Space Cities Network Cleared for Liftoff into a New Era of Aerospace Collaboration

Article from meetingmeidagroup.com
28th Nov, 2024

In a bold move to advance international cooperation in the aerospace industry, the Space Cities Network (SCN) was officially launched at the ICCA Congress in Abu Dhabi in October 2024. This new initiative brings together the combined strengths of Lausanne (Switzerland), Christchurch (New Zealand), Houston (USA), and Seoul (South Korea), each of which plays a key role in driving innovation and sustainability in the sector. By fostering a collaborative environment between cities, research institutions and industry leaders, the SCN aims to create a platform for cross-border cooperation that goes beyond space technology to sustainable urban development.

In this introductory interview, the first of a series to explore the vision behind this newly formed network, we sit down with two key representatives from the founding cities. Gérald Howard, Senior Business Development Manager at Lausanne Montreux Congress, and Claire Hector-Taylor, Business Development Manager – International at ChristchurchNZ, share their perspectives on how their cities are using their unique strengths to advance the SCN’s mission of global aerospace cooperation.

What are the key objectives of the Space Cities Network in fostering global collaboration within the fields of aeronautics and space?

Gérald Howard: It is all about legacy and the future. The Space Cities Network aims to bridge various institutions, academies, and industries from different cultures and countries. We want to be the link that connects the dots, fostering relations in a community that offers a plurality of visions on what space should be.

Claire Hector-Taylor: Space innovation, technology, and exploration have become truly collective endeavours. Connectivity plays a vital role in the space community, and this influence can extend across domains and specialities. Some key objectives of the Network in fostering global collaboration include:

• A shared vision
• Knowledge exchange
• International collaboration
• Academic and industry partnerships
• Resource development and management

Additionally, the network includes a core group of business events professionals. It is well understood that business events can be catalysts for achieving a broad range of outcomes, such as building a global profile, enhancing the knowledge economy, establishing new international connections, driving trade and export opportunities, showcasing local experts and companies, securing funding for research projects, and creating lasting legacy opportunities.

How does the Space Cities Network plan to support and drive international conferences and events in the space sector to promote knowledge exchange and technological advancements?

Gérald: As the saying goes, ‘Qui va piano, va sano e lontano’ (slow and steady wins the race). We believe in prioritising quality over quantity.
The ideal format we all agreed upon is as follows: The various committees within the Network will brainstorm on what is needed to strengthen exchanges and identify which domains require development and guidance within the scientific community. For instance, there have already been discussions on space sustainability (editor’s note: stay tuned for an upcoming interview on Space Sustainability). There is a pressing need in that domain; just check the website LeoLabs to understand the current situation of our space.

Once the streams are defined, we will support event development with the help of our members across universities, industries, and agencies. The themes and size of events will be tailored to specific goals, with a focus on maintaining a manageable scale to ensure the realisation of concrete projects in the long term.

Claire: The Network is mapping international space-related conferences to align with the strengths and focus areas of the member cities. We aim to provide a seamless offering to conferences that align with multiple cities’ capabilities and capacities, with multi-year collaboration opportunities.

The Network is also keen to develop smaller meetings and events with experts focused on specific domains of space – for the purpose of knowledge exchange, global problem-solving, and advancing research and technology.

Do you expect more cities to join the four founding members of the Space Cities Network soon following the signing of the Artemis Accords by 43 countries in June 2024, representing a global effort to explore the Moon?

Gérald: Yes, projects like Artemis can serve as a mirror for what our network could become in the near future. However, for now, we are cautious not to exceed a certain number of cities. This approach aids in decision-making and ensures we serve the overall market and space community equitably. The Artemis project is managed by major leaders, bringing together multiple countries, each with its own speciality. Humans naturally prioritise projects, and we believe we will learn a great deal quickly. Let’s not forget that the space domain is sensitive, it takes time to realise such projects and satisfy all stakeholders.

Claire: While the Network has launched with a small group of key cities, we anticipate growth over time. Our short-term focus is on developing core strategies and tactical activities. Once we are in a solid position, other cities may be considered for inclusion. The Network isn’t currently connected to the Artemis project, but there could be opportunities for future alignment or partnership with significant international projects where mutual value can be created.

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