Breakthrough

Europe temporarily lost independent access to space, but Ariane 6 and Vega-C restore it, highlighting launch capability as critical infrastructure.

Artemis II marks the return of humans beyond low Earth orbit and the shift from exploration to building sustainable space infrastructure, despite rising costs and growing commercial competition.

In 2026, the European Space Agency launched Celeste, a LEO navigation system to enhance Galileo with better accuracy and resilience.

Africa’s space sector is growing, but the key challenge is turning this progress into real benefits for society.

Satellite-to-phone technology could connect millions of offline Africans using regular smartphones.
Companies like Starlink and AST SpaceMobile are leading this innovation.
It could bridge the digital divide, though regulatory challenges remain.

The African Space Agency (AfSA), part of the African Union, coordinates the continent's space activities since its inauguration in Cairo in April 2025. It supports Earth observation, navigation, satellite communications, and astronomy, while training African space professionals. Its challenges include stable funding, governance, and coordination among member states.

The rise of non-geostationary satellite megaconstellations has rapidly increased global rocket launches, with a record 263 in 2024. Most launches now serve small-satellite constellations, driven by private companies and reusable rocket technology, which have lowered costs and expanded access. New commercial space firms worldwide are developing rockets of all sizes, and sea-based launches are growing, especially in China. The industry is valued at $13.6 billion and continues to grow quickly, with thousands of new satellites expected in the coming years and more countries building their own launch capabilities.

HAPS technologies promise enhanced rural connectivity with emerging advancements. Challenges remain in operational economics and collaboration models. Uncertainty over D2D services further complicates HAPS' potential role in bridging connectivity gaps.

Regulations are adapting to D2D satellite services all around the world. Nations are balancing mobile and satellite interests through primary allocation, shared-use models, and spectrum protection, aiming to resolve spectrum challenges before WRC-27

This handbook outlines India’s space regulations, providing actionable guidance for global companies. It details authorization processes, investment frameworks, and compliance strategies essential for engaging with India’s dynamic space economy.