EU Space Act Proposal

Introduction

The European Commission’s proposal for the long-awaited EU Space Act, which will introduce a harmonised framework for space activities across the Union, was published today.

The proposal published today takes the form of a European Union Regulation and, as such, will have direct effect in the legal systems of Portugal and other Member States.

The EU Space Act aims to ensure security, resilience and environmental sustainability, while strengthening the competitiveness of the EU space sector.

Context

The current European regulatory landscape is fragmented — 13 different national approaches increase complexity and costs for businesses.

This Regulation will contribute to the creation of a single market for space activities, facilitating the growth and cross-border operation of businesses, in particular start-ups and SMEs.

It is against this backdrop that the European Commission has identified the regulation of the space sector as a key priority, as suggested in the Draghi and Letta reports and, more recently, in the Competitiveness Compass and the Commission’s 2025 work programme.

Content

The proposal is structured around three key pillars:

• Security

The proposal introduces robust rules for tracking space objects and mitigating space debris, preserving Europe’s safe and uninterrupted access to space.

• Resilience

Tailored cybersecurity requirements will strengthen the protection of European space infrastructure and ensure business continuity.

• Sustainability

By requiring operators to assess and reduce the environmental impact of their space activities, while benefiting from support for innovation in emerging technologies such as in-orbit servicing and debris removal.

The new rules will apply to both EU operators and third-country operators providing space services in Europe.

The requirements will be tailored proportionately to the size of the company and its risk profile, ensuring a fair and innovation-friendly regulatory environment.

The current proposed version provides for entry into force on 1 January 2030.

Next steps

The legislative proposal will be negotiated under the ordinary legislative procedure by the European Parliament and the Council.