The Future of Outer Space Security 2025

As our reliance on space-based technologies intensifies, maintaining a peaceful and cooperative space environment becomes ever more crucial. However, this task is increasingly complicated by the rising number of space actors and the threat of militarization.

To confront these challenges, international cooperation, strong legal frameworks, and responsible exploration are vital. 

This online course delves into the heart of this emerging frontier, equipping you with a deep understanding of the complex challenges and opportunities in space security.

You will gain unparalleled insights into the strategies and policies shaping the future of space, empowering you to engage with a challenging topic that is critical to global security. 

Learning objectives

This course dives deep into the emerging field of space security, examining how new technologies and practices will shape future conflicts and ethical dilemmas. You'll gain expertise in: 

• Defining Space Security: Understand the global significance of space and its role in modern conflicts. 
• Analysing Current Trends: Explore the latest developments in space technology and their impact on international security. 
• Developing Critical Thinking: Evaluate the roles of different actors and technologies in space security. 
• Forecasting Future Risks: Learn to assess the potential threats posed by advancements in space-related capabilities. 

Confirmed speakers

• Ambassador Thomas Greminger, Executive Director of the GCSP
• Professor Nayef Al-Rodhan, Course Director and Director of the Geopolitics and Global Futures Department, GCSP
• Dr Francesca Letizia, Space Debris Mitigation and Re-entry Safety Engineer, ESA’s Independent Safety Office, Noordwijk-Binnen, Netherlands 
• Professor Dr Kai-Uwe Schrogl, President, International Institute of Space Law (IISL), Paris, France
• Professor Dr Thomas Schildknecht, Vice-Director, Astronomical Institute, University of Bern, Switzerland
• Mr Clayton Swope, Deputy Director, Aerospace Security Project and Senior Fellow, International Security Program, Center for Strategic and International Studies, Washington DC, USA
• Mr Simon Cleobury, Head, Arms Control and Disarmament, GCSP
• Dr Michael K. Simpson, Director Emeritus of Secure World Foundation, Professor of Space Policy and Law at International Space University, Senior Fellow of IISC, Boulder, CO, USA
• Mr Sergey Gugkaev, Executive-in-residence Fellow, GCSP, and former Chief Executive Officer at Sea Launch and former Chief Commercial Officer at ClearSpace

Provisional Course Schedule

Day 1: 05 February 2025

• 11:05 – 13:00: Live Sessions
• 13:00 – 14:30: Break
• 14:30 – 16:35: Live Sessions

Day 2: 06 February 2025

• Morning: Independent Study
• 13:00 – 16:50: Live Sessions

The sessions will be recorded and posted online for viewing by confirmed participants after they are held live.

All information you need to know (language, certification, technical and application process) before applying to the GCSP are available here. 

You will receive a GCSP certificate once you have completed all the course modules to the satisfaction of the course director.

This course is ideal for government officials, international organisations, security experts, defence policy planners, and intelligence professionals. It also provides valuable insights for private sector representatives, NGOs, journalists, and anyone interested in navigating the complex interplay of security, technology, and international cooperation in the extraterrestrial environment.

The GCSP reserves the right to modify the programme dates, location and fee at any time. 
15% Early-Bird Discount if you apply before 01 january 2025. GCSP Alumni qualify for a 20% discount on the standard rate of 500 CHF.