SatDSiG readiness for operators and counsel
Germany does not have a single LOS-style space-activities statute. The Satellite Data Security Act (SatDSiG) is the core published law most operators meet first: it is an Earth-observation data-security regime, not a general licence for every orbital activity. High-resolution EO missions trigger SatDSiG procedures; other German space activities typically run through federal ministries and DLR practice (including UN registry filings). Export of spacecraft parts is a separate stack — BAFA / EU Dual-Use 2021/821 and, where US content is present, ITAR/EAR — handled in Caelex Passage, not as a SatDSiG substitute. The proposed EU Space Act (COM(2025) 335) is not yet in force and would sit alongside SatDSiG if adopted. Software is not legal advice and does not grant a German licence.
National Space Law
Satellite Data Security Act (SatDSiG)
- •SatDSiG focuses on high-resolution Earth observation data security — not a general space-operations licence
- •EO missions above sensitivity thresholds require SatDSiG procedures (see the official text; do not rely on marketing summaries for the cut-off)
- •Data-security concepts and dissemination controls for sensitive imagery
- •UN space-object registration practice via DLR — confirm current process with the agency
- •Space hardware exports are BAFA / EU Dual-Use / ITAR-EAR, not SatDSiG alone
National Competent Authority (NCA)
DLR
German Aerospace Center (DLR) / Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs
Authorization Requirements
- Application to Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs
- Technical dossier including satellite specifications
- Data security concept
- Proof of financial capacity
- Third-party liability insurance
Insurance & Liability
Minimum EUR 60 million third-party liability coverage required. Higher amounts may be required based on mission risk assessment.
Official sources
Caelex products for this jurisdiction
Key Differences from EU Space Act
The proposed EU Space Act (COM(2025) 335) is not yet in force. If adopted it would add a Union authorization and safety layer. SatDSiG would remain the German EO data-security statute. Do not treat the proposal as binding or as a replacement for SatDSiG. Software is not legal advice.
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