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 — Keynote Thought Leadership Roundtable: Where Connectivity and Sustainability Meet
Satellite connectivity is expanding fast. It is opening up new opportunities across a wide range of different sectors, as well as bringing coverage to remote and underserved communities. That growth also puts pressure on orbits, spectrum and the space environment, which are shared and finite. This opening panel brings together leaders from government, regulators, international organisations and industry to look at how connecting the unconnected can go hand in hand with keeping space safe, secure and sustainable. Topics include:
- Balancing rapid constellation growth with the long-term health of the orbital environment
- Making sure the push to close the digital divide doesn't come at the cost of space sustainability
- Using spectrum and orbital resources efficiently and fairly as demand rises
- How regulators, industry and multilateral bodies can work together to align connectivity and sustainability goals
- Frank SalzgeberModeratorCEO and Founder, Altairi Space
- H.E. Ambassador Carlos ForadoriChair, UN OEWG on PAROS, United Nations
- Aarti Holla-MainiDirector, UNOOSA
- Philip MarnickGeneral Director, Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA), Bahrain
- Haithem AlfarajCEO, Neo Space Group (NSG)
- Adel Al-SalehCEO, SES
- David MarshackCCO, AST SpaceMobile
12:20 – 12:35
Keynote
Keynote Presentation: Sustainability and Security in Outer Space: Interconnected Agendas
- H.E. Ambassador Carlos ForadoriChair, UN OEWG on PAROS, United Nations
12:35 – 13:35
Break
13:35 – 13:50
Keynote
Keynote Presentation: Connecting Worlds: IEEE’s Role in Engaging Academia and Industry and Developing Non-Terrestrial Networks
- Saifur Rahman2023 IEEE President, and Professor, Virginia Tech Advanced Research Institute
13:50 – 14:00
Session
Awards Ceremony
Awarding the winners of the 3rd edition of the IEEE “Non-Terrestrial Networks 2026” International Research Competition, the SpaceUp Competition award ceremony.
14:00 – 14:05
Session
Partners & Sponsors Recognition Ceremony
An opportunity to thank all the sponsors and partners who have supported this event.
14:05 – 15:00
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
- Mohammad S. AlJanoobiDeputy Governor of Spectrum, CST
- Gilles BregantCEO, Agence Nationale des Fréquences (ANFR)
- Dr. Badr N. AlsuwaidanCEO & President, ARABSAT
- Mark RigolleCEO, ABS Satellite
- Timothy Adi AshongDirector General, RASCOM
- Christodoulos ProtopapasCEO and Managing Director, Hellas Sat
15:00 – 15:15
Keynote
Keynote Presentation: From Earth to Space: Integrating Terrestrial and Satellite Connectivity
- Ashraf AlTahiniCEO, Aramco Digital
15:15 – 16:10
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
- Greg OliveauHead of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, Amazon
- 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
16:10 – 16:25
Break
16:25 – 16:40
Demonstration
Spotlight Session #1 – Ookla: The Global State of D2D Through Real-World Measurements
- Salem AskarDirector of Sales, Ookla
16:40 – 17:35
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
- Majed Al YazeedySpace Business GM, STC
17:35 – 18:30
Session
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

