ESA/ECSL Executive Course on Space Law and Regulations
The 2026 edition of the ESA/ECSL Executive Course will be held from 7-9 December at the European Space Technology and Research Centre (ESTEC), Noordwijk, Netherlands. More information on the content of the 2026 edition and applications will be communicated on this page closer to the event.
More information on the 2025 edition can be found in the dedicated report below.
What is the Executive Course on Space Law and Regulations?
As the space sector evolves rapidly, the legal aspects of space activities are increasingly important, both in Europe and worldwide. National and regional initiatives to reinforce space governance play a crucial role in supporting sustainable space operations and boosting the sector’s competitiveness.
While the ECSL Summer Course offers valuable learning opportunities for students, the Executive Course is designed to provide a high-quality, customised program for government representatives and industry professionals, with a strong emphasis on the practical legal aspects essential for regulating and managing space activities.
In response to the increasing demand for knowledge on the legal aspects of space activities, ESA and ECSL organise a three-day Executive Course that provides a comprehensive introduction to international space law and related legal areas, specifically designed for government and industry professionals.
The course is organised with legal and technical experts from ESA, national space authorities as well as the private sector, and includes introductions to topics such as:
- International space law and space governance
- National space legislation
- Regulatory and technical requirements for preparing a space mission
- Technical standards and guidelines, including standardisation initiatives
- Export control
- Space sustainability and space debris mitigation
- Frequency and spectrum management
- Private launch services
- Commercialisation of the space sector
- Insurance for space activities
- Space object registration practices
When is the next Executive Course?
The ESA/ECSL Executive Course is held annually and takes place at ESA’s European Space Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC) in Noordwijk, the Netherlands.
7-9 December 2026
ESA/ECSL Executive Course (applications to be opened)
How do I apply for future editions?
Applications of suitable participants will be considered on a rolling basis within the application period of each course, with priority for applications from citizens or residents of ESA Member States, Associate Members or Cooperating States. Each course is limited to around 15-20 participants.
Please note that the 2026 edition has not opened applications yet. Information regarding applications for the 2026 edition will be communicated in due course.
The Executive Course is not designed for students. However, students are encouraged to explore the annual ESCL Summer Course on Space Law and Policy for students and Young professionals. On an exceptional basis, advanced PhD students may be considered for the Executive Course, provided they can demonstrate a specific interest and need for the purpose of their PhD.
Course fee and practical information
The course fee for 2025 was 600 EUR and includes attendance to the course as well as a hosted dinner. Transportation and accommodation are not included. In some cases, group transportation may be organised. The 2026 fee will be announced when applications open.
