The 59th Session of the Scientific and Technical Subcommittee (STSC) of the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (UN COPUOS) met in a hybrid format February 7-16, 2022. The meeting returned to its usual February timing but remained in a hybrid format due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, the more than ninety country delegations and two dozen observers were able to participate and contribute their perspectives on issues related to the civil and peaceful uses of outer space, including orbital debris, long-term sustainability, and use of space for global health and sustainable socioeconomic development.

SWF was included among these in its observer role, and SWF Director of Program Planning Dr. Brian Weeden provided a pre-recorded statement under the Exchange of Views agenda item that provided an update on SWF activities since the last meeting of STSC. Dr. Weeden also gave a live statement under the Space Debris agenda item, highlighting why SWF believes orbital debris remediation needs to be part of the discussions at UNCOPUOS and a technical presentation in his role as Executive Director of CONFERS. Additional information about the session as well as formal documents can be found at the website of the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs.