Global Space Connectivity & Sustainability Events
Connected Earth
Sustainable Space
- 12–14 October 2026
- Riyadh, the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) headquarter
Days
Hours
Minutes
Seconds
About the event
The Global Space Connectivity & Sustainability Events
The 2026 Global Space Connectivity & Sustainability Events, co-organized by CST Saudi Arabia and the ITU, combines 2 established events “Connecting the World from the Skies” and the “Space Sustainability Forum” into a flagship reflecting a strategic direction toward unifying international efforts to foster innovation in non-terrestrial networks and promote the space sustainability.
The event brings together representatives from regulatory bodies in the space and satellite communications sectors at both the national and international levels, along with device manufacturers, space service providers, and a distinguished group of global technology experts and researchers.
2026 Themes
Key Themes
2026 Events
Learn More About Each Event
Key topics
Session
Joint Grand Opening & High-Level Keynotes — "Where Connectivity and Sustainability Meet"
Welcome addresses from the Secretary-General of ITU and the Governor of CST. High-level keynote presentations, a VIP fireside chat and interventions from key industry and policy leaders will then follow, addressing both the satellite connectivity and space sustainability agendas. All speakers and interventions to represent both event pillars with the aim of setting the scene for the discussions over the 3 days.
- 11:00 – 11:30 Welcome Addresses
- 11:30 – 12:20 Thought Leadership Panel Discussion
Keynote
Keynote Presentation
A high-level 15-minute keynote presentation. Topic to be confirmed.Lunch Break
Panel
From Ambition to Access: The Role of Satellite in Achieving Universal Access
What will it take to connect the billions who remain unconnected, and what role can NTNs play in this? This session explores the current state of the global satellite connectivity landscape, the evolving roles of GEO, MEO and LEO operators, the emergence of direct-to-device services, and the technological, commercial and regulatory challenges that will shape the road to universal access.Session
Presentation of the winners of the “Non-Terrestrial Networks 2026” International Research Competition
Presentation Ceremony to announce the winners of the 3rd edition of the IEEE "Non-Terrestrial Networks 2026" International Research Competition.Demonstration
Spotlight Session #1
More information about this session will be available shortly.Panel
A Shared Responsibility: Shaping Global Norms and Responsible Behaviour for a Sustainable Space
The role of international frameworks, transparency, standards and confidence-building measures. How can global coordination mechanisms foster responsible behaviour across all space actors - from legacy operators to new commercial mega-constellation entrants?Afternoon Break
Keynote
Keynote Presentation
A high-level 15-minute keynote presentation.Panel
Direct-to-Device (i): Evolving Business Models, Partnerships and the Path to Commercialisation
The first of two sessions on direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity will focus on the commercial and partnership landscape shaping the technology's development. It will explore emerging business models, evolving market structures, and the growing partnerships between satellite and mobile network operators. The discussion will examine how these collaborations can support the successful commercialisation and scaling of D2D services, while highlighting the broader social and economic benefits that widespread D2D connectivity can deliver.Panel
Growth Without Compromise: Balancing Connectivity Ambitions with Space Sustainability
Scaling satellite connectivity is no longer just a question of capacity and coverage; it is a question of responsibility. This session examines how connectivity ambitions depend on, and must be balanced against, responsible space governance; exploring whether the two goals are in tension or ultimately mutually reinforcing. It will take a broad view of sustainability, spanning not only orbital congestion and debris but also equitable spectrum access, interference-free use, and fair access to space for all nations.
Keynote
Keynote Presentation
A high-level 15-minute keynote presentation.
