Could Switzerland’s first national space law help companies get space insurance?

With the recent news from the US about market changes, the global system is changing and that's the same in space. The Artemis Accords, a US-led framework to collaborate on efforts to the develop the moon continues to gain support. At the same time, China's International Lunar Research Station also showcases their ambition and passion. For many nations keen to access the cis-lunar economy and partake in lunar exploration, they are faced with increasingly polarized choices.

Closer to home, orbital traffic is increasing and the need for better collision avoidance and planning is urgently needed. In Europe, countries such as the UK and Switzerland hope to play a mediating role. In early 2025, the Swiss parliament opened a public consultation for Switzerland’s first national space law. 

Why the proposed Swiss law matters to everyone

With the proposed law on space operations, Switzerland will be able to implement three key aspects of international space governance that benefit global space activities:

1. UN registration: By creating a framework for operators to register their missions, Switzerland increases transparency in space operations – an essential step, as orbital traffic increases.
2. Liability convention: The law recognizes principles of international liability for space activities, establishing clear responsibility for potential damages.
3. Space sustainability: By including provisions for risk reduction and sustainable operations, Switzerland contributes to preserving space as a global commonplace.

This will have profound implications for companies wishing to launch and operate space assets. Without increased space governance, space insurance providers are increasingly hesitant to provide cover for satellites.

Given that over half of the 55-60 Essential Climate Variables (ECVs) can only be measured from space, this has huge implications on humanity's ability to tackle climate change.

Switzerland's proposed law on space operations may not make headlines like the latest rocket launch, but its impact on how we collectively manage our activities beyond Earth's atmosphere could prove just as significant in the long run.

www.swissinfo.ch/...