NSSA participates in WSSA Forum in Dubai

Dubai, The National Space Science Agency (NSSA) participated in the World Space Sustainability Association (WSSA) Forum. The forum was attended by officials and experts from the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) and private and public space institutions. The WSSA was established by the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), in collaboration with Elseco, Herbert Smith Freehills, and major companies, as a non-profit organization. The MBRSC and its partners plan to broaden the initiative by involving more stakeholders, including operators, satellite developers, space businesses, and policymakers. The focus will be on addressing challenges like sustainable innovation and space debris management to create a sustainable space sector. The dialogue was opened by the Director-General of the UNOOSA, who provided insights on sustainability and highlighted the importance of capacity building, sharing practices, and coordinating data sharing. The MBRSC talked about its current and future pro jects, focusing on the UAE's efforts to promote sustainability, support the space ecosystem, and develop related policies and technologies. The Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) in the UAE shared practices and decisions from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) on sustainability, including its role in the 2030 Space Agenda. They also exchanged policies and regulations to support sustainability and discussed key outcomes from the recent World Radiocommunication Conferences 23, 27, and 31. Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim Al Asiri, CEO of the NSSA, called the forum an important step for promoting sustainability in space. He noted that the Agency's participation boosts international cooperation and supports global discussions on sustainability. He emphasised ongoing collaboration between the NSSA and the MBRSC to benefit both countries in the space sector. Rasha Al Amad, Chief of Strategic Planning at NSSA, spoke about the Kingdom's efforts in achieving space sustainabilit y. Key actions include signing three international treaties, joining the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS), and becoming a member of the Artemis Accords to show the Kingdom's commitment to responsible and peaceful exploration of the moon. Al Amad noted that the NSSR is involved in two lunar missions and aims to follow the principles of the agreement. They are also working on regulations from the draft space law, focusing on environmental protection and space debris mitigation. The NSSR is committed to the UN's long-term guidelines for outer space sustainability and aims to ensure responsible activities, enhance international cooperation, reduce space debris, avoid collisions, and use resources wisely. The forum had three main goals: to introduce the WSSA and its mission, showcase its inclusive platform, and build a community focused on sustainable space activities. It produced important recommendations to improve cooperation for space sustainability through smart technology use. S ource: Bahrain News Agency