London, 15 November 2023.- The Global Satellite Operators Association (GSOA) released on the 13th of November its Code of Conduct on Space Sustainability. It is calling on operators to implement responsible practices that: mitigate the risk of in-orbit collision, minimise the threat of non-trackable debris, protect humans in space, and limit effects on optical astronomy. 

GSOA is a CEO-driven satellite association with the organisation representing over 70 members. It includes satellite operators in all orbits, launchers, suppliers, and partners.

Ali Alhashemi, Group CEO of Yahsat stated that the satellite industry is expected to bring socio-economic benefits worth more than US$250 billion globally, and therefore it is important that the industry works together to implement key sustainability practices.

The code of conduct recommends that operators should take all reasonable steps to share information with other operators about trackable debris. They are encouraged to take steps in the design, launch, orbit raising, operational, and de-orbit phases of the spacecraft mission to ensure that satellites do not become debris. Operators and astronomers should work together to minimise negative impacts on ground-based optical astronomy, whilst allowing observation at optical wavelengths and ensuring the delivery of satellite services. 

“The satellite industry has proven vital to helping bridge the digital divide and connect the unconnected, whether they are on land, at sea or in the air.  These vital services depend on protecting and preserving access to space,” said GSOA Chairman Dan Goldberg, CEO of Telesat Corporation. “The development and industry-wide approval of the Code of Conduct is an important step in identifying best practices and mitigations to preserve access to space for future generations.”