Keynote
Keynote Presentation
A high-level 15-minute keynote presentation.Panel
Satellites and 6G: Integrating Satellite Systems into Future Connectivity Architecture
How can multi-orbital and multi frequency satellite systems be leveraged as part of future 6G architectures to deliver seamless, resilient and globally inclusive connectivity. What regulatory and technical foundations are required?Panel
Direct-to-Device (ii): Technology, Spectrum and the Path to Scale
Building on the D2D panel from day one, this session shifts the discussion to technology innovation, spectrum authorisation and the regulatory dimension. It examines the enabling technology and the regulatory frameworks required to deliver D2D at scale, including supplemental coverage from space, the IMT versus MSS debate, spectrum authorisation and licensing models, and the role of devices and OEMs. What will it take to scale D2D services globally without harmful interference or fragmentation across borders?Morning Break
Demonstration
Spotlight Session #2
More information about this session will be available shortly.Panel
Sustainable Orbits: Managing Congestion, Mitigating Interference and Preventing Debris
Managing congestion, debris mitigation, and the long-term sustainable use of orbital environments – this session will examine the policy levers and emerging technologies that can help achieve this. From active debris removal to green propulsion and responsible disposal, what voluntary and mandatory mechanisms are gaining traction? How do we ensure the orbital commons remains accessible for future generations, and what obligations do today’s operators have to those who follow?Lunch Break
Panel
WRC-27 and Beyond: Spectrum Policy for the Future of Connectivity and Space
As we enter the final phase of preparations for WRC-27, attention turns to the spectrum decisions that will define the next era of satellite connectivity and space sustainability. This session brings together representatives working at the heart of the WRC process to examine the key NTN agenda items at WRC-27, and the path that lies ahead as the sector works to align global spectrum policy with long-term space governance. How should stakeholders prepare, and what outcomes are needed to balance connectivity expansion with a sustainable orbital environment?Demonstration
Spotlight Session #3
More information about this session will be available shortly.Afternoon Break
Panel
The Space Economy: Investment, Manufacturing and the Business Case for Sustainable Growth
The global space economy is on course to be worth more than a trillion dollars within the next decade, driven by falling launch costs, industrial-scale satellite manufacturing and a wave of private investment. Connectivity sits at the centre of that growth, with LEO constellations, non-terrestrial networks (NTN) and direct-to-device services attracting the largest share of capital and moving satellite from a niche complement to an integral layer of global telecoms infrastructure. This session will examine where value is migrating across the value chain - from launch and manufacturing to downstream connectivity, data and services - how satellite and terrestrial networks are converging, and how the sector can scale sustainably while remaining commercially viable and globally inclusive.Panel
Connectivity on the Move: Air, Sea and Land
Aviation, maritime and land mobility are among the fastest-growing segments for satellite connectivity. This session explores how air, sea and land connectivity is being reshaped by new LEO and multi-orbit capacity, flat-panel antennas and hybrid networks. What spectrum, regulatory and technical conditions are needed to deliver seamless broadband to aircraft, ships and vehicles across borders - and how can Earth Stations in Motion (ESIM) growth be accommodated alongside other services without harmful interference?Keynote
Keynote Presentation
A high-level 15-minute keynote presentation.
Session
The Legal Framework for Space: International Space Law and the Path to Responsible Governance
A 90-minute session examining the foundations and evolution of international space law and its application to the rapidly changing space environment, including the legal challenges posed by mega-constellations, active debris removal and direct-to-device services. Content and focus developed in partnership with UNOOSA.Morning Break
Keynote
Keynote Presentation
A high-level 15-minute keynote presentation.Panel
Space as Critical Infrastructure: Increasing Resilience and Enabling the Next Generation of Space-Based Services
Space infrastructure underpins far more than connectivity. This session examines how space-based systems — spanning communications, earth exploration, navigation, positioning, timing (PNT) and emerging in-orbit data centres — are becoming indispensable to global resilience. As commercial actors such as hyperscalers explore deploying large constellations to support space-based data processing, what are the implications for spectrum use, orbital sustainability and international governance? How can AI unlock the power of Earth observation and other space-based systems to help deliver global resilience? How do we ensure that this expanding critical infrastructure remains secure, resilient and equitably accessible?Panel
The New Frontier: Lunar Communications and the Infrastructure to Connect Deep Space
