25 March 2026 | 10:00 - 15:30 CET
Open Session - HYBRID
Room: Mødelokale 1
Organiser: Elena Cirkovic (Aarhus University, Denmark)
Session Description:
This panel examines the integration of space-based earth observation systems for Arctic climate monitoring within a full life cycle framework. Earth observation satellites provide data for Arctic temperature monitoring, ice sheet dynamics, permafrost changes, and atmospheric greenhouse gas concentrations. The panel addresses the operational cycle from mission design and deployment through data acquisition, processing, and end-of-mission disposal.
Arctic orbital sustainability faces constraints from polar orbital requirements for regional coverage. Space debris accumulation in polar orbits affects the long-term viability of Arctic earth observation missions. The panel examines regulatory frameworks governing sustainable space operations in Arctic monitoring contexts, including orbital debris mitigation protocols and international coordination mechanisms.
Legal frameworks for Arctic space operations require examination of territorial sovereignty issues, data sharing agreements, and environmental protection protocols. The intersection of space law and Arctic governance creates regulatory gaps that affect mission planning and international cooperation. Indigenous rights considerations in Arctic earth observation data collection and utilization present legal and ethical dimensions.
The panel will focus specifically on Arctic orbital sustainability challenges and the legal frameworks necessary to ensure continued earth observation capabilities for Arctic climate research.
Participants:
- Vitali Braun, European Space Agency
- Claire Elss, Cosmos for Humanity
- Elena Cirkovic, Aarhus University
- Elena Kavanagh, University College Cork
- Romain Chuffart, University of Akureyri