UNIS/OS/594
31 January 2024

UN Office for Outer Space Affairs and Exolaunch sign agreement to launch CubeSats into space

VIENNA, 31 January (United Nations Information Service) — The United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) and Exolaunch GmbH (Exolaunch) have signed an agreement to provide free launch opportunities for Cube Satellites (CubeSats) to offer more countries access to space.

This collaboration is part of the Access to Space for All initiative, which aims to foster capacity-building in space science and technology by providing hands-on and educational opportunities. Access to Space for All allows participants to gain invaluable knowledge and experience while supporting space activities in developing countries.

Through the Satellite Development Track, the initiative has supported four countries to launch their first satellite and more CubeSats and payloads are being developed through the different programmes. The CubeSats have not only built capacity in human capital but also contributed to the Sustainable Development Goals through their missions, engaged governments in aligning with international space law, registration practices and guidelines, and motivated younger generations in their countries to pursue STEM education and space careers.  

The development of CubeSats has become more affordable and is an achievable entry point to space activities. With a clear need from the community to have more options to access space, this joint CubeSat launch opportunity will offer more chances for UN Member States to be engaged in space activities. As the significant role of satellites in our societies is becoming more understood, UNOOSA and Exolaunch will continue to promote the development of space activities and cooperation in the peaceful uses of outer space.

Director of UNOOSA Aarti Holla Maini said: "I would like to thank Exolaunch for providing us with the opportunity to offer more developing countries access to space and with it the increased benefits of space technology and applications in support of the Sustainable Development Goals. I look forward to opening the call soon.”

Founder and Chief Executive Office of Exolaunch Dmitriy Sternharz said: "Exolaunch is honoured to collaborate with UNOOSA in providing free of charge launch opportunities through the Access to Space for All initiative. This collaboration reflects our commitment to fostering growth in the STEM field and empowering developing countries to participate in space activities. We are excited about the positive impact this partnership will have on global space endeavours and look forward to contributing to the implementation of Sustainable Development Goals."

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For more information, please contact:

Access to Space for All initiative Team
United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA)
Email: unoosa-access-to-space[at]un.org