The New Space Activity Act – Comprehensive Legal Framework for Poland’s Space Sector

The dynamic development of the space sector, the growing importance of satellite technologies, and the increasing involvement of private entities have made the adoption of a comprehensive national regulation a necessity. The Act of 13 February 2026 on Space Activities responds to these challenges by introducing a coherent legal framework governing the conduct of space activities under Polish jurisdiction. The new provisions not only organize administrative matters but also implement the objectives set out in the Polish Space Strategy and fulfill obligations arising from international law, strengthening the role of the state as a responsible actor in space activities.

Scope of Regulation and Definition of Space Activity

The Act sets out the rules for conducting space activities, particularly covering the process of granting authorizations, mechanisms for supervising such activities, and civil liability for damage caused by space objects. The intention of the Act is to function as an “enabler” providing a safe legal framework that supports investment in the space sector, reflecting not only obligations but also the rights of its participants. The role of the state in this sector should be understood as a guardian of normative conduct in a field that, on the one hand, generates cutting-edge solutions and, on the other, carries significant risk potential.

Particular attention should be paid to the broad definition of space activity adopted in the Act. It covers the entire lifecycle of a space object mission – from launch (including launch attempts), through control and operation, to the disposal of the space object, including its deorbiting. This approach reflects modern technological and regulatory realities, where responsibility does not end at launch but extends throughout the entire operational lifetime of the object in outer space.

Authorization Requirement

A key element of the new regulation is the introduction of the obligation to obtain authorization for conducting space activities. This obligation applies to legal persons and organizational units with legal capacity, i.e., entities granted the right to carry out space activities. A different regime is предусмотрен (provided) for activities conducted within defense structures by entities subordinate to or supervised by the Minister of National Defence, reflecting the specific nature of national security and operational needs.

Obtaining authorization is conditional upon meeting three fundamental criteria. The entity must demonstrate the ability to conduct activities safely and in accordance with the principles of sustainable use of outer space, possess adequate human resources and expertise, and have a stable financial base enabling uninterrupted operations. To verify the application, the supervisory authority seeks opinions from the Minister of National Defence, the minister responsible for internal affairs, the minister responsible for transport, and the Head of the Internal Security Agency. This structure clearly reflects the legislator’s intent to professionalize the sector and mitigate risks associated with space activities.

Administrative Procedure and the Role of State Authorities

Authorizations are granted by the President of the Polish Space Agency by way of an administrative decision issued for a fixed period, not shorter than the time between the planned start and end dates of the space activity. The President of the Agency has broad powers during the proceedings, including the ability to request additional documentation, seek further explanations, and require modifications to the project. Importantly, an authorization may cover a single phase of a mission or a combination of phases, and may also apply to more than one space object, which is particularly relevant for constellation projects.

A decision on granting authorization should be issued within six months from the date of submission of complete documentation.

The regulation also provides for the possibility of imposing additional conditions on the conduct of activities. This instrument allows the authority to tailor obligations to the specifics of a given project, particularly in terms of public safety, infrastructure protection, and international commitments.

Supervision and Operator Obligations

Obtaining authorization does not end the relationship between the operator and the supervisory authority. The Act imposes an obligation to inform about any significant changes related to the space activity, including changes in mission parameters or the characteristics of the space object. This mechanism strengthens ongoing supervision and enables responses to potential risks. The President of the Polish Space Agency may suspend or revoke authorization to conduct space activities.

The regulation also provides for specific procedures in the event of unforeseen incidents, including situations that may threaten public safety or the environment. The inclusion of these issues in the Act should be assessed positively as an example of a comprehensive approach to risk management in the space sector.

National Register of Space Objects

One of the pillars of the new regulation is the establishment of the National Register of Space Objects. This register serves an evidentiary function, but its importance goes beyond simple data recording. It constitutes a tool for monitoring space activities, fulfilling international obligations, and increasing sector transparency.

Space objects are entered into the register where Poland is the launching state or where the operator is subject to Polish jurisdiction. It covers both civilian activities and those conducted within defense structures.

Entries are made on the basis of an electronic notification submitted by the operator within no later than seven days from the occurrence of specified events. The scope of data includes, among others, identifying information about the object, its purpose, orbital parameters, and operator details. The register is public, which promotes transparency and builds trust in the sector.

Conclusion

The Space Activity Act of 2026 represents a significant step toward establishing a modern legal framework for Poland’s space sector. It introduces a comprehensive regulatory system that balances the need to support innovation with the necessity of ensuring safety and fulfilling international obligations.

Despite imposing additional requirements, the new provisions create a stable legal environment conducive to investment and the development of a competitive Polish space sector.