SWF Briefs Space Rendezvous and Proximity Operations and Implications for Space Security at UNDC

Thursday, April 11, 2019

SWF Director of Program Planning Dr. Brian Weeden gave an informal presentation to members of the United Nations Disarmament Commission (UNDC) on the link between space rendezvous and proximity operations (RPO) and space security. Dr. Weeden provide an overview of current and planned RPO activities by both commercial and governmental entities, including those to support satellite servicing, space debris removal, intelligence collection, and co-orbital ASAT testing. Dr. Weeden discussed how these activities provide challenges for space security and stability, including discriminating between peaceful and potentially hostile activities in space and developing future norms, agreements, and verification regimes to constrain irresponsible behavior.