As lunar missions accelerate and deep space exploration expands, so does the demand for robust, interoperable communications infrastructure beyond Earth orbit. A discussion around the architecture, standards and coordination needed to build a reliable lunar and deep space connectivity ecosystem - who builds it, who governs it, and how do we ensure it remains open and accessible? And, critically, how can we secure the spectrum and bandwidth needed to support the rapid growth of lunar and deep space communications?Demonstration
Spotlight Session #4
More information about this session will be available shortly.Lunch Break
Panel
Sustainability from Space: The Power of Earth Exploration Satellite Services
Earth Exploration Satellite Services (EESS) and remote sensing technologies are among the most powerful tools humanity has for monitoring and protecting our planet. This session examines the contribution of earth observation to climate science, maritime and air traffic monitoring, disaster response and environmental sustainability — exploring what is at stake if spectrum access and orbital conditions for these services are not adequately protected. How do we ensure that the growth of commercial constellations does not come at the cost of the earth observation capabilities that underpin our understanding of the planet?Panel
The Space In-Between: HAPS and Stratospheric Systems as the Next Frontier in Connectivity and Earth Observation
This panel brings together academics and industry experts to discuss High-Altitude Platform Stations (HAPS) and stratospheric systems as an emerging layer of connectivity and Earth observation infrastructure. Panelists will explore how these systems bridge the gap between terrestrial networks and satellite constellations, offering unique advantages in coverage, latency, and cost-efficiency. Discussion will touch on current technical challenges, including platform endurance, energy management, and payload capacity at stratospheric altitudes. Panelists will also address regulatory and spectrum allocation issues that remain barriers to widespread deployment. The panel will highlight promising use cases across telecommunications, disaster response, agriculture, and environmental monitoring. The session will conclude with an optimistic outlook on HAPS as a complementary technology poised to reshape the connectivity and observation landscape in the coming decade.Keynote
Keynote Presentation
A high-level 15-minute keynote presentation.Session
Closing Ceremony & Presentation of Outcomes
Nothing matches those filters.
Connectivity
The global satellite connectivity landscape and the path to universal access
What market dynamics and timelines will define the path to universal satellite connectivity?
Satellites, NTNs and 6G integration
How can satellites and NTNs be effectively integrated into future 6G architectures?
Spectrum access, WRC-27 and international coordination
How should spectrum policy and WRC-27 outcomes enable sustainable, coordinated sector growth?
Direct-to-Device innovation
What regulatory and business models will unlock scalable direct-to-device connectivity?
Sustainability
Space as Critical Infrastructure: Increasing Resilience and Innovation of Space Systems
How can space systems be strengthened as critical infrastructure to ensure resilience, reliability, and continued innovation?
Space-enabled sustainability on Earth
How can satellite data best support climate action, disaster response and environmental sustainability?
Global governance and responsible behaviour in space
How can global frameworks ensure responsible behaviour across an increasingly diverse space ecosystem?
Managing congestion & mitigating interference and debris
What technologies and policies are most effective in addressing congestion and mitigating space debris?
Plus much more
Including a focus on...
International Space Law and the Path to Responsible Governance (in partnership with UNOOSA)
How must international space law evolve to keep pace with the realities of today’s rapidly changing space environment?
The Space Economy: Investment, Sovereignty and Emerging Market Opportunity
Who is shaping the new space economy, and who stands to benefit?
Innovation in Action: Emerging Technologies and Real-World Demonstrations
A showcase of the most promising technologies and solutions advancing connectivity, sustainability and responsible use of space.
Pre-Event Masterclass · 11 October 2026
Space Communications & Satellite Regulation Masterclass
A full-day interactive masterclass on satellite communications infrastructure, satellite regulation and sustainable non-terrestrial networks, held the day before the main event in Riyadh.
- Limited to approximately 40 selected participants — participation is by application.
Organizing the 3rd Edition · In collaboration with IEEE
About “Non-Terrestrial Networks 2026” International Research Competition
The competition aims to:
- Attract researchers and academics worldwide
- Provide innovative ideas and solutions in the non-terrestrial networks field
- Develop next-generation wireless connectivity
- Enhance the integration of terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks
- Winners’ announcement will be during the Global Space Connectivity & Sustainability Event in October 2026.
Winners of the 2nd edition — “Competition on Non-Terrestrial Networks for 6G”
Session
Joint Grand Opening & High-Level Keynotes — "Where Connectivity and Sustainability Meet"
Welcome addresses from the Secretary-General of ITU and the Governor of CST. High-level keynote presentations, a VIP fireside chat and interventions from key industry and policy leaders will then follow, addressing both the satellite connectivity and space sustainability agendas. All speakers and interventions to represent both event pillars with the aim of setting the scene for the discussions over the 3 days.
