SSPI-WISE Presents: New Orbits, New Rules of Space & Satellite Governance

The SSPI‑WISE panel highlighted an unprecedented surge in low‑Earth‑orbit activity, with 232 launches recorded in 2025—a 10% rise over the previous year and a trajectory toward 70,000 satellites by 2030. This rapid growth intensifies concerns about orbital congestion and debris, positioning space sustainability and traffic management at the forefront of industry discourse. Panelists from the UK Space Trade Association, Leo Labs, Trailfinding Regulatory Solutions, and Ice Miller underscored the urgency of robust governance to protect the operating environment for both commercial and governmental missions.

Regulatory momentum is building on both sides of the Atlantic. In the United States, the FCC’s recent Notice of Proposed Rulemaking seeks to overhaul Part 100, tightening licensing standards and addressing spectrum bands such as 28‑37 GHz and 39 GHz. Parallel efforts include the pending Safe Orbit Act and the Department of Commerce’s TRACS program, which aim to codify space‑traffic‑management protocols. Meanwhile, the White House executive order on American space superiority directs agencies to prioritize lunar and Martian initiatives while safeguarding national security, prompting a careful balance of resources across emerging satellite constellations and traditional space assets.

Beyond policy, the conversation turned to market dynamics and public perception. Panelists argued that heightened consumer awareness will reward operators who demonstrate responsible, sustainable practices, turning safety into a competitive advantage. Internationally, divergent regulatory approaches risk market distortion unless coordinated standards emerge. The panel called for a unified global framework that aligns spectrum allocation, interoperability, and environmental stewardship, ensuring that the next decade of satellite connectivity—whether for 5G, 6G, or direct‑to‑handset services—delivers reliable service without compromising the orbital commons.