartRAO) is a critical node in global tracking networks. SANSA supports international missions by providing telemetry, tracking, and command services for launches from various global agencies. The agency also provides space weather warnings to the aviation and defense sectors, safeguarding critical infrastructure from solar activity.

Zimbabwe National Geospatial and Space Agency (ZINGSA)

ZINGSA coordinates Zimbabwe’s space programs with a focus on geospatial applications for agriculture and mineral exploration. The agency launched ZIMSAT-1 in 2022 and followed up with ZIMSAT-2 in November 2024. As of 2025, ZINGSA is in the production stages of ZIMSAT-3, an Earth observation satellite designed to provide real-time data for environmental monitoring. The agency has also upgraded the Mazowe Ground Station to support multiple frequency bands, enhancing its ability to control and receive data from its growing fleet.

Americas

Comisión Nacional de Actividades Espaciales (CONAE) – Argentina

CONAE is the civilian agency responsible for Argentina’s space plan. It is renowned for its Earth observation satellite constellations, particularly the SAOCOM series. These satellites utilize L-band Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) to monitor soil moisture and mitigate disaster risks, serving the agricultural and emergency response sectors. CONAE collaborates extensively with international partners, including the Italian Space Agency (ASI), to form the SIASGE system, a dual-band radar constellation for emergency management.

Brazilian Space Agency (AEB)

The AEB coordinates Brazil’s space activities, working alongside the National Institute for Space Research (INPE) and the Department of Aerospace Science and Technology (DCTA). Brazil operates the Alcântara Launch Center, a geographically advantageous site near the equator. The agency’s flagship project is the CBERS (China-Brazil Earth Resources Satellite) program, a long-standing partnership with China providing free remote sensing data to the world. The AEB also oversees the Amazonia-1 satellite, designed domestically to monitor deforestation in the Amazon rainforest.

Canadian Space Agency (CSA)

The CSA directs Canada’s space program, renowned for its expertise in space robotics and satellite communications. The agency is a foundational partner in the International Space Station (ISS), contributing the Canadarm2 and Dextre robots.

• Artemis Participation: The CSA is developing Canadarm3 for the Lunar Gateway, a space station planned for lunar orbit. This contribution secures seats for Canadian astronauts on Artemis missions, with Jeremy Hansen scheduled to fly on Artemis II.
• Earth Observation: The agency operates the RADARSAT Constellation Mission (RCM), providing daily scans of Canada’s territory and maritime zones to monitor ice, ecosystems, and sovereignty.

Mexican Space Agency (AEM)

AEM promotes the development of space science and technology in Mexico. The agency focuses on telecommunications, Earth observation, and human capital development. AEM actively participates in the Artemis Accords and collaborates with NASA on nanosatellite projects like the AzTechSat-1. The agency is also involved in establishing the Latin American and Caribbean Space Agency (ALCE) to foster regional cooperation.

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) – USA

NASA is the civilian space agency of the United States and a global leader in space exploration, science, and aeronautics.

• Human Exploration: NASA leads the Artemis program, which intends to return humans to the Moon and establish a sustainable presence. The Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and Orion spacecraft are the primary hardware for these deep-space missions.
• Science: The agency operates the James Webb Space Telescope, revolutionizing infrared astronomy. Planetary missions include the Perseverance rover on Mars and the upcoming Europa Clipper mission to study Jupiter’s moon.
• Earth Science: NASA maintains a comprehensive fleet of Earth-observing satellites that provide vital data on climate change, weather patterns, and sea-level rise.

Space Agency of Peru (CONIDA)

CONIDA is the governing body for space activities in Peru. It operates the PeruSat-1 satellite, the most advanced optical Earth observation satellite in the region at the time of its launch. The agency utilizes satellite imagery to combat illegal mining, monitor deforestation, and support national defense. CONIDA also manages the Punta Lobos sounding rocket base, conducting scientific research in the upper atmosphere.