- 11:00 – 11:30 Welcome Addresses
- 11:30 – 12:20 Thought Leadership Panel Discussion
Keynote
Keynote Presentation
A high-level 15-minute keynote presentation. Topic to be confirmed.Lunch Break
Panel
From Ambition to Access: The Role of Satellite in Achieving Universal Access
What will it take to connect the billions who remain unconnected, and what role can NTNs play in this? This session explores the current state of the global satellite connectivity landscape, the evolving roles of GEO, MEO and LEO operators, the emergence of direct-to-device services, and the technological, commercial and regulatory challenges that will shape the road to universal access.Session
Presentation of the winners of the “Non-Terrestrial Networks 2026” International Research Competition
Presentation Ceremony to announce the winners of the 3rd edition of the IEEE "Non-Terrestrial Networks 2026" International Research Competition.Demonstration
Spotlight Session #1
More information about this session will be available shortly.Panel
A Shared Responsibility: Shaping Global Norms and Responsible Behaviour for a Sustainable Space
The role of international frameworks, transparency, standards and confidence-building measures. How can global coordination mechanisms foster responsible behaviour across all space actors - from legacy operators to new commercial mega-constellation entrants?Afternoon Break
Keynote
Keynote Presentation
A high-level 15-minute keynote presentation.Panel
Direct-to-Device (i): Evolving Business Models, Partnerships and the Path to Commercialisation
The first of two sessions on direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity will focus on the commercial and partnership landscape shaping the technology's development. It will explore emerging business models, evolving market structures, and the growing partnerships between satellite and mobile network operators. The discussion will examine how these collaborations can support the successful commercialisation and scaling of D2D services, while highlighting the broader social and economic benefits that widespread D2D connectivity can deliver.Panel
Growth Without Compromise: Balancing Connectivity Ambitions with Space Sustainability
Scaling satellite connectivity is no longer just a question of capacity and coverage; it is a question of responsibility. This session examines how connectivity ambitions depend on, and must be balanced against, responsible space governance; exploring whether the two goals are in tension or ultimately mutually reinforcing. It will take a broad view of sustainability, spanning not only orbital congestion and debris but also equitable spectrum access, interference-free use, and fair access to space for all nations.
Keynote
Keynote Presentation
A high-level 15-minute keynote presentation.
Keynote
Keynote Presentation
A high-level 15-minute keynote presentation.Panel
Satellites and 6G: Integrating Satellite Systems into Future Connectivity Architecture
How can multi-orbital and multi frequency satellite systems be leveraged as part of future 6G architectures to deliver seamless, resilient and globally inclusive connectivity. What regulatory and technical foundations are required?Panel
Direct-to-Device (ii): Technology, Spectrum and the Path to Scale
Building on the D2D panel from day one, this session shifts the discussion to technology innovation, spectrum authorisation and the regulatory dimension. It examines the enabling technology and the regulatory frameworks required to deliver D2D at scale, including supplemental coverage from space, the IMT versus MSS debate, spectrum authorisation and licensing models, and the role of devices and OEMs. What will it take to scale D2D services globally without harmful interference or fragmentation across borders?Morning Break
Demonstration
Spotlight Session #2
More information about this session will be available shortly.Panel
Sustainable Orbits: Managing Congestion, Mitigating Interference and Preventing Debris
Managing congestion, debris mitigation, and the long-term sustainable use of orbital environments – this session will examine the policy levers and emerging technologies that can help achieve this. From active debris removal to green propulsion and responsible disposal, what voluntary and mandatory mechanisms are gaining traction? How do we ensure the orbital commons remains accessible for future generations, and what obligations do today’s operators have to those who follow?Lunch Break
Panel
WRC-27 and Beyond: Spectrum Policy for the Future of Connectivity and Space
As we enter the final phase of preparations for WRC-27, attention turns to the spectrum decisions that will define the next era of satellite connectivity and space sustainability. This session brings together representatives working at the heart of the WRC process to examine the key NTN agenda items at WRC-27, and the path that lies ahead as the sector works to align global spectrum policy with long-term space governance. How should stakeholders prepare, and what outcomes are needed to balance connectivity expansion with a sustainable orbital environment?Demonstration
Spotlight Session #3
More information about this session will be available shortly.Afternoon Break
Panel
The Space Economy: Investment, Manufacturing and the Business Case for Sustainable Growth
The global space economy is on course to be worth more than a trillion dollars within the next decade, driven by falling launch costs, industrial-scale satellite manufacturing and a wave of private investment. Connectivity sits at the centre of that growth, with LEO constellations, non-terrestrial networks (NTN) and direct-to-device services attracting the largest share of capital and moving satellite from a niche complement to an integral layer of global telecoms infrastructure. This session will examine where value is migrating across the value chain - from launch and manufacturing to downstream connectivity, data and services - how satellite and terrestrial networks are converging, and how the sector can scale sustainably while remaining commercially viable and globally inclusive.Panel
Connectivity on the Move: Air, Sea and Land
Aviation, maritime and land mobility are among the fastest-growing segments for satellite connectivity. This session explores how air, sea and land connectivity is being reshaped by new LEO and multi-orbit capacity, flat-panel antennas and hybrid networks. What spectrum, regulatory and technical conditions are needed to deliver seamless broadband to aircraft, ships and vehicles across borders - and how can Earth Stations in Motion (ESIM) growth be accommodated alongside other services without harmful interference?Keynote
Keynote Presentation
A high-level 15-minute keynote presentation.
