The future of space - for the benefit of all humankind

The University of Adelaide is a sponsor of the Australian Institute of International Affairs SA ‘Diplomacy in the Bar’ series.

Outer Space has traditionally been the domain of state-based activities. However, the democratisation of space has seen an increasingly diverse range of actors and activities undertaken in space. While the potential benefits are immense, so is the impact on established actors that have relied on access to the night skies. Given the increasingly congested, contested and competitive environment, how can actors work together to ensure the long-term sustainability of outer space activities, as well as preserve dark and quiet skies for science and society?

Join Prof Fred Watson AM, Astronomer-At-Large and Marco Aliberti, Senior Research Fellow at the European Space Policy Institute (ESPI) in Vienna as they consider the issues, opportunities, drivers and solutions, including those under consideration by the United Nations.

Marco Aliberti will discuss the multilateral context and possible solutions such as an international space traffic management regime, while Prof Watson will present on the impact of mega-constellations on our ability to observe the night sky. Part of AIIA’s regular 'Diplomacy at the Bar' series, where knowledge, networking and a glass of wine coalesce for a more relaxed way to get involved in international affairs.

We hope you come along to join the conversation and get to know some fellow international affairs aficionados at Adelaide's local favourite, The Howling Owl.