French Space Operations Act (LOS): Complete Compliance Guide

France's LOS, enacted in 2008, was Europe's first comprehensive national space law and remains a reference for EU Space Act development.

Who Needs Authorization?

French authorization is required if you:

• Are a French entity conducting space operations

• Launch from French territory (including Kourou)

• Return space objects to French territory

• Control space operations from France

The Authorization Process

1. Pre-Application: Contact CNES early 2. Application: Submit to the Minister 3. Technical Review: CNES evaluates conformity 4. Decision: Typically 4-6 months

Transition to EU Space Act

When the EU Space Act enters force, French authorization will satisfy EU requirements through mutual recognition across all member states.