Space Regulation in Belgium

Belgium's 2005 space law was among the first national space laws in Europe. BELSPO (Belgian Science Policy Office) manages space activities authorization and registration.

National Space Law

Law on Activities of Launching, Flight Operation and Guidance of Space Objects 2005

•Authorization for launch, orbital operations, and ground control
•Mandatory registration of space objects
•Third-party liability requirements
•Supervision and inspection provisions

National Competent Authority (NCA)

BELSPO

Belgian Science Policy Office (BELSPO)

Authorization Requirements

Application to BELSPO
Technical dossier
Financial guarantees
Insurance certification
Operational procedures

Insurance & Liability

Determined based on mission risk assessment. Minimum amounts apply with state guarantee provisions for excess liability.

Key Differences from EU Space Act

Belgium's space law predates EU efforts and may require updates to fully align with EU Space Act requirements, particularly regarding cybersecurity and debris mitigation.