United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA)
Committee Description:
Established in 1958, the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) is dedicated to the peaceful use of space and fostering international cooperation. In this committee, delegates will address critical issues, including the commercialization of outer space, focusing on how to monitor and regulate the growing private sector involvement in space activities. Additionally, the committee will tackle the pressing issue of space debris and potential hazards, exploring methods for surveillance and mitigation to ensure the long-term safety and sustainability of space operations. UNOOSA encourages collaborative solutions, leveraging space technology to address these challenges and shape the future of space exploration.
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Topic A: The Commercialization of Outer Space: Monitoring the Private Sector
As private space entities such as SpaceX and Blue Origin lead a new era of space innovation, the commercialization of outer space raises complex questions surrounding resource extraction and scientific advancement. Topic A explores the growing influence of the private sector in space travel and technology, including the rise of space tourism and its implications for equity and access. Delegates will examine the potential for exploitation, the blurred lines between private and governmental initiatives, and the need for oversight as commercial ventures increasingly intersect with international space affairs.
Topic B: Surveilling Space Debris and Spotlighting Potential Hazards
With thousands of satellites and space entities orbiting Earth, space debris poses a growing threat to ongoing missions and critical infrastructure. Topic B invites delegates to reevaluate current UN treaties, including the Outer Space Treaty, the Liability Convention, and the Registration Convention by assessing their effectiveness in managing orbital hazards. Delegates will consider alternative strategies for mitigating debris risks, address challenges in space junk removal, and discuss the long-term environmental and safety implications both within and beyond Earth's atmosphere.
Committee Directors
Briana Han
Hey delegates! My name is Briana Han and I am thrilled to serve as your Co-Director, alongside Rose Keenan, for the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) committee. Those who know me can attest to my passion for up-and-coming technologies and I can't wait to witness all that this year's delegates will bring into discussions on the future of space exploration. I look forward to meeting all of you at MarkMUN in November!
Rose Keenan
Hey delegates! My name is Rose, and I'm super excited to be your co-director for the UNOOSA committee this year at MarkMUN!! I'm a grade 12 student at St. Clement’s where me and Briana have been co-presidents of the Model UN team since 2024. I'm really looking forward to a great conference and some awesome debate! See you soon!