Environmental Obligations for Space Startups in India

The extent of space activities is evolving at a pace that has never been seen before, particularly due to easing of norms for privatizing the space sector India which has presented unprecedented opportunities (and unforeseen challenges) in the Indian space ecosystem. As India seeks to establish itself as a global leader in space tech and space entrepreneurship, the Indian Space Policy, 2023 (“ISP”) and the accompanying Norms, Guidelines, and Procedures for Implementation of ISP 2023 in respect of Authorisation of Space Activities 2024 (“NGP”) outline an ever-evolving framework. A critical aspect of this framework is the environmental responsibility that is placed on space startups, which reflects India’s commitment to sustainable space exploration and utilization.

Environmental Obligations under ISP and NGP

1. Mitigation of Space Debris: Space debris is a growing concern, with thousands of defunct satellites and fragments posing collision risks. ISP obliges space startups to incorporate debris mitigation measures in their mission planning by mandating spacecraft designs that have end-of-life disposal mechanisms; enforcing adherence to post-mission disposal guidelines, ensuring that satellites in low-Earth orbit re-enter the atmosphere within 25 years of mission completion; and mandating avoidance of deliberate fragmentation of spacecraft.
2. Sustainable Launch Practices: Startups are obliged to reduce their environmental impact through measures including cutting back on pollutants and emissions. The policy also emphasizes the necessity of adopting reusable launch vehicles and making efficient use of green propellants.
3. Environmental Impact Assessments: Startups are required to carry out thorough assessments for their initiatives as part of the NGP’s space activity authorization procedure. All space tech companies wishing to obtain authorization to begin operations must analyze the possible effects of their space operations on both terrestrial and orbital environments.
4. Compliance with International Standards: ISP mandates startups’ alignment with globally recognized guidelines, such as those developed by the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (UNCOPUOS). This includes adherence to the “Guidelines for the Long-term Sustainability of Outer Space Activities.”
5. Penalties for Non-Compliance: A strong penalty system is included in the guidelines to discourage violations. Startups that violate environmental standards risk financial penalties, authorization suspension, or blacklisting from further space operations.

India’s space ecosystem, supported by ISP 2023, is poised to foster a new generation of startups that prioritize sustainability. This not only ensures compliance with regulatory frameworks but also positions these companies as global leaders in responsible space exploration.

Conclusion

As India aims to become a USD 45 billion space economy in the next decade, it becomes increasingly important to balance the extra-terrestrial aspirations with India’s sustainability obligations under different international conventions. The environmental obligations outlined in ISP/NGP are a welcome start to provide a basic regulatory framework to space entrepreneurs. These obligations are not merely regulatory hurdles but an opportunity to innovate and contribute to the long-term sustainability of every company’s operation.