OSI Fellows and Junior Fellows submitted this comment in response to ISED’s proposed framework for consideration of debris mitigation via station-keeping, collision avoidance, and end-of-life considerations, among others. Our comment intends to support for debris mitigation measures, suggest improved methods, and emphasize the need to protect Dark and Quiet Skies and the Earth-Space environment.
Are we losing control of outer space?
Exerpts from OSI Co-Chair Aaron Boley’s 2024 Dan MacLennan Memorial Lecture in Astronomy, held at Saint Mary’s University in Halifax. CBC Radio Ideas.
Comment on Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada’s (ISED) consultation on the Policy, Licensing and Technical Framework for Supplemental Mobile Coverage by Satellite (SMCS)
OSI Fellows and Junior Fellows submitted this comment in response to ISED’s proposed framework for the allocation of certain radio frequency bands to mobile services coverage via satellite, with the intention of highlighting the potential threats to radio and optical astronomy that could come from these satellites.
This comment was further endorsed by the President of the Canadian Astronomical Society – Société Canadienne d’Astronomie (CASCA), the Executive Director of the Association of Canadian Universities for Research in Astronomy (ACURA), and astronomers from across Canada.
OSI response to NASA’s Office of Technology, Policy, and Strategy (OTPS) Lunar Non-Interference Questionnaire
A response prepared by OSI Fellows and Junior Fellows to a May 2024 Lunar Non-Interference Questionnaire developed by NASA’s Office of Technology, Policy, and Strategy (OTPS). This processes intends to survey the lunar community to “inform the development of a framework for further work on non-interference of lunar activities.”
Comment on Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) proposed rule on “Mitigation Methods for Launch Vehicle Upper Stages on the Creation of Orbital Debris”
Comment provided by Ewan Wright, Charlotte Hook, Aaron Boley and Michael Byers
2023 Canadian Space Agency (CSA) Public Consultation on Canada’s Space Regulatory Framework
Several OSI Fellows have submitted a short report and recommendations as part of the 2023 Canadian Space Agency public consultation on Canada’s space regulatory framework.
Response to the CSA Request for Consultation on a Framework for Future Space Exploration
Aaron Boley and Sam Lawler have submitted a report and recommendations concerning the impacts of satellite mega-constellations on astronomy.
Upon signing the Artemis Accords, the Government of Canada announced a consultation process on a framework for space exploration. As per the call, “The Government of Canada is seeking views from industry, academia, non-governmental groups, and the general public to expand, refine, and solidify this framework to help ensure safe and sustainable space exploration for decades to come.”
The OSI’s response can be viewed here (link), which calls for a commitment to full multilateral negotiations, emphasizes the need for Canada to urgently develop its position on space exploration activities, and highlights several areas where Canada can take leadership roles.