With rapid changes to space technology there are exciting
opportunities, with potentially significant benefits for the UK,
as well as new types of risks that need to be managed to ensure
safety, security and sustainability.
That’s why the UK Space Agency is adapting aspects of its
regulatory framework to meet the regulatory challenges of the
space sector now and in the future.
Traffic Light System
The traffic light system is a new pre-application licensing
process for satellite operators. It gives prospective applicants
an early indication of how likely it is that their mission would
be granted a UK licence. Depending on the mission, it may also
result in a tailored, more streamlined application process.
This approach will be offered to all prospective licence
applicants and is expected to be particularly helpful to new
entrants to the UK space sector. The traffic light approach has
already been piloted with a selection of satellite operators who
have welcomed the new system.
Third Party Liability Insurance
The UK Space Agency is also introducing a new ‘sliding scale’
policy for the in-orbit third-party liability insurance
requirements it places on operators. This will help the Agency
respond to the increasing variety of space risks in its
consideration of licence applications.
For missions such as a low risk satellite deployed from or
operating below the International Space Station the requirement
for the operator to hold in-orbit third party liability insurance
may be reduced or waived. On the other hand, it is likely that an
operator planning a higher-risk mission would need to hold a
greater level of insurance than that required for standard
missions.
This flexibility will help ensure that the Agency’s licensing
conditions can adapt to future innovations in a way that is
proportionate and responsive.
This new approach should also make it easier for operators to
procure insurance for large constellations of satellites that
could be used for applications such as providing internet access
to remote locations across the world.
Chief Executive of the UK Space Agency Dr Graham Turnock said:
We’re committed to ensuring the UK thrives in the commercial
space age as part of the Government’s Industrial Strategy. That
means having modern regulation that keeps us all safe while
recognising the fundamental shifts in technology that have seen
the cost and size of satellites plummet and their use increase.
From mega constellations to satellite launches from UK soil,
there are significant opportunities for future growth and jobs
in the UK space sector.
The announcement was made during the International Astronautical
Congress in Bremen, Germany – an annual meeting of global space
agencies and industry. UK Space Agency CEO Graham Turnock will
address the conference on Wednesday (3 October) about the UK’s
plans to thrive in the commercial space age over the next decade
by developing national launch capabilities and supporting the
growth of satellite applications, while continuing to play a
leading role as a founding member of the European Space Agency.
