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National Laws
8 min readJanuary 28, 2025

German SatDSiG: Satellite Data Security Compliance Guide

Guide to Germany's Satellitendatensicherheitsgesetz for Earth observation operators. Licensing and data security requirements.

Germany's SatDSiG regulates high-resolution Earth observation satellite systems to protect security interests.

Who Needs a License?

You need a SatDSiG license if you're a German operator of Earth observation satellites exceeding resolution thresholds:

  • Optical: 2.5m ground resolution
  • SAR: 3m resolution

The Licensing Process

Apply to the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs. Processing typically takes 3-6 months.

Data Distribution Controls

Before distributing high-resolution data: 1. Submit sensitivity check request 2. Automated or manual assessment 3. Approval or denial

Some distributions are pre-approved for government agencies and NATO partners.

Note: EU Space Act doesn't replace SatDSiG. Dual compliance required.

GermanySatDSiGEarth ObservationData Security
V.i.S.d.P. (§ 18 Abs. 2 MStV): Caelex · Caelex, Am Maselakepark 37, 13587 Berlin, Deutschland · Kontakt: legal@caelex.eu

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.

German SatDSiG: Satellite Data Security Compliance Guide | Caelex