In this episode of “Space Matters: The Space Governance podcast”, join our chair, Dr. Cassandra Steer, as she discusses Earth Observation, its role in our daily lives, its applications, and its governance. Our special guest, Stephen Ward, shares his journey into the space sector and discusses his work with Symbios in Earth Observation governance. This episode explores the transformative potential of Earth Observation to both change and save the world, while also addressing the recent cancellation of the National Space Mission for Earth Observation.

We examine the risks associated with data dependency, the necessity for continuity, and the international institutions governing these advanced technologies. The discussion also covers the involvement of the commercial sector, highlighting both the opportunities and concerns it brings to Earth Observation. Tune in to learn how Australia can best position itself to manage and responsibly use commercial space activities.

Check out the papers we discuss in this episode and additional resources you may find interesting:

ACSG report on EO data: https://www.spacegovcentre.org/_files/ugd/ed2eed_e154dbf09cc34fa7b7088d7794df0f73.pdf

Continuity of EO Data for Australia: https://www.eoa.org.au/news/2024/4/9/continuity-of-earth-observation-data-for-australia-risks-report-released

Symbios Communications: https://symbios.space/

CEOS: https://ceos.org/about-ceos/overview/