New updates on the EU Space Act: licensing, propulsion and In-orbit servicing

The first draft of the EU Space Act was published in June 2025, introducing numerous new regulatory concepts and standards. Among these were requirements for specific satellite hardware, including onboard propulsion systems and, in certain cases, in-orbit interfaces.

This presentation will provide an overview of the upcoming EU space law as an example of the new standards that SmallSat operators will need to comply with. Key questions addressed include: What are Space Labels? What commitments exist for preserving dark skies? What are the updated end-of-life deorbit timeframes? And must all operators demonstrate collision avoidance capabilities? Each of these topics will be discussed and clarified.

Approximately six months after the first draft, an updated version was published, providing insight into the priorities of European domestic regulators. The presentation will examine these updates and any subsequent revisions, highlighting their implications for industry stakeholders and offering guidance on navigating the evolving regulatory landscape.

By reviewing both the initial draft and the latest updates, the session will give attendees a clear understanding of emerging EU space law requirements, helping operators anticipate compliance obligations and align their mission planning with European regulatory expectations.