NewTrans2.txt[9/15/2024 8:28:26 PM] 1.4 The Two Paths of Space Internationalization It is noted that international space programs have developed along two main paths: (i) the private international path, such as that followed by INTELSAT for telecommunications satellites; (ii) the public international path, such as that followed by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) for meteorological satellites. Why these two different paths? The organizational criterion is, in my opinion, that of profit. Telecommunications satellites, considered profitable, received a private structure, while meteorological satellites considered unprofitable, became a public UN organization. We do not yet know, up to now, whether the economic calculations relating to the SPS will lead them to one or the other model. However, here, we will only deal with the public Intergovernmental path, that of the United Nations System. II. SPACE ACTIVITIES AND STRUCTURES OF THE UNITED NATIONS SYSTEM The United Nations System could be the most appropriate way to identify the will of States and organize the international cooperation required for the realization of a network of solar energy collecting satellites (SPS). II.1 The Geostationary Orbit Indeed, an SPS Network would occupy an important place on the geostationary orbit, and the allocation of positions on this orbit has been the subject of discussions at the United Nations for several years. It would be essential, from this point of view, that international cooperation be organized from the experimental phase. II.2 SPS and UN In June 1978, the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space received a report prepared by the Secretariat on “Solar Energy Plants in Space” (5). In addition, Dr. Peter Glaser also gave a lecture on this subject at this very popular session, but outside the session. So far, Governments have not had a very positive reaction to this first attempt. They probably think that the SPS is a project for the future, of high cost, and of a technological reliability that is still somewhat controversial; while many space applications are urgent (Remote Sensing), less expensive and technically safe, and therefore retain their attention and the small funds allocated to international space activities. How to approach the United Nations for the SPS project? By inserting this project in the activities of the UN space structures: (i) The Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space which reports to the General Assembly; (ii) The Scientific and Technical Subcommittee and its working groups; for example, that of Remote Sensing is particularly active. II.3 Suggestions (a) It is conceivable that some Governments could propose the creation of an international Working Group composed of national SPS experts, whose mandate could be: (i) Review of national SPS programmes;
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