Important Updates
Important Updates
July 1, 2025 | PortugalPortugal: Residence Permits Extended
July 2, 2025 | 🌐Middle East - The Latest News on Mobility and Travel Considerations
July 2, 2025 | 🌐Minimum Salary Changes Announced
July 2, 2025 | United KingdomUnited Kingdom: Statement of Changes Creates Restrictions for Sponsored Work Routes
July 1, 2025 | PolandPoland: Single Permit Eligibility Limited  
July 1, 2025 | PortugalPortugal: Residence Permits Extended
July 2, 2025 | 🌐Middle East - The Latest News on Mobility and Travel Considerations
July 2, 2025 | 🌐Minimum Salary Changes Announced
July 2, 2025 | United KingdomUnited Kingdom: Statement of Changes Creates Restrictions for Sponsored Work Routes
July 1, 2025 | PolandPoland: Single Permit Eligibility Limited  
July 1, 2025 | PortugalPortugal: Residence Permits Extended
Subscribe
Fragomen.com home
Select Language
  • English
  • French
  • French - Canadian
  • German

Select Language

  • English
  • French
  • French - Canadian
  • German
ContactCareersMedia
Search Fragomen.com
  • Our Services
    For EmployersFor IndividualsBy IndustryCase Studies
  • Our Tech & Innovation
  • Our People
  • Our Insights
    Worldwide Immigration Trends ReportsMagellan SeriesImmigration AlertsEventsMedia MentionsFragomen NewsBlogsPodcasts & Videos
  • Spotlights
    Navigating Immigration Under the Second Trump AdministrationTravel & Mobility Considerations: Situation in the Middle EastImmigration Matters: Your U.S. Compliance RoadmapHumanitarian and Evolving Legal Pathways (HELP)Vietnamese ImmigrationAustralian Immigration: New Skills in Demand Visa
  • About Us
    About FragomenOfficesResponsible Business PracticesFirm GovernanceRecognition

Our Services

  • For Employers
  • For Individuals
  • By Industry
  • Case Studies

Our Tech & Innovation

  • Our Approach

Our People

  • Overview / Directory

Our Insights

  • Worldwide Immigration Trends Reports
  • Magellan Series
  • Immigration Alerts
  • Events
  • Media Mentions
  • Fragomen News
  • Blogs
  • Podcasts & Videos

Spotlights

  • Navigating Immigration Under the Second Trump Administration
  • Travel & Mobility Considerations: Situation in the Middle East
  • Immigration Matters: Your U.S. Compliance Roadmap
  • Humanitarian and Evolving Legal Pathways (HELP)
  • Vietnamese Immigration
  • Australian Immigration: New Skills in Demand Visa

About Us

  • About Fragomen
  • Offices
  • Responsible Business Practices
  • Firm Governance
  • Recognition
Select Language
  • English
  • French
  • French - Canadian
  • German

Select Language

  • English
  • French
  • French - Canadian
  • German
ContactCareersMedia
  • Insights

Space & Sustainability Part 2: The Role of Mobility in Ensuring the Space Industry’s Growth

May 29, 2024

Space & Sustainability Part 2: The Role of Mobility in Ensuring the Space Industry’s Growth

Country / Territory

  • United KingdomUnited Kingdom

Related contacts

Photo of Laxmi Limbani

Laxmi Limbani

Director

Sheffield, United Kingdom

Email

[email protected]

T:+44 (0) 114 289 2132

Related industries

  • Space and Aerospace

Related insights

  • Space & Sustainability Part 1: How Space Innovation Can Drive Sustainability on Earth
  • Space & Sustainability Part 3: The Role of UK Immigration Policy in Harnessing Commercial Viability for Growth

Related offices

  • Sheffield
  • London

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Related contacts

Photo of Laxmi Limbani

Laxmi Limbani

Director

Sheffield, United Kingdom

Email

[email protected]

T:+44 (0) 114 289 2132

Related industries

  • Space and Aerospace

Related insights

  • Space & Sustainability Part 1: How Space Innovation Can Drive Sustainability on Earth
  • Space & Sustainability Part 3: The Role of UK Immigration Policy in Harnessing Commercial Viability for Growth

Related offices

  • Sheffield
  • London

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Related contacts

Photo of Laxmi Limbani

Laxmi Limbani

Director

Sheffield, United Kingdom

Email

[email protected]

T:+44 (0) 114 289 2132

Related industries

  • Space and Aerospace

Related insights

  • Space & Sustainability Part 1: How Space Innovation Can Drive Sustainability on Earth
  • Space & Sustainability Part 3: The Role of UK Immigration Policy in Harnessing Commercial Viability for Growth

Related offices

  • Sheffield
  • London

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

By: Laxmi Limbani, Karin Turra, Josh Beynon

Space exploration continues to lead to numerous scientific advancements and benefits for the Earth. Technologies developed for space missions contribute to climate change research, natural disaster monitoring, light pollution studies and improvements in human health, among other areas.

The first installment of this blog series explored how space innovation can drive sustainability on Earth. However, despite the promising future of space exploration, we face growing challenges due to the exponential increase in orbital usage, which threatens the sustainability of space itself.

The surge in the number of satellites in orbit poses sustainability challenges and, throughout the past six decades, the space above Earth has grown more congested, littered with over six thousand tons of human-generated objects as a result of progressive space exploration by both government and the private sector.

Environmental consequences on Earth, such as atmospheric pollution arising from rocket launches and space-based tech being resource-intensive to produce are also noticeable, fueling concerns about the sustainability of current outer space activities.

According to NASA, the low Earth orbit (LEO) is currently known as the world's largest garbage dump, carrying millions of space junk debris such as pieces of space crafts – sometimes deliberately destructed or resulting from accidental collisions, rocket parts and nonfunctional satellites, which can reach speeds seven times faster than a bullet.

Due to the rate and high speed of debris in LEO, current and future space-based services, explorations and operations are at greater risk of collision, as the debris has the potential to damage spacecraft or operating satellites. This issue poses a safety risk to people and property not only in space, but also on Earth.

What was once seen as an innovative solution for Earth’s garbage de-cluttering, polluting the space above us now poses a threat to humankind itself, as we begin to venture into space in search of new perspectives and opportunities to understand our planet and the solar system.

As there is yet no firm understanding of the capacity of space to cope with such increased exploitation, the unquestionable cultural, scientific, engineering and economic benefits to humankind must be balanced against the inevitable impact of its usage.

Rather than abandoning space as a potential solution, ensuring that space tech and space exploration are developed sustainably and that measures are put in place to mitigate the issues created by the space industry is paramount.

Current landscape

At present, there are no international space laws regulating countries’ responsibility to clean up orbital debris and, not unexpectedly, astronomical costs are involved.

Despite the international complexities involved in combatting space-related sustainability challenges, it presents an opportunity to preserve the space environment for future generations and continue to support space exploration missions and the development of the space sector. 

Multiple global initiatives have been launched for tech developed specifically to clean up LEO, such as electrodynamic tethers (developed by the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency) and ultra-thin nets designed to “catch” space debris by dragging it into lower orbit (as part of a research project funded by NASA’s Innovative Advanced Concepts program); ground-based “Laser brooms” that strategically heat one side of a piece of space debris, changing its orbit so that it re-enters Earth’s atmosphere sooner; and drag sails, which are deployed once satellites are no longer useful or attached to existing space junk, and that would help guide debris back to Earth – to name only a few.

The private sector is also joining efforts, as multinational corporations are pioneering sustainable aerospace by getting involved in task forces aimed at better managing space traffic flow to minimise the risk of collisions, in addition to developing debris monitoring and removal technology. Others are defining the economics of on-orbit servicing and working with multiple stakeholders to develop norms, regulations and incentives for the responsible use of space.

In the public sphere, the UK Space Agency (UKSA) joined efforts by announcing a new £3.5m funding package to prolong the life of satellites, showing its commitment to re-fuel space sustainability.

An additional £1.5m is being directed to feasibility studies working to tackle the space debris crisis, which contributes to the UK government’s new Plan for Space Sustainability, aiming to make the UK a world leader in driving sustainability in space, whilst establishing a new Space Sustainability Standard, encourages companies to adopt best practice in space sustainability and recognise those who take steps to minimise their footprint on the Earth’s orbit.

Mobility challenges

One of the main challenges to sustainability in the space industry is a shortage of skilled labour. The rapid growth of the sector has created mid-career gaps, necessitating the recruitment of qualified talent from abroad. This labour shortage threatens the expansion of the space sector and risks overworking current staff, impacting their mental health and the quality of production. Addressing this issue by hiring the right people can also help businesses avoid extra costs.

The question of how to bring skilled talent in is simple: turning to immigration to address skills gaps is an imperative step for all stakeholders in the sector to focus on. Recruitment at an early career stage by retaining apprentices, interns and graduates who are in the UK already may be beneficial in the long run, but an immediate strategy is also needed for the space industry to maintain its economic growth.

In the UK, both sponsored and unsponsored visa routes are available for the space sector to rely on in recruiting overseas skilled talent. A case-by-case review of the business needs and candidates’ backgrounds will determine the best course of action.

Looking ahead

In the face of the complexities of the UK immigration system, the space sector industry will soon have the opportunity to take part in the UK’s Migration Advisory Committee (MAC)’s wider stakeholder review of the recently implemented Immigration Salary List.

This will allow businesses impacted by the rise in salary thresholds and facing skills shortages to put forward their thoughts for a balanced immigration system that supports its sector’s needs, to help boost the UK economy by encouraging the further development of the space sector.

Need to know more?

For more information or questions on navigating the UK immigration system and the space sector, please contact Fragomen’s Space Industry Team. Please look out for part three in this blog series to be published in the coming weeks.

This blog was published on 29 May 2024, and due to the circumstances, there are frequent changes. To keep up to date with all the latest updates on global immigration, please subscribe to our alerts and follow us on LinkedIn, X, Facebook and Instagram.

Country / Territory

  • United KingdomUnited Kingdom

Related contacts

Photo of Laxmi Limbani

Laxmi Limbani

Director

Sheffield, United Kingdom

Email

[email protected]

T:+44 (0) 114 289 2132

Related industries

  • Space and Aerospace

Related insights

  • Space & Sustainability Part 1: How Space Innovation Can Drive Sustainability on Earth
  • Space & Sustainability Part 3: The Role of UK Immigration Policy in Harnessing Commercial Viability for Growth

Related offices

  • Sheffield
  • London

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Related contacts

Photo of Laxmi Limbani

Laxmi Limbani

Director

Sheffield, United Kingdom

Email

[email protected]

T:+44 (0) 114 289 2132

Related industries

  • Space and Aerospace

Related insights

  • Space & Sustainability Part 1: How Space Innovation Can Drive Sustainability on Earth
  • Space & Sustainability Part 3: The Role of UK Immigration Policy in Harnessing Commercial Viability for Growth

Related offices

  • Sheffield
  • London

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Related contacts

Photo of Laxmi Limbani

Laxmi Limbani

Director

Sheffield, United Kingdom

Email

[email protected]

T:+44 (0) 114 289 2132

Related industries

  • Space and Aerospace

Related insights

  • Space & Sustainability Part 1: How Space Innovation Can Drive Sustainability on Earth
  • Space & Sustainability Part 3: The Role of UK Immigration Policy in Harnessing Commercial Viability for Growth

Related offices

  • Sheffield
  • London

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Explore more at Fragomen

Blog post

The 11th Seat: Timor-Leste's ASEAN Debut and the Shifting Map of Regional Mobility

Business Immigration Consultant Ryaihanny Sahrom discusses Timor-Leste's ASEAN debut and its impact on regional mobility.

Learn more

Blog post

Understanding the Saudi Real Estate Market: What Expats Need to Know

Destination Services Manager Ali Sikandar provides essential information for expats navigating the Saudi real estate market.

Learn more

Blog post

2025 Middle East and Africa Immigration Trends: Balancing Localization Concerns with Global Talent Attraction Efforts

This blog highlights the most significant immigration developments shaping the Middle East and Africa in 2025, drawing from Fragomen’s upcoming 2025 Regional Immigration Overviews—available mid-July.

Learn more

Video

French Citizenship by Decree | Everything You Need to Know

Immigration Consultant Azela Hadia covers everything you need to know about French citizenship by decree, a legal process through which a foreign national can acquire French nationality.

Learn more

Blog post

Navigating the UAE Corporate Landscape: A Strategic Guide for Startups and Entrepreneurs

This blog provides an overview of the key factors to consider when deciding in which jurisdiction to set up a company in the UAE.

Learn more

Media mentions

TechRound: Experts Share: How Will The Global Talent Visa Help The Startup Industry?

Manager Alexander Hood explains how the UK’s Global Talent visa helps tech founders start and grow businesses without employer sponsorship.

Learn more

Blog post

The Future of Care Work in the UK: Understanding the Latest Immigration Announcements

Partner Siobhan Owers and Senior Associate Asif Hanif discuss the latest UK immigration announcements and their impact on the future of care work.

Learn more

Media mentions

Toronto Star: 25 Years Ago New Immigrants to Canada Told Us Their Dreams. We Checked In to See How They’ve Fared

Senior Business Immigration Analyst Rabaa Biry recently shared her journey to Canada and how support and perseverance helped shape her path forward.

Learn more

Fragomen news

2025年6月 アメリカ移民法ダイジェストLearn more

Media mentions

Arab News: Growing Saudi Film Industry Driving Job Creation, Economic Growth

Partner Abeer Al Husseini highlights how Saudi Arabia’s growing film industry is creating jobs, attracting global talent and supporting economic diversification.

Learn more

Awards

Silicon Valley Business Journal Recognizes Partner Cindy Jen Among 2025 Women of Influence

Partner Cindy Jen is recognized as a 2025 “Woman of Influence” by the Silicon Valley Business Journal.

Learn more

Blog post

2025 LAR and Canada Immigration Trends: Balancing Control and Opportunity

This blog highlights the most significant immigration developments shaping Canada and Latin America in 2025. Drawing from Fragomen’s upcoming 2025 Regional Immigration Overviews—available mid-July—it provides actionable insights and strategic guidance to help businesses and individuals navigate the region’s dynamic immigration landscape.

Learn more

Blog post

The 11th Seat: Timor-Leste's ASEAN Debut and the Shifting Map of Regional Mobility

Business Immigration Consultant Ryaihanny Sahrom discusses Timor-Leste's ASEAN debut and its impact on regional mobility.

Learn more

Blog post

Understanding the Saudi Real Estate Market: What Expats Need to Know

Destination Services Manager Ali Sikandar provides essential information for expats navigating the Saudi real estate market.

Learn more

Blog post

2025 Middle East and Africa Immigration Trends: Balancing Localization Concerns with Global Talent Attraction Efforts

This blog highlights the most significant immigration developments shaping the Middle East and Africa in 2025, drawing from Fragomen’s upcoming 2025 Regional Immigration Overviews—available mid-July.

Learn more

Video

French Citizenship by Decree | Everything You Need to Know

Immigration Consultant Azela Hadia covers everything you need to know about French citizenship by decree, a legal process through which a foreign national can acquire French nationality.

Learn more

Blog post

Navigating the UAE Corporate Landscape: A Strategic Guide for Startups and Entrepreneurs

This blog provides an overview of the key factors to consider when deciding in which jurisdiction to set up a company in the UAE.

Learn more

Media mentions

TechRound: Experts Share: How Will The Global Talent Visa Help The Startup Industry?

Manager Alexander Hood explains how the UK’s Global Talent visa helps tech founders start and grow businesses without employer sponsorship.

Learn more

Blog post

The Future of Care Work in the UK: Understanding the Latest Immigration Announcements

Partner Siobhan Owers and Senior Associate Asif Hanif discuss the latest UK immigration announcements and their impact on the future of care work.

Learn more

Media mentions

Toronto Star: 25 Years Ago New Immigrants to Canada Told Us Their Dreams. We Checked In to See How They’ve Fared

Senior Business Immigration Analyst Rabaa Biry recently shared her journey to Canada and how support and perseverance helped shape her path forward.

Learn more

Fragomen news

2025年6月 アメリカ移民法ダイジェストLearn more

Media mentions

Arab News: Growing Saudi Film Industry Driving Job Creation, Economic Growth

Partner Abeer Al Husseini highlights how Saudi Arabia’s growing film industry is creating jobs, attracting global talent and supporting economic diversification.

Learn more

Awards

Silicon Valley Business Journal Recognizes Partner Cindy Jen Among 2025 Women of Influence

Partner Cindy Jen is recognized as a 2025 “Woman of Influence” by the Silicon Valley Business Journal.

Learn more

Blog post

2025 LAR and Canada Immigration Trends: Balancing Control and Opportunity

This blog highlights the most significant immigration developments shaping Canada and Latin America in 2025. Drawing from Fragomen’s upcoming 2025 Regional Immigration Overviews—available mid-July—it provides actionable insights and strategic guidance to help businesses and individuals navigate the region’s dynamic immigration landscape.

Learn more

Stay in touch

Subscribe to receive our latest immigration alerts

Subscribe

Our firm

  • About
  • Careers
  • Firm Governance
  • Media Inquiries
  • Recognition

Information

  • Attorney Advertising
  • Legal Notices
  • Privacy Policies
  • UK Regulatory Requirements

Our firm

  • About
  • Careers
  • Firm Governance
  • Media Inquiries
  • Recognition

Information

  • Attorney Advertising
  • Legal Notices
  • Privacy Policies
  • UK Regulatory Requirements

Have a question?

Contact Us
  • LinkedIn
  • Youtube
  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

© 2025 Fragomen, Del Rey, Bernsen & Loewy, LLP, Fragomen Global LLP and affiliates. All Rights Reserved.

Please note that the content made available on this site is not intended for visitors / customers located in the province of Quebec, and the information provided is not applicable to the Quebec market. To access relevant information that applies to the Quebec market, please click here.