1. Histories, philosophy, and futures

This conference track addresses the spatial and temporal dimensions of Earth-Space sustainability, focusing on the conceptions and understandings of Earth-Space systems based on diverse cosmological imaginaries. It draws on history, Indigenous and alternative knowledge systems, ancient and modern astronomy, as well as futures studies.

2. Environmental sustainability and integrity

This track focuses on the legal and governance implications related to environmental sustainability and the integrity of the Earth system and other celestial bodies resulting from human-driven space activities. Topics of interest include the atmospheric borderlands, where Earth- and space-based impacts or activities interact (e.g. potential ozone depletion from launches, satellite re-entries and burn-ups), space debris, as well as the integrity of other planets, moons, and asteroids. What are the implications for law and governance,, and in what ways should sustainability governance reform or transform in the context of other celestial bodies?

3. Commons, resource and data governance

This track addresses the governance of access, use, and distribution of resources and data, including from a commons perspective. Topics of interest include, but are not limited to, access and distribution of radio spectrum and orbital space, governance of space resources such as water, metals, or helium-3, the management of space data access and distribution for space applications and science, as well as the protection of space heritage as a commons. 

4. Anticipatory governance of anthropogenic and natural space risks

This track considers the questions of how to prepare for, and respond to, a variety of space-related risks, including gamma ray bursts, biological contamination, Kessler syndrome, asteroid impacts, and other concerns related to planetary risk governance. Contributions could assess gaps in existing legal and governance frameworks, or propose potential options, including by drawing on experiences learned from other issue areas.

5. Peace, politics, and stability

What are the implications for peace, politics, and stability, amidst rising Earth-Space sustainability challenges? What are the consequences in terms of global and/or planetary (dis)orders, and in what ways should governance reform or transform to ensure peaceful, just, and stable futures on a planetary level and beyond?

Registration will open in January 2026. The registration will be around 200 Euros and includes access to the venue, coffee, tea and snacks throughout the conference, and a welcome reception. Meals, travel, and accommodation are not covered by the fee and need to be arranged by participants. Special fees or waivers may apply to early career researchers, those affiliated with an institution from a country in the Global South, and select others.