Education and Skill Development

Many Indian university and institutes are taking participation in the development of space technologies. Recently, developed by students from the Chandigarh University, Indian Institute of Technology-Kanpur, IIT-Bombay, and 11 other institutions, designed satellites to promote the Internet of Things (IoT) in space. These satellites are all conceptualized, designed, and developed by students from across India.

Further, Chandigarh University has launched Student Satellite Designing and Training program 'CUSAT' and it has become North India's first University to launch the advanced training program for the students.

Key satellite technologies

• Optical Inter-Satellite Links – Enable data transfer between two satellites using high-bandwidth infrared laser-based optical data communications.

• Phased Array Beam Forming – Offers data transmission between satellites and ground stations or user terminals using microwave bands which can work even under cloud covers.

• Electric Propulsion – Solar panel enabled propulsion that uses electrostatic or electromagnetic fields for maneuvering and de-orbiting of satellites.

• Orbital Information Sharing – Transparent sharing of orbital data with other satellite providers and launch companies to avoid space accidents.

• Collision Avoidance System – Advanced system for minimizing collision risks, specifically with space derbies.

Benefits

Limitations

Governments

• Connect with citizens in remote areas.

• Provide eGoverment services.

Military

• Remote border locations.

• Naval ships and coast guards.

• Warzones.

Media & Entertainment

• Digital entertainment and gaming.

Digital Commerce

• Expand reach to potential customers.

• Real time data exchange with delivery services

Energy & Utilities

• Offshore oil fields – Crew and equipment connectivity

• Oil and gas pipeline monitoring

• Power transmission lines

Maritime/ Transport/Cargo

• Cargo ship connectivity

• Rail and road transport

• Logistics services

Tourism

• Airlines

• Cruise ship tourists

• Hiking groups and remote area expeditions

Licenses and Authorizations

Every space internet system provides internet coverage that spans across many nations. A huge challenge is the varying regulatory approaches of nations in dealing with internet access. There is a need for international coordination to avoid conflicts among the differing regulations.

In India, some of the regulatory requirements include obtaining:

• authorization to own and operate an Indian registered satellite system, including for the spacecraft control center,

• authorization to operate a ground station in accordance with the radio regulations published by the International Telecommunications Union; and

• A license to provide services from the satellite system.

Spectrum Allocation

Space internet operates on a limited radio frequency spectrum that is suitable for space-to-ground communication. Allocating and managing the radio frequency spectrum for satellite communication is critical as the demand is increasing rapidly.

Space internet providers have to seek and obtain necessary licenses and authorizations from the relevant regulatory bodies in every nation in which they want to provide services. Coordinating and allocating these frequencies fairly and efficiently among multiple providers, while also considering terrestrial users, requires a robust regulatory framework.

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) plays a crucial role in this process, especially coordinating the use of frequency bands across nations, to prevent interference among satellite systems and ensure efficient spectrum utilization.

Data Protection

Space Internet providers would need to ensure compliance with the applicable data protection laws specifically about the collection, storage, processing, and transfer of user data. Operating in multiple jurisdictions and legal systems, managing data sovereignty issues is critical for providers.

For India, if a provider processes personal data of a user, it would have to mandatorily seek the consent of the user, disclose the purpose behind data collection and processing, and set up procedures to seek grievance redressal for the user.

Liability and Insurance

Determining liability in the event of satellite collisions, service interruptions, or other incidents is a complex legal issue. International treaties are needed for liability standards. Space internet providers and satellite operators may also need to secure insurance coverage.

Intellectual Property Rights

Space internet systems, and satellite technology in general, involve significant intellectual property considerations. IP rights protections are typically provided within a specific jurisdiction, with some reciprocity to other jurisdictions. However, due to the extraterritorial nature of these technologies, space internet companies may face legal challenges related to patents, trade secrets, and other intellectual property rights.

National Security

Space technology is a dual-use technology with applications in the missile programs of the military. Foreign investments in such technologies are often scrutinized deeply for national security purposes. Still, a question arises that, how can one nation ensure responsible behavior and prevent militarization of space by other states and non-state entities?

In India, 100% FDI through automatic route is allowed only in certain areas of technologies and activities related to space internet. The other areas require prior approval through the government route and/or less than 100% FDI. You can find more about it from our hotlines… Boost to India’s Space Potential: India Liberalizes Foreign Direct Investment – Part 1 and Part 2.

In addition, internet services provided by foreign entities may also raise concerns for countries. Some countries may feel that their national security and sovereignty are compromised, especially with respect to potentially harmful content, culturally and politically sensitive issues, data security, and privacy.

Satellites from operators based in countries hostile to each other could potentially interfere with each other, disrupting services and creating security challenges. Clear rules and protocols for managing interference are essential and need to be adhered to by all nations.

Environmental Considerations

Space Internet requires satellite launches that involve hazardous materials such as propellants, batteries, and electronic components, which have an impact on the environment. Providers need to adhere to stringent waste management practices in handling, transporting, and disposing of these materials to prevent environmental contamination.

In addition, with the rapidly increasing number of satellites in space, the management of space debris has emerged as a major challenge. We need to develop international laws, especially for commercial enterprises, for defining responsibilities for debris mitigation measures, end-of-life disposal, and liability in the event of collisions that generate additional debris.

Another concern is the light pollution in space which affects astronomy research. Satellites, especially their constellations orbiting continuously around the Earth, can reduce the visibility of the night sky and interfere with astronomical observations conducted from ground-based observatories.

When we consider all these complex issues and the global nature of space activities, there is a need for greater international coordination and collaboration. This includes the development of international agreements and standards to ensure the responsible use of space. Existing international frameworks do not sufficiently address these issues.

The Outer Space Treaty of 1967 establishes broad principles for space activities by nations, but specific regulations for space internet are lacking. Which national laws apply to satellites and their operations, and how to handle issues like data privacy and cybersecurity across sovereign boundaries remain unresolved. This is further complicated by the increasing involvement of private companies.

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