2026 Programme

Speakers

The Global Space Connectivity & Sustainability Events bring together representatives of national and international regulatory bodies in the space and satellite communications sectors, device manufacturers, space service providers, and a distinguished group of global technology experts and researchers.

CST Headquarters

Monday 12 October 2026

11:00 – 11:30
Keynote
Joint Grand Opening & High-Level Keynotes — Welcome Addresses
Welcome addresses from the Secretary-General of ITU and the Governor of CST.
- H.E. Haytham AlOhaliGovernor, CST
- Doreen Bogdan-MartinSecretary General, ITU
11:30 – 12:20
Session
Joint Grand Opening & High-Level Keynotes — Thought Leadership Panel Discussion
A high-level thought leadership panel discussion 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.
- Frank SalzgeberModeratorCEO and Founder, Altairi Space
- Aarti Holla-MainiDirector, UNOOSA
- Philip MarnickGeneral Director, Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA), Bahrain
- Adel Al-SalehCEO, SES
- Abel AvellanChairman & CEO, AST SpaceMobile
- Haithem AlfarajCEO, Neo Space Group (NSG)
12:20 – 12:35
Keynote
Keynote Presentation
A high-level 15-minute keynote presentation.
- Saifur RahmanProfessor and Director, Virginia Tech Advanced Research Institute
12:35 – 13:20
Lunch Break
01:20 – 14:15
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.
- Isabelle MauroModeratorDirector General, GSOA
- Gilles BregantCEO, Agence Nationale des Fréquences (ANFR)
- Badr NAlsuwaidanCEO & President, ARABSAT
- Mark RigolleCEO, ABS Satellite
- Timothy Adi AshongDirector General, RASCOM
14:15 – 14:30
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.
- Saifur RahmanProfessor and Director, Virginia Tech Advanced Research Institute
14:30 – 14:45
Demonstration
Spotlight Session #1
More information about this session will be available shortly.
14:45 – 15:40
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?
- Hamza HameedModeratorMember, ITU Secretary-General's Youth Advisory Board
- Matej SigetGlobal Space Law Project, UNOOSA
- Eng. Kamal AlharbiChief Space Technology and Application Officer, Saudi Space Agency
- Olga VolynskayaAssistant Professor, Prince Sultan University (PSU)
- Maher KhourySenior Vice President, International Sales, Leolabs
- Sandeep BastolaChief Operating Officer | Satellite Systems Lead, Project-S
15:40 – 15:55
Afternoon Break
15:55 – 16:10
Keynote
Keynote Presentation
A high-level 15-minute keynote presentation.
- Ashraf AlTahiniCEO, Aramco Digital
16:10 – 17:05
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.
- Herman SchepersModeratorFounder and Managing Partner, Policy Impact Partners
- Amy MehlmanEVP & Chief Global Affairs Officer, Elveo Mobile
- Barbee PonderGeneral Counsel & VP Regulatory Affairs, Globalstar
- Abdullah AljohaniCTO, Neo Space Group (NSG)
- Chafic TraboulsiSenior Vice President, Direct Sales, EMEA & APAC, Ookla
17:05 – 18:00
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.
- Jorge CiccorossiModeratorHead, Space Strategy & Sustainability Division, ITU
- Martin FentonDirector, Non Terrestrial Spectrum, Ofcom UK
- Mohaned JuwadVice President, Middle East Policy and Regulatory Affairs, Viasat
- David GoldsteinPrincipal Engineer, SpaceX
- Yuemei HuExpert, Research Institute of Radio Spectrum Development, Utilization and Technological Innovation, China
18:00 – 18:15
Keynote
Keynote Presentation
A high-level 15-minute keynote presentation.
- Vinicius Oliveira Caram GuimarãesSpectrum and Orbit Superintendent, National Telecommunications Agency (Anatel), Brazil

