In early October, with the support of Kreisson Legal, I embarked on a space mission of my own, attending the 76th International Astronautical Congress (IAC) in Sydney, and it was nothing short of extraordinary. As a lawyer fascinated by technology and space, once I began learning about space law, I could not stop. The field combines my love for law with the limitless curiosity and innovation that space exploration inspires. It connects the rules and ethics that govern our society with the challenges of venturing beyond our planet. Attending the IAC felt like stepping into the heart of humanity’s next great story.
The congress was intense and exhilarating, five days filled with simultaneous exhibitions, symposia, and interactive presentations. Every corner of the Sydney Convention Centre buzzed with conversation, ideas, and possibilities. I spent the entire week racing between talks, panels, and networking events, eager to absorb as much as I could. Astronauts, engineers, scientists, architects, lawyers, and students filled the halls. What amazed me most was the diversity: people from every continent and every background, each bringing a unique perspective on how to expand humanity’s presence in space. Among them were countless young professionals and students, brimming with passion and curiosity, who I like to call the rising stars. They are the ones who will soon shape the future of space exploration.
I learned so much during this unforgettable week. NASA spoke about its vision for the next decade: a village on the Moon that will serve as humanity’s first base beyond Earth, and a vital step towards reaching Mars. The discussions were not only about rockets and habitats but also about how humans can adapt physically and psychologically to living in such environments. Every challenge (radiation, muscle loss, isolation) is being studied so that one day, living on another world may become possible.
The European Space Agency (“ESA”) shared fascinating insights on Earth observation and international collaboration. They offer free tools that allow countries like Australia to monitor agriculture, air traffic, and environmental conditions using satellite data. Europe is also working toward greater autonomy while maintaining strong partnerships with other nations, including India, Canada, and Australia. With over three hundred cooperation agreements already signed, ESA reminded everyone that space exploration is not a solitary pursuit but a global effort.
India’s space agency, ISRO, impressed the audience with its determination and achievements. Its lunar landers and growing space transportation programs show that India is becoming a key player in the new era of exploration. Meanwhile, companies like Astroscale reminded us that as we expand our activities in orbit, we also carry a responsibility to clean up after ourselves. They are developing technologies to remove space debris and maintain sustainable orbital environments, building what they call a “space neighbourhood,” where safety and stewardship must come first.
Japan’s JAXA is deeply involved in advancing both technology and governance in space. During the congress, JAXA representatives signalled their commitment to international cooperation, including through United Nations initiatives, to help shape common frameworks for responsible and sustainable space activity. It became clear throughout the week that space law and regulation are still catching up with technological progress, and the challenge lies in finding the right balance, regulating enough to ensure safety and fairness, but not so much that innovation is stifled.
Commercial innovation was a recurring theme. SpaceX’s Dragon program continues to redefine access to orbit, and the congress highlighted how commercial stations and even orbital hotels are moving from science fiction to future reality. Yet many speakers warned that while these ambitions are exciting, the focus must remain on science, research, and sustainability before space tourism becomes mainstream.
Adam Gilmour, co-founder and CEO of Gilmour Space, shared an inspiring story about how he and his brother James, both from finance backgrounds, decided to build rockets and succeeded. Starting in 2013 on the Gold Coast, they developed hybrid rocket technology and created the Eris rocket, leading to Australia’s first locally built orbital launch attempt in 2025. Their story is living proof that with courage and determination, anything is possible. When asked why he chose to do it in Australia, Adam’s answer was simple yet profoundly powerful: “I am an Australian.” That moment captured not only their personal drive but something larger, a spirit we all share. The spirit of Australia: bold, inventive, and unafraid to reach beyond limits. Hearing his words, I felt an immense sense of pride, not just in their achievements, but in belonging to a nation that dares to dream as they do.
Much of the discussion revolved around the Moon, its resources, its governance, and its symbolism. The question of who controls lunar resources sparked passionate debates. Under the Outer Space Treaty, no one can own the Moon, but the desire to use its resources for fuel, construction, and scientific research is growing rapidly. The Artemis Accords were often mentioned as a modern framework for cooperation, promoting transparency, safety, and peaceful use. Yet some worry that these agreements might reshape traditional space law by introducing new concepts such as “safety zones” that could eventually resemble territorial claims. Others argued that they are simply the next step in adapting old principles to new realities.
There were ethical and philosophical moments too. Some speakers reflected on whether the Moon’s unique radio-quiet areas, ideal for astronomy, should be protected from human interference. Others debated whether sharing data about lunar resources should be a legal obligation or a moral choice. A recurring theme was that technology often advances faster than regulation, and by the time we fully understand the implications of our actions in space, it might be too late to reverse them. It’s been suggested by one expert that “who goes first sets the rules,” implying that initial movers hold a strategic advantage.
Discussions about artificial intelligence added another layer to the week. AI will play a major role in future missions, designing spacecraft, analysing data, even operating autonomously, but it also raises questions about accountability. As one speaker put it, “A fool with a tool is still a fool.” AI must be guided by human responsibility and ethical principles, especially when applied in critical missions far from Earth.
By the end of the week, my mind was full of ideas and my heart full of inspiration. I realised that space law is not just about treaties or regulations; it’s about how we, as a species, choose to explore together. It’s about protecting our values while expanding our frontiers. It’s about ensuring that our first steps beyond Earth are taken with wisdom, not just ambition.
I met brilliant scientists, visionary entrepreneurs, and passionate advocates who believe in a sustainable and inclusive future in space. But most of all, I met people (students, researchers, and professionals) whose excitement reminded me why I fell in love with this field in the first place. They are the rising stars, each one ready to shine.
As I write this, I feel certain that what I witnessed on the past week was the beginning of something much larger than a conference. It was a glimpse into humanity’s next chapter, a story of courage, cooperation, and discovery. The future is unfolding before our eyes, and I am grateful to be part of it.
Watch this space: Kreisson Legal supporting the rising stars in law, technology, and space exploration.
giselle.casagrande@kreisson.com.au
02 8239 6521
