French Space Operations Act (LOS): Complete Compliance Guide
Understanding France's Loi relative aux opérations spatiales. Authorization requirements and CNES procedures explained.
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.
Next step
Run the structured assessment for a map of obligation clusters, or book a walkthrough. The result is a file to review with counsel — not a licence and not legal advice.