Session
The Legal Framework for Space: International Space Law and the Path to Responsible Governance
A 90-minute session examining the foundations and evolution of international space law and its application to the rapidly changing space environment, including the legal challenges posed by mega-constellations, active debris removal and direct-to-device services. Content and focus developed in partnership with UNOOSA.Morning Break
Keynote
Keynote Presentation
A high-level 15-minute keynote presentation.Panel
Space as Critical Infrastructure: Increasing Resilience and Enabling the Next Generation of Space-Based Services
Space infrastructure underpins far more than connectivity. This session examines how space-based systems — spanning communications, earth exploration, navigation, positioning, timing (PNT) and emerging in-orbit data centres — are becoming indispensable to global resilience. As commercial actors such as hyperscalers explore deploying large constellations to support space-based data processing, what are the implications for spectrum use, orbital sustainability and international governance? How can AI unlock the power of Earth observation and other space-based systems to help deliver global resilience? How do we ensure that this expanding critical infrastructure remains secure, resilient and equitably accessible?Panel
The New Frontier: Lunar Communications and the Infrastructure to Connect Deep Space
As lunar missions accelerate and deep space exploration expands, so does the demand for robust, interoperable communications infrastructure beyond Earth orbit. A discussion around the architecture, standards and coordination needed to build a reliable lunar and deep space connectivity ecosystem - who builds it, who governs it, and how do we ensure it remains open and accessible? And, critically, how can we secure the spectrum and bandwidth needed to support the rapid growth of lunar and deep space communications?Demonstration
Spotlight Session #4
More information about this session will be available shortly.Lunch Break
Panel
Sustainability from Space: The Power of Earth Exploration Satellite Services
Earth Exploration Satellite Services (EESS) and remote sensing technologies are among the most powerful tools humanity has for monitoring and protecting our planet. This session examines the contribution of earth observation to climate science, maritime and air traffic monitoring, disaster response and environmental sustainability — exploring what is at stake if spectrum access and orbital conditions for these services are not adequately protected. How do we ensure that the growth of commercial constellations does not come at the cost of the earth observation capabilities that underpin our understanding of the planet?Panel
The Space In-Between: HAPS and Stratospheric Systems as the Next Frontier in Connectivity and Earth Observation
This panel brings together academics and industry experts to discuss High-Altitude Platform Stations (HAPS) and stratospheric systems as an emerging layer of connectivity and Earth observation infrastructure. Panelists will explore how these systems bridge the gap between terrestrial networks and satellite constellations, offering unique advantages in coverage, latency, and cost-efficiency. Discussion will touch on current technical challenges, including platform endurance, energy management, and payload capacity at stratospheric altitudes. Panelists will also address regulatory and spectrum allocation issues that remain barriers to widespread deployment. The panel will highlight promising use cases across telecommunications, disaster response, agriculture, and environmental monitoring. The session will conclude with an optimistic outlook on HAPS as a complementary technology poised to reshape the connectivity and observation landscape in the coming decade.Keynote
Keynote Presentation
A high-level 15-minute keynote presentation.Session
Closing Ceremony & Presentation of Outcomes
Nothing matches those filters.