SWF Statement – UN COPUOS STSC, Handbook for New Actors in Space Initiative #2 (February 2015)

In this statement, Secure World Foundation announces its initiative to develop a Handbook for New Actors in Space, designed to support the goals of the Committee’s ongoing work on the Long-Term Sustainability (LTS) of outer space activities. As space access becomes increasingly democratized—with over 70 nations and numerous non-governmental actors operating satellites—SWF identifies the need for clear guidance rooted in best practices.

The handbook will target two main audiences:

1. Governments formulating national space policy and regulatory frameworks, and
2. New non-governmental entities, such as startups, universities, and research institutions entering the space domain.

The publication aims to bridge technical, legal, and policy dimensions of space activity, providing actionable insights and examples based on the experiences of established space actors. It will be offered in print, online, and eventually as a comprehensive web-based resource. SWF has invited feedback on a detailed outline already circulated to COPUOS delegations and encourages continued dialogue with the international community to ensure the handbook reflects the needs of its users and the lessons of the broader space community.