U.S. Representative Ryan Guglietta addressed the 62nd session of the STSC of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) in Vienna, Austria, on February 7, 2025. His statement emphasized the importance of long-term sustainability of outer space activities.
"In 2024, we set a new record for spaceflight with over 250 launches," Guglietta noted. He highlighted that more than 80 countries now have satellites in orbit, benefiting from the advancements in space technology. This increase includes significant contributions from the commercial space sector, such as satellite constellation operators.
The U.S. representative underscored the importance of preserving the space environment, referencing the 2020 U.S. National Space Policy. This policy underscores the need for long-term sustainability in outer space activities.
Guglietta pointed out the necessity of tracking space objects to predict and avoid collisions. The Department of Defense has provided tracking data for over a decade and this responsibility is gradually shifting to a civilian system managed by the Department of Commerce through the Traffic Coordination System for Space (TraCCS), as directed by Space Policy Directive 3 in 2018.
He reiterated the United States' commitment to the safe and sustainable use of space, aligning with the UNCOPUOS' 21 Guidelines for the Long-Term Sustainability of Outer Space Activities. While progress has been made under the leadership of Mr. Umamaheshwaran and the LTS working group, Guglietta stressed that more work remains.
"It is difficult to overstate the impact that the LTS guidelines have had on the international space community," he said. He urged the committee to produce a report that showcases Member States' achievements and future work recommendations, expressing optimism for a consensus-driven outcome.
Guglietta concluded his remarks by emphasizing the importance of this report to avoid misconceptions about UNCOPUOS's progress and to highlight meaningful, consensus-based recommendations for the future.
Thank you, Chair.