Tuesday 13 October 2026

10:00 – 10:15
Keynote
Keynote Presentation: Fit for Purpose Regulation: Bringing Satellite Connectivity to all
- Isabelle MauroDirector General, GSOA
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
- Meshal AlanaziTechnical Planning and Development Director, ARABSAT
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
- Shahbaz AliVP of Products & Standards, Sateliot
- Abdulhadi AlHarthiGM, Radio Spectrum Monitoring, CST
- Bader AllhiebVP, Infrastructure, STC
12:05 – 12:25
Break
12:25 – 12:40
Demonstration
Spotlight Session #2 - NSG: From Orbit to Outcome: Space-Based IoT for Mission Critical Operations, Assets & Sustainability
- Hamoud Zaed Al ShammariTechnology Engineer, Neo Space Group
- Mutaz Fawzi SindiTechnology Engineer, Neo Space Group
12:40 – 12:55
Demonstration
Spotlight Session #3 – Project-S: Safeguarding Space Access and Exploration
- Sandeep BastolaChief Operating Officer | Satellite Systems Lead, Project-S
12:55 – 13:50
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?
- Waleed AlsalehModeratorDirector of Space Ecosystem Development, CST
- Dr. Yehia Abdul-AzizFounder and CEO, ATON
- Mishaal AshemimryManaging Director, Center for Space Futures
- Araz FeyziCo-Founder & CTO, Kayhan Space
- Ismael Moreno-GomezPrincipal, Analysys Mason
- Abdulaziz bin HussainSpectrum Regulation & Policy Officer, ITU
13:50 – 14:05
Session
Spotlight Session #4 – Midana: Operating the Regulatory Journey of Emerging Technologies
- Turki Al TurkiDirector of Business Development, Midana
14:05 – 14:50
Break
14:50 – 15:05
Session
Keynote Presentation
15:05 – 16:00
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?
- Ayman MaghrabiModeratorGeneral Manager for Spectrum Assignment, CST
- 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
- Abdulrahman AlnajdiVP, Regulatory and Standardization, Neo Space Group (NSG)
16:00 – 16:15
Session
Spotlight Session #5 – Arabsat: Software defined satellite will pave the way for 3GPP-NTN implementation
- Yasir HassanDirector, Transmission Operations, ARABSAT
16:15 – 16:30
Session
Spotlight Session #6 – Aramco Digital: Enabling Industrial AI Solutions with MCX over Satellite and MCX over Wi-Fi
- Dr. Fahad AlqurashiTechnology Innovation and R&D Manager, Aramco Digital
16:30 – 16:50
Break
16:50 – 17:45
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. AlmajedHonorary Chairman, AMENA Center, University of California, Berkeley
- Abdulaziz AldhaherDirector of Africa & Middle East, Astranis
- Ali AlshehriCTO, Aramco Digital
17:45 – 18:40
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?
- Muhanned AlsaifModeratorSatellite Senior Specialist, CST
- Zeina MokaddemChief Government Affairs and Regulatory Officer, ABS Satellite
- Mostafa MousaLead, Licensing & Regulatory Affairs, Amazon Leo
- Kendeas KarantonisDirector of Space and Innovation, Hellas Sat
- Muhammad RajaVP Engineering and Services Management, OneWeb NEOM
- Mohammed AlmutairiDirector of Regulatory Affairs & Spectrum Management, Neo Space Group (NSG)

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
Demonstration
Spotlight Session #7 – Satellite-Self Broadcasting (SS-B)
- Yuemei HuExpert, Research Institute of Radio Spectrum Development, Utilization and Technological Innovation, China
11:45 – 12:00
Demonstration
Spotlight Session #8 – Sustainability from Space: The Power of Earth Observation Satellite Services
- Anthony ReaSenior Director of the Department of Earth System Data and Predictions, World Meteorological Organization (WMO)
12:00 – 12:20
Break
12:20 – 13:15
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?
- Muhammad AlRabeiahModeratorAdvisor, CST
- 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
13:15 – 13:30
Session
Spotlight Session #9 – Regulation and NGSO Constellations Spectrum Monitoring
- Emmanuel HoudetDirector of Mission Solutions, Kratos Space
13:30 – 13:45
Demonstration
Spotlight Session #10 – ATON: ATON Addresses a Critical Space Situational Awareness Gap in Africa and the Middle East
- Dr. Yehia Abdul-AzizFounder and CEO, ATON
13:45 – 14:30
Break
14:30 – 15:25
Session
Shared Space: Expanding Access, Protecting What Matters
As more countries, institutions and commercial actors participate in the space economy, access to space brings both new opportunities and shared responsibilities. This panel explores how growing participation can be enabled while managing increasingly contested resources and protecting the scientific and societal value of space. The discussion will examine equitable access to spectrum, responsible growth, the protection of radio astronomy and the frameworks needed to ensure that space remains accessible and sustainable for future generations.
- Mohammed AlsehaliModeratorSpectrum Planning Team Lead, CST
- Muneera Al MalkiSenior Space Engineer and Satellite Design Specialist, Bahrain Space Agency
- Gudila MarickSpectrum Engineer, Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA)
- Federico Di VrunoSpectrum Manager, SKAO
- Adel Mohamed DarwishTelecommunications and Digital Policy Leader
- Ahmed AlzubairiCo-Founder & Chief Technology Officer (CTO), SarSatX
15:25 – 15:40
Session
Spotlight Session #11 – Atenea/Artemis Deep Space Research Project
- Fernando FilippettiProfessor, University of Buenos Aires on Athenea for Artemis Project
15:40 – 15:55
Session
Spotlight Session #12 – B2 Space: Beyond Satellites: Balloon-Based Platforms for Connectivity and Operations in the Stratosphere
- Valentin CanalesCo-CEO & CTO, B2Space
15:55 – 16:50
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
- Valentin CanalesCo-CEO & CTO, B2Space
- Islam M. TanashAssistant Professor, Department of Electrical Engineering, Prince Mohammad bin Fahd University (PMU)
16:50 – 16:55
Session
Closing Remarks
- Abdulhadi AlHarthiGM, Radio Spectrum Monitoring, CST