12th Annual Space Traffic Conference: 'Operational Assurance for All'

The 12th Annual Space Traffic Conference, titled "Operational Assurance for All," is organized by the Space Security, Safety, and Sustainability (SSSS) Program at The University of Texas at Austin's Strauss Center for International Security and Law, in collaboration with the International Academy of Astronautics (IAA), the Cockrell School of Engineering, and MITRE. The event is scheduled for February 18-19, 2026, at the Bass Lecture Hall within the LBJ School of Public Affairs.

This interdisciplinary conference will address critical issues in space traffic management, focusing on three thematic areas: Operations, Economy, and Ecosystems. Discussions will encompass topics such as safe access to space, in-space operations, and return from space, aiming to foster a comprehensive understanding of the current state and future challenges in space traffic.

Attendees can expect a robust agenda featuring keynote speakers, panel discussions, and networking opportunities. Notable speakers include Dr. Darren McKnight, Senior Technical Fellow at LeoLabs, and representatives from the UN Office of Outer Space Affairs and the US Space Force. Breakfast and lunch will be provided during the conference.

The conference is designed for a diverse audience, including researchers, industry experts, policymakers, and students interested in space traffic management and operational assurance. It offers a platform for stakeholders to exchange knowledge, discuss emerging challenges, and collaborate on innovative solutions in the field of space traffic.