No longer science fiction: Emerging technologies and emerging threats in space

In person (New York)
27 October 2025
No longer science fiction: Emerging technologies and emerging threats in space

Space technology and services are changing. Recent years have seen significant advancement and innovation, driven by both States and commercial space companies. Space systems are nowadays more interconnected and software-based than ever. Moreover, emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and quantum communications are starting to become integrated with space technologies, reshaping the space environment and providing new opportunities to use, explore and benefit from outer space for civilian as well as military applications.

These innovations have the potential to positively impact outer space, but they also present complexities that could challenge and disrupt space security. Therefore, it is necessary to understand these technologies, identify potential threats to them, assess the risks they themselves might pose, and consider the consequences if such threats were to materialize.

As the international community continues its work to address space security concerns – particularly in the context of the Open-ended working group on the prevention of an arms race in outer space in all its aspects, this side event to the UN General Assembly First Committee will discuss emerging threats to space security, including security issues derived from the convergence of space with other potentially disruptive technologies. It will also consider what stakeholders – particularly States – are doing and can continue to do to address the challenges these technologies may pose.

Agenda

12:45-13:15 Lunch

13:15 – 14:30 Presentation and discussion (speakers to be announced soon)

When and where

Monday, 27 October 2025, 13:15 – 14:30 EDT, UN Headquarters, New York (Room CR E).

RSVP

The event is open to all participants of the UN General Assembly First Committee.

Further information

For further information or questions, please contact almudena.azcarate@un.org.