The Committee on Space Research (COSPAR) and the Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organisation (APSCO) have agreed to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) following a successful visit to APSCO headquarters in Beijing, China, in July 2024. This agreement reflects a shared commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and their roles as observers in the UN Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS). The partnership aims to enhance collaboration in space science and promote dialogue among global space stakeholders.
Collaborative Discussions and Future Initiatives
During the visit, delegations from COSPAR and APSCO engaged in discussions centered on mutual interests such as capacity building, education, and small satellite applications for space science. Ms. Aisha Jagirani, APSCO's Director General of External Relations and Legal Affairs, presented APSCO's mission and activities, while Mr. Xu Yansong, Director General of APSCO's Education and Training Department, discussed APSCO's educational initiatives aimed at bolstering the capabilities of APSCO Member States.
Prof. Pascale Ehrenfreund, President of COSPAR, highlighted the organization's diverse activities and its crucial role in promoting international collaboration in space research. Mr. Niklas Hedman, COSPAR's General Counsel, detailed COSPAR's historical contributions, particularly in the area of Planetary Protection, and outlined the work of COSPAR's various panels focused on education, capacity building, and planetary protection.
The meeting concluded with both organizations agreeing to co-host international events on interdisciplinary space topics, collaborate on education and training initiatives like the "Train the Trainers" program, and support capacity building and small satellite development. Additionally, they will explore joint efforts in planetary protection, ionospheric research, space debris monitoring, and engage with the APSCO Space Law Alliance.
Expressing the shared enthusiasm for this collaboration, Prof. Ehrenfreund stated, "We look forward to embarking on this new journey of cooperation with APSCO. By combining our strengths, aligned goals and shared vision, we will progress space science and technology advancements for the greater good."
Ms. Aisha Jagirani shared this sentiment, saying, "This collaboration marks a significant stride towards our common objectives of advancing space science and fostering cross-border collaboration. The future opportunities arising from this partnership are truly exciting."
The MoU is expected to be signed in the coming months, with a second meeting planned for autumn to advance the cooperation. COSPAR will also participate in the APSCO/UOS/AUASS International Symposium, scheduled for November 5-7, 2024, in Sharjah, UAE.