Agencia Bolivariana para Actividades Espaciales (ABAE) – Venezuela

ABAE executes Venezuela’s space policies, focusing on the use of satellites for social development and sovereignty. The agency operates the Venesat-1 (Simón Bolívar) telecommunications satellite and the VRSS series (Miranda and Sucre) for remote sensing. These assets support government programs in urban planning, agriculture, and border security. ABAE maintains close technical cooperation with the China National Space Administration for satellite manufacturing and launch services.

Asia-Pacific

Australian Space Agency

Established in 2018, the Australian Space Agency coordinates civil space matters and supports the growth of the domestic space industry. The agency does not design or launch its own satellites but facilitates commercial launches and regulatory compliance. It supports NASA’s Artemis program through the Trailblazer program, which funds the development of a semi-autonomous rover to collect lunar soil. The agency leverages Australia’s geographic position for ground station hosting and deep space communication.

China National Space Administration (CNSA)

CNSA is responsible for planning and implementing China’s space activities. It has rapidly become a premier global space power.

• Lunar Exploration: The Chang’e program has achieved significant milestones, including the first landing on the far side of the Moon (Chang’e 4) and sample return missions (Chang’e 5 and 6).
• Planetary Exploration: The Tianwen-1 mission successfully placed a rover, Zhurong, on Mars.
• International Cooperation: CNSA leads the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) initiative, partnering with Russia and other nations to build a permanent base on the Moon.

China Manned Space Agency (CMSA)

Distinct from CNSA, the CMSA specifically manages the human spaceflight program. It operates the Tiangong space station, a modular laboratory in low Earth orbit permanently crewed by rotating teams of taikonauts. CMSA is also developing the next-generation crewed spacecraft and a lunar lander to facilitate a crewed lunar landing before 2030.

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)

ISRO is the primary space agency of India, known for its cost-effective and highly successful space program.

• Launch Vehicles: ISRO operates the PSLV for reliable satellite launches and the LVM3 for heavy payloads.
• Exploration: The Chandrayaan-3 mission successfully landed near the lunar south pole in 2023. The Aditya-L1 mission is currently studying the Sun from the L1 Lagrange point.
• Human Spaceflight: ISRO is advancing the Gaganyaan program, which plans to send Indian astronauts to low Earth orbit. The agency is conducting multiple uncrewed test flights throughout 2025 to certify the crew module.

Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA)

JAXA integrates Japan’s aerospace research, encompassing aviation, rocketry, and satellite applications.

• Launchers: JAXA introduced the H3 launch vehicle to replace the H-IIA, offering a more competitive heavy-lift option.
• Exploration: The agency specializes in asteroid sample return, demonstrated by the Hayabusa2 mission. The SLIM lander achieved a high-precision lunar landing in 2024.
• Collaboration: JAXA is a key partner in the Lunar Gateway, providing life support components and logistics via the HTV-X cargo spacecraft.

Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI) – Republic of Korea

KARI leads South Korea’s space development. The agency achieved independent launch capability with the Nuri (KSLV-II) rocket. KARI operates the Danuri lunar orbiter and is developing a robotic lunar lander. The agency is also working on the construction of the Korea Positioning System (KPS) to improve navigation independence.

Korea Astronomy and Space Science Institute (KASI)

KASI focuses on astronomical research and space science. It collaborates with KARI and international partners on scientific payloads. KASI is a participant in the Giant Magellan Telescope project and develops instruments for space weather monitoring.

Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA)

PhilSA is the central government agency addressing all national space issues in the Philippines. Created in 2019, it manages the country’s space assets, including the Diwata microsatellites. PhilSA focuses on “Space Data Mobilization,” ensuring that satellite imagery reaches government bureaus for maritime monitoring, disaster response, and agricultural assessment. In November 2025, PhilSA hosts the 31st session of the Asia-Pacific Regional Space Agency Forum (APRSAF), underscoring its growing regional role.

Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) – Pakistan

SUPARCO executes Pakistan’s space science and research programs. The agency operates communication satellites such as Paksat-1R and remote sensing satellites for resource management. SUPARCO collaborates with China for satellite launches and technology transfer. The agency is expanding its Space Applications Centre to utilize satellite data for crop monitoring and urban planning.

New Zealand Space Agency (NZSA)

Housed within the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, the NZSA regulates space activities and policy in New Zealand. It does not own satellites but oversees the thriving commercial launch sector, primarily Rocket Lab’s launch complex on the Mahia Peninsula. The agency ensures that space activities comply with international obligations and national security interests.

Europe (National Agencies)

Space Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan (Azercosmos)

Azercosmos is the premier satellite operator in the Caucasus region. It manages two communications satellites, Azerspace-1 and Azerspace-2, and one Earth observation satellite, Azersky. These assets provide broadcasting and data services across Europe, Africa, and Asia. The agency is active in the International Astronautical Federation and hosted the International Astronautical Congress in Baku in 2023.

Centre national d’études spatiales (CNES) – France

CNES is a pivotal force in the European space sector and the largest national space agency in the EU. It serves as the prime contractor for the Ariane launch systems and operates the Guiana Space Centre. CNES has a robust science program, contributing instruments to NASA’s Mars rovers (such as the SuperCam on Perseverance) and leading Earth observation missions like SWOT (Surface Water and Ocean Topography).

DLR Space Agency – Germany

The German Aerospace Center (DLR) acts as Germany’s space agency. It manages the national space budget and represents German interests in ESA. DLR is a leader in environmental monitoring satellites (TerraSAR-X) and robotics. The agency’s research institutes conduct cutting-edge work on propulsion, space medicine, and zero-gravity experimentation.

Italian Space Agency (ASI)

ASI drives Italy’s national space strategy. It is a major contributor to the ISS, having built several permanent modules. ASI focuses on Earth observation through the Cosmo-SkyMed constellation, a dual-use radar system. The agency also collaborates with NASA on the IXPE mission (measuring X-ray polarization) and with Israel on the DIDO-3 satellite.

UK Space Agency (UKSA)

The UKSA is an executive agency responsible for the UK’s civil space programme. It focuses on growing the UK space economy, supporting launch capabilities from Scottish spaceports, and investing in satellite telecommunications. The agency is a leading member of ESA, particularly in the telecommunications and navigation directorates.

Luxembourg Space Agency (LSA)

The LSA focuses on the economic development of the space sector rather than conducting missions directly. Luxembourg has positioned itself as a hub for space resources and commercial space mining legislation. The agency supports a vibrant ecosystem of startups and established companies working on lunar rovers and space debris removal.

Netherlands Space Office

The NSO implements the Dutch space policy. It focuses on satellite applications for water management, agriculture, and air quality – areas of critical importance to the Netherlands. The agency supports the Dutch space industry’s high-tech contributions to ESA missions, such as solar arrays and atmospheric instruments.

Norwegian Space Agency

This agency promotes space activities that benefit Norwegian interests, particularly in the Arctic. It oversees the Andøya Spaceport, a key site for sounding rockets and emerging small satellite launchers. Norway relies on satellites for maritime surveillance, search and rescue, and communications in the high north.

Portugal Space

Portugal Space implements the national strategy “Portugal Space 2030.” The agency aims to stimulate new space industries and promote the use of satellite data in public administration. It is developing the Santa Maria telepor in the Azores as a strategic ground station and potential launch site for microsatellites.

Romanian Space Agency (ROSA)

ROSA coordinates Romania’s national space research and acts as the interface with ESA. The agency has expertise in nanosatellites, space medicine, and security applications. ROSA manages research centers focused on gravity, microgravity, and space engineering.

State Space Corporation “Roscosmos” – Russian Federation

Roscosmos manages the Russian space industry and infrastructure.

• Human Spaceflight: It operates the Soyuz spacecraft and Progress cargo vehicles, which remain essential for transporting crew and supplies to the ISS.
• Infrastructure: The agency manages the Baikonur Cosmodrome (leased from Kazakhstan) and the Vostochny Cosmodrome.
• Current Status: Roscosmos faces significant challenges due to international sanctions, affecting its partnerships and commercial launch market share. However, it continues to operate the Russian segment of the ISS and plans for a future Russian Orbital Station (ROS).

Centro para el Desarrollo Tecnológico Industrial (CDTI) – Spain

Historically, the CDTI managed Spain’s industrial space contracts and ESA contributions. While the Spanish Space Agency (AEE) was formally created in 2023 to unify space competencies, the CDTI remains the entity listed by UNOOSA. The CDTI continues to support technological development and industrial innovation in the aerospace sector, working in coordination with the new agency to boost Spain’s leadership in satellite navigation and Earth observation.

Turkish Space Agency (TUA)

Established in 2018, TUA coordinates Turkey’s space program. The agency recently achieved a milestone by sending the first Turkish astronaut to the ISS in early 2024 via a commercial mission. TUA’s 10-year space program includes goals for a lunar rover, domestic satellite development, and the establishment of a spaceport.

State Space Agency of Ukraine (SSAU)

The SSAU manages Ukraine’s space industry, which has a deep heritage in rocket engine production (e.g., Zenith and Cyclone families). Despite the ongoing conflict, the agency works to maintain its industrial capabilities and cooperates with international partners on satellite data utilization and component manufacturing.

Danish Agency for Science and Higher Education (DASHE)

DASHE administers Denmark’s space policy. It focuses on ensuring Danish participation in ESA programs that align with national research priorities, such as climate monitoring and astrophysics. The agency supports the integration of space data into the green transition and Arctic monitoring.

Middle East

Bahrain National Space Science Agency (NSSA)

The NSSA focuses on building a national space sector through training and satellite data utilization. The agency launched the Light-1 nanosatellite in collaboration with the UAE to study terrestrial gamma-ray flashes. NSSA prioritizes the use of remote sensing for urban planning and environmental protection in Bahrain.

Iranian Space Agency (ISA)

The ISA manages Iran’s civil space program. It operates a series of indigenous launch vehicles (Safir and Simorgh) and satellites (Omid, Pars 1). The agency focuses on achieving independence in launch capabilities and satellite manufacturing for telecommunications and surveillance, operating under a distinct national mandate separate from international restrictions.

Israel Space Agency (ISA)

Israel’s ISA supports a highly advanced space industry known for lightweight satellites and synthetic aperture radar. The agency oversees the Ofeq series of reconnaissance satellites. Following the Beresheet lunar lander mission, ISA continues to fund deep-tech space startups and educational programs to foster the next generation of engineers.

Saudi Space Agency (SSA)

Formerly the Saudi Space Commission, the SSA was elevated to agency status in 2023. It drives the Kingdom’s “Vision 2030” space ambitions. The agency successfully managed the mission sending two Saudi astronauts, Rayyanah Barnawi and Ali AlQarni, to the ISS in 2023. The SSA focuses on establishing a regulatory framework, attracting foreign investment, and developing a sustainable human spaceflight program.

United Arab Emirates Space Agency

The UAE Space Agency has rapidly achieved historic successes.

• Mars Mission: The Hope Probe (Al Amal) has been orbiting Mars since 2021, providing unprecedented data on the Martian atmosphere.
• Asteroid Belt: The agency is developing the “Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt,” scheduled for launch in 2028, which intends to tour multiple asteroids and land on one.
• Regulation: The agency also plays a key role in drafting space laws and fostering a regional space economy.

Summary

Appendix: Top 10 Questions Answered in This Article

Which agency is responsible for the Artemis program?

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) leads the Artemis program. This initiative involves international partners like the Canadian Space Agency and European Space Agency to return humans to the Moon.

What is the role of the European Union Agency for the Space Programme?

