Reflections on the International Astronautical Congress 2025

Key themes defining the sector

This year’s IAC theme – “Sustainable Space: Resilient Earth” – captured both the urgency and opportunity driving today’s global space industry. Across the week, conversations focused on how to build a sustainable future in orbit and on Earth: from ensuring the long-term management of orbital debris and space traffic, to advancing frameworks for international cooperation on governance, data sharing, and resource utilisation.

Speakers also highlighted the growing convergence between space and terrestrial industries — with applications in mining, agriculture, logistics, climate resilience, and emergency services all demonstrating how the benefits of space technologies extend well beyond orbit. Underpinning these discussions was a shared recognition that the future of the space economy depends not only on innovation, but on collaboration, responsible regulation, and sustained investment.

For the Asia-Pacific region, IAC 2025 marked a defining moment. The week showcased a rapidly maturing ecosystem of private operators, investors, and government agencies, underscoring the region’s growing role in the global space economy. As commercial activity accelerates, so too does the need for clear and consistent legal, regulatory, and governance frameworks that balance innovation, risk, and accountability – ensuring space remains an accessible and sustainable domain for generations to come.

Highlights from IAC 2025 Sydney

As part of IAC 2025, Norton Rose Fulbright were proud to sponsor the inaugural IAC Fun Run, which brought together more than 600 delegates along Sydney Harbour – an energetic symbol of the community driving the future of space. We were also delighted to host a networking reception in collaboration with the Space Industry Association of Australia (SIAA) and the Aerospace Industries Association (AIA), bringing together leaders from industry, government, and research to discuss new opportunities for growth and global cooperation.

Our perspective

At Norton Rose Fulbright, we see the future of space as being built on collaboration – between public and private actors, across jurisdictions, and throughout the global value chain. Our Space and Satellite Law practice brings together lawyers and advisors with deep sector experience in regulation, investment, risk, and sustainability to help clients navigate this fast-evolving industry with confidence.

It was a pleasure connecting with both presenters and delegates during IAC 2025 Sydney, and we look forward to continuing the conversations and collaborations that began throughout the week. If we can support you or your organisation as the space sector continues to grow and mature, we would welcome the opportunity to connect.