Breaking into the Space Sector: Law, Policy, and Emerging Opportunities

Date & Time: May 15, 2026 (Friday) 13:30-14:30

Venue: Room 723, 7/F Cheng Yu Tung Tower, The University of Hong Kong

Language: English

(In-person Event)   

Abstract:

The global space sector is entering a new phase of activity, marked by major milestones such as the continued success of the Artemis programme, signalling increased human presence and broader participation in space. As more actors across public, private, and non-traditional sectors become involved, existing legal and policy frameworks are being tested in unprecedented ways. This lecture explores key legal challenges, including responsibility and liability, the regulation of commercial actors, space sustainability, and governance gaps in emerging technologies. Drawing on experience with international processes such as the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS), the session will also highlight the importance of a “Space for All” approach demonstrating how individuals from diverse sectors can engage with and contribute to shaping space governance. It will emphasise the urgent need for more inclusive, adaptive, and forward-looking legal frameworks.

Speaker：

Pelin Kurtaran is a space law and policy professional based in London. She holds an LL.M. in Space Law from Northumbria University and a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations and Politics. She currently serves as Legal Team Lead at AstroAid Foundation, focusing on the application of space technologies for global health and humanitarian impact. Pelin has been actively involved in international space policy through the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) and has contributed to projects and collaborations with organisations such as UNOOSA, ESA, and NASA.

Chair:

Professor Yun Zhao is Henry Cheng Professor in International Law and Associate Dean, Faculty of Law, The University of Hong Kong

This is an in-person event. Prior registration is required. Please visit https://bit.ly/4tPF1l4 to register. For inquiries, please email Louisa at .

To watch recordings of past CCL events, please subscribe to our YouTube channel: The Centre for Chinese Law – YouTube. To keep up with our activities, follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/CCLHKU. Philip K.H. Wong Centre for Chinese Law at The University of Hong Kong promotes legal scholarship with the aim to develop a deeper understanding of China and facilitate dialogue between East and West. For more information, visit: Philip K.H. Wong Centre for Chinese Law