EU Space Act: A New Regulatory Orbit For Operators

On 25 June 2025, the European Commission published its Proposal for a Regulation on the safety, resilience and sustainability of space activities in the Union. Informally known as the EU Space Act, it introduces the first harmonised legal framework for space activities across the EU. Aiming to strengthen the internal market and reinforce strategic autonomy, the Proposal also addresses cybersecurity and environmental risks. While the Regulation is expected to apply from 1 January 2030, businesses should already assess its potential impact on operations, compliance strategies, and long-term planning.

Background: a fragmented legal landscape in orbit

Space activities in the European Union are expanding rapidly. The Commission points out that the cost of launching and manufacturing satellites is decreasing, while the demand for space-based services is increasing. This has led to the emergence of new private actors, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises as