Independent report

Regulatory Horizons Council: the Future Regulation of Space Technologies

An independent report to government from the Regulation Horizons Council about the regulation of space technologies and a study by RAND Europe into the intersection of emerging technologies with the space domain.

Documents

RHC report on the regulation of space technologies: executive summary

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RHC report on the regulation of space technologies

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RAND Europe horizon scan study into the intersection of emerging technologies with the space domain

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Details

This report advocates for the establishment of a pragmatic, adaptable regulatory framework—one that encourages innovation and supports the development of critical technologies for space endeavours.

The Regulatory Horizons Council (RHC) report makes 40 recommendations to government, categorised into three broad themes:

  • The UK using international platforms to advocate for and prioritise environmental protection, peace, and equitable use of space
  • Establishing the UK as a centre for space regulation and enabling services
  • Ensuring that the UK is at the forefront of a few key enabling technologies and capability development

Report commissioned from RAND Europe

This review by RHC, includes a report commissioned from RAND Europe. The report summarises the findings of a RAND Europe horizon scan study into the intersection of emerging technologies with the space domain. It considers the implications of technology trends, illustrating the trade-offs for future space regulation policy for the UK.

Government response

Read the ministerial letter welcoming the RHC report on the regulation of regulation of space technologies.

The Regulatory Horizons Council (RHC) is an independent expert committee that identifies the implications of technological innovation, and provides government with impartial, expert advice on the regulatory reform required to support its rapid and safe introduction.

Updates to this page

Published 25 April 2024

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