Tuesday 13 October 2026

10:00 – 10:15
Keynote
Keynote Presentation
A high-level 15-minute keynote presentation.
- H.E. Ambassador Carlos ForadoriChair, UN PAROS, United Nations
10:15 – 11:10
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?
- Ahmed AlsohailyModeratorBoard Director, Sheba Microsystems
- Rahim TafazolliFounder and Director of 5G Innovation Centre & 6G Innovation Centre, University of Surrey
- Mohammed El-MoghaziExecutive Director of International Spectrum Affairs, NTRA Egypt
- Chafic ChayaRegional Manager, Public Policy and Government Affairs, RIPE NCC
- Ali CheemaDirector, Spectrum Regulations, Ericsson
11:10 – 12:05
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?
- Hussein Abul-EneinModeratorDirector, Head of Middle East, Access Partnership
- Eric FournierDirector for Spectrum Planning & International Affairs, Agence Nationale des Fréquences (ANFR)
- Satender YadavDirector - Global Solutions Engineering, Skylo
- Amr AshourDirector, Regulatory Affairs, MENA, AST SpaceMobile
12:05 – 12:25
Morning Break
12:25 – 12:40
Demonstration
Spotlight Session #2
More information about this session will be available shortly.
12:40 – 13:35
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?
- Dr. Yehia Abdul-AzizFounder and CEO, ATON
- Dr. Lei ChengVice President, Suzhou Sustain Space Technology
- Mishaal AshemimryManaging Director, Center for Space Futures
- Araz FeyziCo-Founder & CTO, Kayhan Space
13:35 – 14:20
Lunch Break
14:20 – 15:15
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?
- Alexander KühnHead of Section, International & National Spectrum Management, BNetzA
- Peng ZhaoVice President of Policy & Regulatory, GSOA
- Cessy KarinaSenior Radiocommunication Engineer, ITU
- Fatima KarimASMG Chairperson, GSA
15:15 – 15:30
Demonstration
Spotlight Session #3
More information about this session will be available shortly.
15:30 – 15:50
Afternoon Break
15:50 – 16:45
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.
- Pacome RevillonModeratorCEO, Novaspace
- Hazuki MoriLead in Space Technology, World Economic Forum
- Gregory SmirinPresident, Muon Space
- Mohammed I. AlmajedSenior Advisor to H.E. Minister of Investment, Ministry of Investment (MISA)
16:45 – 17:40
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?
- Zeina MokaddemChief Government Affairs and Regulatory Officer, ABS Satellite
- Mostafa MousaLead, Licensing & Regulatory Affairs, Amazon Leo
- Majed Al YazeedySpace Business GM, STC
17:40 – 17:55
Keynote
Keynote Presentation
A high-level 15-minute keynote presentation.
- Isabelle MauroModeratorDirector General, GSOA

Wednesday 14 October 2026

10:00 – 11:30
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.
- Peter MartinezModeratorDirector, Secure World Foundation
- Rosanna Margarita HoffmanHead, Space Law, Policy and Sustainability, UNOOSA
- Elina MorozovaExecutive Director, Intersputnik
- Raeed Al-ManeeaGM Legal Affairs, Saudi Space Agency
- Rachael OloreLegal Officer, Kenya Space Agency
- Chehineze BouafiaHead, Regulatory Affairs, Space & Telecommunications, Eutelsat Group
- Aya IwamotoDeputy Director, National Space Policy Secretariat, Cabinet Office, Government of Japan
11:30 – 11:45
Morning Break
11:45 – 12:00
Keynote
Keynote Presentation
A high-level 15-minute keynote presentation.
12:00 – 12:55
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?
- Eng. Muryah Al-ShahraniGeneral Manager of Space Systems and Infrastructure, Saudi Space Agency
- Clémence PoirierSenior Researcher, Center for Security Studies (CSS), ETH Zürich
- Nathan JuglardSenior Business Developer, Skynopy
- Jean-François MorizurCEO, Cailabs
- Connor McSharryBusiness Development Manager - Middle East Region, Slingshot
12:55 – 13:50
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?
13:50 – 14:05
Demonstration
Spotlight Session #4
More information about this session will be available shortly.
14:05 – 14:50
Lunch Break
14:50 – 15:45
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?
15:45 – 16:40
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. Panellists 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. Panellists 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.
- Mohamed-Slim AlouiniModeratorAl-Khawarzmi Distinguished Professor, KAUST
- Chris RobertsHead Delivery and Capture, BAE Prismatic
- Alfredo SerranoDirector of EMEA, Sceye
- Srinivas J. SettyFounder / Managing Director, BESPIN Technologies
16:40 – 16:55
Keynote
Keynote Presentation
A high-level 15-minute keynote presentation.
- Adel Mohamed DarwishRegional Director for the Arab States, ITU
16:55 – 17:15
Session
Closing Ceremony & Presentation of Outcomes