DAY 1
Space and Social Sustainability
08:00 – 08:45
Registration and networking
09:00 – 10:30
OPENING SESSION
30 Years of Democracy, Space Science, and Sustainable Development
Celebrate South Africa’s three decades of democracy, reflecting on remarkable achievements in space science and continuous efforts to foster social innovation and
sustainability.
This session will feature a series of keynote addresses from distinguished speakers, providing a holistic view of the intersection between democratic progress, technological advancements, and sustainable development.
10:30 – 11:30
Networking break and exhibition
11:30 – 13:00
SPECIAL SESSION
International Collaboration for Sustainable Development Goals
Explore how international collaboration in space missions and data sharing can contribute to achieving global development goals, such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Speakers will highlight partnerships between space agencies, governments, and organizations to address societal challenges.
13:00 – 14:30
Lunch break and exhibition
14:30 – 16:00
SHOWCASING SESSION 1
Public-Private Partnerships in Space Innovation
Explore the transformative impact of public-private partnerships (PPPs) in revolutionizing space innovation and accessibility.
Speakers will present national collaborative efforts between government agencies, companies, and research institutions to develop sustainable solutions to address societal challenges.
16:15– 17:30
WELCOME RECEPTION
DAY 2
Space and Economic Sustainability
08:00 – 08:45
Registration and networking
09:00 – 10:30
PLENARY 2
Commercial Space Ventures and Sustainable Growth
Explore how commercial space ventures contribute to economic sustainability. Discuss the role of private space companies in driving technological advancements, creating new markets, and stimulating economic growth locally and globally.
Speakers will highlight case studies where commercial space initiatives have led to significant socio-economic benefits, emphasizing the importance of public-private partnerships in advancing space science and sustainable development goals.
10:30 – 11:30
Networking break and exhibition
11:30 – 13:00
TECHNICAL SESSION 1
Building Resilient Space Infrastructure and Operations for a Sustainable Future
Examine the vital role of resilient space infrastructure and operations in promoting sustainability and addressing global challenges.
Speakers will present innovations that enhance operational efficiency, resilience, and sustainability, as well as the integration of space infrastructure with terrestrial systems to maximize benefits for environmental and societal needs.
13:00 – 14:30
Lunch break and exhibition
14:30 – 16:00
SHOWCASING SESSION 2
Integrated Environmental Monitoring
Explore comprehensive systems of satellites and remote sensing technologies for continuous monitoring of environmental parameters such as climate change indicators, deforestation rates, air and water quality, and biodiversity.
Speakers will showcase various integrated data platforms in supporting environmental assessments and policymaking for sustainable development.
16:15– 17:30
NETWORKING SESSION
DAY 3
Space and Environmental Sustainability
08:00 – 08:45
Registration and networking
09:00 – 10:30
PLENARY 3
Resilient Space-based Communication, Navigation and Security Systems
Examine how crucial reliable and strong satellite communication and navigation systems are for emergency response, infrastructure resilience, and disaster management (e.g., GPS, GNSS).
Speakers will discuss how these systems support national security, strengthen disaster preparedness efforts, and early warning systems for sustainable peace and stability in our society.
10:30 – 11:30
Networking break and exhibition
11:30 – 13:00
TECHNICAL SESSION 2
Space Science for Environmental Sustainability
Examine the critical role of space weather in ensuring the sustainability of both space-based and terrestrial systems.
Speakers will present the intersection of space science and sustainability, emphasising the need for proactive measures to protect our planet and its technological systems from space weather-related challenges.
13:00 – 14:30
Lunch break and exhibition
14:30 – 16:00
CLOSING SESSION
Highlights and future Pathways for a Sustainable South Africa
Highlight key takeaways and set the stage for continued collaboration and action towards sustainable development.
Speakers will provide highlights, capturing the innovative ideas, successful case studies, and strategic recommendations presented by speakers during the Conference.
16:15– 17:30
NETWORKING SESSION