The European Union Agency for the Space Programme (EUSPA) manages the operations and service provision of the EU’s space components. This includes the Galileo navigation system and the Copernicus programme for Earth observation.

Does China have a human spaceflight agency separate from its national administration?

Yes, China operates the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) separately from the China National Space Administration (CNSA). CMSA specifically manages the Tiangong space station and astronaut missions.

What is the primary function of the Australian Space Agency?

The Australian Space Agency focuses on regulating civil space activities and growing the domestic space industry. It does not typically design or launch its own satellites but facilitates commercial access and international partnerships.

How has the Saudi space organization changed recently?

The Saudi Space Commission was transformed into the Saudi Space Agency in 2023. This elevation grants it broader powers to regulate the sector and implement long-term space exploration strategies.

Which African agency operates the Angosat-2 satellite?

The National Space Program Management Office (GGPEN) of Angola operates Angosat-2. This agency is currently transitioning into the Angolan Space Agency.

What is the unique focus of the Luxembourg Space Agency?

The Luxembourg Space Agency focuses heavily on the commercial aspect of the space sector, particularly space resources. It aims to create a legal and economic environment favorable to asteroid mining and space logistics companies.

Which agency operates the Soyuz spacecraft?

The State Space Corporation “Roscosmos” operates the Soyuz spacecraft. It remains the primary vehicle for transporting Russian cosmonauts to the International Space Station.

What recent lunar success did the Indian Space Research Organisation achieve?

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully landed the Chandrayaan-3 mission near the lunar south pole in 2023. This made India the fourth country to achieve a soft landing on the Moon.

Does the Philippines have its own space agency?

Yes, the Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) was established in 2019. It manages national space assets and focuses on mobilizing space data for disaster management and maritime security.

Appendix: Top 10 Frequently Searched Questions Answered in This Article

What is the difference between NASA and ESA?

NASA is a national agency of the United States, while ESA is an intergovernmental organization representing 22 European member states. While both conduct exploration and science, ESA focuses on pooling European resources for independent access to space.

How many space agencies are there in the world?

There are over 70 government space agencies worldwide, though capabilities vary significantly. The UNOOSA list covered in this article includes major players like NASA and CNSA as well as emerging agencies in developing nations.

What is the purpose of the UAE Space Agency?

The United Arab Emirates Space Agency aims to diversify the UAE’s economy away from oil by fostering a high-tech space sector. It focuses on ambitious scientific missions like the Mars Hope Probe to inspire regional youth and build technical expertise.

Which country has the most advanced space program?

The United States, through NASA, generally maintains the most comprehensive capabilities in human exploration, planetary science, and funding. However, China’s CNSA has rapidly advanced with its own space station and lunar sample return missions.

What does JAXA stand for?

JAXA stands for the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency. It is the Japanese national agency responsible for aviation, space exploration, and satellite technology.

How do space agencies help with climate change?

Agencies like ESA and NASA operate fleets of Earth observation satellites that monitor temperature, sea level, and greenhouse gases. This data is essential for scientists to model climate trends and for policymakers to make informed decisions.

What is the budget of the Indian Space Research Organisation?

While specific figures fluctuate, ISRO is known for its high cost-efficiency, operating with a budget significantly smaller than its Western counterparts. It achieves major milestones like Mars and Moon missions at a fraction of the global average cost.

Is Russia still a leader in space?

Roscosmos remains a major player due to its reliable launch infrastructure and role in the International Space Station. However, its leadership is challenged by budget constraints and the rapid rise of commercial spaceflight competitors.

What satellites does Canada operate?

The Canadian Space Agency operates the RADARSAT Constellation Mission. These satellites use radar to monitor Canada’s vast landmass and oceans, providing data regardless of weather or daylight conditions.

Why are there so many new space agencies in Africa?

Countries like Zimbabwe (ZINGSA) and Kenya (KENSA) established agencies to leverage space technology for development. They use satellite data to improve agriculture, manage water resources, and respond to natural disasters, which are critical issues for the continent.